Issue link: https://nebusinessmedia.uberflip.com/i/1404446
11 HARTFORDBUSINESS.COM | AUGUST 23, 2021 Ali Hayter Melinda L. Johnson Age: 36 Company: Cantor Colburn LLP Title: Partner No. of years with current company: 9 Town where I live: Farmington Town where I work: Hartford College: Villanova University and the University of Connecticut School of Law Highest degree: Law Degree with an Intellectual Property Certificate Age: 33 Company: YWCA Hartford Region Title: Director, Community Engagement and Advocacy No. of years with current company: 2.5 Town where I live: Hartford Town where I work: Hartford College: Tabernacle College and Seminary Highest degree: Master's degree in Christian Counseling A li Hayter is a partner at Cantor Colburn, one of the largest and busiest intellectual property law firms in the country. Her legal practice focuses on the preparation and prosecution of patents and providing patentability and non- infringement opinions related to various technologies. Hayter's has both domestic and foreign clients of all sizes, ranging from individual inventors to Fortune 100 companies. Prior to joining Cantor Colburn, Hayter worked as a mechanical engineer at Otis Elevator. Four reasons why you deserve to be a 40 Under Forty: 1. Recently was promoted to partner. 2. Recognized by the Connecticut Law Tribune as a New Leader in the Law. 3. Nominated as a "Rising Star" by Connecticut Super Lawyers for the past six years. 4. Through my involvement with students, especially young women, I am working to cultivate an interest in STEM related fields and also to promote general awareness of related careers in intellectual property. What's been your biggest professional/work accomplishment so far in your career? I was integrally involved in the launch of new products including the development of a patent strategy, the preparation of non- infringement opinions and the securement of a corresponding portfolio of patents for a product line of multimillion dollar countertop kitchen appliances. M elinda L. Johnson has more than thirteen years of experience working to dismantle racial and gender inequities. Johnson's experience and skill set includes clinical case management and counseling; program management and development; community engagement and legislative advocacy. Johnson is an advocate and innovator whose dedication and work exemplifies her deep commitment to faith, family and community. She is a spiritual leader serving at Urban Hope Refuge Church. Four reasons why you deserve to be a 40 Under Forty: 1. Assisted in the strategic campaigns for key legislation related to racial justice and gender equity in the 2021 legislative session. 2. Has over seven years' experience working with communities of faith to combat sexual violence including domestic violence and human trafficking 3. Led the largest Connecticut solidarity action in 2020 in response to the death of George Floyd and racial unrest. 4. Has been engaging women and communities of color in conversations through Change Talk Wednesday and Community Matters for six years. What do you like to do outside of work? I enjoy outdoor activities including biking and hiking; traveling to warm climates and zip lining. I am also an artist who enjoys wood carving and experimenting with various mediums Member FDIC/Member DIF Real. Simple. Banking. bankatpeoples.com Congratulations 2021 Hartford Business Journal 40 Under Forty honorees, including our own Jacquelyn Guzie. We are very proud of your accomplishments and commitment to community. Congratulations Jackie! 40 UNDER FORTY | TWENTY-FIFTH ANNIVERSARY 2021