Dayton Docket

He doesn’t wait for opportunity to knock – but when it does, Cody Myers ’19 opens the door.

Skilled at research and finding his own opportunities, Myers used these talents to achieve a debt-free education – and his first legal job. But, just as his new career was taking off, the world started to shut down. Covid 19 and a downturned economy would not deter him. 

With a business degree from The Ohio State University, this self-described small-town-kid from Waterloo, Ohio, first looked at Dayton Law because he wanted to experience another Ohio city besides Columbus. Then, he was presented with an opportunity to join the University of Dayton School of Law’s (UDSL) prestigious Leadership Honors Program (LHP) which offers a full-tuition scholarship.  

“After I applied, I received a letter from Dean Lori Shaw encouraging me to apply for LHP. I was immediately interested, but I like to think I would’ve chosen UDSL regardless,” he shared, explaining that the campus and community sold him after just one visit to Dayton. “It turned out to be a great decision!” he added.

During his three years at Dayton Law, Myers made close friendships and cultivated relationships with faculty and staff who made a meaningful impact, particularly Professor Julie Zink whose approach to teaching and the law inspired him. Graduating at the top of his class and serving as the business editor of the Law Review, Myers looks back fondly at his time during law school. 

“The most surprising thing is how much I enjoyed it. Everyone made UDSL feel like home, and it was clear everyone there genuinely wanted me to succeed. I’m extremely grateful for that,” he admitted.  

But after law school, Myers wanted to get back to Columbus and work at a large business-focused firm with robust corporate and M&A practices and where he could easily spend Saturdays at the ‘Shoe’ (Ohio State’s horseshoe-shaped football stadium). So, he knocked on doors, or better yet, he ‘clicked’ and began sending inquiries.

“I just started Googling,” said the associate with Kegler Brown Hill + Ritter, who discovered, after several interviews with other law firms, he and Kegler Brown just ‘clicked.’ Among other qualities, this organization met a vital item on his check list; it encourages entrepreneurial spirit in new associates.   

“I wanted to work in the transactional space and seek new clients while I learned,” Myers added, something not traditionally encouraged among firms for new hires. Kegler Brown supported his drive and in doing so gained new clients during Covid’s difficult slump when Myers wondered, “How am I going to show my value?”

Working from home, he saw a television news chyron announcing that Congress was getting ready to authorize PPP loans, so he dug in to learn as much as he could, once again, using his research skills. Then, he worked with Kegler Brown’s marketing team and published articles for their website and offered services to businesses owners.

“I also presented town halls with local banks and business owners,” explained Myers who advanced his career by doing the necessary leg work. He essentially knocked on doors to find new work – and found future clients.  He also gives credit to the many colleagues who generously offered and continue to provide support, guidance, and years of expertise.

“You’ll never know everything, but it’s important to work hard to provide the best service. Clients pay for expertise,” explained Myers who feels fortunate to have the opportunity to work closely with and be mentored by Chuck Kegler, his firm’s founding partner, and who he admires for his humility and unpretentious leadership style.

According to Myers, the most interesting thing about his job is the diversity, as his practice areas vary from M&A to estate planning and business succession to helping new businesses from the ground up.

“I work with all sizes of businesses and their owners. I serve as outside general counsel to several companies in Ohio and throughout the country. Every business has different needs, challenges, and goals,” he added, gratified that, “Every day is different and interesting.” Recently, he worked with a client to prepare all the necessary requirements for the formation of new company that trains athletes for the NFL Scouting Combine.

Kegler Brown’s culture of philanthropy also mirrors Myers values, including his work with Open Door a non-profit that supports individuals with developmental disabilities where he is on the Board of Directors.

“Open Door’s mission is very near and dear to my heart and I’ve really enjoyed the opportunity to assist the talented folks there who inspire the life journeys of individuals with developmental disabilities,” said the family-oriented son, brother and uncle who proudly decorates his office with photos of family, particularly his sisters’ young children. Besides his career, it’s clear what’s most important to Myers. Family, friends and Frank, his Golden Doodle.

Today, Myers chairs his firm’s Recruiting Committee and looks for future lawyers who will devote themselves to learning throughout their careers, just as they did in law school. And his suggestion to new graduates: “After graduation, take a minute to thank family, friends, and everyone else who contributed to your accomplishment . . . then work hard to pass the bar.”