Fran DiDonato

Fran DiDonato joins Hubay Dougherty, LLC as a distinguished attorney, where she brings nearly two decades of expertise in law and ESG strategy to her practice. As the Principal and Founder of Practicum Consulting, Fran leveraged her extensive background to guide a diverse range of projects, from supporting green technology startups to enhancing multisector organizational strategies. Most recently she has added to her ESG profile in practicing civil rights law at The Chandra Law Firm. Her work emphasizes innovative solutions and sustainable solutions, working with clients across government, for-profit, and non-profit sectors.

A pioneer in civic sustainability initiatives, Fran served as Assistant Director of Law at the City of Cleveland, where she was the first attorney assigned to the city’s sustainability program in 2005. She was instrumental in the creation and development of the Office of Sustainability starting in 2007. Her transition to policy and project implementation in the Office of Sustainability marked a pivotal shift in her career, contributing to the development of key sustainability initiatives. Fran was integral in shaping policy, developing strategies for the Office of Sustainability, and advancing the integration of sustainability efforts into city operations. Her municipal experience, most recently as Senior Strategist for Sustainability and previously as Sustainability Manager, highlights her ability to create positive, tangible change.

Fran’s career has continuously blended her legal and consulting experience, having established her practice after leaving the City of Cleveland in 2010. She has worked across sectors and fostered collaborations between public and private entities to achieve success for her clients. Fran’s greatest strength lies in her ability to find innovative ways to get to “yes”, connecting the dots between vision and execution.

Fran lives in Cleveland with her family, enjoying the proximity to Lake Erie, and being an active member in her local community.

• The University of Texas at Austin School of Law
  • J.D.
• Boston University
  • B.A. in International Relations and Latin American Studies
• Case Western Reserve University, Weatherhead School of Management
  • Appreciative Inquiry Certification: Positive Business and Society Change