WSHB co-founder Stephen Henning has been named the recipient of the 2022 RISE Mentor of the Year award. This prestigious award, now in its sixth year, is given to an outstanding mentor who has made a significant impact on their peers as well as the next generation. A well-deserved honor, Steve sees it as a privilege to have the opportunity to mentor lawyers and professionals. He received the award at the RISE Leadership Summit & Award Gala in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, on June 1, 2022.
“Steve wears many hats as a founding partner at WSHB, but none are more important than his role as a mentor to countless lawyers and industry professionals over the years,” said Stewart Reid, WSHB’s firmwide managing partner. “Steve leads with an approachable, empathetic demeanor, making him the perfect recipient for this meaningful award.
“It is such a huge honor to be nominated for this award, and I was stunned when they announced I was the winner during the awards dinner,” said Henning. “Of all of the things that we do as professionals, I feel strongly that our most rewarding contribution is mentoring and shepherding the next generation of professionals for success. It is truly humbling to be in the company of the other great nominees.”
RISE is an organization that seeks to be a springboard for the best talent in the industry. RISE defines a mentor as a person who is a counselor to others and supports them in developing their self-awareness, character, skills, goal development and fulfillment. A RISE mentor also provides guidance and accountability.
“Law firms are traditionally challenging environments,” said Michelle Arbitrio, managing partner of WSHB’s White Plains office. “Steve embodies WSHB’s philosophy that law firms should be collaborative, supportive environments where attorneys are able to achieve their highest potential. Steve is always positive and open to new ideas and different perspectives on how to approach cases, client service, law firm management, and all of the other facets of our job. He is also always looking for ways to promote and support WSHB attorneys by providing opportunities to publish, speak and connect with clients. I join the others who nominated Steve for this award in thanking him for his mentorship. He has made a difference in so many careers, including mine, and I am so glad that he is being recognized for this important contribution.”
WSHB warmly congratulates all of the finalists for this great achievement, including Halley Cruz of Insure National; Tim Roberts of Everest Insurance; and Tony Chimera of Westfield Specialty.