Barbara Freedman Wand is a partner at Day Pitney LLP’s Boston office, specializing in estate and charitable planning. When asked to name her biggest accomplishment, she cites her election to the seven-member governing Executive Board at Day Pitney. “Being elected to serve on the Executive Board is very meaningful, since I had joined the firm less than two years before the election,” observes Wand.
Wand was recently recognized by Chambers USA as a leading lawyer in the area of estate planning. The publication noted, “Ms. Wand is renowned for her ability to combine her complete grasp of professional knowledge with an understanding of what’s most important to her clients in developing solutions perfectly tailored to them.”
Certified as an Accredited Estate Planner by the National Association of Estate Planners & Councils, Wand is a Fellow of the American College of Trust and Estate Counsel.She has also received the Boston Estate Planning Council Excellence Award and been named a Top Woman of Law by Massachusetts Lawyers Weekly.
Wand enjoys focusing on an organization’s “big picture” and engaging in strategic planning and execution. But she doesn’t dwell on the abstract, taking time to mentor more junior colleagues and make them part of her business development, as well as devoting time to her client and community service activities. Her personal philosophy? Treat people with respect and live life with an attitude of gratitude.
Like many professional women, Wand has had to balance raising a family and building a career – which she admits is a challenge, both logistically and emotionally. “Finding ways to meet those commitments took energy, creativity and collaboration. Determination and flexibility were key to success on both fronts,” explains Wand.
Wand offers this advice to other women building professional careers: “Decide what your goals are and thoughtfully develop strategies to accomplish them. Be proactive in taking steps to accomplish those goals by seeking out work that is challenging and brings you fulfillment.”
