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PRESIDENT'S MESSAGE

Heyward Bouknight

Deputy General Counsel, National Gypsum

Dear ACC Charlotte Members,

I hope you’re enjoying the start of summer and finding time to recharge with family and friends. It’s hard to believe we’re already halfway through 2025!

This midpoint offers a natural opportunity to reflect on our goals - both personal and professional. I’m pleased to share that our Chapter is on track for another successful year.

Our top priority in 2025 is cultivating a vibrant, engaged community for in-house counsel in the Charlotte area. In Q2 alone, we hosted 18 events - many at capacity - including 8.5 hours of CLE credit, a professional development seminar, a community service initiative, and several well-attended social gatherings. Thank you for your enthusiastic participation.

We’ve also focused on increasing Board engagement. A bit of friendly competition has added energy to our efforts - Drew Slabaugh currently leads in event attendance! 

In June, our Board participated in a service afternoon at Nourish Up, sorting donated food for this impactful nonprofit. This initiative not only strengthened our team’s connection but also spotlighted the organization we’re proud to support through our upcoming Annual Casino Night fundraiser.

Save the Date: Casino Night at Quail Hollow

We’re thrilled to announce the return of Casino Night at Quail Hollow Club on Saturday, August 23, 2025. This signature event is always a highlight and tends to sell out quickly - so mark your calendars and register early! The invite should be in your email in early July.

This year, we aim to raise at least $5,000 for Nourish Up. When registering, you’ll have the option to donate. If each attendee contributes just $35, we’ll easily surpass our goal and make a meaningful impact.

Looking Ahead

Thank you for your continued support and engagement. I look forward to seeing many of you at our upcoming summer events - and especially at Casino Night, where we’ll enjoy an evening of fellowship while supporting a great cause.

Warm regards,

Heyward Bouknight

Federal Government’s Use of AI Raises Important Legal Considerations for Regulated Industries

By Marci B. Norton | Parker Poe

It’s no secret how much artificial intelligence (AI) has been adopted into the business world as large financial institutions, educational systems, and a wide range of other entities look to build efficiency to benefit their customers and clients. The federal government has been squarely on this list, using AI in hopes of better serving the public. 

In early June, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration announced that it had launched a generative AI tool designed to help its scientific reviewers and investigators work more efficiently. The FDA now joins other federal agencies that have found ways to adopt AI. Dubbed “Elsa,” the FDA said the large language model has already been used to review drug applications, accelerating clinical protocol reviews and shortening scientific evaluation times, as well as to identify high-priority inspection targets. With time, the FDA plans to integrate AI more into its operations, so companies in FDA-regulated industries can expect its use in the premarket review of products (drugs, biological products, medical devices, tobacco products, and food and color additives).

The FDA’s adoption of AI technology brings with it important legal considerations and risks for regulated industries. Product applications submitted to the FDA are often voluminous. Drug applications, for example, are often several hundred thousand pages, comprised of data from human and animal studies and information about the drug’s composition and manufacturing practice, which makes AI an attractive tool because large language models can quickly read and summarize long documents. FDA reviewers, on the other hand, have long been tasked with evaluating such applications. They bring years of institutional knowledge as well as educational and clinical experience to the job; indeed, many medical product reviewers are MDs or PhDs. Although it is unclear how much the FDA will integrate AI into the product review process alongside humans, for companies submitting applications, it’s even more critical to engage early with FDA review divisions and submit applications capable of being processed by AI. And companies should monitor the FDA’s website for any guidance regarding exactly how the agency will use AI to make review decisions.

It remains to be seen how successful Elsa will be in the FDA review process. Companies should be aware of certain risks related to using AI for application review, including: 

• AI may be unable to identify all potential concerns with an application.
• AI may misinterpret the data and generate outputs that are factually incorrect, nonsensical, or fabricated (hallucinations).
• Downstream FDA reviewers may rely too heavily on the initial AI review and miss important issues.

The federal government’s use of AI is expanding, and as the government’s workforce shrinks, it seems likely that even more federal agencies will incorporate AI to increase efficiency and streamline decision-making processes. Before compiling submissions to the government, companies should consider the best ways to present their information, taking into account how large language models will review and summarize that information. It can be valuable to partner with outside counsel who has FDA experience to assist in this process.

Marci B. Norton is counsel at Parker Poe and she helps clients navigate the complex statutes and regulations administered by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). She was formerly with the FDA for nearly 30 years before joining Parker Poe. 

Parker Poe is a full service business law firm that represents clients in business and real estate transactions, regulatory issues, and complex litigation. Parker Poe has more than 275 attorneys serving clients from eight offices in Charlotte and Raleigh, North Carolina; Charleston, Columbia, Greenville, and Spartanburg, South Carolina; Atlanta, Georgia; and Washington, DC.

Welcome ACC Charlotte New Members!

April 2025 - June 2025

Yolanda Brock, Counsel, Employment & Compliance, MSC Industrial Supply Co. 

Stacy Cozad, VP, CAO, Wellington and Park Holdings 

Vipul Desai, Senior Counsel, Honeywell International Inc. 

Kesia Hollins, Senior Counsel, Credit Karma, LLC 

Michael Hosmer, SVP & Assistant General Counsel, CardWorks Servicing, LLC 

Juan Hernandez, Senior Counsel, Wells Fargo Legal Department

Kai Jones, Counsel, Lowe's Companies, Inc. 

Mara Kaplan, Vice President, Lowe's Companies, Inc. 

Casey Kaplan, Vice President, Lowe's Companies, Inc. 

Anthony Kim, Asst General Counsel, Digital Legal Team, U.S. Bank 

Heather Newton, Associate General Counsel, Wells Fargo Law Department 

Simon John O'Brien, VP of Legal Affairs, Hissho Sushi 

Shiv Parikh, Counsel, Lowe's Companies, Inc. 

Stephanie Petrich, Director, Ally Financial 

Evan Reed, VP, Associate General Counsel, REDWOOD TRUST Inc.

Celeste Russell, Counsel, Wells Fargo Law Department 

Hunter Snowden, Corporate Counsel - AI, IP, & Technology, Moody's Corporation 

Shayne Stetsky, Head of Financial Administration and Vendor Operations, American International Group

David Suzuki, Senior Legal Counsel, APM Terminals (subsidiary of Maersk Group)

David Thompson, Legal Counsel, Mann + Hummel 

Kate Ward, Chief Legal Officer/Secretary, Bojangles Restaurants, Inc. 

Jeffrey Winn, Managing Principal Counsel, Cybersecurity, McKesson Corporation 

Denise Yarborough, General Counsel, Aeroflow, Inc.



New Member Lunch

Hosted with Bradley - 6/13/25

We were excited to invite our newest members to a New Member Lunch on the rooftop of The Waterman. This lunch was a warm and informal gathering designed to help new members connect with fellow in-house counsel and get to know ACC Charlotte. Attendees enjoyed great conversation, a delicious meal, and the opportunity to learn more about the resources, events, and networking opportunities available through our chapter.

Whether new to Charlotte or simply new to our Chapter, this lunch provided the perfect way to meet members, ask questions, and settle in. We appreciated the chance to welcome everyone and share all the ways ACC Charlotte can support and enhance their in-house practice.

Thank you to Bradley for hosting this New Member lunch with us.

2025 Charlotte Business Journal

Corporate Counsel Awards

Photo Credit: Melissa Key, Charlotte Business Journal

We were honored to once again partner with the Charlotte Business Journal in recognizing the remarkable contributions of corporate counsel throughout our region. This celebration serves as a meaningful tribute to the legal professionals who play an essential role in guiding and strengthening both their organizations and the broader business community.

We extend our sincere appreciation to Parker Poe, one of ACC Charlotte’s Platinum Sponsors, for serving as the title sponsor of this year’s awards program. Their continued support underscores a deep commitment to the advancement and recognition of in-house counsel.

Several of our members had the pleasure of attending the event and joining in the celebration of this year’s award recipients. It was an inspiring evening that showcased the dedication, leadership, and impact of the honorees.

We offer heartfelt congratulations to all 2025 winners and finalists:

• Outstanding Corporate Counsel – Large Company: Kelli Ferry, Novant Health
• Outstanding Corporate Counsel – Small Company: Jennifer Sadoff, AvidXchange
• Outstanding General Counsel: Robert McLean, Enpro Inc.
• Outstanding Solo General Counsel: Whitney Bouknight, National Board of Examiners in Optometry
• Outstanding In-House Law Department – Large Company: Brett Denton, Advocate Health
• Outstanding In-House Law Department – Small Company: Holly Hawkins, SERC Reliability Corp
• Rising Star – Small Company: Patra Sinner, Symphonic Distribution
• Rising Star – Large Company: Jake Wasserman, Honeywell
• Diversity Champion: Amy Cisrow-Peterson, Rack Room Shoes
• Outstanding Community Service Award: Megan Scholz, Bank of America
• Outstanding Pro Bono Service Award: Mandy Schuller, Wells Fargo Bank

We are proud to support an event that uplifts the exemplary contributions of in-house legal professionals and look forward to continuing this important tradition in the years ahead.

2025 ACC Charlotte Board of Directors

Community Service Project at Nourish Up

ACC Charlotte's 2025 Board of Directors had the privilege of volunteering with Nourish Up, packing three pallets of donated food for three different Client Choice pantries, which empower families to select the foods they know and love - with dignity and care.

This special day of service kicked off our Chapter's support for Nourish Up as the featured charity for our Annual Casino Night on August 23 at Quail Hollow Club! We’re proud to spotlight their incredible mission - lifting up our community through food. We hope to inspire even greater generosity as we count down to the big night! Save the date for the big event as more information will come soon.

Nourish Up is creating real impact across Mecklenburg County through the largest network of food pantries in North Carolina, grocery home deliveries, and Meals on Wheels. The ACC Charlotte Board was proud to help their mission and are excited to continue the support of this organization through our Casino Night!

If you haven't already, please like and follow ACC Charlotte on Facebook and LinkedIn.

GC/CLO Event | GC/CLO Roundtable:

Navigating Uncertainty and Regulatory Shifts

Sponsored by Parker Poe - 4/3/25

As shifting regulatory landscapes and economic uncertainty continue to redefine corporate governance, ACC Charlotte partnered with Parker Poe to host an exclusive GC & CLO Roundtable at Quail Hollow Club - a memorable evening of thoughtful dialogue, peer connection, and elevated hospitality.

The evening kicked off with a cocktail reception, followed by a timely dinner discussion exploring the challenges and opportunities facing in-house leaders today. Topics included:

• Navigating unpredictable regulatory change

• Managing the impact of tariffs and international trade

• Engaging with governmental entities amid shifting policies

• Addressing leadership fatigue while staying agile and resilient

GCs and CLOs exchanged valuable insights, shared strategies for compliance and risk mitigation, and discussed how legal departments can lead with confidence in times of rapid change.

The happy hour, delicious dinner, and engaging conversation were truly appreciated by all who attended. A special shoutout to our fantastic steering committee - Anna Blackwelder (SGL Carbon), John Grupp (Prevalon), Nicole Ramsdell (Belk), and Hunter Stamey (Indorama Ventures) - for their leadership and collaboration in shaping the evening.

Thank you to Parker Poe for sponsoring this GC Event.



Women's Event | Dink & Design

Sponsored by Robinson Bradshaw - 4/29/25

ACC Charlotte women members gathered with the women of Robinson Bradshaw for creativity, competition and camaraderie at their new office - complete with an indoor lounge, outdoor terrace and pickleball court! Beads Inc. walked attendees through bracelet making as well!

Thank you to Robinson Bradshaw for sponsoring this women's event.

Women's Event | The Art of Fragrance (Perfume Making)

Sponsored by Littler - 6/26/25

ACC Charlotte’s women members gathered for a vibrant and sensory-filled evening hosted in partnership with Littler, where creativity and connection took center stage. Guided by The Brown Sugar Collab, attendees explored the art of custom fragrance-making, blending floral, citrus, woody, and spice notes to create their own signature scents. The hands-on workshop offered a chance to learn, laugh, and experiment - each participant leaving with a personalized bottle and a newfound appreciation for the craft of perfumery.

The event’s warm, welcoming atmosphere was complemented by a stunning charcuterie spread from Babe & Butcher and a selection of drinks that kept conversation flowing.

Thank you to Littler for sponsoring this women's event.

SOCIAL EVENTS

Social Event | Arcade Night

Sponsored by Bradley - 4/24/25

ACC Charlotte members and Bradley attorneys gathered for a spirited Retro Arcade Social, where classic games, great company, and a relaxed atmosphere set the tone for a memorable evening. Hosted at an arcade venue with a full bar and delicious light bites, the event offered a fun and informal setting for members to unwind, connect, and enjoy some nostalgic competition.

Thanks to the generous sponsorship of Platinum Sponsor Bradley, the evening was a hit - from the steady flow of conversation to the sounds of pinball and laughter. It was a perfect midweek break and a great reminder that sometimes the best networking happens in the most casual of atmospheres.

Thank you to Bradley for sponsoring this social event.

Social Event | A Taste of the Mediterranean

Sponsored by Troutman Pepper Locke - 5/22/25

ACC Charlotte members enjoyed a memorable evening of connection and conversation at Chapter 6, where the Western Mediterranean-inspired menu and lively atmosphere set the stage for an engaging social gathering. Hosted in partnership with Troutman Pepper Locke, the event featured “The Treatment” - a chef-led experience highlighting bold flavors from the coasts and fields of Spain, Morocco, Algeria, Tunisia, France, and Italy. With a strong turnout from ACC members and Troutman Pepper Locke attorneys, the evening offered abundant opportunities for networking and informal conversation in an elegant yet relaxed setting. 

Thank you to Troutman Pepper Locke for sponsoring this social event.

Social Event | Game Show Battlerooms

Sponsored by Fox Rothschild - 6/24/25

ACC Charlotte members gathered for an unforgettable evening of team-based trivia and fast-paced fun at Game Show Battle Rooms, generously sponsored by Fox Rothschild. The night kicked off with casual refreshments and lively conversation before teams entered the game show arena for a high-energy competition that blended classic formats with friendly rivalry.

Decked out with game show style name tags and quick wit to match, Team Street Legal and Team Red Foxes faced off in rounds of laughter-filled challenges and clever banter. After a spirited showdown, Team Street Legal emerged victorious, earning bragging rights...and the trophy!

The evening was a refreshing mix of camaraderie, competition, and connection. ACC Charlotte extends its sincere thanks to Fox Rothschild for making the event possible and to all members who brought their energy and enthusiasm to this memorable night.

Thank you to Fox Rothschild for sponsoring this social event.

Community Service | Classroom Central

Sponsored by Moore & Van Allen - 6/12/25

ACC Charlotte and Moore & Van Allen came together for an impactful evening of service and connection at Sugar Creek Brewing Company. Members gathered to assemble much-needed supply kits in support of Classroom Central, a nonprofit committed to fostering equity in education across 248 schools in six Charlotte-region districts. This event offered a meaningful opportunity to give back while enjoying drinks, conversation, and camaraderie. With a shared sense of purpose, attendees worked together to support local students and teachers, ensuring they have the tools they need to succeed in the classroom.

Thank you to Moore & Van Allen for sponsoring this Professional Development event.

Professional Development | Embracing Change: Strategies for In-House Lawyers to Thrive and Lead Through Change

Sponsored by Winston & Strawn - 6/17/25

Speakers:

Diane Costigan, Winston & Strawn

Patrick Doerr, Winston & Strawn

This insightful workshop over lunch with Winston & Strawn explored our individual relationships with change, examined its various stages, and gained effective strategies to manage the stress and anxiety that often accompany it. By the end of the session, attendees walked away with renewed confidence and practical tools to embrace change themselves - and to support their teams, families, and communities through their own transitions.

Thank you to Winston & Strawn for sponsoring this Professional Development event.

The Fast and the Furious: Labor and Employment Implications of the New Administration’s Recent Executive Orders and Court Rulings

Sponsored by Ogletree Deakins - 4/2/25

Speakers:

Michael Ray, Ogletree Deakins

Ben Holland, Ogletree Deakins

At our April monthly Chapter Meeting at The Hamilton, we welcomed members for an engaging session titled “Executive Orders and Employment Law: The New Administration’s Impact on Employers.” After a brief Chapter update, we transitioned into the CLE presentation led by Ben Holland and Mike Ray of Ogletree Deakins.

Ben and Mike provided a thoughtful analysis of the evolving labor and employment landscape under the new administration in Washington, D.C. Their discussion explored key areas including diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI); labor relations; EEOC activity; immigration policies; and other regulatory developments affecting employers. Attendees gained timely insights into executive orders and ongoing legal challenges shaping the current environment.

Thank you to Ogletree Deakins for sponsoring this CLE.

Navigating Recent Developments in M&A:

Best Practices, Tech Innovations, and Legal Insights for In-House Counsel

Sponsored by Alston & Bird - 4/8/25

Speakers:

Kyle Navarro, Partner, Alston & Bird

John Snyder, Partner, Alston & Bird

Matt Tyson, Sr. Associate, Alston & Bird

We were thrilled to welcome our members to Olde Mecklenburg Brewery for an engaging evening of insights, connection, and camaraderie at our recent CLE event: “Navigating Recent Developments in M&A: Best Practices, Tech Innovations, and Legal Insights for In-House Counsel.”

Presented by a fantastic team from Alston & Bird, including Kyle Navarro, John Snyder, and Matt Tyson, the panel explored timely trends in M&A and provided practical guidance for in-house counsel. Key topics included:

• Technology in M&A: Innovations and potential pitfalls impacting deal execution

• Risk Management: Current high-risk areas and strategies to mitigate them

• Antitrust Updates: Changes to the Hart-Scott-Rodino Act and their implications for M&A transactions

Following the thought-provoking discussion, attendees enjoyed a lively happy hour generously hosted by Alston & Bird. We’re grateful for their hospitality (open bar included!) and thoughtful programming, which created a dynamic space for both learning and networking.

Thank you to Alston & Bird for sponsoring this CLE. 

Navigating Noncompetes and Trade Secret Protection

Sponsored by Littler - 4/10/25

Speakers:

Stephen D. Dellinger, Office Managing Shareholder, Littler 

Kellie A. Tabor, Shareholder, Littler

This engaging and timely program exploring the evolving landscape of unfair competition and trade secrets. The event was held over a delicious lunch at Culinary Dropout in South End, offering a lively atmosphere for thoughtful discussion and professional connection.

The presentation provided in-house counsel with practical strategies for mitigating risk in an increasingly complex regulatory environment. Topics included:

• The current landscape of noncompete agreement regulations, with updates on federal and state-level enforceability

• The impact of artificial intelligence on trade secret protection, along with actionable steps companies can take to safeguard proprietary information

• Best practices for reducing the likelihood and impact of trade secret litigation



Thank you to Littler for sponsoring this CLE. 

Webinar | Trump Tariffs Past and Present:

What Every In-House Lawyer Should Know

Sponsored by Fox Rothschild - 4/22/25

Speaker:

Liz Levinson, Partner, Fox Rothschild

In this informative webinar, Fox Rothschild partner Liz Levinson provided an overview of tariff fundamentals, examined legal challenges brought during President Trump’s first term, and analyzed recent executive orders with an eye toward future litigation. She also addressed the administration’s use of federal statutes (including Sections 201, 232, and 301) to implement sweeping tariffs, despite constitutional provisions granting tariff authority to Congress. The session concluded with a brief discussion of ongoing lawsuits and anticipated legal disputes in this evolving area of trade law.

Thank you to Fox Rothschild for sponsoring this CLE webinar.

What You Don’t Know Can Hurt You: New Developments in State Privacy Laws, Litigation, and Enforcement

Sponsored by Bradley - 5/7/25

Presenters:

Erin Illman, Partner, Bradley

Tamara Boles, Associate, Bradley

David Layman, Associate, Bradley

Following a Chapter update, Bradley attorneys Erin Illman, Tamara Boles, and David Layman explored the rapidly evolving landscape of state privacy legislation. As of early 2025, 20 states had enacted comprehensive privacy laws, prompting both heightened regulatory scrutiny and a surge in class action litigation. The panel discussed emerging privacy tort theories, conflicting compliance regimes, and the implications of courts applying outdated statutes to modern digital behavior. Attendees gained timely insights into how companies can navigate these challenges while mitigating litigation risk.

Thank you to Bradley for sponsoring this CLE.

Well-Being CLE Webinar | Getting By With A Little Help

Sponsored by Parker Poe - 5/13/25

Speakers:

Candace Hoffman and Cathy Killian

North Carolina Lawyers Assistance Program

In a candid and practical session hosted by Parker Poe, Candace Hoffman and Cathy Killian of the North Carolina Lawyers Assistance Program addressed the ongoing mental health and substance use challenges disproportionately affecting members of the legal profession. Grounded in findings from a nationwide study by the American Bar Association and Hazelden Foundation, the presentation equipped attendees with strategies to identify at-risk colleagues, foster a culture of psychological safety, and intervene effectively when help is needed. The program emphasized the critical role law firms can play in reducing stigma and encouraging early support.

Thank you to Parker Poe for sponsoring this CLE.

Navigating Operating Agreements: Material Terms and Best Practices

Sponsored by Kilpatrick - 5/15/25

Speaker:

Mikail Clark, Senior Associate, Kilpatrick

ACC Charlotte members gathered over lunch for an engaging CLE program on Operating Agreements for multi-member LLCs. Hosted at Sixty Vines, the family-style meal provided a lively setting for conversation and connection as attendees settled in for the presentation.

Led by Mikail Clark, Senior Associate at Kilpatrick, the program offered a practical deep dive into drafting and negotiating essential terms of Operating Agreements. Clark addressed key topics including LLC classifications and tax elections, voting provisions, member and manager roles, transfer restrictions, and exit strategies. His clear explanations helped demystify complex legal issues and encouraged thoughtful dialogue on structuring agreements that protect all parties' interests.

Thank you to Kilpatrick for sponsoring this CLE.

2025 Employment Law Update

Sponsored by Parker Poe - 6/4/25

Speakers:

Keith Weddington, Partner, Parker Poe

Tory Summey, Partner, Parker Poe

At ACC Charlotte’s monthly Chapter Meeting, members convened at The Hamilton over lunch for the highly anticipated annual employment law update presented by Keith Weddington and Tory Summey of Parker Poe. The program provided a comprehensive overview of recent judicial decisions and federal agency developments shaping the current employment landscape.

Weddington and Summey discussed key opinions from the U.S. Supreme Court, the Fourth Circuit Court of Appeals, and North Carolina state courts, including the Court’s recent clarification of overtime exemption standards. They also examined the post-Chevron regulatory environment and offered timely insights on shifting enforcement priorities from federal agencies such as the NLRB, OSHA, EEOC, FTC, and DOJ.

Attendees walked away with a sharper understanding of the legal challenges facing employers in 2025 and practical considerations for navigating evolving compliance obligations.

Thank you to Parker Poe for sponsoring this CLE.

There’s No Place Like Home?

Recent Developments in Personal Jurisdiction Law that Impact Your Company

Sponsored by Womble Bond Dickinson - 6/10/25

Speakers:

Patrick Spaugh, Partner, Womble Bond Dickinson

Peyton Poston, Associate, Womble Bond Dickinson

Womble treated ACC Charlotte members to lunch at Noble Smoke during a timely CLE program on the U.S. Supreme Court’s Mallory decision and its implications for personal jurisdiction. Legal experts Patrick Spaugh and Peyton Poston of Womble delivered an insightful presentation exploring how the ruling could affect where companies can be sued and the legal standards courts may apply going forward.

The session included a review of recent case law, practical guidance on drafting contracting provisions, and strategies for navigating the evolving jurisdictional landscape. Attendees benefited from a candid discussion of emerging risks and opportunities, gaining a clearer understanding of how to proactively adapt business practices in light of this significant legal development.

Thank you to Womble Bond Dickinson for sponsoring this CLE.

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The contents of this newsletter are intended to convey general information only and not to provide legal advice or opinions. The contents of this newsletter should not be relied upon for legal or tax advice in any particular circumstance or fact situation. The information presented may not reflect the most current legal developments. No action should be taken in reliance on the information and we disclaim all liability in respect to actions taken or not taken based on any or all of the contents of this site to the fullest extent permitted by law. An attorney should be contacted for advice on specific legal issues.

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