2026 Ones to Watch - Rising Stars: Kelley O’Donnell, Partridge Snow & Hahn LLP

“Kelley O’Donnell first joined PSH as a summer associate, and quickly demonstrated her potential as an attorney. When she returned to the firm after graduation as an associate, Kelley distinguished herself as a trusted and skilled commercial real estate attorney. Her talent, dedication, and involvement in the firm and community make her a true rising star in the commercial real estate industry.”

What inspired you to pursue a career in your industry, and what path brought you to your current role? My early experiences as a counselor for children with Autism Spectrum Disorder and as a mental health worker supporting adult psychiatric patients shaped my passion for advocacy and problem solving, making the transition to law a natural fit. Those skills are essential in commercial real estate, where each transaction presents unique challenges requiring thoughtful, practical solutions. During law school, my time as a summer associate sparked this interest, and I returned to PSH as an associate. Today, I support a range of CRE, nonprofit, and corporate matters.

What trends or opportunities do you see shaping the future of your industry? The commercial real estate industry has evolved rapidly, creating both challenges and opportunities. As hybrid work models persist, office spaces are being reimagined to prioritize flexibility, efficiency, and tenant experience. At the same time, sustainability and energy efficiency are gaining importance, driven by regulation, investor priorities, and tenant demand. Attorneys who can help clients navigate these shifts and provide practical, business-focused guidance are well positioned to support clients in an increasingly dynamic market.