Nangle brings spot of sunshine to Bell, Moore & Richter

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Being tabbed as your law firm’s “sunshine of the office” could be a heavy load for many to carry.

Not, though, if you are Shawn Nangle.

“I guess I am kind of friendly that way,” Nangle said. “But it’s part of the way we do business. Most people aren’t that happy about coming to see a lawyer, but if I can help set a lighter mood when you come through the door, hopefully it’ll help.”

Nangle wears the twin hats of receptionist and administrative assistant, but her influence goes much further. Colleagues praise her for helping with everything from devising marketing projects to making sure papers are filed on time in court.

“I like the fact everyone is open to questions here,” Nangle said. “I’m treated as an equal, and that makes me feel like I’m part of the team.”

Nangle found her way to a career in the law almost by accident. In coping with a divorce, she filled out the reams of paperwork herself to save money on the legal fees. The papers were so well done, the judge suggested Nangle consider working in the law. A career was born.

A natural in many areas of legal work, Nangle says she has no regrets about not choosing law school. Now remarried, Nangle has learned that there are only so many hours in a day and “the priority was putting my energy into raising my kids.”

A “military brat” from Florida, Nangle’s life wound through Arizona before ending up in Wisconsin and landing 11 years ago at Bell, Moore & Richter. Two of Nangle’s three children also served in the military.

“When my son, Angel, was in Afghanistan,” said Nangle, “everyone here helped me cope. They understood when I needed time. When I made care packages for my son they helped. When I made packages for other soldiers, they were the first to contribute. I will never forget their kindness.”

Nangle has a loyalty to the firm and her colleagues that is rare today.

“They made me feel whole through some tough times,” said Nangle. “It would take a lot for me to ever leave here.”