Ambassador Spotlight: Molly Jones

How does this moment in your career shape the way you think about leadership and service within CMCP?

The opportunity to take on leadership roles within CMCP has been central to my professional growth. It has not only contributed to my success at Crowell & Moring, but also honed my abilities to collaborate, advocate, and inspire, both within my firm and CMCP. While I owe a debt of gratitude to many attorneys, some of my deepest professional relationships have been formed in recent years through my involvement with CMCP. Making partner at Crowell & Moring has deepened my sense of responsibility—not only to mentor and uplift the next generation of attorneys from all backgrounds, but also to enhance CMCP so we can support even more members as they advance in their careers. When I think about leadership and service within CMCP, I focus on ensuring others have access to the same transformative experiences that shaped my journey, and supporting CMCP as it continues to grow, welcoming increasing numbers of attorneys into our community.

As a newly elected partner at Crowell & Moring LLP in San Francisco, what lessons from your professional journey have most influenced your commitment to mentorship and community-building?

Over the course of my career, I have seen firsthand the power of mentorship and authentic community-building. Early on, I was fortunate to learn from generous advisors and colleagues who encouraged me not only to take risks, but also to stay true to my values and advocate for myself and others. The lessons I’ve learned from these relationships, including the importance of being accessible, listening deeply, and celebrating others’ successes, have instilled in me a belief that our profession is strongest when attorneys lift one another up. Whether through formal mentorship, informal advice, or gathering for shared experiences, building community empowers attorneys from all backgrounds to thrive and find lasting satisfaction in their careers.

As I step into this new role, I’m committed to continuing that legacy: fostering an environment where colleagues support one another, grow together, and contribute meaningfully to the broader legal community.

What excites you most about leading the CMCP Ambassadors Council, and what impact do you hope the Council will have on early- and mid-career attorneys across California?

I’m most excited about two things: the chance to collaborate with some of CMCP’s most dedicated members, and the ability to shape programming that impacts attorneys at every stage of their careers. By creating meaningful business development and networking opportunities, we can ensure that a broad community of attorneys not only survives but thrives in this profession. For early- and mid-career attorneys, I hope our Ambassadors Council-led initiatives show them that they belong in the practice of law, that they have the agency to shape their own path, and that true fulfillment is possible. Equally important, I want to foster an authentic environment where these attorneys feel comfortable voicing questions, sharing challenges, and seeking guidance—resources that can be especially scarce for attorneys who may not see themselves reflected in traditional spaces. Ultimately, my goal is for the Council to serve as a supportive hub where all attorneys can access the tools and relationships they need to advance and flourish.

CMCP’s mission centers on access, opportunity, and excellence. How do you see the Ambassadors Council advancing that mission in the current legal and social climate?

The Ambassadors Council is comprised of bold leaders and steadfast advocates—not only for themselves, but for broader communities as well. In the current legal and social climate, our commitment to advancing access, opportunity, and excellence is more important than ever. Ambassadors consistently step up to do the hard work, demonstrating both professionally and personally a dedication to providing CMCP members with access to resources, opportunities, and networks that can drive positive social and legal change. I see our Council as a catalyst for expanding the reach and impact of CMCP’s mission, ensuring these vital spaces remain available and empowering for everyone who benefits from them. When our members attend CMCP programs, meetings, and the Annual Business Conference, they make a meaningful impact by advocating for themselves and their communities. I hope others will be inspired to join us as we to continue to promote excellence and foster a welcoming, supportive professional community for all.

Looking ahead to your term as Chair, what is one goal or initiative you’re especially passionate about—and what advice would you offer to attorneys considering deeper involvement with CMCP?

I’m particularly excited about our Ambassador-led initiative partnering with the CMCP Board to seek out new sponsors and member organizations—those who, like our current supporters, share CMCP’s longstanding commitment to access and opportunity. In a time of transition for our profession and broader society, it is crucial that firms and companies actively support organizations like CMCP and advocate for their people. By joining forces with our esteemed Board, I am confident we will identify prospective partners whose values align with ours and who wish to be recognized for their thoughtful engagement and commitment during this important time. For attorneys considering greater involvement with CMCP, my advice is simple: take the leap. Being part of CMCP creates opportunities for meaningful relationships, professional development, and the ability to help shape the future of our community. I look forward to welcoming new firms, companies, and colleagues into our supportive network.