Shoshana Cenker | Memphis Business Journal
Since 2021, Memphis Business Journal’s Women Who Lead has recognized over 500 extraordinary women professionals.
Our next cohort is ready to add their brilliance to this distinguished legacy, as our spotlight turns to the powerhouse women who are in leadership roles at professional services firms, including in the accounting, consulting, IT, and legal sectors.
MBJ’s editorial team handpicked the dynamic women in this installment for their standout leadership qualities. Sponsored by Paragon Bank, MBJ’s Women Who Lead aims to celebrate the broad spectrum of talent driving Memphis and the economy forward.
Lauran Stimac
Shareholder and chair of Litigation Section, Evans Petree PC
Being recognized for mentorship by the Association of Women Attorneys is one of Lauran Stimac’s most meaningful honors of her career. Named the 2026 recipient of the Marion Griffin–Frances Loring Award — which recognizes outstanding achievement and contributions by legal professionals in Tennessee — affirmed her long-standing commitment to supporting and guiding other women in the legal profession. “I’ve been fortunate to have strong female mentors, and mentoring … has been a top priority for me. Helping young lawyers learn and hone their skills has been a great joy.”
She sees the profession at an inflection point as generative AI redesigns legal work. Both efficiency gains and concerns are significant: “The risks of inaccurate or hallucinated results are especially dangerous for lawyers,” underscoring the ethical responsibility to thoughtfully use the tools.
Lauran is focused on expanding the firm’s litigation team and scope while supporting broad client needs. “The opportunities to continue to grow the range of services we provide and the clients we serve are exciting.”
