Women in Law 2025

2025

SUSAN BEST PARTNER Gordon Rees Scully Mansukhani LLP

G ordon Rees Scully Mansukhani Partner Susan Best is an accomplished trial lawyer with extensive experience representing public and private entities in complex litigation. She regularly handles matters involving discrimination, harassment, retaliation, constitutional claims, breach of contract, the enforcement of non-compete and non-solicitation agreements, and a broad range of commercial disputes. Susan is Co-Chair of the firm's Education practice group and part of the firm’s Employment and Commercial practice groups. In addition to her litigation practice, Susan counsels clients on critical workplace and compliance issues, including Title IX, anti-discrimination policies, discipline and leave management, accommodations, payroll compliance, and best practices for creating inclusive and compliant workplaces. She also conducts training for employers, HR professionals, and educational institutions on navigating sensitive employment and compliance issues. Susan has successfully litigated cases in state and federal courts, earning a reputation for strategic advocacy, practical problem- solving, and trusted counsel. Her work reflects a commitment to helping clients balance legal requirements with organizational goals, enabling them to foster equitable and legally compliant environments. Throughout her distinguished career, Susan has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to advancing women in the legal profession and creating opportunities for others to succeed. She values the importance of female representation in leadership roles and women empowering women. Her leadership fosters a culture

of collaboration, professional development, and mutual support, ensuring that women attorneys are both visible and valued within the firm. Susan’s influence extends well beyond her firm. As Co-Chair of the Outreach Committee for the Coalition of Women’s Initiatives in Law, she leads efforts to recognize and elevate the achievements of women across the profession. Through this role, she has been instrumental in nominating successful female attorneys for awards and spotlighting their accomplishments, amplifying the voices of others and ensuring that women receive the recognition they deserve. Her peers have long recognized her as both a leader and a champion for others. When Susan was named to Law Bulletin’s 40 Under 40 , her colleagues highlighted not only her legal skill but also her generosity, noting, “Susan is also a great friend and supporter of other lawyers. She makes space for others in all settings. She is generous with her time, her contacts, and her mentorship.” These words reflect the essence of her leadership: one rooted in lifting others up. In addition to her professional achievements, Susan contributes to the future of the profession as an Adjunct Professor at the University of Illinois College of Law. There, she teaches legal writing and oral advocacy, instilling in her students not only technical excellence but also the confidence and professionalism required to thrive in their careers. Susan’s career is defined by her leadership, generosity, and tireless commitment to advancing women in law. She leads by example, continually creating pathways for others to succeed and ensuring that women’s contributions are recognized and celebrated.

WOMEN IN LAW 2025