Taryn McDonald
Haynes and Boone, LLP
Education: University of Texas, SMU Dedman School of Law
Taryn McDonald hopes to model community involvement for other young lawyers.
Nine years ago, McDonald joined Haynes and Boone, focused on helping businesses and providers with government investigations and healthcare litigation.
Before law school, she worked for the Texas House of Representatives and the Texas Office of the Attorney General and in human resources for Target.
“I always considered going to law school because I loved public policy, and I met many lawyers when working in the Texas Legislature in college who encouraged me. It was working in human resources for Target after college that finally pushed me to apply,” McDonald said. “Working in the government investigations space has allowed me to use my prior experience and interests to help businesses and providers navigate complicated regulations and resolve issues.”
Part of the reason she says she was interested in working at Haynes and Boone is the firm’s emphasis on making a difference in the community – a value she shares.
“I want to model that for other young lawyers in the future,” she said.
McDonald has served on the Cattle Baron’s Ball committee for seven years, helping organize the largest single-night fundraiser for the American Cancer Society.
She recently joined the Women’s Auxiliary to Children’s Medical Center Dallas and volunteers at her daughter’s school, Boone Elementary.
“Cattle Baron’s Ball is unique in that most of the money raised (over $93 million thus far) stays right here in DFW. The cause is close to my heart since my mom died of breast cancer in 2013. She received her cancer treatment here in DFW for 14 years and was able to have access to several clinical trials without having to leave home,” McDonald said.
Who’s your biggest inspiration and why?
It has always been my mom. She was such a positive force — even while living with cancer, working, and raising a family — all while being in and out of (mostly in) treatment for the better part of 14 years. She never complained, and she spent most of her time thinking of others. Now that I am a mom myself, I have an even greater appreciation for how she chose to live.
Which leadership skills were the most challenging for you to develop and why?
Anything having to do with speaking in front of others. It’s always hard to put yourself out there in that way, but I’ve found that the more I do it, the easier it becomes.
What’s on your bucket list?
I’ve always wanted to learn to play the piano.
