Location: EIDMAN COURTROOM CCJ 2.306 OR ZOOM WEBINAR
September 30, 2026
The Center for Women in Law hosted a conversation between Cisselon Nichols Hurd, Senior Legal Counsel for Shell USA, Inc (ret.), and Jennifer Banda, Center Director. During the conversation, Cisselon discussed insights and leadership lessons from her career, which includes two Fortune 500 companies, being a former federal prosecutor, and a legal leader in mentorship and community service.
Cisselon Nichols Hurd’s distinguished career has spanned public service, federal prosecution, and complex corporate litigation (environmental and commercial). Hurd built a reputation for strategic advocacy and an unwavering commitment to developing the next generation of lawyers. From litigating environmental matters for the U.S. Department of Justice and prosecuting environmental crimes as an Assistant United States Attorney to managing complex litigation for two Fortune 500 companies, including taking a case to the U. S. Supreme Court, she has demonstrated how lawyers can successfully navigate diverse roles.
Equally recognized for her commitment to mentorship and expanding opportunities within the profession, Hurd has dedicated decades to serving bar associations and nonprofit organizations. Hurd is a founder and former president of the Center for Women in Law, always focused on expanding leadership opportunities for women lawyers.
During the conversation, Hurd reflected on the evolution of her career from public service to in-house counsel and the unique responsibilities that accompany each role, as well as the evolving role of corporate counsel as both legal advisor and strategic business partner. The conversation also examined the responsibility lawyers have to invest in the future of the profession through mentorship, sponsorship, and service.
This course can be claimed as 1 hour of self-study CLE credit with the State Bar of Texas. Self-study is optional and 3 of your total 15 hours can be completed in the form of self-study activities. Contact your State Bar with any questions.