Fennemore taps Adrian D’Amico to lead firm’s AI transformation

Fennemore, an Am Law 200 business law firm recognized as one of the fastest-growing in the United States, announced Adrian D’Amico as the firm’s Director of Emerging Technology & Innovation. In this newly created role, Adrian will spearhead the development and implementation of Project BlueWave AI, the firm’s bold initiative to transform legal services through leading-edge technology and artificial intelligence (AI).

Adrian D’Amico

D’Amico brings to Fennemore a deep knowledge of Generative Artificial Intelligence, which he delivered as a Senior Solutions Architect at Thomson Reuters. In this position, D’Amico architected and implemented GenAI and legal technology solutions for Fortune 200 corporations and Am Law 200 law firms.  Prior to that, he served as a senior in-house attorney in FedEx Ground’s Business Transaction Group, with his practice focusing primarily on technology transactions and adoption. At FedEx Ground, D’Amico led the initiative to deploy legal technologies across the FedEx global enterprise, including AI, documentation automation, and advanced matter and contract management systems.

“Adrian’s deep experience in AI and his passion for innovation makes him the ideal leader for Project BlueWave AI,” said Fennemore CEO James Goodnow. “We’re committed to empowering our attorneys with the smartest tools available while delivering exceptional, cost-effective solutions for our clients.”

Driving Innovation in Legal Services

D’Amico will play a continuous and central role in identifying new and emerging technologies that can revolutionize how attorneys and support teams work, bringing clients faster and more accurate outcomes. In particular,  D’Amico will initially focus on:

  • Project BlueWave AI: Deploying advanced AI platforms and services to streamline data analysis, improve accuracy, and reduce time spent on routine legal tasks. Designed to support attorneys and clients alike, this initiative will offer practical applications like firm-specific Q&A, brainstorming tools, drafting assistance, and document analysis.
  • Workflow Optimization: Automating repetitive processes to free up attorneys for high-value legal strategies.
  • Enhanced Client Collaboration: Introducing tools for seamless communication and efficient process management.  
  • Cost-Effective Solutions: Leveraging technology to reduce overhead expenses and maximize client outcomes.

D’Amico’s appointment underscores Fennemore’s commitment to being a pioneer in the legal industry, pushing boundaries, and shaping the future of law.

To learn more about Fennemore’s forward-thinking initiatives, visit: https://www.fennemorelaw.com/about-us/innovation/.

JA welcomes Phoenix Union High School superintendent to board

Thea Andrade

Junior Achievement of Arizona announced the appointment of Thea Andrade, Superintendent at Phoenix Union High School District to the Board of Directors, providing guidance and leadership for the programming aimed at empowering Arizona’s youth through career readiness and financial literacy.  

“We are honored to have Thea on our board of directors and know her expertise and knowledge in high school education and the Arizona education environment will be invaluable,” said Katherine Cecala, president, Junior Achievement of Arizona. “Junior Achievement of Arizona has a strategic focus on expanding its impact for high school-aged students in Arizona. Thea is exactly the right person to provide guidance on how best to achieve that priority. She has served in public education for over three decades and as an administrator for 25 years. Thea is passionate about bringing equitable opportunities to all students and will be a great asset to our board.” 

Thea Andrade joined Phoenix Union High School District in 2011 and was named Superintendent in 2023.  She is the first female superintendent in the District’s nearly 130-year history after earning unanimous approval from the Governing Board.  She has a great deal of experience in K-12 education and classroom management, lesson planning, educational technology, and instructional design.  A Boston native, she graduated from the University of Massachusetts, Amherst and has made her home in Phoenix for the past 30 years. She is passionate about having the privilege and opportunity to shape the future of Arizona, the city of Phoenix, and her local community.  

Diversified Partners announces Dean Ingram as managing partner

Diversified Partners, Scottsdale’s leading commercial real estate investment, brokerage and development firm, announced the addition of Dean Ingram as managing partner of brokerage and new development. This move underscores the company’s rapid growth as it plans over $4 billion in transactions for 2025 and 2026. 

Ingram brings more than 25 years of retail real estate expertise, focusing on markets across the Southwest and Central regions, including Arizona, Texas, Oklahoma and Minnesota. In his new role, he will oversee Diversified Partners’ brokerage division, working with all agents, their clients, property owners and tenants to drive success in land sales, leasing and new development projects.  

“At Diversified Partners, we strive to build a team of the best in the business, and Dean is a perfect example of that commitment,” said Walt Brown Jr., CEO of Diversified Partners. “His expertise and leadership will be invaluable as we continue to elevate our brokerage division, expanding our impact in land sales, leasing and tenant representation across key markets.” 

Ingram earned a Bachelor of Arts in business finance and administration from Point Loma Nazarene University in San Diego. During his career, he has earned awards such as Rookie of the Year, Top Producer and the Million Dollar Award. He is recognized for his strategic planning, market knowledge and negotiation skills, delivering outstanding results for high-profile shopping centers nationwide. His relationships with REITs, national firms and local property owners further strengthen his ability to meet client objectives. 

For more information about Diversified Partners and its brokerage services, visit www.dpcre.com. 

Womble promotes 25 attorneys to partner and of counsel

Womble Bond Dickinson announced the promotion of 10 attorneys to partner and 15 attorneys to of counsel, effective January 1, 2025. The group is representative of nearly all of the firm’s practice groups and 14 offices across its domestic footprint.

The 7 Arizona promoted attorneys are:

About Az Business Leaders: AZ Business Leaders is an annual business-to-business publication that combines the who’s who of Arizona business community with their valuable leadership advice and knowledge. The magazine is published by AZ Big Media. To learn more about Az Business Leaders, contact Colleen Brady, director of sales.