Message from the Chair of the New Lawyer Division

Happy Holidays, NLD!

We did it! We made it to the end of 2020! What a year it has been.

This year has been like no other in our lifetime. Many, many dark and tragic events came to the forefront of our collective consciousness. But, out of darkness comes light. As Mister Rogers once said, when we see scary things on the news, “look for the helpers.” And many helpers have emerged this year, battling many scary things. From frontline workers who have risked their health and safety for the collective good to activists leading the fight for equality and justice. 

As some have criticized, though, it is not enough to simply “look” for helpers. It is imperative that we ARE the helpers. If one good thing comes from this year, it is the urgent sense that we must individually, consciously decide every day to make the world a better, safer, and more just place. As new lawyers, we are uniquely situated to do just that.

When this year started, I was excited to get to know you all personally. We had so many fun, in-person activities planned. Despite needing to shift our programs to socially-distant, virtual ones, I’m glad that I was still able to connect with many of you. Although my year as NLD Chair is coming to a close, you’re not rid of me yet! I’ll still be at many of the wonderful events NLD has in store for you next year.

Thank you, from the bottom of my heart, for allowing me to lead this year.  Our community is so incredible, and I’m so grateful to have each of you in my life. NLD is being left in more than capable hands. I know you all will love next year’s executive leadership. Big things are on the horizon! And, when it is safe to do so, I can’t wait to clink glasses in person and cheers to NLD’s ongoing and collective success.

As always, the SDCBA and NLD are here for you. Make sure you’re following NLD on Facebook (formerly New Lawyers Forum)! You can always find the latest and greatest about what the Bar is offering there.

Best,
Stephanie Sandler