President's Message

Dear BWLA Family,

I hope you all enjoyed a blessed holiday season and Happy New Year! A new year brings the promise of fresh beginnings, renewed intention, and the opportunity to move forward with clarity and purpose. As we welcome 2026, I am reminded that while the calendar may reset, our collective commitment to one another, to justice, and to community remains steadfast. This moment invites reflection—but more importantly, it calls us to be intentional about how we show up for ourselves and for each other in the year ahead.

I am excited to start this new year with all of you, including those who will be attending BWLA’s 2026 Vision Board Party this Thursday, January 15, 2026. Organized by BWLA Health & Wellness Committee Chair Nia Imara-Binns and BWLA Treasurer Alexandra Rogers, and hosted by BWLA sponsor Burke, Warren, MacKay & Serritella, this gathering creates space for connection, reflection, goal-setting, and alignment as we chart our personal and professional visions for the year ahead. In a profession that so often demands our energy, time, and emotional labor, taking time to pause, reset, and protect our peace, hopes, and dreams can not be optional—it must remain essential and necessary.

That necessity feels especially urgent given the climate and circumstances in which we continue to find ourselves. As Black women in the legal profession, we advocate fiercely for human and civil rights—not only for ourselves, but for our families, our communities, our allies, and for all people across this city, this country, and around the world. This work remains critical and ongoing. At the same time, we must remain vigilant in caring for our own well-being, setting boundaries, and sustaining the strength required to continue this advocacy with purpose and resolve. BWLA remains committed to holding space for both: principled action and personal preservation.

As we look ahead to the spring, I am grateful for the incredible programming being developed through the hard work and dedication of our Committee Chairs, Co-Chairs, and Board Members. This includes continued service opportunities like our 2026 MLK Jr. Day of Service, where we will once again partner with ChiGivesBack to support Vanderpoel Elementary School, signature events such as the Judicial Reception and Road to the Robe Panel, and growing BWLA traditions like the 2026 BWLA Annual Ski Trip. This year’s ski trip will take place February 27–March 1, 2026, at Crystal Mountain Resort in Thompsonville, Michigan, offering a wonderful opportunity to step away from the hustle and bustle of the Windy City, reconnect with friends old and new, and enjoy all the resort has to offer—from skiing and sleigh rides to spa treatments and fine dining and shopping. Additional details and registration information are included in this s newsletter.

I am also thrilled to share that planning is well underway for the BWLA 2026 Annual Spring Fundraiser Luncheon, taking place on Thursday, April 16, 2026, at the Sheraton Grand Chicago Riverwalk. We are preparing an incredible luncheon to honor, recognize, and celebrate those who have built an Enduring Legacy within our legal profession—so please save the date. In keeping with tradition, BWLA will host its General Counsel Half-Day CLE and Opening Reception the day prior, on Wednesday, April 15, 2026, at the offices of BWLA Title Sponsor Jones Day. This week, BWLA will be sending out individual sponsorship letters to firms and companies, and I warmly invite all who are interested to explore the sponsorship opportunities available by clicking here. It is through the generosity and partnership of our sponsors that BWLA continues to advance its mission—supporting law students, uplifting Black women in the legal profession, and investing in the future of our community and others.

As we begin this new year together, I am deeply grateful for each of you—our Founders, Past Presidents, Board Members, Committee Chairs, members, sponsors, supporters, allies, and friends. Your engagement, leadership, mentorship, and commitment to service ensure that BWLA’s Enduring Legacy continues to shine—United by Law, Fueled by Sisterhood.

With gratitude and sisterhood,

Joan A. Akalaonu

2025–2026 BWLA President

#EnduringLegacy

BWLA Annual Spring Fundraiser

SAVE THE DATE AND SPONSOR

BWLA's 2026 Spring Fundraiser Luncheon

BWLA Program Spotlight

Upcoming Events

Register Today for the

BWLA 2026 Vision Board Party -

A Few Spaces Left

NEW YEAR, NEW ME — BWLA Vision Board Party 🖼✨

Thursday, January 15, 2026 | 6:00–8:00 PM

Hosted by BWLA Sponsor Burke Warren MacKay & Serritella

330 N. Wabash Ave | Chicago, IL

Kick off the new year with clarity, purpose, and intention! Join the BWLA Health & Wellness Committee for our 2026 Vision Board Party, where we’ll reflect on personal and professional goals, set meaningful intentions, and craft boards designed to inspire action throughout the year. All materials will be provided.

This intimate gathering is limited to 25 participants, and there are still 4 spots available, so we encourage you to register early before spots fill up. Tickets are $10 per person.

Let’s align our visions, build community, and start the year with purpose together.

Register today through the link below!

Purchase Tickets Today to Attend the

BWLA 2026 Annual Ski Trip Weekend Getaway

🎿❄️ Register and Purchase Tickets Today — BWLA 2026 Ski Trip! ❄️🎿

Bundle up and get excited—BWLA is headed to Crystal Mountain Ski Resort in Thompsonville, Michigan for the 2026 BWLA Annual Ski Trip, taking place February 27–March 1, 2026!

Join us for a relaxing and fun winter retreat away from the hustle and bustle of the Windy City. Crystal Mountain offers something for everyone—whether you’re hitting the slopes, unwinding at the spa, ice skating, enjoying a cozy sleigh ride, or simply taking in the beautiful snow-covered scenery.

On Saturday evening, BWLA attendees will come together for a group dinner, followed by a CLE discussion focused on self-care and wellness, and then an evening of fun, laughter, and games.

🎟️ Registration Pricing

• BWLA Members: $20
• Non-BWLA Members: $40
• (Registration includes Saturday dinner and CLE)

🚌 Transportation Option

BWLA will offer charter bus transportation to and from Chicago and the resort for an additional $100 per person. This information is on the Ticket Falcon registration site.

🏨 Hotel Accommodations

The Ticket Falcon registration site includes direct links and information to book discounted rooms at the resort under BWLA’s exclusive promo code. The group discounted rate expires January 28, 2026, so book your room today!

Register and Purchase Your Tickets Today through the link below to secure your spot and access the BWLA hotel discount.

We look forward to having you join us. Treat yourself—you’ve earned this getaway! ✨❄️💜

Register Today for WBAI CLE "The Silent Shift: Supporting Mental Health During Perimenopause," sponsored by BWLA

BWLA is proud to sponsor the Women’s Bar Association of Illinois’ CLE, “The Silent Shift: Supporting Mental Health During Perimenopause.” This timely program will feature Dr. Jennifer Litner, Founder of Embrace Sexual Wellness, and will explore the mental health impacts of perimenopause and how the legal profession can better support attorneys during this often-overlooked transition.

The CLE program will take place on January 21, 2026 at the ISBA Regional Office, 20 South Clark Street, Suite 820, Chicago, IL 60603 starting at 5:30pm. Attendees will be able to obtain a 1 hour CLE mental health credit. Tickets are $20.

We’re honored to support programming that centers wellness, education, and equity within the legal community.

Purchase Tickets Today for the Diversity Scholarship Foundation's Annual Unity Gala, sponsored by BWLA

BWLA is proud to sponsor the Diversity Scholarship Foundation’s 2026 Annual Unity Gala on Thursday, January 22, 2026. Th Unity Gala will be held at the JW Marriott Chicago.

At this year's Gala, the Diversity Scholarship Foundation will award over 20 scholarships to deserving law students, including BWLA Law Student Committee Co-Chair Maryah Person and BWLA members Ibidun "Ibi"Oduguwa and Alexandria Wilson. Additionally, the Foundation will be honoring and awarding recipients of the Advocate for Diversity Award, including BWLA member Erika Harold.

Click the link below to join BWLA and others at this year's Unity Gala.

SAVE THE DATE

BWLA's 2026 Judicial Reception

SAVE THE DATE

BWLA's 2026 Road to the Robe Panel

Get Involved:

BWLA Membership and Committees

Every chapter of BWLA’s history has been written by members who chose to get involved, give back, and lead with purpose. Joining a committee is more than volunteering; it’s an opportunity to help shape the future of BWLA, strengthen our sisterhood, and expand our impact across Chicago’s legal and civic communities.

When you serve, you carry forward BWLA’s Enduring Legacy of excellence, advocacy, and empowerment. Whether you’re passionate about community service, professional development, or advancing equity in the legal field, there’s a place for your voice and your vision within BWLA. Join us and help continue the legacy that has uplifted Black women in law for nearly four decades. Please use the link below to sign up for one of BWLA's committees this bar year!

Past Events

Good Company, Great Conversation

BWLA December Happy Hour at Hubbard Inn

On Wednesday, December 10, 2025, the BWLA Health and Wellness Committee and Young Lawyers Committee hosted a lively BWLA December Happy Hour at Hubbard Inn from 5:00–7:00 p.m. More than 20 attendees gathered for a festive evening of networking, connection, and camaraderie while enjoying great food, drinks, and music in a relaxed setting.

A special thank you to Health and Wellness Committee Chair Nia Imara Binns, BWLA Treasurer Alexandra Rogers, Young Lawyers Committee Co-Chairs Kyle Palmore and Milea Moye, and BWLA Board Member at Large Cyerra McGowan for their leadership and coordination in making the event a success.

Building Community Through Service

BWLA Volunteers with Habitat for Humanity Chicago ReStore South

On Saturday, December 13, 2025, the BWLA Community Service Committee volunteered at Habitat for Humanity Chicago ReStore South, located at 6057 S. Western Avenue in Chicago. Habitat for Humanity Chicago ReStore South operates a unique retail space that diverts usable home goods and appliances from landfills, offers high-quality items at discounted prices, and reinvests proceeds directly into strengthening Chicago neighborhoods.

BWLA volunteers spent the day building kitchen cabinets and shelving units that will be sold at the ReStore, with proceeds supporting Habitat for Humanity’s mission and reinvestment in the broader community. Volunteers included Community Service Committee Co-Chairs Aleathea Williams and Ashley Varnado, BWLA Parliamentarian and Community Service Committee Board Liaison Kina Arnold, and BWLA members Lex Moffett, Nichole Cain, Christina Pollonais, Taiyonni Hill, Khala Turner, Alexis Burnett, and Maryam Muhammad.

Following the event, Habitat for Humanity Chicago ReStore South shared the following message with Kameelah Pointer, BWLA Corresponding Secretary and Community Service Committee Board Liaison, who helped organize the volunteer day:

“We want to send a huge thank you to BWLA for volunteering at ReStore Chicago South! Our team enjoyed working with the group to accomplish numerous projects to make the store as impactful as possible. Everyone was helpful and brought great positivity. BWLA’s hard work has helped support Chicago communities and our vision of a world where everyone has a decent place to live. We hope to see you all again in the future!”

This meaningful day of service reflects BWLA’s continued commitment to community impact and collective action.

Spreading Holiday Joy

BWLA Volunteers at Soul Santa Village

From December 19–21, 2025, the BWLA Community Service Committee volunteered at Soul Santa Village, a three-day immersive holiday experience held at Cinespace, located at 3355 W. 31st Street in Chicago. The event brought together families from across the city for a festive celebration filled with live music, performances, and community joy.

BWLA volunteers supported the event throughout the weekend, helping create a warm and memorable holiday experience for children and families. Adding to the holiday magic, BWLA Parliamentarian Kina Arnold spread holiday cheer by stepping into the role of Disney Princess Tiana, delighting the children who attended the event.

BWLA volunteers included Judicial Evaluation Committee Co-Chair Michelle Flagg, and BWLA members Michelle Cunningham, Fluffy Kilburn, Keli Edmonds, Breanna Sims, Juneitha Shambee, Spencer Washington, and others. Special thanks to BWLA Parliamentarian Kina Arnold for organizing this volunteer opportunity and to all the volunteers who generously gave their time to bring joy and holiday cheer to the Chicago community.

Prepare with Purpose

BWLA's Virtual Office Hours for Law Students

On Saturday, January 3, 2026, the BWLA Law Student Outreach Committee hosted Virtual Office Hours, offering law students a valuable opportunity to receive one-on-one résumé and cover letter feedback and prepare for upcoming summer internships, associate positions, and judicial clerkship opportunities. The virtual sessions connected students directly with BWLA and BWLA Scholarship Fund Board members, providing practical guidance and insight into the application process.

BWLA President Joan Akalaonu, BWLA Recording Secretary Le'Loni English, Corresponding Secretary Kameelah Pointer, and BWLA Scholarship Fund Board Members Shannon Stokes and Natalie Ellis shared their professional experiences and provided individualized feedback to law students from law schools in Illinois, Georgia, New York, Massachusetts, and as far as South Africa.


Special thanks to BWLA Law Student Outreach Committee Co-Chairs Leah Hall, Maryah Person, and Jordan Bernard, along with Board Liaisons BWLA Ex-Officio Weeya Young and BWLA Scholarship Fund Board Member Shannon Stokes, for their leadership and coordination in making this impactful program a success.

BWLA Co-Sponsors 2026 Solidarity Awards & Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day CLE

On Sunday, January 11, 2026, BWLA proudly co-sponsored the 2026 Solidarity Awards and Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day CLE Program alongside the Decalogue Society of Lawyers, Cook County Bar Association, Illinois Judicial Council, Black Men Lawyers’ Association, and the Jewish Judges Association of Illinois. The program was held at the Illinois Holocaust Museum & Education Center and brought together members of the bench and bar for an afternoon of reflection, learning, and community.

This year’s CLE featured a screening of Rustin, followed by a thoughtful discussion on the intersectionality of varying identities within the political and legal realms and the necessity of solidarity and allyship in effecting meaningful change and lasting societal impact. The program began with introductions provided by the Honorable Pam Saindon, and the CLE discussion was moderated by Clifford Scott-Rudnick and featured BWLA Scholarship Fund Board Member Shannon Stokes, J.D., LL.M., and CCBA President Antonio Lee. The program concluded with a reception honoring the 2026 Solidarity Award recipients: Illinois Attorney Kwame Raoul, Illinois State Representative Bob Morgan, and the Chicago Sukkah Design Festival. BWLA was honored to stand in solidarity with these bar associations in commemorating Dr. King’s enduring legacy through dialogue, education, and collective action.

Special thanks to BWLA Scholarship Fund Board Member Shannon Stokes for collaborating with the other bar associations to coordinate such an impactful event.

BWLA Joins CCBA for Festive Holiday Mingle: Christmas Karaoke Edition

On Thursday, December 11, 2025, BWLA Vice President Natanya Pope-Sohel proudly represented BWLA at the Cook County Bar Association Annual Holiday Mingle: Christmas Karaoke Edition. BWLA member and prior Scholarship Recipient Sydney Mann and others were also in attendance. The holiday party was held at The Haven Entertainment Center and provided all attendees with an evening of celebration, music, and camaraderie.

BWLA thanks Cook County Bar Association President Antonio Lee and his Board of Directors for hosting a festive and fun holiday event.

BWLA Attends ISBA All Bar Holiday Reception

On Friday, December 12, 2025, BWLA President Joan Akalaonu, BWLA Founder and Past President the Honorable Patrice Ball-Reed (ret.), BWLA Past President the Honorable Kenya Wright-Jenkins, and BWLA members the Honorable Nichole Patton, President of the Chicago Bar Association, LaDeidre Turner, President-Elect of the Cook County Bar Association, Charmaine Saffore, Vice President of Education and Information for the Cook County Bar Association, the Honorable Linda Sackey, Erika Harold, and others attended the Illinois State Bar Association’s All Bar Holiday Reception, held at the JW Marriott Chicago.

The annual holiday reception, held during ISBA's Joint Mid-Year Meeting, brought together bar leaders, judges, and attorneys from across Illinois to honor the Justices of the Illinois Supreme Court. Chief Justice P. Scott Neville Jr. offered special remarks during the reception.

BWLA Supports BMLA Holiday Party & Toy Drive

On Friday, December 12, 2025, BWLA members proudly supported the Black Men Lawyers’ Association’s ("BMLA") Annual Holiday Party and Toy Drive. Members gathered to celebrate the season at The Exhibit House, a new event space located in Water Tower Place. The evening combined fellowship and festive cheer with community impact, as the toy drive benefited children and families in the Parkway Gardens Woodlawn community.

Events Around Town

Apply Today for the

Federal Defender Fellowship Program

The Federal Defender Services Fellowship Program is pleased to announce the application period for the 2026-2028 non-capital and capital fellowship cohorts. The 2026 Fellows Program will begin in September 2026. To learn more about the Defender Services Program and federal defense at: https://www.fd.org/ To learn more about the Federal Capital Trial Project at: https://capdefnet.org/

Apply through the link below. The deadline to apply is January 29, 2026.

Register Today for the Federal Bar Association - Chicago Chapter's CLE "Unfamiliar Waters: Navigating Procedural Differences Between Federal & Illinois State Court"

Zoom In for the Cook County Bar Association's Virtual CLE "Protecting Your Bar License: Navigating the Attorney Discipline Process"

Register Today for the WBAI CLE Panel

"Navigating the Cook County Law Division: Trial Essentials from the Bench"

Join CBA's Lunch and Learn on How Lawyers can Combat Human Trafficking

Sign Up Today to Volunteer at

the Cook County Bar Association's

MLK Jr. Day of Service Legal Clinic

Sign Up Today to Volunteer

with the Muslim Bar Association of Chicago and Lawyers in the Classroom

The Muslim Bar Association of Chicago is continuing to partner with Lawyers in the Classroom to provide a wonderful volunteer opportunity to engage with students and inspire the next generation of those in the legal profession. Their next session is at Universal School in Bridgeview, located at 7350 W 93rd St, Bridgeview, IL 60455, on Wednesday, January 21, 2026. They are looking for 2-3 volunteers for each of the following time slots: 12:30-1:24 PM CT and 2:00-3:00 PM CT.

Click the link below if you are interested in volunteering.

Submit a Commitment Letter Today if Your Company is Interested in Hosting the ACC Chicago's Pathway Summer Internship Program

ACC Chicago - Association of Corporate Counsel is excited to launch the 23rd year of its 2026 Pathway Summer Internship Program which connects 1L students at Illinois law schools with meaningful, hands-on experience inside Chicagoland corporate legal departments.

The ACC is currently inviting corporate host companies to participate. Hosts provide a 10-week, full-time internship experience (hybrid is fine with at least 3 days/week in-person), designate an in-house attorney mentor, and offer substantive assignments that reflect the day-to-day work of an in-house team, including a drafting project that helps the intern build a future writing sample. Host commitment includes:

• $12,000 paid directly to the intern as a W-2 employee of the company
• $1,000 to ACC Chicago to support program expenses

This program changes trajectories and it’s also a meaningful way for legal departments to invest in the next generation of in-house talent.

If your company is interested in hosting, please submit a brief commitment letter (or questions) to the ACC Chicago Program Co-Chairs by Tuesday, February 3, 2026 at ChicagoACCInternship@gmail.com.

Register Today for MWBLSA's 58th Regional Convention Rooted in Legacy Rising in Excellence

Purchase Tickets Today for the Decalogue Society's Reception in Honor of the Judiciary

SAVE THE DATE

WBAI Judicial Reception

Register Today for BMLA

2026 International Travel to Ghana

BWLA Member Achievements

Congratulations to BWLA member Dean Nicky Boothe, Dean & Professor of Law at UIC Law, who was recently elected to serve on the Board of Governor Members for the Society of American Law Teachers (SALT).

Congratulations to BWLA Founder and Past President, the Honorable Patricia Brown Holmes (ret.), whose interview with Today's Managing Partner was recently named one of its Best of 2025!

Congratulations to BWLA member Valérie Cambronne who was recently featured in The Trademark Lawyer Magazine as part of their "Women in IP Leadership" series, sharing her journey from ballet dancer to trademark attorney to founder of LegallyBlack®️. The feature can be viewed here.

Congratulations to BWLA Sponsor Relations Committee Co-Chair Contessa Gibson Williams who was recently featured in Baker McKenzie's 2025 Summer Associate Spotlight after spending the past summer in the firm's Chicago Office. Contessa will be joining Baker McKenzie full time in Fall 2026.

Congratulations to BWLA member Erika Harold who will be one of the recipients of the 2026 Unity Gala Advocate for Diversity Award from the Diversity Scholarship Foundation for her leadership and dedication to advancing diversity, equity, and professionalism in the legal community. Erika will receive her award at the DSF Unity Gala on January 22, 2026.

Congratulations BWLA member Camille Lindsay who was recently awarded with the James Brodie Excellence in Legislation Award by the Illinois Security Professionals Association.

Congratulations BWLA member Ibidun ("Ibi") Oduguwa who will be one of the recipients of the 2026 Unity Gala Scholarship from the Diversity Scholarship Foundation. Ibi will receive her award scholarship at the DSF Unity Gala on January 22, 2026.

Congratulations BWLA Law Student Committee Co-Chair and 2025 Fall Book Award Recipient Maryah Person who will be one of the recipients of the 2026 Unity Gala Scholarship from the Diversity Scholarship Foundation. Maryah will receive her award scholarship at the DSF Unity Gala on January 22, 2026.

Congratulations BWLA Vice President Natanya Pope-Sohel who moderated the Judicial Candidates Forum for the 17th Judicial Subcircuit that was hosted by the Democratic Committee People of the 17th Judicial Subcircuit on January 5, 2026 at the Chicago Heights' Recreation Center.

Congratulations to BWLA member and 2025 Fall Book Award Recipient Tikia Travis who will be starting a new position as a Judicial Extern to the Honorable Justice Carl A. Walker at the Illinois Appellate Court, First District.

Congratulations BWLA member Alexandria Wilson who will be one of the recipients of the 2026 Unity Gala Scholarship from the Diversity Scholarship Foundation. Alexandria will receive her award scholarship at the DSF Unity Gala on January 22, 2026.

Do you or someone you know have an achievement that you'd like us to highlight in our monthly newsletter? We want to celebrate our members! Send your latest achievement addressed to administrator@bwla.org.

Employment Opportunities

BWLA constantly receives new employment opportunities that our members may be interested in. The ever expanding list has become too lengthy to share here, so please be sure to visit the BWLA Job Board to view all current employment opportunities!

Sponsors

Black Women Lawyers' Association of Greater Chicago, Inc. | www.bwla.org