Press Releases

Benesch Partner Marisa Darden Named a Crain’s Cleveland 2024 Notable Black Leader

September 30, 2024

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Benesch is pleased to announce that partner Marisa Darden has been named to Crain’s Cleveland Business’ 2024 Notable Black Leaders. The 50+ individuals honored manage, mentor, innovate and give back; they are recognized for their accomplishments at their companies, industries and communities.

The Crain’s Cleveland Notable Black Leaders Award honors those who have contributed significantly through professional excellence, leadership and community service. Recipients demonstrate outstanding performance, actively participate in community initiatives, advocate for diversity, equity and inclusion, and mentor the next generation of leaders. Additionally, they introduce innovative solutions that positively impact their fields and communities.

“We are incredibly proud of Marisa,” said Managing Partner Gregg Eisenberg. “Marisa’s achievements at our firm, her industry influence and her dedication to our community are truly commendable, and we are inspired by her leadership, DEI advocacy and commitment to mentoring the next generation of leaders.”

As a partner and chair of Benesch’s White Collar, Government Investigations & Regulatory Compliance Practice Group, Marisa brings a wealth of experience as a former state and federal prosecutor. She advises on a broad spectrum of issues, including federal and state law violations, complex financial investigations, and corporate inquiries into sexual harassment and workplace discrimination.

Before joining Benesch, Marisa served as an Assistant U.S. Attorney in the Northern District of Ohio and Assistant District Attorney in Manhattan. She is also an adjunct faculty member at Case Western Reserve School of Law, lecturing on criminal law. Recognized for her contributions to the legal field, Marisa was named a Crain’s Cleveland Women of Note honoree and is actively involved in her community, serving on the Board of Directors for the Federal Bar Association’s Northern District of Ohio Chapter and the Rainbow Babies & Children’s Foundation. Marisa is also dedicated to mentoring younger attorneys and maintaining a robust pro bono practice.

View the full list of Crain’s Cleveland’s 2024 Notable Black Leaders here.