Crain’s New York Business recognized Dan Brown, Adam Shipley and Jodi Stein on its 2026 list of “Notable Leaders in Accounting, Consulting and Law.” This honor recognizes leaders who “possess the financial, strategic and legal expertise to drive significant commercial activity in the region, shaping New York City’s business landscape and fostering enterprise growth,” according to the publication.
Brown, who serves as co-managing partner of the firm’s New York office, was highlighted for leading the firm’s pro bono program and securing landmark victories for New Yorkers with disabilities in civil rights cases. Notably, he served as co-counsel in a class action lawsuit that resulted in a historic settlement agreement to make 95 percent of New York City subway stations accessible by 2055.
Shipley, co-leader of the firm’s Corporate practice group, was recognized for his leadership and dealmaking prowess. Specifically, he oversees practice profitability, growth and attorney training and recruiting; and represents clients on complex transactions, such as AI-powered GCR platform Optro’s acquisition of Midship, a premier AI-native SOX automation solution. He was also noted for providing pro bono services to charitable and civic organizations such as the Gay & Lesbian Alliance Against Defamation.
Stein was highlighted for representing real estate developers, owners and interest holders in obtaining discretionary land use approvals through New York City’s Uniform Land Use Review Procedure (ULURP) and before the Board of Standards and Appeals. She secured a decisive 36–11 New York City Council vote approving the demapping of public streets in Coney Island, Brooklyn, through the ULURP process. This cleared a pivotal land use hurdle for The Coney, a $3.4 billion beachfront casino project, raising Sheppard’s profile in the New York City land use arena and marking a landmark achievement for one of the city’s most ambitious entertainment proposals, which ultimately did not advance past the State licensing process.