Marian Hwang was as unflappable in representing her clients as she was warm and welcoming in mentoring the next generation of women leaders. A trailblazing environmental and energy lawyer who spent more than 30 years at Miles & Stockbridge, earning deep respect across the legal community, Marian passed away May 1 after a battle with cancer.

“Marian will be deeply missed by her wide circle of family, close friends, clients and the many lawyers and professionals she worked alongside, mentored and served with on countless boards,” said Nancy Greene, chairman, president and CEO.

Marian joined Miles & Stockbridge as an associate in 1987, three years after graduating from Georgetown University Law Center. She became a principal in 1993 and went on to lead the firm’s Environmental and Energy Practice into this year.

When it came to environmental law, Marian's practice developed as modern statutes were being implemented and interpreted, said Amanda Neidert Kesler, who worked with Marian for 20 years.  “She was a knowledge base for environmental law,” said Amanda. “She taught me everything I know.”

Marian’s lasting impact on the firm and the legal profession extended far beyond her practice. In 2005, Marian helped found the affinity group Miles Minority Network (MMN) and remained a mentor and advocate for members. Marian was recognized during last year’s MMN holiday party for her “trailblazing, vision and building” of what has become a vibrant community at the firm.

She served on the Maryland Judicial Nominating Commission for Trial Court District 14 – Baltimore City, appointed by former Govs. Martin O'Malley and Larry Hogan. She also served on the board of directors for the University System of Maryland Foundation Inc. and on the executive councils for the Bar Association of Baltimore City and the American Bar Association's Section of Environment, Energy, and Resources. 

One of her greatest passions outside of work was making a difference in the lives of girls through the Girl Scouts of Central Maryland (GSCM). She served on the board from 1996 through 2018 and was at various times the GSCM’s secretary and first, second and third vice chair. In 2019, she was honored with the GSCM's Distinguished Women Award.

“She was passionate about Girl Scouts and the skills they provided to young girls to help them become leaders,” said Lynne Durbin, president of InLine LLC and a former board chair of GSCM. Marian also was awarded the Thanks Badge, the highest honor in Girl Scouting, for her exemplary service, including providing legal advice to the council, recommending board candidates, “connecting the dots for fundraising and always being willing to dive into any tasks where she could use her considerable intellectual skills,” Lynne said.

“She had an indomitable spirit and always looked at things in a positive light,” Lynne added. “She was a pleasure to be with and will be missed by so many.”

Marian was recognized many times for her professional accomplishments and community service. The Maryland chapter of the National Asian Pacific American Bar Association presented her with its Community Service Award in 2011. She also received The Daily Record's Leadership in Law award in 2007 and the Baltimore City Bar Association's Presidential Award in 2004. In 2001, she was inducted into The Daily Record's Circle of Excellence, awarded to three-time winners of its Top 100 Women honor for high-achieving Maryland women.

In lieu of flowers, the family asked that donations be made in Marian’s honor to American Cancer Society or Johns Hopkins Medicine.