Staff Spotlight – Andrew Webb
Andrew Webb is an attorney on Equip for Equality’s Civil Rights Team (CRT), where he works to help people with disabilities gain access to healthcare. Andrew knows first-hand the difference that having access to quality training, medical services and technology can make for a person with a disability—a connective-tissue disorder left him completely blind by his mid-30s. Before transitioning to the CRT, Andrew worked in the Special Education Rights Clinic. In that role, he helped parents of children and young adults with disabilities obtain critical special educational services.
How long have you been with Equip for Equality?
Since 2016 as a full-time attorney.
What is your focus here at Equip for Equality?
I focus primarily on improving access to healthcare and medical services for Illinois residents with disabilities.
Briefly describe what you do all day.
I confer with clients seeking legal advice and/or representation, negotiate to protect the rights of people with disabilities, research various and evolving areas of law and society pertinent to the interests of people with disabilities in Illinois and nationwide, etc.
What do you do when you’re not at work?
I enjoy spending time with my wife and two children.
What would you do (for a career) if you were not an attorney?
I have never given serious thought to any other career!
What attracted you to Equip for Equality?
Its commitment to the mission of advancing the rights of people with disabilities and the quality of its own people.
What advice would you give to recent law grads?
Approach different career options with an open mind and be prepared to work extremely hard to achieve your career dreams.
What is the last book you read?
Last Call (by Daniel Okrent)
What are three words you would use to describe Equip for Equality?
Collegial, committed, conscientious.
If you could be anywhere (other than the office) right now, where would you be?
With my family exploring a national park – any of them!
What has been your proudest moment at Equip for Equality?
I am always delighted to complete a successful negotiation with a vendor or insurance company in order to secure an essential piece of medical equipment for a client with a disability; in many cases, having this equipment is the thing that empowers my client to live independently.
Last updated: February 18, 2022