Marcia L. Fudge, former secretary of the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) has joined the Taft law firm, which has an office in Southfield, as a partner and its firmwide chair of public policy.
Fudge will dedicate a portion of her time to the firm’s ongoing efforts to combat the harmful effects of forever chemicals. Her experience and reputation will be “invaluable” to Taft’s clients, while also bolstering the firm’s relationships with governmental and corporate leaders both in her home state of Ohio and across the United States, according to firm leaders. She will be based in Ohio and Washington, D.C.
“My top priority as a leader has always been to develop effective solutions and results for the people and communities I have been called to serve,” Fudge says. “In my transition to life as a private citizen and attorney, it was important for me to land among professionals who are similarly dedicated to solutions-driven work.
“Taft’s core values, culture, leadership principles, and commitment to its clients strongly align with my personal values, as does its modern approach to service. I greatly look forward to collaborating with my new colleagues in my role as Partner and Chair of Public Policy, which I am honored will allow me to return to my roots in Ohio, and maintain a strong presence in Washington, D.C.”
Taft Chairman and Managing Partner Robert J. Hicks says, “I am personally very proud and excited for Taft with this announcement. Bringing someone of Secretary Fudge’s stature and caliber is highly strategic for Taft. She is a tremendous leader with an astute vision, impeccable integrity, and a deep passion for serving our nation’s communities. Taft is very fortunate that she has selected this as her professional home. Secretary Fudge’s service-oriented leadership and vast experience will have an extremely positive impact on our clients and the communities we serve.”
After being courted by other major law firms and corporations, she was drawn to Taft as the result of the firm’s strong Ohio presence and roots, successful growth strategy and track record, culture, and standards of excellence.
As part of Fudge’s extended team, Imani Edwards (based in Taft Cleveland) and Garrett McDaniel (based in Taft Washington, D.C.) each will join Taft as a director of public affairs. Fudge also will play an important role in recruiting additional top legal talent to Taft.
“Taft Detroit is incredibly honored to welcome Secretary Fudge to Taft,” says Mark G. Cooper, partner-in-charge of Taft Detroit. “Her steadfast commitment to serving our nation’s communities aligns perfectly with our firm and reflects Taft’s mission to provide our clients with the highest caliber legal advisors. We look forward to working with the Secretary and welcoming her to the team,”
