Profile of Lisa McKinney Goldner, JD'92
A 1992 graduate, Lisa McKinney Goldner's decision to become a lawyer had much to do with her role model—her father, Robert McKinney, JD'52. After his retirement from Bose McKinney & Evans LLP, Goldner joined the ranks of the prestigious Indianapolis firm. Her father still serves as her mentor and a valuable source of information.
Early conversations around the family dinner table, as well as the influence of a high school teacher who involved her in several law-related school projects, sparked Goldner's interest in the law. Her curiosity grew during her law school experience and opened her eyes to how the law inevitably impacts everyone at some point in life.
"I wanted to make a difference in helping people reach resolution of legal issues by guiding them through the legal procedures of compliance and enforcement with state and federal agencies," she said.
Goldner, who recently took over as president of the School's Alumni Board, began with career goals in corporate law. But when a partner in the firm asked her to assist in an environmental case, a passion was born.
"I enjoy working in the environmental area because I have always been interested in preservation," she said. "I take pride in guiding our clients through the remediation of contaminated sites and turning them into catalysts for change in often financially depressed areas. It fulfills me to help small and large business owners navigate the intricacies of state and federal laws."
In addition to environmental law, Goldner also specializes in alcohol and tobacco law and equine law. Horses are the crossroads of her work and her personality: a soft but steely combination of loyalty, drive, and perseverance.
She bought her first horse—a thoroughbred named Court Jester—after law school graduation. "It shocked everyone, because I didn't discuss it. I just did it," she said. "I have always had a passion for horses. My daughters and I enjoy riding and, and next year, two of my daughters will start competing. So the representation of other horse owners has been a natural outgrowth of that interest."
Goldner's fond memories of law professors, students, the Bloomington campus, and the surrounding country evoke advice for today's students: take full advantage of time at Indiana Law. "Apply yourself, get involved in the university and associations, and plan for your future by setting goals."