Kish Parella

Kish Parella is the Class of 1960 Professor of Ethics and Law at Washington and Lee University’s School of Law. Specializing in corporate governance and international law, she explores how corporations navigate legal and ethical obligations in global contexts. Her work bridges corporate decision-making with international norms, particularly in areas like human rights, sustainability, and geopolitical conflict.

Before academia, she practiced international arbitration at Cleary Gottlieb Steen & Hamilton LLP. Her research addresses corporate responses to crises (e.g., the Russia-Ukraine conflict), stakeholder activism, and boardroom compliance with international law. She has advised governments, corporations, and UN bodies and serves on the Executive Council of the American Society of International Law.

Notable achievements include the 2021 Hoeber Award for Excellence in Research and the 2024 Teacher of the Year award. Her teaching emphasizes practical legal problem-solving, integrating real-world case studies into courses like Contracts and Corporate Compliance.

Key affiliations include the European Corporate Governance Institute (ECGI) as a Research Member, Oxford University’s Centre for Corporate Reputation (International Research Fellow), and leadership roles in the Global Business and Human Rights Scholars Association.