The appeal

What calls you to lead?

2024 December

Fifteen years ago, as a first-year attorney, I walked into CAALA’s downtown offices for my first board meeting. The room was filled with some of the best lawyers in the state – leaders I had read about, admired, and aspired to emulate. I felt intimidated and inexperienced but also inspired. Professionally, I was out of my league, it seemed. I had never tried and was years away from being able to litigate a case on my own from start to finish. Personally, I stood out. There were only a few women in the room and even fewer attorneys of color. Truthfully, I felt out of place, but I decided I would make a place for myself. I would get involved, hone my skills, and one day, I would lead.

Looking back, that decision shaped my career in ways I could not have imagined. Today, as I write my final message as president of CAALA, I am filled with gratitude for the opportunities this organization has given me and pride in what we have accomplished together.

Reflections

This year has been one of growth, challenge, and celebration. Together, we hosted the most successful CAALA convention in the organization’s history – a testament to the passion and commitment of our members and staff. We launched the Pathways to the Bench program, empowering members to pursue judicial appointments and fostering a judiciary that reflects the diversity of our community. We institutionalized the Bench-Bar Committee, creating a space for meaningful collaboration between the judiciary and the plaintiffs’ bar.

But leadership also came with challenges. Leading an organization of over 4,000 members while managing a demanding trial practice, raising a family, and navigating a profession that is, by its nature, adversarial, was no small feat. The plaintiff’s trial bar attracts achievers, believers and people who seldom back down from a challenge. They are strongminded, strong-willed, with strong opinions. While we are all on the same side of the “v,” we don’t always see eye-to-eye. Leading in such a space required patience, understanding, forgiveness and grace.

Another challenge was managing my own expectations of strong and effective leadership. As president and the face of the association, I wanted to meet every member, attend every event, and participate in every meeting, but I quickly realized that leadership is not about doing everything – it’s about listening, setting clear and definitive goals and trusting others to carry the vision forward. In that case, I had to be patient, understanding, forgiving of myself. I had to show myself grace.

Some of my favorite moments were the quiet ones – when members approached me at events or conferences to share kind words. A young lawyer told me they felt inspired to take on leadership roles. Veteran attorneys encouraged me, acknowledging the work I was doing. Judges shared their respect and admiration for our efforts. These moments reminded me of the power of community and the importance of lifting one another up.

Lessons

One of the greatest lessons I’ve learned is this: Don’t be afraid to be the first.Whether it’s stepping into a room where you feel out of place or taking on a leadership role with no clear roadmap, the rewards are worth the risks. Leadership isn’t just about serving others; it’s also about growing into the best version of yourself. This year, I learned to adapt, to listen, and to lead in a way that reflects the values of this organization. My hope is that my journey inspires others to do the same.

Hopes

As 2024 draws to a close, my greatest hope is that others will rise to lead this organization. I envision a CAALA that continues to grow in influence, where our members not only serve their clients with the highest integrity but also shape policies and practices that protect and uplift individuals. Programs like the Pathways to the Bench remind us of the importance of fostering diversity in our judiciary. Strengthening partnerships with other bar associations will further amplify our collective voice. And as we move forward, I hope we continue to push boundaries, break barriers, and inspire the next generation of leaders.

An invitation

To our members, I leave you with this: Your voice matters. Your ideas matter. Tell us what we’re doing right and where we can improve. Better yet, step into a leadership role and guide us forward. The future of CAALA depends on the collective efforts of its members. Whether you’re attending your first board meeting or leading a committee, your contributions make a difference.

The appeal of leadership

During the last 12 months, while crisscrossing the country, speaking to students at elementary, middle and high schools, colleges and universities, I was often asked, “Why did you decide to be president of CAALA?” Why step into a role that demands so much time and takes you away from your family and practice? Why take on the challenges of leadership? The answer was simple – it was the opportunity to make a difference, to represent others, to bring forth new ideas and perspectives, to challenge myself, and to leave a legacy that inspires future leaders. Leadership is an appeal in every sense of the word: a call to action, a request for trust, and an invitation to build something greater than ourselves. I felt called to lead and I believed I had something truly valuable and unique to offer – myself.

Gratitude

Serving as your president has been the honor of a lifetime, and I am deeply grateful for your trust and support. The appeal of leadership is undeniable. It’s about service, growth, and legacy. I hope my journey shows you what’s possible when we answer the call to lead. Thank you for the privilege of serving as your president. I look forward to seeing where CAALA goes next, knowing it is in the capable hands of its dedicated staff and future leaders.