Elisa M.T. Basnight, an associate in the Corporate Finance & Technology Section of Buchanan Ingersoll & Rooney's Philadelphia office, was selected as one of Philadelphia Business Journal's 2009 Women of Distinction — an honor awarded annually to 26 women committed to professional excellence and community involvement. Basnight and her fellow "Women of Distinction" were honored at the annual awards program on Tuesday, December 1, at the Sheraton City Center in Philadelphia. Prior to the event, each honoree was profiled in the November 27, 2009, edition of the Philadelphia Business Journal.

In the article, titled "Ballet shoes, combat boots, and business suits," Basnight was recognized for her successful practice at the firm, her numerous accomplishments as a former member of the U.S. Military, and her tireless civic efforts to support her community — namely U.S. Veterans and young women.  

"Ballet shoes, combat boots, business suits," Basnight was quoted as saying. "All three of those are still in my life today." She went on to note "Faith, family and friends" as "the three critical forces" from which she gets her strength.

Following the awards ceremony, coverage of the "Women of Distinction" awards program ran in the December 2 edition of the Philadelphia Business Journal. According to the article, more than 400 guests attended the celebration dinner. As explained in the article, "The award program, now in its 12th year, recognizes women in the Delaware Valley for their professional accomplishments, community involvement, honors and milestones. Winners were selected by a panel of judges from 319 nominations."