After over four years as part of Jackson Walker’s Bankruptcy practice group, Monica Blacker will be leaving the firm to start a consulting business with a focus on empowering women and giving them tools to advance and thrive in their careers. In her new endeavor, BAX Advisors, LLC, Monica will continue to serve as a speaker on various topics, including professional development for women and unconscious bias. She will also consult with organizations on implementing and improving their women’s initiatives.
While at Jackson Walker, Monica has seen tremendous success representing a diverse group of creditors and debtors in restructurings. She represented the largest unsecured trade creditor and co-chair of the Official Committee of Unsecured Creditors in the Chapter 11 proceedings of Energy Future Holdings Corporation (formerly known as TXU). Other highlights of her career include securing the full recovery of a $492 million loan on behalf of a special servicer in the Chapter 11 proceedings of PJ Finance Company.
Since joining Jackson Walker, Monica has been a driving force behind the firm’s Jackson Walker Women (jw2) initiative. In addition to serving on the Committee, Monica has arranged the group’s meetings, volunteer outings, and networking events. She has taken an active role in mentoring young female attorneys both in developing business and in serving their communities.
“Monica has been an integral part of jw2 since the time she joined the firm,” said Debbie Robinowitz, Committee Chair of the jw2 Initiative. “Her passion for issues surrounding women in the workplace has benefitted all of the women at Jackson Walker as she has worked tirelessly on multiple fronts, including the education of attorneys within the firm.”
Monica has also contributed to the development of women attorneys and professionals outside of the firm. She has served as Committee Chair and on the Host Committee of the Women on the Move Luncheon, on the Sponsorship and Planning Committee of the National Association of Women Lawyers, and is the 2018 Chair-Elect for the International Women’s Insolvency & Restructuring Confederation Dallas-Fort Worth Network. She is a sought-after speaker who provides entertaining and insightful presentations on a variety of professional topics.
“Monica embodies all of the characteristics we hope to see in our lawyers at Jackson Walker,” said Managing Partner Wade Cooper. “She has demonstrated an aptitude for leadership, particularly in guiding and mentoring other women at the firm. We wish her all the best in her new venture and look forward to seeing what the future holds for BAX Advisors.”
Though the attorneys and staff at Jackson Walker are sad to see her go, we are pleased to see Monica move on to pursue her passion. She will continue to be a resource for Jackson Walker and the jw2 Initiative.
“I can’t thank Jackson Walker enough for giving me a platform to empower women and for their unwavering support,” said Monica. “I will miss my colleagues, but look forward to our new relationship.”
To follow Monica’s new endeavor, follow BAX Advisors on Twitter or Instagram. For inquiries related to BAX Advisors, please contact monica@baxadvisorsllc.com or visit www.baxadvisorsllc.com.
“I can’t thank Jackson Walker enough for giving me a platform to empower women and for their unwavering support,” said Monica. “I will miss my colleagues, but look forward to our new relationship.”