Steptoe & Johnson Honors Six Attorneys and Professional Staff as “Women Who Inspire”

Related Attorneys: Krista A. Ford, Laura H. McConnell-Corbyn, Diana S. Prulhiere, Kalynn G. Walls

Published: March 30, 2026

BRIDGEPORT, W.Va. – In celebration of Women’s History Month, Steptoe & Johnson is wrapping up its annual “Women Who Inspire” series, which highlighted four female leaders who are making a meaningful impact in their industries and communities each week in March. For the final week in March, the firm is proud to recognize six Steptoe & Johnson attorneys and professional staff who have been nominated by their colleagues as “Women Who Inspire.”

The three attorneys and three professional staff members have been recommended by their peers for upholding the Core Values of the firm, demonstrating leadership and mentorship qualities, exemplifying resilience, determination, advocating for others, balancing stress and workload with grace, and giving time to causes and initiatives to better the firm and their communities.

2026 women who inspire attorney nominees

2026 Women Who Inspire Staff Nominees

The 2026 Attorneys and Professional Staff honorees are (in alphabetical order):

Melissa Bacher
Office Manager
Oklahoma City, OK
“Melissa inspires us through her dedication and positive attitude. She consistently goes above and beyond to support both attorneys and staff and to create a work environment where everyone feels valued, encouraged and supported each day.”

Krista Ford
Director of Knowledge, Research & Information Services
Pittsburgh, PA
“Krista’s dedication to her job is relentless, awe inspiring, and seemingly without limit. Her drive is aimed at achieving one goal: making Steptoe & Johnson a preeminent firm at the cutting edge of technology and information services.”

Laura McConnell-Corbyn
Office Managing Member
Oklahoma City, OK
“Laura leads with immense strength and beauty. Her dedication to our firm and her clients is truly unwavering. She carries herself with dignity and respect and serves as an incredible example of what it means to be a woman.”

Diana Prulhiere
Member
Denver, CO
“Diana has grit – she’s not afraid to roll up her sleeves and get messy, if that’s what it takes to get the job done and she’s always calm in the midst of the storm.”

Tonya Stonestreet
Legal Administrative Assistant
Bridgeport, WV
“Tonya has an incredible work ethic and commitment to the firm. She is tireless and always there for any member of the firm who needs assistance.”

Kalynn Walls
Associate
Louisville, KY
“Kalynn is a natural leader who is respectful and friendly to everyone. Kalynn makes the firm a more enjoyable place to work. She’s a true asset to this firm.”

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