Before becoming an attorney, Iris was an occupational therapist who worked with disabled or elderly clients, and Johanna taught music.  Both occupational therapy and teaching are helping professions, or what are sometimes called “people-oriented service fields,” and that’s how these women approach their work in the law.  They creatively approach problem solving with their clients, understanding that a “one-size-fits-all” approach doesn’t fit anyone.  They respect and listen to their clients’ goals and needs.  They work to transform their clients’ goals into reality.  They understand that their clients work too hard to leave anything to chance.  

Born, raised, and schooled in Madison, both Iris and Johanna believe that giving back to the community is essential.  In addition to their significant experience with organizing nonprofit organizations, they both volunteer as individuals.  Iris is president of the board of directors for Family Connections of Wisconsin, Inc., a program that assists children whose parent is incarcerated.  In addition, she continues with supportive involvement for a Hmong family that she sponsored in 1984.  Johanna is secretary of the board of directors for Natural Heritage Land Trust, Inc., a local land trust that conserves land in South Central Wisconsin.