Business Women Awards 2025
WOMAN TO WATCH PROFESSIONAL SERVICES:
Kathryn Rattigan, Robinson & Cole LLP partner
WITH A LOVE for literature, language, analyzing texts and developing her critical thinking and writing skills, understanding law was attractive for Kathryn Rattigan when she was in college.
She felt law was a natural fit because the process of dissecting arguments and understanding different perspectives intrigued her. It was during an internship with a firm that specialized in health care privacy during her first year at Roger Williams University School of Law that Rattigan discovered her real passion for privacy and cybersecurity law.
“I was fascinated by the intersection of technology, law and the protection of personal information,” said Rattigan, a partner at Robinson & Cole LLP in Providence, where she focuses on data privacy and cybersecurity.
With many of the law firm’s clients incorporating artificial intelligence into their business models, those clients face challenges regarding responsible and compliant use of this technology.
Rattigan is helping develop an AI governance program designed to help clients navigate AI’s many complexities while also aligning their use of such systems with legal, ethical and regulatory standards. The program, Rattigan says, focuses on creating frameworks for managing risks related to AI, and addressing issues such as data privacy, security, bias, transparency and accountability in AI-driven decision-making.
The project’s impact at Robinson & Cole is significant, Rattigan says.
“Not only does it allow us to be at the forefront of a cutting-edge area of law, but it also fosters a collaborative environment where professionals across various practice specialties at our firm can work together,” she said. “This interdisciplinary approach enhances the program’s effectiveness and allows us to provide comprehensive guidance to clients.”
Rattigan strongly believes in leading by example, offering guidance and creating an open environment where women can pursue their goals without hesitation.
“I believe the role of women in leadership positions is evolving in a meaningful and transformative way,” Rattigan said. “Companies are recognizing the value of diverse leadership, not only for fostering an inclusive workplace culture but also for driving innovation and better decision-making.”
