October 29, 2014, Pittsburgh – Carolyn D. Duronio, a partner in the Business & Finance Department of Reed Smith and former managing partner of the firm’s Pittsburgh office, has been named among the nine “2014 Distinguished Daughters of Pennsylvania” by Pennsylvania Gov. Tom Corbett.

“Each of these women has shown a tremendous commitment to making the world a better place,” said Gov. Corbett. “It is my honor to name them as the Distinguished Daughters of Pennsylvania. Their dedication, commitment, compassion and drive have impacted the lives of so many.”

Duronio joined Reed Smith in 1984, after earning her law degree at Harvard Law School magna cum laude. She is currently corporate secretary for the firm and a member of its Executive Committee.

“This is exceptionally well-deserved recognition for Carolyn, whose contributions to the commonwealth, Pittsburgh and Reed Smith have long been and continue to be outstanding,” said George Stewart, the firm’s Pittsburgh managing partner. “She is well qualified to join this outstanding group of Pennsylvania women.”

In designating Duronio among 2014’s nine “Distinguished Daughters of Pennsylvania,” Gov. Corbett cited her “impressive professional accomplishments,” describing the Reed Smith partner as a “highly respected expert on nonprofit governance and counsel to many leading state and national nonprofit organizations.”

“It is a humbling experience to be chosen a 'Daughter of Pennsylvania,'” said Duronio. “I love the work I do, and am grateful for the platform Reed Smith has provided to make a difference for nonprofit organizations across the nation, and in Pittsburgh, this region and our state. My clients do exceptional work for the common good. I am very honored to be recognized for helping them succeed in their important work.”

The governor also cited Duronio’s “extraordinary dedication to family and community,” including caring for a younger sister with Down Syndrome and service on the boards of numerous nonprofit organizations, in particular The Children’s Institute, Family Services of Western Pennsylvania, Carnegie Museums of Pittsburgh, The Frick Art and Historical Center, and the Pittsburgh Cultural Trust.

The tradition of designating women across Pennsylvania as “Distinguished Daughters” began in 1949, during the administration of then Gov. James H. Duff. In the 65 years since, 13 Pennsylvania governors have selected 467 women leaders for this singular honor.

Duronio and the other 2014 Distinguished Daughters were feted at a luncheon hosted by the governor and first lady at the governor’s residence in mid-October.

“As lifelong Pennsylvanians, Tom and I are proud to recognize this group of nine talented and motivated women,” said the commonwealth’s first lady Susan Corbett. “Their communities and the commonwealth as a whole have been enriched by their exemplary achievements.”

About Reed Smith

Reed Smith is a global relationship law firm with more than 1,800 lawyers in 25 offices throughout the United States, Europe, Asia and the Middle East. Founded in 1877, the firm represents leading international businesses, from Fortune 100 corporations to mid-market and emerging enterprises. Its lawyers provide litigation and other dispute resolution services in multi-jurisdictional and other high-stakes matters; deliver regulatory counsel; and execute the full range of strategic domestic and cross-border transactions. Reed Smith is a preeminent advisor to industries including financial services, life sciences, health care, advertising, technology and media, shipping, energy and natural resources, real estate, manufacturing, and education. For more information, visit reedsmith.com.

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