What led you to pursue a career in the legal field?
Becoming a lawyer was a natural fit for me. I enjoy persuading people to see things my way and love public speaking. I like interviewing witnesses and building a case for or against an issue.
You were the first in your family to graduate college. What role have your parents played in your achievements?
My mother took pride in working hard, setting challenges for herself and achieving her goals. My father loves learning and debating issues. I am fortunate to have inherited these characteristics.
What would the leaders at Armstrong Teasdale say are your greatest strengths?
(Here’s what one of Jovita’s partners had to say):
“Jovita’s greatest strength, in my opinion, is her ability to communicate with people. I have had the opportunity to observe Jovita in a wide variety of settings. I’ve seen her present to the highest levels of executives in the “Board Room,” to an auditorium full of Human Resource Managers, to colleagues, to clients, to staff, to opposing attorneys, to opposing parties, to “ordinary” members of the community, to children. No matter what the setting, Jovita is able not only to convey her message but also to create a personal connection and trust with the listener. Jovita has an uncanny ability to “connect” with people, no matter who that person might be.”
Today, not yet 40, you are an equity partner at a major law firm in St. Louis. What advice would you give to recent African-American graduates, just entering the legal profession?
Focus on learning how to be a good lawyer – this takes time and feedback from others. Pick good mentors and be open to their constructive criticism – you need to be told what you are doing wrong in order to improve your skills. Don’t be discouraged by the challenges, they really are opportunities to become a better lawyer. Being African American is an asset not a liability – you bring a diverse perspective to resolving disputes and that perspective is valuable.
What does it mean to you, a Florissant native, to be successful in your chosen field, in your hometown?
Positive role models are incredibly important to young African Americans. Many mistakenly believe they won’t achieve their goals because they do not know African Americans like them who have become successful professionals. I’m a proud, Florissant native. I hope that by sharing my story I can help change the narrative a bit – and maybe help young African Americans believe that with hard work and effort, they can be wildly successful here in St. Louis.
