Professional Development Advisory Committee


Description: The Professional Development Advisory Committee (PDAC), in alignment with ALA’s Strategic Direction, provides recommendations for a broad range of professional development activities/initiatives, topics and educational content for ALA’s evolving membership, based on current and emerging trends in the legal industry. The PDAC collaborates with ALA staff and other Standing Committees, as needed, to ensure that members ’ educational and professional development needs are being met through ALA ’s various resources and publications. Though PDAC guides the educational strategy, it is not directly responsible for developing content or identifying instructors or speakers for courses or conferences.

Committee Size: 7-9

Term: Members of this committee serve three-year staggered terms. 

Appointments per year: Varies

Committee Member Qualifications: Among the considerations in selecting new members are educational background, experience level and areas of expertise. Consideration is also given to an applicant's experience with education or training, and career development.

Committee Member Selection Process: ALA members, business partners and other individuals who have demonstrated thought leadership are eligible for this committee. 

In-Person Meetings/Expectations: The committee meets in-person annually in conjunction with the ALA Annual Conference & Expo. Additional meetings are conducted throughout the year via conference call or other electronic media as appropriate.

Call for volunteers: Summer

Selections made: Fall

ALA Headquarters Liaison:  Valerie Danner

Current Committee Roster

Professional Development Advisory Committee Plan of Work

apply-now-button