Women Bar Leaders
Message from the NCWBA President
In a moment when our political and social landscape feels more complicated than ever, the importance of staying connected—to each other and to our shared mission—cannot be overstated. When we lean into connection, show up for one another, collaborate intentionally, and choose to engage with openness and curiosity, our collective voice becomes more powerful, more resilient, and more effective. The National Conference of Women’s Bar Associations was built on that belief.
As I step into the NCWBA Presidency, I am both grateful and inspired by the thoughtful leadership of Immediate Past President Lindsey Savage, and her predecessors. Together, they have created a network defined by compassion, purpose, and strength. I am excited to continue that work alongside all of you as we build an even more engaged and collaborative future.
Our Bar Leadership Summit this past October at the Greenbrier Resort in West Virginia was a great kickoff for our focus on engagement. It was a celebration of connection in action. The Summit created space for bar leaders to share openly, learn from one another, and tackle the pressing issues shaping our profession. From navigating DEI challenges in the current climate to crafting meaningful public statements, exploring the role of AI, strengthening fundraising strategies, and embracing the possibilities of a five-generation workforce, the conversations were candid, inspiring,
and filled with collaborative spirit. The energy affirmed what we already know: when we come together and engage, something special happens.
Building on that momentum, we are proud to introduce the “She Speaks” task force—an initiative designed to highlight the remarkable talent within our member organizations. This initiative will shine a light on the brilliance of our collective membership, elevating our members’ voices, expanding opportunities, and providing organizations with a powerful tool to identify subject-matter experts. “She Speaks” celebrates who we are: knowledgeable, diverse, and ready to lead.
We are also preparing for a strong presence at ABA Mid-Year in San Antonio and look forward to connecting with many of you there. If you plan to be there, please look for our events, which will include programming, mentorship circles, and an NCWBA Meet-and-Greet. Our On the Mic monthly Zoom sessions will continue as well, offering consistent opportunities to share ideas, gain insight, and stay connected.
As we move forward, I encourage you to share your events, your projects, and your needs with us. Let us amplify your work. Let us help you find resources. Let us connect you with sister organizations who have walked similar paths. Our network is powerful—and that power grows exponentially when we use it together.
Finally, I want to express my gratitude to each of you for your passion, your leadership, and your unwavering commitment to advancing the missions of your home organizations and the NCWBA. This is a pivotal moment—but it is also a moment full of opportunity. And so I invite you to lean in even more. Engage. Collaborate. Reach out. Share your voice. Together, we can build something stronger, brighter, and more resilient—for ourselves, for our organizations, and for the generations who will follow.
Jami Cooper
NCWBA President, ‘25-26
2025-2026
Board of Directors and Officers
Officers
President
Jamison Hall Cooper, Bridgeport, WV
President-Elect
Tami L. Munsch, Kiln, MS
Vice President-Fundraising and Strategic Partnering
Myra Morris, Corpus Christi, TX
Vice President-Membership Recruiting
Kristen Wheeler, Wichita, KS
Vice President-Membership Programming
Jessie Pellant, Denver, CO
Vice President-Finance
Nancy Reynolds, Roanoke, VA
Secretary
Sheila M. Abron, Columbia, SC
Treasurer
Deborah Cordova, Edinburg, TX
Immediate Past President
Lindsey B. W. Savage, Washington, DC
ABA Commission on Women in the Profession Liaison
Manisha P. Patel, Greensboro, NC
ABA Delegate
Jeanne Marie Clavere, Seattle, WA
Executive Director
Jill Pokorny, Anahuac, TX
Board
Upnit Bhatti, Washington, DC
Teresa M. Beck, San Diego, CA
Elizabeth A. Bryson, New York, NY
Chris Chambers Goodman, Malibu, CA
Jennifer Crompton, St. Louis, MO
Mikhak Ghorban, San Diego, CA
Tanya Grillo, Mt. Clemens, MI
Kyleen Hinkle, Tampa, FL
Hon. Kellie Hogan, Wichita, KS
Sandra Kromminga Johnson, Urbandale, IA
Krisi Kastl, Dallas, TX
Lisa Kresge, Providence, RI
Kristy Lavigne, Quincy, MA
Alexandra Mitropoulous, Boston, MA
Sara Morgan, Nashville, TN
Noelle M. Natoli, Monrovia, CA
Manisha P. Patel, Greensboro, NC
Ella Russell, Leesburg, VA
Nikki Marie Sherwood, Boston, MA
Connie Weber, Charleston, WV
Join NCWBA’s Food from the Bar Initiative!
Food insecurity is rising in many communities across the United States. We're sure you have seen reports about the reductions to SNAP (formerly known as "food stamps") and other benefits to the poor that have already occurred, and the additional cuts that took effect on November 1st. This is exactly the kind of moment when bar organizations - national, state, regional, and local - shine by stepping up together. Want to help, but not sure where to get started?
You can also tailor your FFTB initiative to whatever works for your organization. For example:
• Schedule a coordinated Food Bank Volunteer Day or Day of Service with your local food bank or other community organizations that share in this effort.
The National Conference of Women's Bar Association invites bar associations, sections, committees, law firms, and other legal entities to organize a "Food From The Bar" effort this season!
NCWBA kicked off its Fall 2025 FFTB initiative during our Annual Women's Bar Leadership Conference in West Virginia two weeks ago, and through that effort and our online FFTB website link, we raised more than $3,400 - all of which went directly to Feeding America, a national charity that addresses hunger and food insecurity issues across the United States. Over the years, we have also sponsored in-person support at food banks in cities where we have held conferences and through similar efforts with our "home" bar associations.
You are welcome to join our national "Sisters-In-Law" FFTB campaign by clicking on our website (https://ncwba.org/programs/food-from-thebar/), or you can reach out to your local or state food bank and let them know you’re interested in hosting a Food From The Bar campaign or a smaller fundraiser.
• Host a flash online fundraiser. (“What could we raise in 24 or 48 hours or one week?”)
• Run a donation drive or friendly challenge between committees, with other bar associations, or among a group of law firms.
If you’d like to participate in the NCWBA's national team effort, you can join us by donating here: https://teamfeed.feedingamerica.org/tea ms/NCWBA-National Thanks to Feeding America, every $1 raised will provide at least 10 meals for people in need of food assistance. (In addition, all donors will receive confirmation that their donations qualify as charitable deductions!)
If you want to create your own FFTB link on your bar or firm website, just contact us at info@ncwba.org, and our FFTB team will be happy to walk you through the process.
Each of YOU can make a difference for families in need of nutritious food in these difficult times, and TOGETHER we can make a major effort for those who are facing hunger.
Together, we can fight hunger and strengthen our communities—one meal at a time.
Jeanne Marie Clavere NCWBA ABA Delegate
A few items of interest are coming up at the ABA Midyear meeting which will be in San Antonio, Texas beginning February 4th and culminating with the House of Delegates meeting on February 9th. To date there is a short list of issues that may be presented for consideration at the 2026 meeting with the filing deadline for the submission of Resolutions with Reports on November 12, 2025.
BYJEANNE MARIE CLAVERE
A member of the House of Delegates, Thomas W. Lyons III, is advancing a resolution which supports free, open, and civil discussion and debate on legal and policy issues among lawyers and other interested individuals. This embraces the principle that a wide range of different viewpoints should be heard, respected, and fully considered in ABA leadership, programming, policy, and advocacy.
The Coalition on Racial and Ethnic Justice resolution opposes state or federal legislation that defines abortion, miscarriage, or stillbirth as homicide or includes pregnancy outcomes within capital murder statutes. This resolution also affirms that abortion, miscarriage and pregnancy outcomes are healthcare matters and not criminal actions.
Other practice specific resolutions have been put forward by the Dispute Resolution, Intellectual Property Law, and Business Law Section sections, and the Standing Committee on Ethics and Professional Responsibility with a proposal to update Rule 1.14 to align with changes in science, the law, and its practice.
These are just a few “tidbits” that may be coming to the floor, prompt passionate debate, and very likely create a fascinating and full day for the delegates.
Connect with the NCWBA ABA Delegate at Midyear!
Don’t miss the chance to connect in person at our NCWBA Midyear Meet & Greet. NCWBA ABA Delegate, Jeanne Marie Clavere, will be available for conversation and questions—a perfect opportunity to continue the dialogue on key ABA initiatives and the vital role women’s bar associations play in ensuring our voices are represented in the ABA House of Delegates.
Friday, February 6 | 2:30 – 3:30 PM
The National Conference of Women’s Bar Associations is dedicated to empowering and uplifting our member organizations.
Your organization plays a vital role in advancing women in the legal profession, and NCWBA is committed to being a strong partner in your success. We want to hear from you about your priorities, initiatives, and successes so we can better support and amplify your work.
Are you working on leadership development, diversity initiatives, membership engagement, or advocacy efforts? Would you benefit from additional networking opportunities, resource-sharing, or educational programming? Are there challenges you’re facing that could be addressed through collaboration or best practice discussions?
We invite you to share your news, goals, and needs with us so we can tailor our resources, programming, and support to serve you more effectively. Please reach out to us at info@ncwba.org or connect with us on social media to join the conversation.
Together, we can strengthen our collective impact and continue advancing the mission of women’s bar associations across the country. Let’s keep building momentum—sharing ideas, celebrating successes, and supporting one another every step of the way.
NCWBA Midyear 2026 Events: A Look Ahead
The NCWBA is headed to San Antonio for the 2026 ABA Midyear Meeting, and we are bringing a full slate of programming designed to support leadership development, connection, and the well-being of women in the legal profession. Whether you are an NCWBA member or just looking for inspiration, we hope you will join us throughout the week.
Friday, February 6: Leadership, Community,
and Well-Being
Friday afternoon offers back-to-back opportunities to engage with other NCWBA member organizations and women bar leaders:
Bar Leadership Mentoring Circles
1:30 – 2:30 PM
Thursday, February 5: Ladder Down Program
Our Midyear kicks off late Thursday afternoon with the Ladder Down Program, co-hosted by Texas Women Lawyers and the Bexar County
In small, facilitated circles, participants will have the opportunity to share insights, discuss leadership challenges, and receive guidance from a network of experienced bar leaders. This program fosters meaningful connections, encourages peer learning, and supports the development of skills and strategies to
NCWBA Meet & Greet
2:30 – 3:30 PM
All bar leaders attending ABA Midyear are welcome — whether or not your organization is a current NCWBA member. This informal gathering is a chance to connect with peers and explore how NCWBA can support your organization’s work. This year’s Meet & Greet also offers a unique opportunity to meet NCWBA’s ABA Delegate, Jeanne Marie Clavere, who will be available to discuss ABA initiatives and the continued importance of having the voice of women's bar associations represented in the ABA House of Delegates.
The Weight We Carry: Understanding and Managing Secondary Trauma in the Legal Profession
3:30 – 4:30 PM
Presented with the National Association of Women Judges (NAWJ), this session explores the impact of secondary trauma and compassion fatigue on lawyers and judges, and the strategies needed to address these issues within our profession.
Planning Your Trip
The NCWBA recommends completing the FREE registration for the ABA Midyear Meeting and taking advantage of the discounted hotels through the ABA. Staying at one of these hotels offers convenient access to the meeting venues and enhances the overall experience of attending the Midyear Meeting. There is no separate registration required to attend the NCWBA events!
We look forward to seeing you in San Antonio as we gather to connect, collaborate, and continue advancing women’s leadership in the profession.
Registration is open for the 2026 ABA Midyear meeting. Register today!
DEBORAH ROSENTHAL, ESQ
Women Leading the Bar: Spotlight on Trailblazers
Deborah Rosenthal, Esq., served as President of the Women’s Bar Association of the State of York (WBASNY), which is the largest women’s association in the country, for the 2022-2023 year. Both she and Marea L. Wachsman, Esq., who followed as President of WBASNY two years later, had the same mantra as President: “Be a Leader, Not a Boss.” As a result, both presidencies allowed ideas to flourish, and both presidencies were successful and transformative.
Among Ms. Rosenthal’s accomplishments was the creation of a Social Action Committee. The Social Action Committee institutionalized its mission to heal the world and improve communities. During Ms. Rosenthal’s presidency, each board meeting was accompanied by a social action project, including the NCWBA award-winning “Buy a Gift for a Domestic Violence Survivor Project,” which has raised thousands of dollars for victims of domestic violence. The Social Action Committee received a second NCWBA award for the “Women in Law” program, which brought high school girls to courthouses throughout the State to learn about careers in the law during Ms. Wachsman’s presidency.
Ms. Rosenthal’s Presidency also involved successful lobbying and legislative efforts. WBASNY supported several bills which became law, including expanding access for New Yorkers – and those visiting New York – to abortions and reproductive health services, and successfully lobbied to increase rates for assigned counsel in cases involving indigent litigants. In total, Ms. Rosenthal authored and issued 27 press releases during her presidential term.
One of the most important initiatives during the 2022-2023 year was to increase the quantity and diversity of free continuing legal education programs to its membership. During the 2022-2023 year, WBASNY provided over 800 hours of free CLEs to its members and retained a $10,000 CLE sponsorship. As a result of the engagement they had with their members, WBASNY increased membership from 3,674 to 3,987 – an increase of 313 members over the prior year.
Ms. Rosenthal continues to mentor young women and girls and promote the status of women in the legal community and in society at large.
MAREA L. WACHSMAN, ESQ.
Women Leading the Bar: Spotlight on Trailblazers
Marea L. Wachsman, Esq. is the immediate past President of the Women’s Bar Association of the State of New York (“WBASNY”), the largest women’s bar association in the United States.
She also currently serves as the President of the Women’s Trial Lawyers Caucus, and, most recently, received the 2025 New York State Bar Association’s Trial Lawyers Section’s Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg Vanguard Award.
During her tenure as WBASNY President, Ms. Wachsman led the organization through a period of remarkable growth and impact. Under her leadership, membership expanded from 3,778 to 4,100 members, an increase of 322 members. The organization’s financial position strengthened with a 25% increase in revenue, and held 58 CLEs. She also elevated WBASNY’s public voice, authoring and issuing 35 press releases on critical topics, including the New York Equal Rights Amendment, reproductive rights, and a range of issues affecting women and families in the law and in society. In addition, Ms. Wachsman authored four published Op-Eds on legislation that WBASNY supported, some of which became law.
A signature achievement of her presidency was the launch of the statewide “Women in Law” initiative through WBASNY’s Social Action Committee. WBASNY brought nearly 1,000 highschool girls into 17 courtrooms across New York State—an unprecedented effort to introduce young women to the legal profession and highlight the diversity of career paths it offers. This program was honored with the 2025 NCWBA Public Service Award.
Ms. Wachsman’s leadership continues to shape the legal community, inspiring the next generation while advancing equity, opportunity, and justice throughout the state.
"When women lead, communities thrive. In law, as in life, representation matters."
- Maya Harris
GOOD Guys and Litigation Counsel of America & Upcoming Program with Illinois Bar Association
Teresa M. Beck
GOOD Guys Committee Chair
BYTERESA M. BECK
Litigation Counsel of America GOOD Guys. Litigation Counsel of America (LCA) recently hosted a GOOD Guys program in Laguna Niguel, at the group’s Annual Conference, held at the stunning Ritz Carlton overlooking the Pacific Ocean. Following an opening discussion about the different experience women have in the profession relative to men by LCA member Teresa Beck, a shareholder with Klinedinst PC (also a past president of NCWBA), a panel discussion ensued among esteemed panelists Allegra Lawrence-Hardy, a partner at Krevolin & Horst, LLC in Atlanta, Georgia; Michael D. Ehrenstein of Ehrenstein/Sager from Miami, Florida; Gregory Hahn of Bose McKinney & Evans LLP in Indianapolis, Indiana; and Matthew K. Wegner, a partner with Brown Wegner, LLP from Los Angeles, California, and moderated by Ms. Beck. Notably, Ms. Lawrence-Hardy shared with the LCA members her list of ten things members can do that are easy and cost them nothing, in order to advance more women lawyers, and more lawyers from other under-represented groups. Examples include advocating for a woman lawyer when she isn’t in the room, and reading a book that addresses the experience of women in the legal profession. Ms. Beck recommended two American Bar Associations books – Her Story: Lessons in Success From Lawyers Who Live It and Her Story: The Resilient Woman Lawyer’s Guide to Conquering Obstacles, Book 2.
The gentlemen on the panel shared their experiences about why they care about being GOOD Guys (Generating Opportunities and Opening Dialogue). Matt’ Wegner demonstrated the practice of echoing women’s contributions on stage, and Mike Ehrenstein discussed his motivation to have a fair and just system for women lawyers, as well as his selfishness because women lawyers have proven to be fantastic lawyers for his firm. Greg Hahn shared the many ways his firm supports their women lawyers and the firm’s successes in this respect. Members of the audience asked about how members can respond to those who say that “diversity” is a pejorative word, and panel members responded that DEI is about ensuring we acknowledge the qualifications of lawyers from underrepresented groups and giving them the same opportunities as others, which is a practice successful firms master. The program was incredibly engaging and many members are planning their own GOOD Guys programs in their local bar groups.
GOOD Guys and the Illinois State Bar Association. Look for a GOOD Guys program in April at the Illinois State Bar Association’s Spring 2026 programming, focused on supporting women in the legal profession. The program will take place on April 23, 2026 in Chicago, and Ms. Beck as well as Chicago Bar President John Sciaccotta are currently slotted to speak, and will join other high profile Illinois lawyers in the program.
Bring the GOOD Guys conversation to your area
Bringing the GOOD Guys program to your area is a great way to engage male leaders as allies in advancing diversity, equity, and inclusion within the legal profession. To get started, check out the GOOD Guys toolkit and connect with the NCWBA for resources and guidance on organizing an event. By fostering open conversations and providing actionable steps, you can help create a more inclusive legal community in your region.
The National Association of Women Lawyers (NAWL) invites you to an experience (un)like anything you've attended before. On Wednesday, March 4 - Friday, March 6, 2026, the (un)conference will be an immersive, participant-driven retreat at San Diego's Rancho Bernardo Inn. The (un)conference is intentionally created to be intimate to ensure that each participant receives a tailored experience that meets their needs. Step away from daily demands and focus fully on your growth. Register today!
Get to know new NCWBA Board Members
MIKHAK GHORBAN, ESQ
1. Where do you lawyer?
In 2021, I founded Ghorban Law APC, a San Diego immigration practice focused on family-based immigration, naturalization, student visas, and consular processing. Most of my clients are abroad and either want to reunite with family or pursue business opportunities in the U.S. I previously established and worked for several years in an all-female law partnership.
I began my legal career handling both family and immigration matters but then narrowed my focus so I could better support my clients while also balancing my role as President of Lawyers Club of San Diego (2024–2025) and raising my children. Immigration work is complex and constantly changing. This work is deeply personal to me
because I’m an immigrant myself. My parents left everything behind in Iran when I was young and moved to build a life in the United States. That experience gives me a perspective on what my clients are navigating. I hope that understanding helps me guide them through one of the most challenging and important moments in their lives.
2. When did you first get involved in bar associations? In women’s bar associations?
I joined the San Diego County Bar Association (SDCBA) early in my career, but my real involvement with women’s bar associations grew through Lawyers Club of San Diego. I connected with its mission to advance women in law and society and began attending events and volunteering within their committees. A board member encouraged me to step into a leadership role, and I went on to co-chair several committees focused on diverse women, student outreach, membership, and the annual dinner.
As I joined their board as a director and later as a vice president, I supported the co-chairs and volunteers I once worked alongside. In 2024, I was elected the organization’s first Iranian American president. During my time on the board, membership grew to over 1,200 members, and the organization became more engaged with local affinity bar organizations. We also helped expand the newly established San Diego Unity Bar, which aims to support and endorse diverse judicial candidates and promote a more diverse bench. My work with Lawyers Club and SDCBA committees over the years continues to be a meaningful part of my professional journey.
3. How do you hope to impact women’s bar associations during your term with NCWBA?
I first learned about NCWBA through my work with Lawyers Club and collaborating with board member Teresa Beck on the GOOD Guys
Get to know new NCWBA Board Members
program. That partnership made me excited to get more involved. I was later invited to join the Women’s Bar Initiative for the Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Task Force, where we worked with across the country to develop a DEIB toolkit focused on diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging.
Being on the task force showed me how important it is to have a community that supports and mentors women leaders nationally. It’s for this reason that I want to make sure women’s bar associations continue offering strong mentorship and networking opportunities. This is also the best way to nurture and establish a strong leadership pipeline. Organizations thrive when women feel confident stepping into leadership and sharing what they know.
It's important now more than ever to support policies and programs that address the challenges women lawyers still encounter, including pay disparities and access to advancement. I hope to bring the lessons I learned from leading Lawyers Club to encourage collaboration and programs that help women succeed across all member organizations.
1. Where do you lawyer?
In Massachusetts! I work at a firm and I am the Deputy General Counsel for Berklee College of Music.
4. What’s your Why?
As a first-generation lawyer practicing immigration law, I aim to make a real difference during some of the most critical moments in people’s lives. I also see the value in volunteering and supporting women’s bar organizations as my way of giving back. I have had mentors and allies who helped me along the way, and now I want to do the same for others.
For a long time, I wondered why me? Now I find myself saying why not me. I don’t often see people with my background in these roles, so I’m willing to be the first and make sure I leave the ladder down and the door open for others.
2. When did you first get involved in bar associations? In women’s bar associations?
I’ve been involved in Bar Associations and the Women’s Bar Association of Massachusetts since I graduated from law school. I started out as the WBA of MA’s co-chair of the law student committee, then joined the board, then made my way onto the EBoard with fellow NCWBA board member Kristy Lavigne, before becoming president! I’m also a co-founder of the Arab American Bar Association of Massachusetts, which just started a few years ago, and a committee chair for the Boston Bar Association.
ALEXANDRAA. MITROPOLOUS
Get to know new NCWBA Board Members
3. How do you hope to impact women’s bar associations during your term with NCWBA?
I hope to provide them with the resources they need and to connect women’s bar association leadership and their members to one another across the nation. Working together is so much better than working apart, especially where so many bar organizations are doing such incredible work.
4. What’s your Why?
To help promote women and create an equal and just society…and to protect our institutions of higher education.
1. Where do you lawyer?
I practice in Rhode Island and Massachusetts.
2. When did you first get involved in bar associations? In women’s bar associations? I became active in the Rhode Island Women’s Bar Association when I made a career change to move from a firm in Massachusetts to one in Rhode Island. Unlike Massachusetts, Rhode Island has a mandatory bar association, so I became a member of the general bar association when I was admitted to the Rhode Island bar. However, I decided to join the Rhode Island Women’s Bar Association at that same time (a separate, voluntary organization) in order to acclimate into the Rhode Island legal community. Because Rhode Island is such a small bar, it can sometimes feel a little closed off to non-Rhode Islanders.
The RIWBA provided a welcoming and empowering community. As a voluntary bar association, I appreciate that the RIWBA can step in to advocate for and provide visibility for issues traditionally of concern to working women. As someone who is not from Rhode Island and only started practicing in Rhode Island in the second half of my career, being embraced by a community like the Rhode Island Women’s Bar Association has been tremendous, both personally and professionally
3. How do you hope to impact women’s bar associations during your term with NCWBA? I hope to learn from other associations/leaders to help the RIWBA continue to grow and be successful.
4. What’s your Why?
I love the opportunity to create and work within a community of strong women leaders and to use my leadership role as an opportunity to mentor newer attorneys.
LISA KRESGE
Need a Speaker?
Melanie Herschorn, Book Strategy & Publishing Partner for Attorneys
Melanie helps attorneys turn their legal expertise into powerful published books that attract high-profile clients, elevate their credibility, and create a lasting legacy. With programming tailored to bar associations and individual attorneys alike, Melanie offers engaging presentations on topics such as “Write the Book on It: How Attorneys Can Use a Book to Attract Better Clients,” “Demystifying the Publishing Process for Lawyers,” and “Strategic Storytelling and Publishing for Attorneys: How Storytelling Can Transform Your Legal Practice.” Her talks are ideal for CLE programs, practice development series, and member education events. Learn more at yourbigimpactbook.com or reach her directly at melanie@yourbigimpactbook.com.
Upcoming NCWBA Events
Nov 20:
Dec 1: On the MIC: How to Implement Policy Statements
Feb 5: Ladder Down Program St. Mary’s School of Law San Antonio, TX
Feb 6: NCWBA Midyear San Antonio, TX - Mentoring Circles - Meet & Greet
- The Weight We Carry: Understanding and Managing Secondary Trauma in the Legal Profession
NCWBA.ORG/EVENTS
We’ve had many member organization leaders request a way to watch On the MIC and Membership Meeting programming they may have missed.
We are diligently working to upload all recent sessions to the new NCWBA YouTube channel, so bookmark the page to come back and watch sessions you missed or review programs you loved!
https://www.youtube.com/@NCWBA
Melanie Herschorn Big Impact Books
2025 NCWBA Bar Leadership Summit: Bridging the Engagement Gap
White Sulphur Springs, West Virginia — October 16–17, 2025
Women bar leaders and law students from across the nation gathered at the historic Greenbrier Resort for the NCWBA’s Annual Leadership Summit, an energizing two-day event designed to inspire, connect, and equip women leaders in the legal profession. This year’s Summit welcomed attendees from 17 states and two national bar organizations for a weekend of insight, empowerment, and community.
An Inspiring Start: Ladder Down at the Schoolhouse Hotel
The Summit opened Thursday evening with one of NCWBA’s hallmark Ladder Down programs at the Schoolhouse Hotel. The panel, moderated by Ashley Pack, featured three trailblazing women:
● The Honorable Haley Bunn, Justice, West Virginia Supreme Court of Appeals
● Susan Brewer, Interim Dean, West Virginia University College of Law, and former CEO, Steptoe & Johnson PLLC
● Zelda Wesley, Assistant U.S. Attorney, Northern District of West Virginia
In a lively and candid conversation, panelists shared lessons from their own career journeys—touching on mentorship, risk-taking, and resilience in the face of setbacks. The evening concluded with hors d’oeuvres, wine, and local cider, setting a warm and collegial tone for the next day’s programming.
Leadership Summit: Practical Tools for Bar Leaders
Friday’s full-day Summit began with welcoming remarks from West Virginia attorney, 2025–2026 NCWBA President, and Summit Co-Chair Jamison Cooper. The morning Kellie Dunaway and , the St. Louis-based co-founders of Aspire, focused on one of the most pressing challenges facing women’s bar associations today—how to attract, engage, and retain new members. Their dynamic presentation offered actionable insights on fostering authentic connection and leadership
Workshops Designed to Equip Today’s Leaders and Develop the Next Generation of Women’s Bar Leadership
Throughout the day, participants had the option to attend a robust lineup of interactive, small-group workshops addressing both the practical and personal aspects of leadership. Sessions included:
● Today’s Student: A Preview of the Next Generation of Bar Members
● Girl, Get Out of Your Way: The Impact of Imposter Syndrome on Your Organization
● The Impact of the Current DEI Climate on the Future of Women’s Bar Associations
● Using AI in Your Organization
● Harnessing the Power of a Five-Generation Workforce
● Fundraising Strategies That Actually Work
● Failing Up: Flipping the Script on Disappointments
● Planning Signature Events that Get People Engaged
● Building Engagement and Authority through Book Publishing
● Engage Your Audience
● To Speak or Not to Speak: Best Practices for Responding to Statement Requests
●
Representatives of the Women’s Bar Association of the State of New York and the Dallas Women Lawyers’ Association were present to receive their awards, and spoke to Summit attendees about the inspiration behind their programs and the effort involved in achieving their results. Attendees were also treated to a snippet of “A Law Unto Themselves.”
Celebrating Excellence: NCWBAAnnual Awards
During the luncheon program, attendees came together to honor the outstanding achievements of NCWBA’s member organizations.
● The 2025 Public Service Award was presented to the Women’s Bar Association of the State of NewYork for their “Women in Law” project, in which 170 women attorneys throughout the state coordinated to bring nearly 1000 students to courtrooms throughout the state to hear from a broad variety of professionals in the legal field.
● The 2025 Outstanding Member Program Award was awarded to the Dallas Women Lawyers Association for their work in creating the documentary “A Law Unto Themselves: How Women Lawyers of Dallas Transformed Law and CommunityTogether.” The documentary reflects the rich history of perseverance, strength, and success that characterizes women lawyers in Texas through the personal accounts of trailblazers in the industry, and preserves that history for future generations.
● The 2025 Women’s Law Student Association Award was awarded to the Arkansas Association of Women Lawyers Law Student Division - William H. Bowen School of Law at University of Arkansas Little Rock for their work on “ Women’s Week” - a week-long series of events that blend professional development, advocacy, community service, and fundraising—all driven by the leadership and energy of women law students.
Networking, Connection, and Celebration
After a busy day of learning and networking, attendees enjoyed the famous southern hospitality of the Greenbrier and nearby Lewisburg. Local shops stayed open late, offering special treats and discounts for NCWBA guests. Small groups gathered for the Summit’s signature dine-arounds at some of the area’s favorite restaurants, including The Forum, Prime44, The Humble Tomato, The French Goat, and The Livery Tavern.
The celebration continued well into the evening with drinks, dancing, and a champagne toast at the Greenbrier casino. Throughout the weekend, guests could be found enjoying the Greenbrier’s famous afternoon tea, enjoying the fall foliage on the nearby hiking trails, touring historic sites, or exploring the Greenbrier’s storied Cold War bunker.
With Gratitude
NCWBA extends its heartfelt thanks to our outstanding speakers for sharing their time, expertise, and wisdom: Jennifer Powell, Christine Chambers Goodman, Melissa Romano, Sheila Abron, Tami Munsch, Ashley Odell, Jessie Pellant, the Honorable Kellie Hogan, Kristen Wheeler, Jennifer Hill, Kim Sporrer,
Looking Ahead
Mark your calendars now for the 2026 NCWBA Bar Leadership Summit, July 30-31, 2026, in Chicago, Illinois. Join us as we explore how visibility, authenticity, and bold leadership can elevate women’s bar organizations nationwide. Together, we’ll continue building bridges, developing the next generation of leaders, and strengthening the collective power—and presence—of women in law.
Alabama
NCWBA Member Organizations
Birmingham Bar Association Women Lawyers Section
Dorbin Association, University of Alabama School of Law
Arizona
Arizona Women Lawyers Association
Women Law Students Association - Arizona State University
Arkansas
Arkansas Association of Women Lawyers – Law Student Division (William H. Bowen School of Law at University of Arkansas Little Rock)
California
California Women Lawyers
Lawyers Club of San Diego
Queen's Bench Association of the San Francisco Bay Area
Women's Law Student Association-Thomas Jefferson School of Law
Women Lawyers Association of Los Angeles
Colorado
Colorado Women's Bar Association
Women's Law Caucus - University of Colorado School of Law
Connecticut Connecticut Bar Association
District of Columbia
Women's Bar Association of the District of Columbia
Florida
Florida Association for Women Lawyers
Georgia
Georgia Association of Black Women Attorneys
Hawaii Hawaii Women Lawyers
Illinois Women’s Bar Association of Illinois
Idaho Idaho Women Lawyers
Iowa
Iowa Organization of Women Attorneys
Kansas
Association for Women Lawyers of Greater Kansas City
Kansas Women Attorneys Association
Wichita Women Attorneys Association
Louisiana
Women Law Student Association - Loyola University College of Law (New Orleans)
Women's Law Student Association - Paul M. Hebert Law Center at Louisiana State
University
Maine
Maine State Bar Association
Maryland Women's Bar Association of Maryland
Massachusetts
Women's Bar Association of Massachusetts
Women’s Law Association - Western New England School of Law
Michigan Women Lawyers Association of Michigan
Minnesota
Minnesota Women Lawyers
Mississippi
Mississippi Women Lawyers Association
Missouri
Association for Women Lawyers of Great Kansas City
Women Lawyers Association of Greater St. Louis
New Hampshire
New Hampshire Women's Bar Association
New Jersey
New Jersey Women Lawyers Association
NewYork
New York Women's Bar Association
Women's Bar Association of the State of New York
North Carolina
North Carolina Association of Women Attorneys
Oklahoma Women in Law Section of the Oklahoma Bar Association
Oregon
Oregon Women Lawyers
Oregon Women Lawyers Foundation
Rhode Island
Rhode Island Women’s Bar Association
South Carolina
South Carolina Women Lawyers Association
Texas
Dallas Women Lawyers Association
Texas Women Lawyers
Women's Law Caucus - University of Texas at Austin Women's Law Society- South Texas College of Law
Utah
Women Lawyers of Utah
Virginia
Virginia Women Attorneys Association
Washington
Washington Women Lawyers
West Virginia
West Virginia Women Attorneys
West Virginia University College of Law Women's Leadership Council
Wisconsin Association for Women Lawyers
National
Military Spouse JD Network
Women Lawyers on Guard ACTION Network, Inc.
Burns White
Ms. JD
National Association of Women Lawyers
Lady Justice Initiative