Equity

Rising Star Janet Coscino Honored as One of Illinois’ Top Young Attorneys for Excellence in Private Equity Law

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Chicago, Illinois — Private equity partner Janet Coscino has been named one of the “40 Under Forty Illinois Attorneys to Watch” in the 2025 edition published by Chicago Lawyer. This distinction recognizes the achievements of attorneys under 40 who demonstrate exceptional client service, leadership, and active involvement in their communities and the legal field. Coscino’s recognition stems from her impressive track record in navigating complex transactions for private equity sponsors and strategic buyers, where she consistently provides strategic and practical counsel from the initial agreements to the final closing. Her expertise in high-stakes deals has … Read more

Disney Settles Gender Pay Discrimination Claims for $43 Million, Paving the Way for Future Equity Audits

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LOS ANGELES — Walt Disney Co. has agreed to pay $43 million to resolve pay discrimination allegations from a group of female employees, following a ruling by a California state judge on Monday. The settlement addresses claims that the company paid female employees significantly less than their male colleagues for comparable work. Judge Elihu Berle commended the legal representation for the plaintiffs, awarding $14 million in attorneys’ fees. He described their work as “outstanding” in navigating the complex legal landscape these cases often present. This settlement concludes a protracted legal battle that has unfolded over … Read more

"Mt. Diablo School District Embraces Change After Title IX Settlement to Enhance Gender Equity in Student Sports"

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Pleasant Hill, Calif. — The Mt. Diablo Unified School District has reached a settlement over a Title IX lawsuit involving allegations of sex discrimination brought by former athletes from College Park High School. The case highlighted significant disparities between the facilities and resources available for the girls’ softball team compared to the boys’ baseball team, sparking outrage among the community. The lawsuit, filed in early 2024 by three former softball players and their families, pointed to the girls’ playing field as particularly inadequate. They described it as overgrown and lacking in basic amenities, especially in … Read more

Federal Judge Compels NIH to Reinstate Diversity Research Grants, Igniting New Conversations on Equity in Science

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A federal judge in Washington ordered the National Institutes of Health to reinstate a set of research grants focused on enhancing diversity within the biomedical field. The verdict emerged from a dispute over funding allocations intended for projects that promote inclusivity and broaden participation in health research. The controversy traces back to the NIH’s decision to cut funding for certain grants that aimed to support underrepresented groups in scientific research. Critics of this move argued that the decision undermined efforts to create a more equitable environment in the research community. The NIH had justified its … Read more