Dianne R. Phillips ’88 Elected Chair of Albany Law School Board of Trustees
Albany Law School is pleased to announce that Dianne R. Phillips ’88 has been named Chair of the Board of Trustees.
A distinguished attorney, accomplished leader, and dedicated alumna, Phillips brings decades of professional experience and service to the role. A partner at Holland & Knight LLP, she is nationally recognized for her work in environmental, energy, regulatory, and litigation matters. Throughout her career, she has advised clients on complex legal and regulatory issues while maintaining a strong commitment to public service, professional leadership, and mentorship.
“Dianne's dedication to Albany Law School is matched only by her exceptional leadership and professional accomplishments,” said Cinnamon P. Carlarne, President and Dean. “She understands this institution deeply, believes passionately in its mission, and is uniquely positioned to help guide Albany Law as we build on the momentum of our 175th anniversary and look toward the future.”
Phillips has been an active alumna for many years. She previously served as President of the National Alumni Association and has been a member of the Board of Trustees since 2017, most recently serving as Vice Chair. During her tenure, she has helped advance key institutional priorities and has been a strong advocate for students, faculty, and alumni. She was the recipient of the Donald D. DeAngelis ’60 Excellence in Alumni Service Award in 1993 and a Kate Stoneman Award in 2004.
She received her undergraduate degree from Cornell University before going on to Albany Law School, where she earned her Juris Doctor summa cum laude. After graduation she joined the firm of Sherburne, Powers & Needham, P.C where she was named partner in 1996. The firm eventually merged with Holland & Knight LLP. She served as Assistant General Counsel to Suez LNG North America for two years before returning to Holland & Knight in 2003.
Phillips has received numerous honors throughout her career and has served in leadership roles across the legal profession and the nonprofit community including being a board member of GLBTQ Legal Advocates & Defenders, Inc. (GLAD LAW) from 2006 – 2019, serving as president from 2012 – 2016. She is an active member of the Boston Bar Association previously serving as Environmental and Energy Law Section Co-Chair and Litigation Subcommittee Co-Chair.
“I am honored to serve as Chair of the Board of Trustees and grateful for the opportunity to give back to the institution that helped shape my career,” Phillips said. “Albany Law School's strength has always been its people. I look forward to working alongside them to support the school's mission and continued success.”
Phillips succeeds Dan S. Grossman ’78 who has served as Chair since 2023 and begins her term as Chair on July 1, 2026.
