Catherine Ward, Partner at Stradley Ronan
Catherine Ward, Partner at Stradley Ronan was presented the Touchstone Award by the Society of Environmental Professionals of Greater Philadelphia (SWEP). Each year the Board selects a woman leader in the environmental field who exemplifies leadership, achievement, and professional development of women in the environmental profession. The Touchstone Award, a curly lace agate pin was presented at the organization’s 23rd hallmark event November 7th 2019 at the prestigious Downtown Club. Beth Hyde of Roux Associates, also a past Touchstone recipient, introduced Ms. Ward and highlighted milestones over her impressive 30 years in law. Additional comments were shared by her Department Co-Chair and Partner Andy Levine. Her Mother, husband and two daughters were there to share in the exciting event.
As an environmental lawyer, Ward started her career in consulting after graduating with a degree in biology. She later went on to law school. Ward has spent much of her practice helping clients understand the complexities of regulations at the intersection of science and law. Her focus is on simplifying complex issues and multi-disciplinary projects into workable components, and then creating the necessary framework to accomplish her clients’ goals. With experience as a chemist and environmental consultant, she brings a unique perspective to assist companies – who are navigating often conflicting legal scenarios – in identifying opportunities and advantages. Cathy also has over a decade of experience in owning and operating industrial real estate, which gave her an understanding of and appreciation for the practical implications of legal issues.
Her goal in every representation is not only to solve the problem presented, but to identify and facilitate the most cost-effective and beneficial means of doing so. She is a founding member and first Chair of Sustainable Morristown as well as serving on the Environmental Commission. For all her work in the Community, they proclaimed a day to honor Cathy’s contribution to the Town. She is active in NJ Bar Environmental Committee, Women in Energy and other organizations.
As Mr. Levine commented, “Cathy Ward may be petite, but she is strong, determined, smart and one of the very best lawyers.” Ward inspired the 165 attendees seated for the dinner. She talked about the things she learned along the way that challenged her, inspired her and helped her in her career. She offered that you should go beyond your comfort zone and listen to your gut.
