NEW YORK, NY – The Association of Law Firm Diversity Professionals (ALFDP), a non-profit organization dedicated to advancing diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) in the legal profession, hosted its largest-ever annual conference, November 15-17 in Chicago. The conference brought together law firm, academic, corporate, and other legal sector professionals working in DEI to continue critical conversations related to driving tangible change in the legal industry.

Highlights of the conference included:

A half-day DEI Leaders’ Summit, hosted at Locke Lord, with participation from, among others, leaders of the Association of Corporate Counsel, affinity bar associations, National Association of Law Placement, Law School Admission Council, and the American Bar Association.
A half-day workshop developed specifically for new DEI professionals hosted by K&L Gates.
Welcome reception hosted by Jenner & Block. Group coaching with psychologist, certified coach, and consultant Dr. Karen Khan.

Presentations by ALFDP DEI thought leaders as well as non-members such as:

Dr. Arin Reeves on the “Intersection of Wellness and Inclusion.”
Dr. Paola Cecchi-Dimeglio on “The Transformational Power of Small Changes to Debias Your Company, Attract Diverse Talent, Manage Everyone Better, and Make More Money.”
Ritu Bhasin on “Unlocking Belonging in Law Firms.”
Janice Brown on “How to Create & Leverage The Equity in DEI.”
Kori Carew on “Embracing Authentic Leadership: Navigating Burnout, Addiction, & Mental Health Challenges in the Lagal Profession.”

Prof. Cedric Powell and Vicky Slade on “Carrying on Workplace DEI in a Post Affirmative Action World.”
“I am honored to have joined together with my colleagues and fellow leaders to discuss the opportunities and challenges facing professionals dedicated to advancing DEI in the legal profession,” said Conference Committee Chair and newly elected ALFDP President J. Danielle Carr. “The continued growth of the association, the conference and the level of engagement by attendees and ALFDP members is a testament to the importance and impact of diversity, equity, and inclusion in the legal sector.”

The Association of Law Firm Diversity Professionals (ALFDP) seeks to serve as a catalyst for the advancement of diversity, equity, and inclusion in the legal profession through the organization’s collective knowledge, vision, expertise, and advocacy in the area of law firm diversity. The organization’s Board of Directors is comprised of a group of experienced law firm diversity professionals who provide expertise and insight to ensure the organization is effective and impactful. More information is available on the association’s website at www.ALFDP.com.