With heavy hearts, we are saddened to share that our friend and partner, Kate Gold, has passed away. Kate was a dynamic presence, always eager to roll up her sleeves to resolve conflicts or lend a listening ear, reminding us of the potency of our own willpower. Her unwavering positivity and dedication to making time for others were hallmarks of her character.
Raised in Los Angeles alongside her twin sister and closest confidante, Jenny Li, Kate cherished her roots in the city. Her love for Los Angeles was matched by her passion for her favorite local station KCRW, listening every morning and always the eclectic music mix on the weekends. As a child who was both verbally gifted and dramatically inclined, she found employment litigation to be the perfect avenue for weaving and telling human stories. Kate's educational journey at the University of California Berkeley, where she earned both her B.A. and J.D., paved the way for her to become a formidable litigator. Over her 25-year career as an employment litigator, she represented a diverse range of clients in sectors such as entertainment, financial services, private equity, and health care, skillfully handling employment law issues. Her clients, often household names, entrusted her with their most sensitive workplace issues.
Kate's exceptional legal practice garnered widespread recognition, earning her accolades from esteemed publications including The Los Angeles Daily Journal, The Los Angeles Business Journal, and Chambers USA. Beyond her legal accomplishments, Kate was an active board member of the Constitutional Rights Foundation and a Vice-Chair of its Expanding Horizons Internship program. She passionately mentored high school students, particularly those who were first-generation college-bound young women. Her commitment to advancing women's careers in law was evident in her mentorship of many female attorneys at Proskauer, notably through the firm’s various programs, including the Women's Sponsorship Program.
Kate’s most cherished joys were her sons, Alex and Nick, and her husband, Steve. She spoke candidly about the importance of forging a life that reflected not only her professional aspirations but also the kind of individual she wanted to be. Her family was always at the center of that. Kate imparted many lessons to us: To be of service and generous; to be kind and lead with love; to show up for one another, listen, support, and live a full life, knowing we are all doing the best we can in the time we have. When reflecting on advice for her younger self, Kate once said, “You could manage this career on ambition, ego, and caffeine alone, but don’t. Remember not to neglect the spiritual, creative aspects of life that nourish your soul.”
Kate’s radiant spirit continues to shine through each of us, leaving an indelible mark on the world. Our hearts go out to Kate’s husband, Steve, their sons Alex and Nick, her mother, Claire Ellen Haven, and her twin sister and best friend, Jenny Li and her brother-in-law Luis Li, as we extend our deepest condolences.