LORI KILLINGER

EXECUTIVE SHAREHOLDER, LEWIS, LONGMAN & WALKER, TALLAHASSEE & TAMPA

Lewis, Longman & Walker is a statewide law firm with 34 attorneys and a total of 64 employees. The firm recently celebrated its 30th anniversary. Killinger has been a lobbyist with the firm for 18 years, 16 of those in leadership positions. She serves on the the board of the Florida Policy Project, a nonprofit advancing research-based policies to improve life for all Floridians. “This role allows me to use my experience to help shape thoughtful, evidence-driven reforms that address the state’s most pressing challenges and strengthen our communities,” Killinger says.

EDUCATION: University of Florida (BA); Duke University School of Law (JD)

FIRST JOB: My first jobs reflected early responsibility — babysitting, working at a daycare, and later as a lifeguard thanks to my background as a competitive swimmer. At 14, I landed a job at Burger King after my mom asked the manager during a drive-thru visit if they were hiring. He said, “If the uniform fits, she’s got the job”— and it did.

DREAM ALTERNATE CAREER: I think I would have done something with animals — perhaps as a zoologist, working in a hands-on, nurturing environment.

INDUSTRY TREND: One notable trend in my industry — politics — is the growing presence of women in leadership roles, not just in lobbying firms but also in elected office. It’s inspiring to see more women stepping forward, shaping policy, and leading with confidence.

MENTEE IMPACT
“One message I often share is: ‘You are in the driver’s seat of your life — design it with intention.’ Years later, someone repeated that line back to me with thanks.”