Dianne R. Newman, Esq. (‘79)

Title: Partner, Shifrin Newman Smith, Inc.
Phone: 330.762.6474
Email: newdab1@gmail.com

Biography

Dianne Newman earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in history from The University of Akron in 1964 and Juris Doctorate degree from the University’s School of Law in 1979. 

Mrs. Newman is a partner in the law firm of Shifrin Newman Smith, Inc., focusing her practice on Social Security Disability law.  She began her legal career in 1979.  She belongs to the National Organization of Social Security Claimant’s Representatives, is a past member of the Akron Bar Association Board of Trustees, serves on several committees of the Bar Association, and is a past member of The University of Akron School of Law, Law Alumni Association Board of Directors.  

Mrs. Newman has been a speaker on Social Security issues at both the local and national levels, and is listed as one of the best lawyers in Northeastern Ohio by Inside Business since 2005.  In 2007, she received the Akron Bar Association Senior Lawyer’s Award for Senior Lawyer of the Year. 

Avid volunteer and philanthropist, Mrs. Newman currently serves on the Akron Art Museum Board of Trustees as president, on advisory committee for the Federal District Court for the Northern District of Ohio, the Women's Endowment Board of Trustees of the Akron Community Foundation.  She and her husband, Herb ’65, were honorary co-chairs of the American Cancer Society's Cattle Baron Ball.  She also served as trustee of Children's Concert Society, Junior Board of Akron City Hospital, and Hadassah Board.

Mrs. Newman is secretary for The University of Akron Foundation Board of Directors, charter member of the School of Law Dean’s Club and honored with School of Law’s Outstanding Alumna Award in 2002.  

Besides the practice of law, Dianne enjoys travel, art, music, and loves being grandma to her eleven grandchildren.   Dianne and Herb also find the time to fuss over their two longhair dachshunds.