Connecting and Growing: A Look Back at a Successful Year for the New Lawyers Division
By Alexa Arron
What a year it has been for the New Lawyers Division (NLD)! Thanks to the enthusiasm, energy, and commitment of our members, the NLD is firmly established as a welcoming community where new lawyers can build connections, develop their careers, and make a difference in the legal profession.
This year, NLD welcomed 508 new members, bringing total membership to an impressive 1,748. Those new faces included 240 attorneys, 267 law students, and one Limited License Legal Technician (LLLT). Each new member brings fresh ideas, diverse perspectives, and enthusiasm to an already dynamic community.
Connection has always been at the heart of the NLD. We hosted six in-person social events, giving members a chance to step away from their desks and get to know one another while having fun. Whether competing at tacos and trivia, enjoying a round of mini golf, or gathering for beer and bocce, members had plenty of opportunities to build friendships, expand professional networks, and foster the connections that make the NLD so valuable.
Professional development remained another key priority. Five free lunchtime CLE programs attracted more than 300 attendees, providing practical and accessible education tailored to the needs of new and early-career attorneys. Beyond CLEs, members had opportunities to prepare for the next step in their careers through résumé review workshops, interview preparation, and virtual speed networking, connecting emerging legal professionals with experienced practitioners eager to share advice and encouragement.
The NLD’s impact extended beyond its membership. Throughout the year, members came together to raise $4,010 for KCBA’s pro bono partners. These contributions help support critical legal services and advance access to justice for individuals and communities in need.
While these numbers reflect a successful year, they capture only part of the story. Behind every event, program, and fundraiser were members who volunteered, welcomed new colleagues, shared their knowledge, and invested in one another’s success. Together, we created a community that is collaborative, supportive, and committed to strengthening both the profession and the public it serves.
Thank you to everyone who helped make this such a rewarding year. We can’t wait to see what we accomplish together next.
Alexa Arron is KCBA’s NLD Staff Liaison and can be reached at nld@kcba.org.
