Tag: mentorship

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The 2025 NAPABA Convention is Your Place to Network

2025 NAPABA Convention

Your Chance to Network

The 2025 NAPABA Convention is your ultimate networking hub.

More than a conference, the Convention is where legal professionals from every stage of their career connect, collaborate, and cultivate lasting professional relationships. From committee meetings and receptions to informal meetups, you’ll find countless opportunities to exchange ideas, share best practices, and engage with peers who understand your work and your passion.

Explore the full range of our networking opportunities on the Convention agenda for countless ways to connect.

These peer-led groups—often organized around specific practice areas, career stages, or shared interests—are a direct line to knowledge-sharing networks and communities that can help you grow your practice, expand your client base, and stay ahead of emerging legal trends. Whether you’re seeking mentorship, partnership, or simply a supportive circle of colleagues, the NAPABA Convention is where those connections begin.

Early Bird Registration Ends Soon

You only have until 11:59 pm ET on Tuesday, August 26, to lock in the Early Bird rate. That’s only one week away! Registering now means you’ll save $150 and secure your spot at an event you can’t miss.

Register for #NAPABA2025

For more information about the 2025 NAPABA Convention, please visit the Convention website.

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NAPABA Law Foundation (NLF) Names Three 2025 SAIL Scholars

Washington, DC (August 6, 2025) — The NAPABA Law Foundation (NLF) announced today that three exceptional second-year law students have been awarded SAIL Scholarships for their outstanding professional promise and leadership potential:

  • Justin Chock, Yale Law School, is an editor of the Yale Law Journal and the Yale Journal on Regulation; co-chair of the Native American Association; and professional development co-chair of the Veterans Association. He received an M.Phil. in international relations from the University of Oxford, which he attended on a full scholarship, and a B.S. in political science with honors from the U.S. Naval Academy. Prior to law school, Justin served as a gunnery and ordnance officer on a U.S. Navy destroyer; chief military liaison with the U.S. Forces Japan Intelligence Directorate; and a master instructor in political science and cyber science at the U.S. Naval Academy.

  • Jason Huang, Arizona State University, Sandra Day O’Connor College of Law and Watts School of Public Policy, is a joint J.D./M.P.P. student and president of the St. Thomas More Society; vice president of the Federal Bar Association; 1L rep for the Disabled Law Students Association; and a member of the Asian Pacific American Law Students Association. Jason has received numerous awards during law school, including the Thomas Tang Scholarship. Previously an emergency medical technician for Medstar Solutions and a combat engineer with the Army National Guard, Jason received his B.A. in liberal arts from Thomas Aquinas College in Santa Paula, California.

  • Heajune (June) Lee, Harvard Law School, is executive vice president of the Harvard National Security & Law Association and public interest chair of the Korean Association. She has served as co-lead for the North Korea Cyber Working Group, program coordinator and research assistant with the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace, a consultant with Booz Allen Hamilton, and a cyber policy advisor with the U.S. Department of Defense. June received her B.A. in international relations, with a minor in computer science, from Stanford University, where she received the William J. Perry Prize for excellence in policy-relevant research.

“Jason, June, and Justin exemplify academic excellence, leadership in their schools, and a deep commitment to their communities,” said NLF President Bonnie Wolf. “NLF and SAIL are proud to support their journeys toward legal careers and public service, knowing they will continue to uplift and advocate for their communities along the way.”

“We are excited to welcome Justin, Jason, and June into the sixth cohort of SAIL Scholars,” said Ivan Fong, who, with his wife Sharon, endowed the NLF SAIL Scholarship program. “Each of them shows great promise as a leader who gives generously of their time and effort to the broader community. We could not be more delighted to help them as they complete their academic work and become part of the next generation of leaders in our profession.”

Two unique aspects of the SAIL Scholarship program are that, in addition to monetary support, SAIL Scholars will also receive mentoring and leadership development from each other and from a network of legal and community leaders. “A second feature of this scholarship program,” said Sharon Fong, “is that the recipients commit to ‘paying it forward’ — by supporting each other, future SAIL Scholars, and the communities in which they will live and work.”

The 2025 NLF SAIL Scholarship selection committee was comprised of Suzan Chau, Supervising Attorney for the Elder Justice & Civil Resource Center for the First Judicial District of Pennsylvania; the Honorable Theodore Chuang, U.S. District Judge for the District of Maryland; Esther Lim, Partner and Chief Community Officer at Finnegan; and Caroline Tsai, Executive Vice President, Chief Legal and Corporate Affairs Officer at FIS.

NLF is a 501(c)(3) non-profit that carries out its work primarily by awarding scholarships and fellowships that promote the interests of the Asian Pacific American community. Since its founding, the Foundation has awarded more than $500,000 in scholarships and nearly $1 million in fellowships and internships.

For more information about NLF and the SAIL Scholarship program and application process, please visit napabalawfoundation.org/scholarships.

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Labor & Employment Law Committee Hosts “Sip & Social” Event in K-Town

On July 24, 2025, AABANY’s Labor & Employment Law Committee hosted a Sip & Social event at Turntable Chicken Jazz in Koreatown. AABANY members and non-members alike, including current law students and working professionals, came together to chat about everything from the impact of artificial intelligence in the legal space to recent challenges in the labor and employment law practice area. Attendees also caught up with both new and familiar faces at the event while sipping on beer and soju, and enjoying Korean fried chicken, spicy rice cakes, and other small Korean dishes. 

The Labor & Employment Law Committee aims to host regular “Sip & Social” events to allow members to engage and connect over shared interests. The Committee encourages those interested in labor and employment law to attend future events and to visit the Committee’s subpage on the AABANY website for more information.

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AABANY and KALAGNY Host 2025 Summer Associate Mixer

On Tuesday, July 22, the Asian American Bar Association of New York (AABANY) and the Korean American Lawyers Association of Greater New York (KALAGNY) co-hosted the Summer Associate Mixer at TapHaus 33 in Midtown Manhattan, bringing together a lively group of summer associates, law students, and practicing attorneys for an evening of networking, conversation, and community building.

A range of beers was featured, including eclectic flavors like piña colada and apple cider.  The mixer created a relaxed and welcoming environment for young lawyers and students navigating the early stages of their legal careers. Surrounded by tables laden with fries and nachos, the more than 70 attendees, from incoming law students to experienced law firm partners, filled the air with a steady buzz of laughter and conversation.

Midway through the evening, AABANY President Benjamin Hsing and KALAGNY President Lawrence Han addressed the crowd. They offered a warm welcome and encouraged attendees to take full advantage of the gathering. “As aspiring lawyers, connecting with people is extremely important,” President Han said. “This is exactly the kind of space where you should feel comfortable doing that. Everyone’s here to meet new people, so don’t be afraid to start a conversation.”

Law student attendees to the event will receive a complimentary annual membership to both AABANY and KALAGNY. A big thank you to the organizers and to everyone who joined us. We’re excited to continue building meaningful connections through events like this.

As you explore ways to stay involved with AABANY, we invite students and summer associates to visit the Student Outreach Committee (SOC) webpage to learn more about upcoming events, mentorship opportunities, and how to get connected with our vibrant community of Asian American legal professionals. Check out more photos from the mixer in our Google Photo album!

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NAPABA 2025 ADR Institute & Prospective Partners Program Application Deadline Extended

NAPABA has extended the deadline to apply for two of the organization’s impactful, member-exclusive programs — the ADR Institute and the Prospective Partners Program (PPP). You now have until Wednesday, July 16, 2025, to submit your application.

Whether you’re looking to grow your career in Alternative Dispute Resolution or take that final step toward law firm partnership, these programs are designed to equip you with the skills, mentorship, and connections you need to succeed.

Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) Institute

A multi-day hands-on training available to members who are interested in pursuing a career in Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR). This program aims to diversify the pool of mediators and arbitrators in the United States and to increase the use of mediation and arbitration by those who attend the training.

Prospective Partners Program (PPP)

Designed to increase the number of NAPABA attorney member partners at major law firms, this program provides 10 senior associates on the precipice of partnership with the opportunity to practice their pitch and receive immediate feedback from senior in-house counsel.

Note: Both programs take place at the 2025 NAPABA Convention in Denver and require Convention registration.

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Applications Open: 2025 ADR Institute & Prospective Partners Program

NAPABA programs are designed to accelerate your career growth and provide opportunities to build relationships with mentors and peers — and two of these member-exclusive programs are now accepting applications.  

ADR INSTITUTE

The Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) Institute is a multi-day career and skills development program designed to provide a broad overview and hands-on training for those interested in pursuing a career in the in-demand ADR field. Whether you’re looking to integrate ADR into your current legal practice or aiming to become a full-time mediator or arbitrator, this program is for you.

Led by the NAPABA Dispute Resolution Committee and featuring instruction from ADR thought leaders and guidance from top organizations like JAMS, AAA, and CPR, the Institute offers:

  • Foundational and advanced ADR training
  • Mentorship and insights from leading neutrals
  • Networking with professionals committed to advancing the field
  • A potential boost for those interested in becoming an ADR provider

Deadline to Apply: July 9, 2025

Learn More about the ADR Institute

PROSPECTIVE PARTNERS PROGRAM

This program is a unique opportunity for senior associates and of counsel attorneys who are on the cusp of partnership. Now in its fourteenth year, PPP aims to increase the number of NAPABA member partners at major law firms through strategic mentorship, introductions, and relationship building. Through this program, participants:

  • Pitch to real in-house counsel and receive immediate feedback to improve their skills
  • Are paired with law firm partner mentors
  • Build lasting connections that support career advancement and business development

Over 80% of past participants now hold leadership roles in law firms, companies, and throughout government. This is a low-risk, high-reward opportunity to practice and grow.

Deadline to Apply: July 9, 2025

Learn More about the PPP

Note: Registration for the NAPABA Convention is required to participate in both programs.

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SAIL Scholarship Program: Applications Now Being Accepted

Deadline: June 30, 2025, by 5:00 p.m. ET

The NAPABA Law Foundation is accepting applications for the prestigious SAIL Scholarship Program—a unique opportunity designed to support and empower the next generation of leaders in the legal profession.

This scholarship provides more than just financial aid—recipients receive:

  • $7,500 in financial support (split evenly between their 2L and 3L years)
  • Private mentorship from legal professionals
  • Exclusive networking opportunities with executive-level leaders

Who Should Apply? Current 1L students (rising 2Ls in Fall 2025) who demonstrate:

  • Academic excellence (undergraduate and 1L performance)
  • Leadership experience and a “pay it forward” mindset
  • Volunteerism or service in the public interest
  • Knowledge of or commitment to impacting AAPI communities

This is a rare opportunity to receive ongoing support throughout law school—both financially and professionally—while building a foundation for a legal career rooted in service and leadership.

Do you know an outstanding first year law student? Please encourage your standout 1L students to apply.

Students: Review the SAIL Scholarship FAQ to understand eligibility and expectations before submitting your application.

Let the SAIL Scholarship help launch your journey to making a meaningful impact.

Please share this great opportunity with your networks.

Apply Now

Meet the 2024 SAIL Scholarship Recipient | Jennifer Shim

Jennifer Shim, a second-year law student at the University of Arizona James E. Rogers College of Law, was selected as the 2024 SAIL Scholar. A first-generation Korean American from New York City, Jennifer was recognized for her exceptional leadership, academic achievement, and commitment to public service.

Through the SAIL Scholarship, Jennifer is receiving mentorship, leadership development, and $7,500 to support her legal education.

“Jennifer shows great promise as a leader who gives generously of her time and effort to the broader community. We could not be more delighted to help her as she completes her academic work and becomes part of the next generation of leaders in our profession,” said Ivan Fong, who, with his wife Sharon, endowed the NLF SAIL Scholarship Program.

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Celebrating the Year of the Snake: AABANY’s Lunar New Year Game Night at Madison Square Garden

On Monday, January 27, 2025, AABANY members, friends, and family—40 attendees—gathered at Madison Square Garden to celebrate Lunar New Year while cheering on the New York Knicks as they faced the Memphis Grizzlies. The night began with a graceful rendition of the national anthem by Asian musicians, highlighted by the melodic sounds of the erhu, a traditional Chinese instrument. The Knicks burst onto the court with energy and precision in the first half, electrifying the crowd with their dynamic teamwork and securing a 60-52 lead heading into halftime.

At halftime, the celebration captivated the crowd with a traditional lion dance performed by the New York Chinese Freemasons Athletic Club. The vibrant colors, rhythmic drumbeats, and graceful movements filled the basketball court, offering viewers a glimpse into Chinese culture while spreading wishes of good luck for the Year of the Snake.

Once the second half got underway, the Knicks took complete control of the game, putting on an offensive game that left the Grizzlies struggling to keep up. Their ball movement was seamless, players found their rhythm with ease, and the shots kept falling from every angle. On the defensive end, the Knicks were relentless—challenging every pass, forcing turnovers, and locking down Memphis’ top scorers. The spirit and intensity in Madison Square Garden was contagious as the Knicks cruised to a dominant 143-106 blowout victory. The commanding performance was a perfect way to celebrate the Lunar New Year and left fans cheering well into the night.

For the third consecutive year, the Knicks won their Lunar New Year game with AABANY in attendance—a lucky streak we hope continues! A big thank you to everyone who joined us in celebrating the Year of the Snake. Together, we embraced the spirit of community, tradition, and joy, making it an evening to remember. Go Knicks!

A huge thank you to AABANY’s co-sponsoring committees—Academic, Asia Practice, Commercial Bankruptcy and Restructuring, Immigration Law, Labor & Employment Law, Membership, Mentorship, and Student Outreach—for their support in making this event a success. Their dedication and collaboration brought the community together for an unforgettable evening filled with camaraderie, culture, and celebration. We also welcomed a few friends from one of our sister bar associations, the Jewish Lawyers Guild. We were delighted that they came out to celebrate the Lunar New Year at Madison Square Garden with us.

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AABANY Membership Committee Leads Group Outing to See NY Liberty at Barclays Center

On July 16, 2024, through a collaboration between AABANY, the LGBT Bar NY (LeGal), the Metropolitan Black Bar Association, and the Puerto Rican Bar Association of New York, we had over 40 collective members and friends who signed up to watch the NY Liberty vs. CT Sun game at the Barclays Center. The crowd was ecstatic and vibrant! We congratulate our home team for winning the game (82-74) and wish them great success at the upcoming 2024 Paris Olympics. We were fortunate to see them in action, since they won’t be playing another organized WNBA matchup until Aug. 15. 

We hope to convene at another joint collaborative bar association event to support minority bar associations and their causes, such as hosting pro bono legal clinics, awarding scholarships, and providing mentorship and training programs to attorneys and judges. 

If you would like to learn more about the participating bar associations, please visit them at: 

Please come and support AABANY’s Pro Bono Clinic Rooftop Summer Fundraiser on July 24. More details here

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AABANY’s Paint & Sip Night: An Evening of Creativity, Connection, and Fun!

On January 16, a chilly winter evening in the heart of midtown Manhattan, AABANY’s Student Outreach, Career Placement, and Mentorship Committees came together to host a memorable event that combined artistry, camaraderie, and a dash of culture. It was the much-anticipated “Paint & Sip Night” held at the Painting Lounge. The event brought together a vibrant mix of practicing attorneys and enthusiastic law students, all eager to unwind and tap into their creative sides. The focal point of the evening: capturing the iconic New York City skyline on canvas while indulging in fine wine and delectable Korean cuisine.

As the attendees gathered, the Painting Lounge provided the perfect ambiance for the creative journey that lay ahead. Easels, canvases, and an array of vibrant paints awaited the eager participants. Under the guidance of an expert instructor, everyone had the opportunity to channel their inner artists and bring their visions of the NYC skyline to life. Sipping on wine and enjoying the company of fellow legal professionals and aspiring lawyers, the atmosphere was filled with laughter, shared stories, and a palpable sense of community. Korean cuisine enhanced the evening’s festivities. Attendees savored a variety of mouthwatering dishes that reflected the rich flavors of Korean culture. From savory bulgogi to spicy cucumber kimchi, the culinary journey was a treat for the taste buds, providing a culinary complement to the artistic expressions taking shape on canvas.

We extend our heartfelt thanks to the Student Outreach, Career Placement, and Mentorship Committees for organizing this fantastic event, and to all the attendees who made it an evening to remember.

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