Tag: NAPABA

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2024 NAPABA Awards | Announcing Don Liu as the NAPABA INSPIRE Award Honoree

For Immediate Release:
Date: August 28, 2024		Contact:
Maureen Gelwicks, Deputy Executive Director

NAPABA Honors Don Liu with the NAPABA INSPIRE Award

WASHINGTON – The National Asian Pacific American Bar Association (NAPABA) is proud to announce that Don Liu, who recently announced his retirement as Chief Legal and Compliance Officer of Target Corp., will receive the NAPABA INSPIRE Award. The NAPABA INSPIRE Award is presented to individuals who have made extraordinary contributions of national significance towards achieving representation and influence for Asian Americans, Native Hawaiians, and Pacific Islanders (AANHPIs) in the legal profession and society. The NAPABA INSPIRE Award has been awarded only twice in NAPABA’s history — the first time to former Chief Justice Tani Cantil-Sakayue of the California Supreme Court in 2010, and the second to George Takei, actor, author, and activist, in 2016.

Don Liu, a nationally renowned leader and legal counsel for several of the Nation’s most recognized corporations, has made a steadfast, lifelong commitment to ensuring that AANHPI attorneys can thrive and advance to the highest levels of the legal profession. He co-founded NAPABA’s 10X10 Initiative and later the 20X20 Initiative, originally designed as an aspirational “stretch” five-year effort to place 20 AANHPI General Counsels at Fortune 500 companies by 2020. The initiative was so successful that it inspired the current 50X25 Initiative and the development of the Hispanic National Bar Association’s Poder 25 Initiative, for which Don serves as a strategic advisor. Don Liu founded NAPABA’s In-House Counsel (IHC) Network, served as its first chair, spearheaded the creation of NAPABA’s IHC Summit and IHC Mentoring Program and continues to be active in its programs. Under Don’s leadership, the IHC Network has assisted countless AANHPI attorneys in gaining greater professional visibility and helped promote countless AANHPI lawyers into senior in-house counsel positions.  

“Don Liu recognized early on his career that the barriers he faced as a young attorney can be overcome, and he helped build an entire infrastructure to steer and guide AANHPI lawyers on a path to success,” said Anna Mercado Clark, President of NAPABA. “The NAPABA INSPIRE Award is a testament to Don’s dedication to increasing diversity in the profession, his courage in standing up for a more just society, creativity and vision, and his relentless dedication in mentoring hundreds of young attorneys.”

The NAPABA INSPIRE Award also recognizes Don Liu’s contributions towards improving our community on a national scale. Responding to the overwhelming need to deliver legal services to victims, Don Liu, together with several Asian American leaders within the legal profession, founded the Alliance for Asian American Justice. The Alliance brought together the collective power of both large law firms and legal departments to form a pro bono legal services network dedicated to ensuring that victims of hate would receive the legal assistance that they need. It provided opportunities not only for firms, but also for corporations to join the collective effort opposing anti-Asian hate.  For these reasons and many more, NAPABA is privileged to recognize the incredible work and dedication of Don Liu with the NAPABA INSPIRE Award.

NAPABA will formally present the award during the Gala at the 2024 NAPABA Convention in Seattle on Saturday, November 9.  

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The National Asian Pacific American Bar Association (NAPABA) represents the interests of over 80,000 Asian Pacific American (APA) legal professionals and nearly 90 national, state, and local APA bar associations. NAPABA is a leader in addressing civil rights issues confronting Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander communities. Through its national network, NAPABA provides a strong voice for increased diversity of the federal and state judiciaries, advocates for equal opportunity in the workplace, works to eliminate hate crimes and anti-immigrant sentiment, and promotes the professional development of people of all backgrounds in the legal profession.

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NAPABA Releases Statement in Response to the Death of Victoria Lee in Fort Lee, NJ

WASHINGTON – The Korean American Lawyers Association of Greater New York (KALAGNY), the Asian Pacific American Lawyers Association of New Jersey (APALA-NJ), the National Asian Pacific American Bar Association (NAPABA), the Asian American Bar Association of New York (AABANY), and the Filipino American Lawyers Association of New York (FALA-NY) are anguished at the tragic death of Victoria Lee during an encounter with police officers in Fort Lee, New Jersey, on July 28, 2024. We stand in solidarity with the Korean American community in the Fort Lee area, and we extend our heartfelt condolences to Victoria Lee’s family and loved ones.

Members of the Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander communities are not immune to the challenges caused by mental health crises, which may be exacerbated by cultural and language barriers. Ms. Lee’s death underscores the pressing need for greater mental health awareness and services. 

We strongly encourage the Attorney General of New Jersey to provide candid and timely information, including in language for the local community, as the investigation unfolds. We further call on the Fort Lee Police Department, the Bergen County Prosecutor, and local leaders to engage in meaningful dialogue with the Korean American community in order to ensure that similar tragedies are not repeated. 

뉴욕한인 변호사 협회(KALAGNY), 뉴저지 동양인 변호사 협회(APALA-NJ), 전미 동양인 변호사협회(NAPABA), 뉴욕 동양인 변호 사 협회(AABANY), 그리고 뉴욕 필리핀 변호사협회(FALA-NY)는 2024년7월28일 뉴저지 포트리에서 출동한 경찰과의 대치 끝에 비극적인 죽음에 이른 빅토리아 리(26세) 씨 사건에 대하여 비통한 마음을 금치 못하고 있습니다. 저희 협회들은(KALAGNY, APALA-NJ, NAPABA, AABANY, FALA-NY) 포트리 지역의 한인 커뮤니티와의 연대를 표명하며, 빅토리아 리씨의 가족과 친지에 게 깊은 애도를 표합니다. 

모든 동양계 미국인들은 정신건강에서 초래한 문제로부터 자유롭지 않으며, 이러한 문제는 문화 및 언어 장벽에 의하여 악화될수 있습니 다. 빅토리아 리씨의 죽음은 정신건강에 대한 인식 개선과 서비스 기회가 절실히 필요하다는 것을 분명히 보여주는 사건입니다. 

저희는(KALAGNY, APALA-NJ, NAPABA, AABANY, FALA-NY) 이번 사건에 대하여 뉴저지 검찰청이 수사진행 과정을 빠짐없이 신속하게 제공하도록 하며, 정보 제공 시 해당 지역사회의 언어로 번역된 정보를 포함하여 제공하도록 뉴저지 법무장관 에게 강력히 촉 구 합니다. 저희는 아울러 포트리 경찰, 버겐카운티 검찰 그리고 지역 리더들이 한인 커뮤니티와의 의미 있는 대화를 통해 이와 같은 비극 이 다시는 반복되지 않도록 보장하는 노력을 해줄 것을 요청하는 바입니다. 

The National Asian Pacific American Bar Association (NAPABA) represents the interests of over 80,000 Asian Pacific American (APA) legal professionals and nearly 90 national, state, and local APA bar associations. NAPABA is a leader in addressing civil rights issues confronting Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander communities. Through its national network, NAPABA provides a strong voice for increased diversity of the federal and state judiciaries, advocates for equal opportunity in the workplace, works to eliminate hate crimes and anti-immigrant sentiment, and promotes the professional development of people of all backgrounds in the legal profession. 

The Korean American Lawyers Association of Greater New York (KALAGNY) is a professional membership organization of attorneys and law students engaged with the issues affecting the Korean American community in Greater New York, which include New York, New Jersey, and Connecticut. Incorporated in 1986, KALAGNY seeks to encourage the professional growth of its members as well as provide legal support for the Korean American community. To achieve these goals, KALAGNY provides its members with training and resources useful for professional advancement; expands access to legal services and education in greater New York’s Korean American communities; identifies opportunities for its members to serve the communities in which provides a forum for the expression and exchange of opinions concerning social, political, economic, legal and other issues of concern to our members. KALAGNY is an affiliate of the National Asian Pacific American Bar Association (“NAPABA”). 

The Asian Pacific American Lawyers Association of New Jersey (APALA- NJ) was founded in 1985 and is the largest specialty bar association that collectively represents the interests of Asian and Pacific American lawyers in the State of New Jersey. APALA-NJ focuses on ensuring greater representation of Asian and Pacific American attorneys in various sectors of the legal profession. 

The Asian American Bar Association of New York is a not-for-profit 501(c)(6) professional membership organization of attorneys concerned with issues affecting the Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) community. Incorporated in 1989, AABANY seeks not only to encourage the professional growth of its members but also to advocate for the AAPI community as a whole. AABANY is a New York regional affiliate of the National Asian Pacific American Bar Association (NAPABA). 

The Filipino American Lawyers Association of New York (FALA-NY) promotes the professional development, interests, and success of Filipino-American legal professionals in the Metro New York area. FALA-NY also endeavors to foster connections between Filipino-American legal professionals and the broader Filipino community. Members of FALA-NY’s Board affiliated with the state and federal court system in New York and New Jersey have abstained from FALA-NY’s endorsement of this statement. 

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Register Now: 2024 Judge Thomas Tang and Dr. Pearl Tang Moot Court Competition

Deadline to Register: August 25, 2024 at 11:59 PM PST

Registration is now open for the 2024 Judge Thomas Tang and Dr. Pearl Tang Moot Court Competition! This is the 31st anniversary of an annual tradition that fosters crucial advocacy and legal skills among law students nationwide.  

This year students will need to satisfy two new requirements in order to compete:

  1. Each competitor must be a member of an Asian American/Pacific Islander bar association (e.g. APALSA chapter at a law school, NAPALSA, NAPABA, a NAPABA local affiliate, South Asian Bar Association, Korean American Bar Association, etc.); and
  2. Each competitor is required to submit a short written statement (no more than 150 words) addressing the legacy and/or impact of Dr. Pearl Tang and/or Judge Thomas Tang on the competitor personally and describing the competitor’s commitment to supporting the Asian American/Pacific Islander community in the future.

Teams will be able to choose between online and in-person regional competitions. Regional Competitions will be held on the following dates, subject to possible changes at the discretion of the National Committee:

  • Regional 1 | In-person in Dallas, Texas: Friday, September 20, 2024
  • Regional 2 | In person in Los Angeles, California: Saturday, September 21, 2024
  • Regional 3 | In-person in New York, New York: Friday, September 27, 2024
  • Regional 4 | Virtual on Zoom: Saturday, September 28, 2024

Learn more and register

Sponsorship Opportunities Available

This year, we are encouraging local NAPABA Members, Affiliates, and National Associates to sponsor moot court teams, including providing support by paying registration fees for teams, providing coaching on written and oral advocacy skills, and paying for students’ travel to compete in regional and national competitions. Each law school is limited to two teams but local NAPABA Affiliates and National Associates are not limited in the number of teams they may sponsor. Students are encouraged to reach out to local NAPABA Affiliates and National Associates to obtain support from sponsors.  

Please note: attorneys and/or judges who coach law students may not judge the moot court competition in the same year.

Click the images below to download flyers you can share.

Quick Links

2024 Official Rules

2024 Online Entry Fee

2024 Online Registration

2024 TTMC Problem

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NAPABA 2024 Convention: Register Today to Take Advantage of our CLE Offerings

Early Bird Rate Ends on August 20 at 11:59 pm ET

While you’re planning the social functions you’ll attend at the 2024 NAPABA Convention, don’t forget to think about your CLEs! We’ve taken out the guesswork by curating a list of various CLE tracks depending on your interest. Check out all of the different tracks below to see which pique your interest. Visit our agenda for the complete description of each session. Then, register for the Convention so you don’t miss out on these CLE offerings!

CIVIL RIGHTS TRACK

This year’s Civil Rights track offers a vital and timely exploration of legal issues affecting the AANHPI community. Through historical narratives, contemporary case studies, and expert discussions, attendees will be equipped with the knowledge and tools to advocate for justice and equity in their professional practice and beyond.

DIVERSITY & INCLUSION TRACK

This track provides a crucial examination of the challenges and opportunities facing DEI initiatives in the current legal and political climate. By addressing the broad impacts and drawing on diverse experiences, attendees will gain valuable perspectives and tools for advancing representation and inclusion within the legal profession and beyond.

EMERGING AREAS/TECHNOLOGY TRACK

Dive into the dynamic intersection of law, technology, and diversity initiatives, focusing on the rapidly evolving sectors of digital health, artificial intelligence (AI), and DEI (Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion). Attendees will explore the legal, ethical, and practical challenges these fields present, equipping legal professionals with the insights and strategies necessary to navigate and lead in these innovative areas.

INTERNATIONAL LAW TRACK

Gain a fresh understanding and learn from peers about cutting-edge issues in international law. This track explores the complex interplay between U.S. immigration policies and tax planning for foreign entrepreneurs and investors, focusing on the upcoming presidential elections and recent regulatory changes. Attendees will gain valuable insights into how evolving immigration policies may impact global mobility programs and the critical tax considerations for foreign stakeholders in U.S. business entities.

LAW STUDENT WORKSHOP TRACK

The Law Student Workshop offers law students the tools and insights needed to navigate the intersection of law and technology, explore diverse career paths, and build a strong professional network. By understanding these critical areas, students will be better prepared to transition into the legal profession and achieve success in their future careers.

MENTAL HEALTH TRACK

This CLE track aims to empower legal professionals to confront mental health challenges head-on, particularly within diverse communities. By understanding the impact of stigma, addressing systemic issues, and advocating for meaningful change, participants will be better equipped to support themselves and their peers, contributing to a healthier and more inclusive legal profession.

PRACTITIONER EXPERTISE TRACK

This CLE track provides a comprehensive overview of critical and emerging legal issues, offering attendees the knowledge and tools needed to navigate complex legal environments effectively. From protecting trade secrets and managing financial distress to understanding new regulations and international arbitration trends, participants will gain valuable insights to enhance their practice and adapt to the evolving legal landscape.

PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT TRACK

This CLE track is designed to equip legal professionals with the skills and knowledge necessary to excel in their careers. By participating in interactive pitch sessions, learning advanced networking strategies, exploring leadership paths, and understanding media communications, attendees will gain practical tools and insights to navigate their professional journeys and achieve their career goals.

SOLO & SMALL FIRM TRACK

This CLE track is designed to guide solo and small firm practitioners through two pivotal aspects of modern legal practice: harnessing advanced technology and automation to scale operations and mastering the art of personal branding in the digital age. Gain insights into optimizing workplace culture, using AI and automation effectively, and creating a compelling personal brand that stands out in a crowded market.

WOMEN’S LEADERSHIP TRACK

This year’s workshop will provide insights into the shadow side of perfectionism, signs that it is harming our potential, and strategies for unlearning the habits that get in the way of our career progression. Explore the psychology that underlies perfectionist tendencies, learn ways to challenge our operating assumptions, and design actionable steps so that waiting for the “perfect” time, method, or set of circumstances doesn’t get in the way of our achieving the lives and careers you want.

YOUNG LAWYERS TRACK

The Young Lawyers Workshop is an empowering and enriching experience designed to equip young lawyers with essential skills and knowledge for a successful legal career. Join this year’s workshop for comprehensive guidance on adapting to post-pandemic work environments and managing career transitions within the legal field. By mastering these elements, you will be better prepared to navigate the complexities of modern legal practice and advance your career with strategic foresight and confidence. Join us to enhance your understanding and skills in these critical areas, setting the stage for continued professional success and growth.

Want to see what else is happening? View our schedule to see the sessions and panels we’ve already added.

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Here’s Your Chance for a Complimentary #NAPABA24 Registration!

Unlock new career opportunities with our Career Center! We’re excited to announce our Resume Sweepstakes, designed to enhance your visibility to top legal employers and gain access to job openings and career resources.

What do you need to do? From 8/16/2024 to 9/30/2024, just upload your resume to NAPABA’s Career Center. Follow these three simple steps below:

Selected winner will be given a complimentary 2024 Seattle Convention registration or $250 Amazon gift card

Upload your resume today

THE FINE PRINT

  • The winner can choose between a complimentary Convention registration OR a $250 Amazon gift card.
  • One entry is given for each resume uploaded up to one entry per user.
  • No purchase or payment of any kind is necessary to enter or win.
  • Only resumes uploaded between 08/16/2024 at 8:00am ET and 09/30/2024 at 11:59 pm ET will be counted.

Please review the official rules prior to participating. Please note that uploaded resumes are visible to potential recruiters and employers. To view how employers see an uploaded resume, click here.

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Bar Leaders Call to Action: Continue the Work of the Civil Rights Act of 1964

Sixty Years Later, DEI Advances the Ongoing Work of the Civil Rights Act of 1964

Bar Association Presidents From Across the Nation Call on Leaders to Double Down on DEI

As presidents of the nation’s largest diverse national bar associations, we invite general counsel, law firm managing partners, leaders of government and nonprofit legal services organizations, and law school deans to stand with us as we fight for justice and opportunity for all. Your support and partnership are even more critical now given the attacks on diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) from some segments of our country. As lawyers, we are guardians of the rule of law and leaders in our communities and in local, state, and federal government. For these reasons and more, we ask that you continue to be strong advocates for DEI in our profession. Our work and efforts can also support the importance of DEI more broadly.

Honoring the Legacy of the Civil Rights Act of 1964.
This year marks the 60th anniversary of the Civil Rights Act of 1964. This sweeping Act did more to bring us closer to our ideals, that we are all are created equal, than any other legislation in our history, and it set the groundwork for landmark legislation that followed it such as the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). Although many Americans today might take for granted the significance of passing this legislation, it was a hard- fought victory. Most of us recall Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.’s address at the 1963 March on Washington for Jobs and Freedom. His reference to “the fierce urgency of now” was intended to push President Kennedy and Congress to move on the stalled legislation. When the legislation finally passed, close to thirty percent of the House of the Representatives and the Senate voted against it. It is not lost on us that many of the states now passing anti-DEI legislation also included the bulk of the Representatives and Senators who opposed the Civil Rights Act of 1964.

Progress Through Partnership
As a nation, we have made significant progress in the past 60 years because of the blood, sweat, and tears of those who have come before us. In the past and continuing to this day, there have been Americans of goodwill who believe that we are a better nation when all Americans can aspire to their highest ambitions, including becoming President of the United States.

DEI is Consistent with the Spirit of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and Essential in Today’s Workplace
Although some claim that DEI initiatives are illegal or unconstitutional, the vast majority of DEI initiatives are designed to increase access and opportunity, while minimizing bias and barriers. The work is fully consistent with the spirit and intent of the Civil Rights Act of 1964. It also brings greater meritocracy to our workplaces. How can there be meritocracy in workplaces if there are insufficient efforts to recruit exceptional talent from all communities, or when there is unintended bias in our processes related to hiring, work assignments, and promotions, or when some people have greater access to formal and informal networks that result in greater opportunities? These are just some examples of issues that DEI efforts are designed to address. Again, the overwhelming majority of DEI efforts are not only legal, but essential in today’s workplace. This is why it is critical to stand firm on the importance of DEI and be strong advocates in your corporations, law firms, and universities.

Progress, but Much Work to Be Done

Although we have made progress, there is still much work to do. According to the US Census Bureau and 2023 Gallup polling, communities of color presently represent about 41% and LGBTQ+ people represent about 7.6% of the US population. Individuals with disabilities currently represent more than one in five Americans. But recent studies from the American Bar Association, Minority Corporate Counsel Association, and the National Association for Law Placement (NALP) show that people of color only account for about 21% of lawyers in the US, 15% of Fortune 1000 general counsels, and 12% of law firm partners; likewise, LGBTQ+ people only account for 4.6% of lawyers in the US, and 2.6% of law firm partners. Individuals with disabilities account for only 1.4% of the legal profession and 1.1% of law firm partners. Further, according to studies from the American Bar Association and NALP, women comprised almost 50% of law school classes in 2000, yet today, women comprise less than 28% of law firm partners. Looking at these numbers, it’s impossible to conclude that we’ve achieved the type of success that would warrant pulling back on our efforts simply because there is opposition. Those who came before us faced even greater opposition and hostility. We owe it to them and those who are coming behind us to keep working to ensure a fairer workplace and more just nation.

Allying Together for Greater Equality, Access, and Opportunity for All
Finally, there is an economic argument for supporting DEI. When all our communities do well, we have more people contributing to the economic growth and prosperity of our country. A rising tide lifts all boats. Whether our ancestors were this country’s indigenous people, or pilgrims on The Mayflower, or kidnapped Africans on slave ships, or freedom-searching immigrants arriving at Ellis Island or Angel Island, or any of the many others seeking refuge and a new life in a new land, we are all in the same boat now. We are all Americans. Our country is already one of the most diverse nations in the world, and it will continue to become even more diverse. And the exceptional achievements of our country, economically, militarily, and socially, are the result of people from all over the world who have come here and made this country home. As we move forward together, we can show the world what a pluralistic democracy can accomplish. Now is the time for leaders and people of goodwill to stand together for greater equality, access, and opportunity for all. Together we can ensure that America lives up to its ideals, where all people are created equal and have the opportunity to achieve the American dream.

Anna Mercado Clark

President

National Asian Pacific American Bar Association (NAPABA)

Wiley S. Adams

President

National Bar Association

Matthew Archer-Beck

President

National Native American Bar Association

Kristin L. Bauer

President

National Association of Women Lawyers

Bendita Cynthia Malakia

President

National LGBTQ+ Bar Association

Daniel Mateo

President

Hispanic National Bar Association

Ronza Othman

President

National Association of Blind Lawyers

Keerthi Sugumaran

President

South Asian Bar Association of North America

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Contribute Your Expertise in a Meaningful Way: Become a NAPABA Co-Chair!

NAPABA committees and networks enable our members to gain access to a robust knowledge-sharing network of seasoned AANHPI professionals. NAPABA’s committees focus on substantive practice specialties or specific service areas, such as civic engagement. NAPABA’s networks encompass individuals with similar experiences, such as solo practice or military service. These peer-led groups serve as a networking community and enable members to learn best practices and stay on top of the latest legal trends.  

NAPABA is seeking committee/network co-chair recommendations from the membership to fill vacancies, and we urge you to consider contributing your expertise and experiences in a meaningful way. Serving as a co-chair presents a unique chance to take up a leadership role within NAPABA, connect with AANHPI attorneys in your practice area or who share similar experiences, and enhance your professional profile. Many of our committee and network co-chairs have later served on NAPABA’s Board of Directors.

Who can become a co-chair?

An appointee must:

  1. Have demonstrated proven leadership skills;
  2. Have demonstrated the highest standards of personal integrity and trust professionally and personally;
  3. Have personal and professional experience relevant to the goals/objectives of the Committee;
  4. Have demonstrated a commitment to the furtherance of the Committee’s goals, including leadership and pipeline development;
  5. Be a member in good standing of NAPABA or a NAPABA affiliate; and
  6. Be willing to serve for a six-year term.

What information do I need to provide?

We request applicants submit the following materials in a SINGLE PDF:

  • A Resume or similar material that demonstrates personal or professional experience relevant to the goal(s) and objective(s) of the committee or network.
  • A Statement of Interest demonstrating the following:
    • Proven leadership skills in NAPABA, local NAPABA affiliates, or other professional activities  
    • The highest standards of personal integrity and trust in all professional and personal activities
    • Additional details outlining your personal or professional experience relevant to the goal(s) and objective(s) of the committee or network not outlined in your resume.
  • A Professional Biography (a biography from your law firm/company website will suffice)

Where do I apply?

Ready to apply? Click on the button below to start your application! The deadline to apply is 5 PM ET on Monday, September 16, 2024

Apply Now

Committees and Networks with Co-Chair Vacancies:

  • Cannabis/CBD/Hemp Law & Policy Committee
  • Civil Rights Committee
  • Dispute Resolution Committee
  • Emerging Technologies Committee
  • Government Enforcement & Compliance Committee
  • Health Law Committee
  • Immigration Committee
  • In-House Counsel Network
  • Insurance Law Committee
  • Labor & Employment Committee
  • Law School Professors and Administrators Network
  • LGBTQ Network
  • Litigation Committee
  • Mass Torts & Class Actions Committee
  • Military & Veterans Network
  • Partners Network
  • Pro Bono & Community Service Committee
  • Public Sector Network
  • Solo & Small Firm Network
  • Tax Committee
  • Trusts & Estates Committee
  • Wellness Committee
  • Women’s Leadership Network
  • Young Lawyers Network

If you have any questions about our committee/networks or the application process, please contact [email protected].

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NAPABA Law Foundation Announces the 2024 SAIL Scholar

Congratulations to Jennifer Shim!

Washington — The NAPABA Law Foundation (NLF) announced today [Aug. 12] that Jennifer Shim, a second-year law student at the James E. Rogers College of Law, University of Arizona has been awarded a SAIL Scholarship for her outstanding professional promise and leadership potential.

“Jennifer exhibits the very best not only in her academic excellence, but especially in her demonstrated leadership and commitment to the community,” said NLF president Nimesh Patel. “NLF and SAIL are proud to be a small part of her journey as she continues to serve her community, complete her studies and embark on her legal career.”

A New York City native, Ms. Shim is a first-generation Korean American and was raised by her mother alongside with her younger sister. She is a member of the Arizona Law Review; serves as incoming president of the Asian Pacific American Law Students Association and as an Arizona Law Ambassador; and established the JAG Vanguard Society at her law school. She received her M.A. in International Peace and Security from King’s College London and her B.A. summa cum laude in International Criminal Justice from the John Jay College of Criminal Justice, City University of New York. Among her many work experiences in the U.S. and abroad, she is completing a judicial internship with the Honorable John Hinderaker, U.S. District Court for the District of Arizona and works as a graduate program coordinator for the University of Arizona. She was an International English Language Testing System examiner for the Oxford International Education Group and the British Council; an assistant professor at Joongbu University in South Korea; and a key spouse for the U.S. Air Force, where she served as the focal point between military families and unit leadership at the 355th Civil Engineering Squadron, Davis Monthan Air Force Base in Tucson, Arizona. Next year, she will be a summer associate at Ballard Spahr LLP.

“We are excited to welcome Jennifer into the fifth cohort of SAIL Scholars,” said Ivan Fong, who with his wife Sharon endowed the NLF SAIL Scholarship program. “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.”

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 2024 NLF SAIL Scholarship selection committee was comprised of the Honorable Theodore Chuang, U.S. District Judge for the District of Maryland; Nimesh Patel, Chief Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Officer at Akin Gump Strauss Hauer & Feld LLP; 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 www.napabalawfoundation.org/scholarships.

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2024 ADR Institute Applications Are Now Open: Apply by Aug. 14

November 6-7, 2024 | Seattle, WA
Application is Now Open
Apply by August 14, 2024 at 8 pm ET

The NAPABA ADR Institute is a multi-day career and skills development program created to provide a broad overview as well as substantive, hands-on training 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. The NAPABA Dispute Resolution Committee will provide substantive leadership in the program development and execution as they seek to provide guidance and opportunities to those who may be members of the next generation of leading mediators and arbitrators in the country and to ensure that these mediators and arbitrators also include members of the AANHPI legal community. The training is designed for:

  • those interested in incorporating work as a mediator or arbitrator while still advocating;
  • those who are interested in pursuing a judicial career and will benefit from serving as a neutral to gain valuable experience before applying for or running for a judicial position; and
  • those who wish to pursue a career as a full-time mediator and/or arbitrator, either ad hoc or by joining an ADR provider.

Instructors are ADR thought leaders and the program is supported and guided by leading ADR organizations like JAMS, the American Arbitration Association, and CPR (International Institute for Conflict Prevention & Resolution). This program will provide MCLE-accredited training that will provide foundational training and a deeper understanding for the attendees who may pursue different avenues in ADR, including starting a mediation or arbitration practice at their firm, joining an ADR provider so to gain more experience as an arbitrator in their eventual bid to become a judge, or transition their practice to a full time neutral. Over the course of two days, participants will be exposed to topic areas such as:

  • Basic introduction to Mediation from a Mediator’s point of view
  • Basic introduction to Arbitration and its Phases
  • Selecting an Arbitrator: The Process
  • Conducting the Preliminary Hearing
  • Discovery & Motion Practice in ADR
  • The Arbitration Hearing
  • Scope and Authority of an Arbitrator
  • Writing an Award
  • Vacatur & Appeals
  • Ad hoc arbitration vs. Administrated Arbitration: Criteria for starting an ADR practice as a solo practitioner vs. joining an ADR provider
  • Training / Fellowship Opportunities 

Questions? Contact the NAPABA Programs Team.

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