Congratulations to the newest PLDIC TALI scholar: Sidnee McDonald, Associate for Cozen O’Connor, PLDIC YPAB Member, and previous PLDIC Volunteer of the Year. Sidnee received a scholarship from the PLDIC to attend The Advanced Leadership Institute (TALI)’s Emerging Leaders Program. The Emerging Leaders Program is tailored to support rising Black leaders and their allies. The program runs from January-June 2026. Congratulations, Sidnee!
“Being selected to participate in the TALI Emerging Leaders Program is an incredibly meaningful milestone for me, both professionally and personally. To be chosen for this program is an honor in itself, but to have the Pittsburgh Legal Diversity & Inclusion Coalition fully sponsor my participation makes it much more profound. PLDIC’s investment goes far beyond covering the cost of tuition; it represents their belief in me, in my leadership potential, and in the value of investing early in rising talent. Knowing that they chose to fund my participation reaffirms that they see promise in my growth and are committed to supporting me in spaces where I can connect, learn, and stretch into my best self as a leader.
What makes this opportunity particularly special is the community it fosters: being in a space with peers who are similarly committed to growth, excellence, and impact — especially other Black leaders and professionals striving toward the next stage of their careers. The relationships built in this program, the perspectives shared, and the collective experience of pushing one another to lead with authenticity and confidence are invaluable.
I am deeply grateful to PLDIC for this investment in my development. Their support makes me feel seen, valued, and affirmed not just as a contributor within the legal community, but as a future leader whose voice and influence matter. This opportunity is not just about the skills I will gain, it is about the confidence I will carry forward, the connections I will nurture, and the foundation it builds for my ongoing journey of service, leadership, and impact.”