A leading Houston-based appellate partner, York was highlighted for his leadership of Reed Smith’s industry-recognized DEI program. In this role, York spearheaded the development and implementation of policies and programs aimed at fostering an inclusive culture, recruiting and advancing diverse talent, and serving underrepresented communities.

Under York’s leadership, the firm’s global DEI initiative has made significant strides in support of professional development, mentorship and sponsorship of lawyers within the firm, while also serving as an advocate for change, equity and representation in the communities it serves.

York was further highlighted for making DEI a critical part of his practice throughout his distinguished career. As a Houston-based lawyer focused on energy and natural resources with more than 35 years of experience in appellate law, York has long helped his industry clients with their own DEI programs, while partnering with them on creative diversity-focused initiatives.

When asked by the Houston Business Journal what advice he would you give to other business leaders to boost and sustain diversity within their organizations, York replied: “The most important piece of advice would be to not treat your DEI efforts as activities separate from your business and your customers.”

For his tireless leadership, York also was named to INvolve’s list of “Outstanding Top 100 LGBT+ Executives Role Models” in 2019, 2022 and 2023.