Vincent McKnight

Vincent McKnight
Managing Partner (D.C office); Co-Chair, Whistleblower Practice

Education: JD, University of Pennsylvania School of Law; BA, Brown University
Company Name: Sanford Heisler Sharp, LLP
Industry: Law
Company CEO: David Sanford, Chairman
Company Headquarters Location: New York, New York
Number of Employees: 100
Your Location (if different from above): Washington, DC
Words you live by: Life is full of second chances.
Who is your personal hero? My father, Herbert V. McKnight, MD
What book are you reading? The Warmth of Other Suns by Isabel Wilkerson
What was your first job: Day camp counselor, Sundial Program, D.C. Dept. of Recreation
Favorite charity: NAACP Legal Defense Fund
Interests: Jass and guitar
Family: Married to EEOC Administrative Judge Cynthia McKnight; three sons: John, Devin & Connor

A Good Mentor Can Make All the Difference

After law school, I was fortunate to work as a law clerk to the Honorable William C. Pryor on both the D.C. Superior Court and on the D.C. Court of Appeals. He reignited my passion for the law and, by his example, showed me how to conduct myself as a black professional in a predominantly white profession.

He was the consummate professional, always prepared. He treated everyone with respect and dignity. At the same time, he knew how to firmly take a stand. Throughout my career, he has always been there for me. I am fortunate that he came into my life.

My advice to young professionals is this: Seek out a mentor—you have much to learn.