PILI is grateful to David Scriven-Young who has been serving as Chair for our Alumni Network Leadership Council for the last year. Dave was a 2003 Graduate Fellow at the Lake Michigan Federation (now known as the Alliance for the Great Lakes) and is now Senior Counsel at Peckar & Abramson, P.C.
What have you been up to since your PILI Fellowship concluded?
Since my PILI Fellowship concluded, I developed an expertise in environmental law and have developed a national commercial litigation practice. Currently, I am with Peckar & Abramson, P.C., which is recognized as the largest law firm serving the construction industry, with 115 lawyers and 10 offices around the U.S. I have also kept a fairly robust pro bono practice, serving individuals, environmental nonprofits and arts-related nonprofits and schools.
What was your favorite thing about being a PILI Fellow?
My favorite thing about being a PILI Fellow was being part of a community that wanted to make a difference in the world. I did my Fellowship at Lake Michigan Federation (now known as Alliance for the Great Lakes), and it was great working with folks who had a true passion for protecting the environment and utilizing the Great Lakes as a resource. I also enjoyed PILI’s summer educational opportunities and meeting the other students who were doing an Internship or Fellowship.
How has your commitment to service played a role in your life and career?
Beyond doing pro bono work, I have consistently been in leadership for service and professional-based organizations. These include the American Bar Association, where I served as an officer of the Young Lawyers Division and currently serve in the Litigation Section as host of the podcast “Litigation Radio”, and the Chicago Bar Association, where I was on the Board of Managers and currently serve as chair of the Commercial Litigation Committee and co-chair efforts to expand legal education for the public. Also, during the last election cycle, I was elected as Tax Collector for my local township government. I believe it is critical for lawyers to be involved in their community and to give back in gratitude for the opportunities we have received.
Why do you like serving on the Alumni Network Leadership Council?
I serve on the Alumni Network Leadership Council and stayed involved with PILI for two reasons. First, every time I attend a PILI meeting, I am inspired by my colleagues and am reminded of my own commitment to do pro bono work. Second, PILI meetings and events are fun — great people and interesting conversations. I encourage PILI Alumni to become more involved! See you at the next event.