The 2024 NAPABA Convention in Seattle was a record-breaking event—over 3,400 attendees and 1,100 first-timers! Ours was the largest gathering of Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander (AANHPI) lawyers ever and remains cause for celebration and an achievement that will inspire us as we head into 2025.
During Convention, NAPABA members came together to connect, learn, grow, and celebrate the strength of our vibrant AANHPI community. Your presence, engagement, and enthusiasm were truly inspiring and left a lasting impact.
2025 is right around the corner, and we want to kick off the new year on the right note! If you haven’t already, RSVP to one of our January 2025 Meet & Greets. These events offer a great opportunity to network and build valuable connections within the dynamic NAPABA community. Walk-ins aren’t permitted so make sure you save your spot now!
January 9 | 5:00 – 6:30 pm Denver, CO RSVP by January 7
January 31 | 5:00 – 6:30 pm Phoenix, AZ RSVP by January 29
On Monday, December 16, 2024, AABANY’s Women’s Committee hosted the “Building Your Own House: Balthazar Breakfast with Jennifer Wu” at Groombridge, Wu, Baughman & Stone LLP. The event featured a delicious spread of pastries from Balthazar, along with seared tuna steak salad, fresh fruit, and both cold and hot beverages.
The conversation was moderated by Aileen Huang and Ananya Pillutla, associates at Groombridge, Wu, Baughman & Stone LLP. Jennifer shared her journey from her early years as an associate at Weil, Gotshal & Manges LLP to her time at Paul, Weiss, Rifkind, Wharton & Garrison LLP, where she was elected partner. In her next chapter, Jennifer launched her own firm — creating her own “house” — where the firm’s partnership is 50% women.
One of the key moments of the discussion was when Jennifer compared Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) to a dance party: “Diversity is being invited to the party; inclusion is dancing with you; and equity is playing your music.” For Jennifer, building her own house was about playing her own music.
Jennifer also shared her personal philosophy of not overplanning and letting life unfold naturally. When asked about her favorite karaoke song, she revealed that it’s not about perfection but about enjoying the experience. From her husband, she learned that the most fun comes not from delivering the perfect performance, but from the genuine passion and enjoyment of the music, regardless of skill.
The participants left the breakfast feeling more connected, supported, and inspired by Jennifer’s insights and authenticity.
Thanks to everyone who attended, and thanks to Jennifer and Groombridge, Wu for being such gracious hosts. To learn more about the Women’s Committee and how you can get involved, please click here.
