Meet Bob and Joan Clifford
For our December Man of the Month, it was love at first sight
She was Rho Delta Pi president; he was president of Tau Kappa Epsilon. When Bob and Joan Clifford met at a DePaul University mixer in 1971, he had another date, but ended up with Joan. “I took Joan home, and we haven’t gone with anyone else since,” reflects Bob, principle partner of Clifford Law Offices.
The Cliffords, wed 37 years ago, are visible Chicagoans known for their local philanthropic pursuits and the Naples Winter Wine Festival, of which they are trustees and will serve as co-chairs in 2012. In Mr. Clifford’s stately law offices overlooking Chicago’s Theater District, the couple spoke about philanthropy, success and making a marriage last.
Bob, how has working with the American Bar Association’s Task Force on 9/11 affected you personally?
Bob: The 9/11 litigation is one of the most unique things any lawyer could ever be exposed to. It’s a national tragedy that has left a permanent mark on anyone mildly exposed to it. For the longest time, I could be in New York at a meeting and all of a sudden grown men, when we would start talking about certain things, would start crying. Participating in that case is not only a privilege and an honor, but it’s also a responsibility to make sure we get the legal issues in a way that allows everyone’s rights to be recognized and appreciated. The 9/11 case has had a permanent impact in every lawyer associated with it. Being exposed to a case like that and the obligations that are associated with it call upon you to raise your game and make you a better lawyer. I think that’s what happened to me and the team I worked with.
You’ve accomplished much in your years in law. When you think about when you were starting out, have you met your personal expectations?
Bob: Sure, but I’m not done yet. It’s a continuation of seeking to be as good as you can be, to set a good example and to enhance the profession. I’m really proud to be a lawyer, and most of the really good lawyers I know are the same way. We all feel that our profession has been much maligned in the last several years because of the real growth of controversy, the growth of extremism an of right-wing conservative people who think they’re adding to the fabric of America by being radical in what they say and what they do and how they so besmirch good people’s credentials. Speaking for myself, I just want to be better everyday. I’m not out to slack; I’m not a slacker.
Will you ever retire?
Bob: Never.
Never?
Bob: Never. Maybe slow down, whatever that means. I don’t know what that means.
is managing editor and electronic media editor of Today's Chicago Woman. She is active in various local and national women’s groups, including Step Up Women's Network, Rape Victim Advocates and the TCW Foundation, and is a member of The Chicago Council on Global Affairs’ Young Professionals. She writes and speaks about local, national and international women's issues, including in her blog, “Twice As Well."
