2026 ALA Award Recipients
Congrats to Our ALA Community!
We’re excited to announce the recipients of our 2026 awards. These honors are given out at the 2026 Annual Conference & Expo at National Harbor, Maryland.
Let’s give them all a round of applause for all their work on behalf of ALA!
Questions About Our Awards Program?
We’re happy to answer. Contact us at [email protected].
2026 Award Recipients
Read more below about just some of the accomplishments of this year’s incredible award recipients.
Business Partner Relations (Large Chapter)
Boston
In 2025, the Boston Chapter introduced a highly innovative initiative by hosting its annual meeting as a nighttime event and, for the first time, inviting business partners to attend. This inclusive format provided business partners direct exposure to chapter priorities, leadership updates, the introduction of the incoming Board of Directors and international ALA initiatives. With record attendance of more than 100 participants, the meeting fostered transparency, trust and a stronger shared sense of purpose between members and business partners.
The annual meeting also served as the strategic launch point for the chapter’s Educational Conference at Foxwoods Casino. Business partners were brought into early conversations around participation and sponsorship, resulting in increased engagement and creative collaboration. Several business partners further enhanced the meeting by offering giveaways of national ALA memberships and conference registrations, reinforcing the value of national involvement while elevating the attendee experience. This impactful event was delivered at a cost of less than $1,500.
The outcomes were exceptional. Boston achieved the strongest business partner program in its history, selling out all sponsorship levels for both the chapter and the Educational Conference. Several business partners created custom sponsorship opportunities, reflecting deep engagement and long-term commitment. In total, the chapter raised a record-breaking $410,000 for 2025 through business partner and conference sponsorships.
Chicago
This year, the Chicago Chapter’s Business Partner Relation Team created an ambassador program supporting their business partners. The ambassador works with the assigned business partner to develop substantive professional development sessions and guides them during their speaking engagements. The ambassador is the business Partner's pipeline to the Chapter's Executive Committee and overall Board, thereby getting their voices heard and effective resolutions to any issues brought forth. Ambassadors also liaise with business partners on promoting meaningful community initiatives. This program ensures business partners get the support needed to increase brand awareness, build trust in new relationships, foster long-term loyalty and succeed in thought leadership credibility. The program has given tremendous value to their business partners and members, while getting positive feedback from both fronts.
Minnesota
The Minnesota Chapter’s Business Partners Relations & Conference Team (BPRCT) leads year‑round relationship‑building activities, organizes the chapter’s flagship Annual Education Conference and Expo, and ensures partners are meaningfully integrated into programming, community service and educational presentations. Through ongoing recognition, authentic collaboration and diverse engagement efforts, Minnesota has demonstrated a strong, sustained commitment to elevating and celebrating business partners.
The BPRCT, in combination with Minnesota’s Community Service Team, Education Team and Small/Medium Firm Team, ensures that an unwavering commitment to elevating and celebrating business partners in every facet of their work. Business partners are prominently featured in each issue of The Verdict newsletter, highlighted in the Business Partner Spotlight on social media, acknowledged as scholarship sponsors at events and showcased in their monthly Business Partner E-Newsletter.
South Florida
The South Florida Chapter intentionally redefined the role of business partners from traditional vendors into true strategic collaborators. This year’s focus extended beyond recruitment and retention to building meaningful, value-driven relationships that elevate the experience for both business partners and members, while aligning closely with ALA’s Strategic Direction of engagement, innovation and community impact.
A cornerstone of this effort was the EXPO of ALASOFLA — The Art of Law, a fully immersive experience unlike any prior chapter event. Business partners were collaborators in storytelling, design and member engagement, not simply participants. The event seamlessly blended art, education, networking, food and philanthropy, creating curated interactions that encouraged authentic dialogue rather than transactional exchanges. The result was record-level business partner participation, overwhelmingly positive feedback and sustained engagement beyond the event itself.
Through intentional leadership and a commitment to authentic collaboration, ALA South Florida has built a business partner engagement model grounded in trust, shared purpose and long-term value.
Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Accessibility (Small Chapter)
Jacksonville
Pine Castle is a local nonprofit dedicated to empowering individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities through vocational training, skill development and creative expression. The Jacksonville Chapter’s collaboration with Pine Castle has strengthened member engagement within the community while amplifying awareness of Pine Castle’s mission.
When planning their annual Business Partner Appreciation Event, Jacksonville sought to infuse the celebration with purpose. Through our partnership with Pine Castle’s woodworking team, they commissioned handcrafted centerpieces designed and built by participants in their vocational training program that our guests got to take home with them.
These handcrafted centerpieces became a focal point of the event, prompting meaningful conversations about the power of inclusive employment and the value each person contributes to their community. The positive feedback from attendees reaffirmed that inclusion not only enriches events but also transforms perspectives.
Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Accessibility (Large Chapter)
Boston
In response to the challenging environment around DEIA, the Boston Chapter paused their planned initiatives and pivoted toward directly supporting chapter members. First, they reaffirmed the chapter’s commitment to its DEI mission. Second, they proactively reached out to members to better understand how the chapter could most effectively support them during this period of uncertainty.
To that end, Boston’s DEIA Committee developed and distributed an anonymous survey to all members, inviting them to indicate what type of support would be most helpful. The survey introduction acknowledged the uncertainty created by recent executive orders, policy changes and national conversations about DEIA, while reassuring members that they were not navigating these challenges alone.
The Committee received 32 survey responses, with the most frequently selected option being a request for education on policy changes. In response, the chapter coordinated and delivered a well-attended webinar addressing those changes for chapter members. The survey also yielded positive outcomes that are more difficult to quantify but no less meaningful. In a year marked by uncertainty, the Committee’s decision to listen first, respond thoughtfully and lead with empathy and compassion reinforced Boston’s values and strengthened members’ trust, connection and engagement.
East Bay/Golden Gate/Greater Los Angeles/Orange County/Silicon Valley
To address the ongoing challenges in the DEIA landscape, these five chapters created “DEI Under the Legal Microscope,” a collaborative program designed to equip legal administrators and business partners with the knowledge needed to support DEIA while protecting their organizations. Their aim was to empower members to lead with confidence by grounding DEIA in legally sound practices.
This initiative combined DEIA principles with a clear, practical legal framework. Many programs focus on the importance of inclusion, but this session addressed how to implement DEIA responsibly in a shifting regulatory landscape. A nationally recognized employment law expert guided participants through practices that are unlawful or high risk, safer alternatives that still support diversity goals and real-world scenarios that participants could immediately apply in their firms. The session delivered practical strategies that addressed an urgent and evolving challenge.
To ensure accessibility, the invitation was shared nationwide through ALA’s Online Community. Nearly 100 members attended the virtual session, and several chapters hosted in-person viewing groups. Every aspect of the program reinforced the importance of diverse talent and inclusive culture. By addressing legal scrutiny directly, the session helped members sustain DEIA commitments in ways that are defensible, strategic and long-lasting. The initiative affirmed that inclusion is essential to a firm’s success and provided tools to maintain that commitment even in a challenging climate.
New York City
One of the New York City Chapter’s most impactful initiatives this year was their partnership with the Harlem School of the Arts. Through dedicated fundraising efforts, the teams raised $20,000 to support student programming, ensuring that young artists from a variety of backgrounds have access to high quality arts education. This initiative strengthened community ties, elevated visibility for the chapter’s DEIA mission and directly supported the next generation of creative thinkers.
During the holiday season, ALANYC’s C.O.R.E. and DEIA teams continued their commitment to service by organizing a gift drive for the Curtis School, a Title I school serving underprivileged children. Through extraordinary coordination and generosity, the teams collected and delivered 433 gifts — one for every student. The result was 433 smiling children who felt seen, valued and celebrated. This initiative demonstrated the chapter’s belief that equity begins with meeting basic needs, spreading joy and ensuring that every child experiences moments of dignity and delight.
The teams collaborated in November to host a dynamic Career Day for students from several NYC high schools. This event introduced students to the wide range of career paths available within a law firm — many of which are not widely known to young people who lack exposure to the legal industry. By offering direct access to legal professionals, sharing career journeys and creating space for questions and mentorship, students were helped to envision futures they may not have previously considered.
South Florida
As one of the most culturally, ethnically and linguistically diverse regions in the country, the South Florida Chapter intentionally designs programming, partnerships and leadership opportunities that reflect and uplift the community it serves. Their DEIA philosophy centers on representation, access, cultural inclusion and meaningful engagement — ensuring members, business partners and the broader community feel seen, valued and included.
A cornerstone of their DEIA efforts was partnering with His House Children’s Home. South Florida led a hands-on cottage makeover project to create a welcoming, dignified environment for children and families in transition. Members and business partners worked side by side, demonstrating that equity extends beyond conversation into action. This initiative underscores a commitment to advocating for vulnerable populations and leveraging collective resources to create lasting impact.
In addition, South Florida intentionally hosts social and networking events across culturally significant venues and diverse geographic locations throughout Miami and Fort Lauderdale. These decisions reflect sensitivity to cultural identity, generational preferences and commuting realities. Events held at venues such as La Trova, a Cuban-inspired space celebrating Latin music and heritage, foster familiarity and belonging. Rotating locations across counties improves accessibility while honoring South Florida’s multicultural fabric.
Member Experience (Large Chapter)
Chicago
The Chicago Chapter’s CLM Study Group is a top resource for members pursuing certification. Open to all ALA members, this program offers 18 one-hour virtual sessions led by experts and provides comprehensive study materials, sample questions and guidance from prior CLMs. Of the 68 registrants in the most recent program, 56 were from outside Chicago, demonstrating the program’s broad, cross-chapter appeal. Among participants who took the fall exam, 60% of those who passed participated in the Chicago Study Group, underscoring its effectiveness. Chicago Chapter members also receive a $250 educational stipend upon passing the exam. This program reflects what makes the Chicago Chapter experience exceptional: elevating knowledge, fostering connections and driving member success.
This past year, Chicago also launched a distinctive new model of programing called Elevate — a half-day workshop using a flipped classroom format focused on hands-on problem solving. Fifty-six members and business partners participated, working in small teams on real-world challenges with guidance from a professional facilitator. Elevate reimagined engagement by inviting business partners to design interactive activities for each session and the networking reception, creating new pathways for relationship building and knowledge exchange.
Gateway
The Gateway Chapter hosted an event called The Curated Connections: New Member Celebration. Participants collaborated to create unique charcuterie boards while sharing stories about their professional journeys and the benefits of ALA membership. This hands-on activity fostered creativity, networking and relationship-building in a relaxed, social setting. The event showcased how ALA supports professional development and provided a platform for members to exchange insights and resources.
The Curated Connections event exemplifies how chapters can elevate member engagement by blending creativity, mentorship and leadership visibility. To make the evening even more memorable, each new member received a logoed charcuterie board as a keepsake — a tangible reminder of the fun, connection and sense of belonging they experienced. When members feel genuinely welcomed and valued, they are not only more likely to remain active but also to invest in the organization’s success. This event demonstrated that meaningful engagement begins with thoughtful, innovative experiences that create lasting relationships.
New Orleans
The New Orleans Chapter has made significant efforts in outreach to attorneys to highlight the importance of partnership with their administrators. They collaborated with the New Orleans Bar Association to co-host a continuing education program, and with the Louisiana State Bar Association to distribute mailers to attorneys explaining the benefits of ALA. To make participation even more accessible, New Orleans opened their Business Partner Expo to attorneys at no charge, creating opportunities for prospective members to meet business partners, learn how the Association supports law firms and experience firsthand the resources available through membership.
In addition to these initiatives, New Orleans significantly increased its communication efforts in order to keep members better informed and more connected than ever. Chapter emails became more consistent, clear and easy to navigate, ensuring that every member has access to important updates, meeting reminders and opportunities without having to search for information. They also revitalized their Online Community, giving members a central, active space to ask questions, exchange ideas and stay connected between events. Together, these enhanced communication channels have made it remarkably simple for members to stay in the know about chapter activities and to feel engaged in the ongoing life of the chapter.
Danielle Cerny, CLM, MBA
In 2025, Danielle was promoted from Director of Operations & Human Resources to Chief Operating Officer at Lydecker LLP. This advancement reflects her leadership capabilities, operational expertise and growing influence within her organization. Her professional progression closely parallels her increasing involvement and leadership within ALA, underscoring the impact of Association engagement on her career development.
Throughout the past year, Danielle has actively participated in a wide range of South Florida Chapter initiatives, as well as regional and national ALA activities. She regularly attends monthly luncheons, webinars, happy hours, business partner appreciation events, family-oriented chapter events and special educational offerings, including half-day seminars. She has also engaged in roundtable discussions and conferences, demonstrating a consistent commitment to continued learning and professional excellence from the outset of her membership.
Danielle’s dedication to service is further reflected in her involvement in charity and community initiatives, where she has contributed time to projects ranging from short-term efforts to full-day volunteer engagements. These efforts reinforce her belief that community involvement is a fundamental responsibility of effective legal leadership.
Beyond participation, Danielle has assumed meaningful leadership and support roles within the chapter early in her ALA journey. She has served on a committee, moderated a roundtable, mentored a new member and contributed to chapter communications by sharing timely articles through the listserv. Her willingness to support peers and emerging leaders highlights her influence and commitment to the long-term strength of ALA.
Paul A. Manley
From his first interactions, Paul distinguished himself as someone deeply committed to the mission and values of ALA. He did not approach participation passively; rather, he made a deliberate choice to engage, contribute and grow. He consistently volunteered to attend meetings, actively participate in discussions and support initiatives, even when doing so required time and effort beyond his regular responsibilities. His willingness to step forward early on reflected both conviction and a genuine desire to learn, connect and add value.
Equally notable is the way Paul engages with others. He is warm, welcoming and approachable, and he makes a point of connecting with everyone he meets. Whether interacting with long-standing members or those new to ALA, he creates an inclusive and respectful environment that encourages collaboration and participation. His ability to build rapport quickly has helped strengthen relationships and foster a sense of community, particularly in early interactions where meaningful engagement is critical.
Paul is a natural leader who consistently steps up and steps in when help is needed. He does not wait to be asked; instead, he anticipates needs and offers support proactively. This leadership style has positively influenced his peers and set a strong example of professionalism, accountability and service. His actions reflect a relentless pursuit of excellence, not only in his own development but also in how he supports and elevates others.
Through his early involvement with ALA, Paul has demonstrated dedication to continuous improvement and meaningful contribution. His engagement has been thoughtful, consistent and impactful, and his influence is felt through both his actions and his presence.
Stephen L. Mayes
Since joining Hackett Feinberg P.C. as Operations Assistant in fall 2021, Stephen has embraced the complexities of legal management. His responsibilities span IT and cybersecurity, records management, marketing and, more recently, paralegal management. Stephen’s attention to detail, follow-through and positive attitude have made him a highly valued colleague. These traits have seamlessly translated to his involvement with ALA, where he actively participates in nearly all Boston Chapter networking, education and volunteer events.
Stephen joined the Boston Chapter’s Community Engagement Committee in the fall of 2024, bringing new ideas and energy, and quickly thereafter stepped into the VP role in April 2025. Since that time, Stephen has infused fresh perspectives and brings enthusiasm into every initiative. His contributions have elevated the visibility and relevancy of the Association at the chapter level. Most recently, Stephen has been leading the Committee and Chapter members in an initiative to support Catie’s Closet, an organization that gives children in need life-changing access to clothing and basic necessities so they can thrive in school and in life. He and the committee fundraised $2,000 in the fall of 2025 and coordinated the donation of clothing from members and firms in the Boston area. Stephen’s hands-on involvement and innovative suggestions have helped strengthen the committee’s impact and outreach.
In addition to committee work, Stephen routinely meets with Business Partners to understand and support the organizations that enable the legal industry. His efforts not only further his own professional development but also demonstrate to Business Partners that ALA values their contributions. Stephen has already made tangible recommendations, connecting new partners with his firm and helping foster stronger relationships between ALA and its supporters.
Stephen’s early interactions with ALA have been characterized by his willingness to volunteer for initiatives and participate in events, as well as his openness to collaborate and learn. His active engagement and fresh approach have invigorated the Community Engagement Committee and inspired fellow members to contribute.
Juli C. Walker, CLM, SHRM-SCP
From the outset of her involvement with ALA, Juli has demonstrated a deep commitment to the ALA Code of Ethics through collaborating with other members to better the committees that she has served in, and an unwavering dedication to professional excellence. As Director of Strategic Human Resources and Development at Stone Pigman, she consistently models integrity, accountability and respect while driving initiatives that strengthen both organizational performance and professional culture.
Since she joined the New Orleans chapter in February 2025, her contributions include attending and actively participating in the monthly chapter meetings, serving on the Retreat Committee and the Diversity Committee and attending the 2025 ALA Annual Conference & Expo. These efforts have advanced not only the goals of the local chapter but also her personal growth.
Beyond formal roles and accomplishments, Juli is widely respected for her leadership style. She leads with conviction, curiosity and inclusivity — empowering other members, encouraging diverse perspectives and fostering a culture of continuous improvement.
What distinguishes Juli is her relentless pursuit of growth — both personal and professional — and her genuine commitment to advancing the profession of legal administration. Notably, Juli was named the Chapter’s 2025 CLM Scholarship winner to attend the Chicago Chapter’s CLM Study Group. From that Study Group, Juli took the CLM exam and passed in the Fall of 2025. Considering Juli does not come from a legal background, this achievement is outstanding! The New Orleans Chapter is extremely proud of her efforts and looks forward to her utilizing the information she has learned from the exam to better the Chapter and committees that Juli serves on. Her early and sustained engagement with ALA reflects not only promise but also proven impact.
Sandra L. Aleman
Sandra became an active member of the ALA National and ALA South Florida Chapter in 2019, seeking to expand her professional knowledge, stay current with legal management best practices and collaborate with other dedicated professionals. From the very beginning, Sandra demonstrated not only a strong commitment to professional excellence but also a profound sense of purpose in giving back to others.
In April 2022, Sandra was appointed Community Service/Charity Committee Chair for the ALA South Florida Chapter, a role she has continued to serve with distinction for two consecutive terms through 2024. Rooted in the values instilled by her late father, Sandra has made community service an integral part of the Chapter’s mission. She has inspired members and business partners alike to unite their time, resources and compassion to support those in need across South Florida and beyond.
Under her leadership, the Chapter’s community outreach has flourished. Among her many impactful initiatives, Sandra has:
Raised $12,000 for victims and families of the Uvalde, Texas Elementary School Shooting
Led the “Serve A Meal” initiative for Lotus House Women’s Shelter
Organized the Hero Boxes drive for deployed troops through the Pino Strong Foundation
Led participation in the Light the Night Walk for the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society, raising over $5,000 in total
Coordinated a complete cottage makeover for teenagers at His House Children’s Home, raising $10,000
Organized a Dress for Success clothing drive, empowering women seeking employment
Established an Autism Sensory Garden at Sylvania Heights Elementary, raising $1,000
Led a second His House Children’s Home Cottage Makeover, raising an additional $8,000
Each of these initiatives reflects Sandra’s extraordinary ability to mobilize her peers, foster partnerships and transform compassion into action. Her projects have directly improved the lives of hundreds of individuals and strengthened ALA South Florida’s reputation as a force for good within the community.
In April 2024, Sandra’s leadership and dedication were further recognized when she was appointed to the ALA South Florida Chapter Board of Directors as Secretary, where she continues to lead with professionalism, enthusiasm and integrity. Her collaborative spirit and ability to inspire others have set a powerful example for both emerging and seasoned members of the organization.
Sandra embodies the very essence of volunteerism — driven by purpose, guided by empathy and committed to making a meaningful difference. Her remarkable contributions have not only advanced the mission of ALA but also created a lasting impact within the communities we serve.
Brenda S. Deertz, MBA
Brenda began volunteering as a leader with the Gateway Chapter in 2013 as Co-Chair of the Membership Committee. Since then, she has served in nearly every major chapter leadership role, including Secretary, Vice President, President-Elect, President and Past-President. She also stepped into the President-Elect role a second time in an emergency capacity to ensure continuity of chapter operations. In addition, she has co-chaired the DEIA Committee, Business Partner Committee, Nominating Committee and has also served as a member of the Nominating Committee.
Brenda’s engagement has extended consistently to the international level. She has served on the Job Description Toolkit Project Team, participated as a Membership Ambassador and contributed to the Membership Team since 2013 — chairing it this past year. Under her leadership, membership engagement increased by 12.8% and overall membership grew by 6.2%. The Committee continues to seek meaningful ways to demonstrate member value, deepen engagement and support sustained membership growth. She also served on the 2025 Annual Conference & Expo Committee and has volunteered to chair and serve on the 2027 Annual Conference & Expo Team.
Brenda’s commitment to service extends beyond the ALA. She has prepared meals through Operation Food Search for individuals unable to leave their homes, and she remains actively involved in her church community as a Worship Leader, group leader, group leader coach and hospitality volunteer.
Victoria Page
Victoria has made a significant impact throughout her 21 years in the Maryland Chapter. As Co-Chair of the Chapter’s community outreach committee, she was instrumental in installing (literally) a serenity garden at a Baltimore City elementary school in tough neighborhood; as longtime newsletter chair, she grew the newsletter in size (12 pages to 30 pages) and impact — boosting the visibility of BPs and getting members practical info on a regular basis. She continued to support the Chapter during COVID by organizing virtual events, later stepping into the Vice President role where she helped overhaul and enhance the Education Committee’s offerings.
Victoria is increasingly active on the national level. She regularly shares her insights in online communities and is a headliner on the Gamification Leader Board. She regularly takes advantage of the SIG Small Firm Administrator meetups and will be moderating a future session. She also signed up to serve in the ALA Ambassador program and has her first mentor.
Victoria excels at her job and in her work with ALA because she truly listens to people, she learns from them and she acts. We are better from knowing her and are so very thankful for her.
The Mostly Legal Podcast
In 2025, The Mostly Legal Podcast (MLP) reemerged after a two-year hiatus with renewed purpose, expanded reach and a deepened commitment to advancing the legal management profession. MLP has long prided itself on telling the untold stories of people behind the business of law. Hosted by legal industry veterans Rob Joyner, SVP of Business Development at Centerbase, and Amanda Koplos, CLM, CPA, who is ALA’s Immediate Past President, the podcast evolved into a multifaceted platform for professional development, inclusive dialogue, chapter engagement and philanthropic support — demonstrating a meaningful and sustained effort to elevate ALA’s mission and vision.
New in 2025 was the launch of Mostly Legal Podcast: On the Road (MLPOTR) which extended this educational mission into a structured, facilitated roundtable format in cities across the U.S. Each roundtable followed a consistent learning design featuring three focused topic blocks supported by curated discussion questions and contextual framing using industry data and trends. Rather than passive presentations, these sessions emphasized peer-driven learning, encouraging participants to share experiences and practical solutions they could immediately apply within their organizations. Content was informed by national listening and refined through local engagement, ensuring both relevance and consistency across markets.
MLPOTR partnered directly with ALA chapters across the country, including Atlanta, Houston, Denver, Chicago, Orlando, Miami, Philadelphia, Boston, New York, San Francisco and Jacksonville. Each event was conducted in collaboration with the local chapter, reinforcing ALA’s chapter-centric model and strengthening relationships between the international association and its local communities.
The MLP significantly expanded ALA’s visibility in 2025 through intentional platform growth and national presence. The podcast featured accomplished leaders from across legal operations, finance, marketing, technology and firm leadership — many of whom are active within ALA and allied professional organizations.
Minnesota Chapter
The Minnesota Chapter is dedicated to advancing members’ careers through education and professional growth. Members consistently recognize ALAMN as Minnesota’s leading resource for professional development and continuing education. To support this mission, ALAMN reinvests 59% of its revenue in education, primarily through its annual education conference, and awarded $22,225 in scholarships this year to help members attend any ALA conference.
ALAMN’s teams deliver year-round professional development through a broad range of targeted educational programs. In 2025, the Education, Finance, Small/Medium Firm, HR and Business Partner Relations & Conference Teams collectively offered leadership, compliance, finance, wellness, cybersecurity, AI and professional skills programming through general sessions, roundtables and the Annual Education Conference. Topics included civility in the workplace, AR and e‑billing practices, mental health and HR compliance, cybersecurity and data breach response, generative AI, succession planning, and leadership development, with sessions led by respected industry experts and experienced legal administrators. Together, these offerings demonstrate ALAMN’s commitment to accessible, practical and high-quality education that supports members across firm sizes and roles.
Meredith R. Taylor & Javier I. Morelos
In 2025, the Puget Sound and Golden Gate Chapters joined forces with a shared vision: To create meaningful, accessible and forward-thinking opportunities for professional growth, networking and inclusion across the ALA community. Under the collaborative leadership of Meredith Taylor, president of the PSALA, and Javier Morelos, president of GGALA, the two chapters worked in lockstep to design and deliver initiatives that strengthened ALA’s collective impact. Through intentional partnership and coordinated programming, the chapters demonstrated how collaboration can elevate ALA’s mission and amplify its presence in the legal industry. The programs and events co-created by Meredith, Javier and their collaborating chapters exemplify what it means to elevate ALA. Through intentional partnership, shared leadership and a commitment to collective success, PSALA and GGALA delivered initiatives that enriched members’ professional lives, strengthened relationships, increased visibility and advanced DEIA.
Some of the programs included:
The Wheel of Legal Management, a jointly produced webinar that offered a comprehensive look at the multifaceted responsibilities of legal management professionals.
A CLM Roundtable which brought together a panel of seasoned CLMs who shared their certification journeys and offered guidance to aspiring candidates
The #ALACollabs hashtag that created a growing digital footprint that encourages continued collaboration across chapters.
Each initiative contributed to a tapestry of engagement that reflects ALA’s core values. By investing in education, fostering collaboration, amplifying visibility and championing inclusion, these chapters have set a standard for excellence that others can emulate.
Christopher B. Holmes, CLM, CMA
Chris Holmes’ unwavering dedication to the Amesbury Soccer Association (ASA) sets a high standard for community engagement beyond his significant contributions to the ALA. Chris’s leadership is distinguished by his capacity to inspire others, his commitment to inclusivity, and his ability to transform challenges into opportunities for growth.
Chris’s journey with ASA began in 2008 when he volunteered to coach his son’s summer soccer team. What started as a simple act of parental support quickly evolved into a deep commitment to the children of Amesbury. Within a year, Chris joined the summer soccer program committee, where his leadership and organizational skills became evident. He led the committee for three years, during which time he shaped the program’s direction and fostered a supportive environment for both players and fellow volunteers.
Chris then served as ASA President for four years, during which time he recognized the need for a cohesive training curriculum to ensure consistency and quality across all teams. He championed the development and implementation of this curriculum, fostering an environment where both seasoned and novice coaches could excel. The creation of a unified training curriculum elevated the quality of coaching and player development, setting new standards for excellence. Under his stewardship, ASA emerged as the largest youth sports organization in Amesbury.
Chris then transitioned to the new role of Director of TOPSoccer. The TOPSoccer program is designed for children with special needs — a segment previously underserved by ASA. Thanks to Chris’ vision, determination and persistence, ASA successfully launched its first TOPSoccer program the following spring, overcoming initial setbacks and resistance to create a welcoming space for children with diverse abilities. This initiative not only broadened ASA’s reach but also fostered a culture of inclusivity and acceptance within the broader community. The sustained success of TOPSoccer, supported by Chris’s ongoing involvement as a buddy, serves as a testament to his lasting impact and his embodiment of the spirit of ongoing service.
Chris’ vision extended beyond the soccer field. He saw the potential for ASA to be not just a sports organization, but a vibrant community hub where young people could build confidence, friendships and lifelong skills. His focus on supporting every child — regardless of background or ability — demonstrates a profound understanding of the power of sport to unite and uplift.
In every capacity — coach, committee member, program leader, President and Director — Chris Holmes has demonstrated exceptional service and leadership. His ability to expand participation, promote inclusivity, and inspire others embodies the mission of the Foundation Heart of ALA Award. Chris’ legacy within the Amesbury Soccer Association is not only measured by numbers and new initiatives, but also by the lives he has touched and the community he has strengthened.
Kristie Manning, CLM, SHRM-CP
Kristie Manning exemplifies the mission and values of the Foundation of ALA through decades of extraordinary volunteer leadership with the Houston Livestock Show & Rodeo (HLSR), one of the largest and most impactful nonprofit organizations in the country. Serving within an organization supported by 36,000 volunteers across more than 110 committees, Kristie’s sustained commitment has educated youth, strengthened communities and inspired countless volunteers across diverse backgrounds.
Kristie began her HLSR volunteer journey while still in college on the Houston Metro Go Texan Committee. From the outset, she demonstrated a deep understanding of the committee’s mission and a passion for community impact. Rather than remaining a participant, she quickly assumed leadership roles, recognizing that lasting impact requires mentorship, collaboration and intentional guidance. Her service now spans decades, marked not only by longevity but also by increasing responsibility and influence.
The Houston Metro Go Texan Committee promotes awareness of HLSR across eight counties and raises funds through pre-show events such as dances, style shows, cook-offs and golf tournaments. These efforts directly support four-year metropolitan scholarships, many benefiting first-generation college students. Kristie’s leadership advanced educational access and opportunity, aligning closely with the Foundation’s mission.
From 2016 to 2018, Kristie served as Chairman of the Houston Metro Go Texan Committee, leading a geographically diverse volunteer base and complex fundraising initiatives. She fostered inclusive participation, mentored emerging leaders and ensured committee efforts produced meaningful results. Under her leadership, events were executed successfully and scholarship funding was strengthened, creating measurable impact for students and families throughout the region.
Kristie’s service extended beyond a single committee. She also volunteered and held leadership roles on the Events & Functions, School Art Auction and Grand Entry Committees. Each supports different facets of HLSR’s mission, from large-scale event coordination to youth education through the arts. Her involvement with the School Art Auction Committee helped celebrate student achievement while generating critical support for educational art programs.
In recognition of her exceptional leadership, Kristie was appointed to the HLSR Board of Directors in 2018, contributing to governance and strategic oversight affecting millions of attendees, thousands of volunteers and countless scholarship recipients. Her impact was further recognized in 2024 when she was named a Trailblazer Honoree, reflecting the respect she has earned across the organization.
Kristie’s leadership culminated in her appointment as Vice President of HLSR for the 2025 Show year. In this prestigious role, she oversees five committees, mentors committee leadership and serves as a visible ambassador for the organization. This appointment represents the highest level of trust within HLSR and underscores her lasting volunteer legacy.
Congratulations to all our Chapters who are recipients of our inaugural Chapter of Distinction Award:
