2024 Business Women Awards
OUTSTANDING MENTOR: Renée A.R. Evangelista
Day Pitney LLP managing partner
THE LIST OF Renée A.R. Evangelista’s leadership accomplishments is long.
Evangelista, the managing partner for Day Pitney LLP’s Providence office, where she oversees the office and manages hiring decisions and mentorship programs, among other administrative responsibilities, was previously an assistant probate judge for the city of Warwick.
Despite her job’s demanding nature, Evangelista says she remains committed to maintaining a supportive and collaborative workplace culture, where mentorship and talent development are prioritized.
“It brings me great joy to witness the growth and accomplishments of my colleagues, knowing that I’ve played a part in their professional journey,” Evangelista said.
Evangelista says that throughout her 30-year career, she has been privileged to specialize in trust and estate law, a field that she is truly passionate about. Her expertise in estate planning and settlement techniques, she says, has allowed her to assist numerous clients in saving taxes and ensuring their assets are distributed according to their wishes.
Beyond her client work, Evangelista assumed leadership roles in the legal industry, including as a founder of Howland Evangelista Kohlenberg LLP and orchestrated the law firm’s merger with Day Pitney in 2021.
“These experiences have not only enriched my professional journey but have also enabled me to make a lasting impact on our organization and the legal field as a whole,” she said.
Evangelista also said that being a mentor both within the firm and in the broader community has been one of the most rewarding aspects of her career. She firmly believes in the power of giving back, whether through financial contributions or volunteering, to strengthen communities and improve the lives of others, she said.
This belief has guided her involvement in various initiatives, including serving on the finance committee for the Women’s Sports Foundation founded by Billie Jean King and the International Tennis Hall of Fame.
Supporting the next generation has always been Evangelista’s personal focus, inspired by her own mentor, attorney Patti Kantor. She said Kantor’s guidance shaped her approach to mentoring, instilling in her “an open-door policy and a genuine desire to see others succeed.
“Throughout my career, I’ve had the opportunity to foster meaningful relationships with aspiring legal professionals, providing guidance and support as they navigate their own paths,” Evangelista said.
One testament to Evangelista’s mentorship is fellow Day Pitney partner Emma Becker, and another is Day Pitney senior associate Leigh Furtado. Furtado said that when thinking of Evangelista, she is reminded of that phrase, “Surround yourself with women who would shout your name in a room full of opportunities.”
Prior to working with Evangelista, Furtado says she did not have a personal connection with a female attorney who balanced a robust personal and professional life. Evangelista’s support and example were critical for Furtado in charting her own path, she says.
“[Evangelista] is truly generous with her time and advice and [she’s] interested in helping the next generation of attorneys navigate their careers and thoughtfully network,” Furtado said.
Becker said Evangelista is generous with her time and expertise, whether digging into “thorny legal questions,” advising on client situations or just talking issues through.
“She is meticulous in her work and expects excellence from those around her, yet approaches every interaction with kindness, delivering thoughtful feedback and advice,” Becker said. “She manages to keep many balls in the air simultaneously, while still ensuring that each of her clients and those of us who work with her feel that we have her undivided attention and guidance.”
Evangelista also says that through leveraging her background as a female athlete and her current role as a lawyer, she has had the privilege of mentoring many athletes on estate planning, recognizing the importance of setting them up for success beyond their playing careers.
“This commitment to mentorship not only enriches the lives of those I mentor but also brings me immense fulfillment knowing that I’m making a positive impact on the next generation,” Evangelista said.
