Big Ideas ALA President’s Letter

Getting the Most From Your Membership

We’re fresh off another successful ALA Annual Conference & Expo! As the ALA presidential baton was passed to me from Laura Broomell, CLM, in Denver, it was a truly inspiring moment. I’ve been so fortunate to have made so many professional and personal connections through my ALA membership — lifelong friendships that I know will stay intact long after I retire.
Gary Swisher, CLM

It made me take stock of just how much ALA has to offer. So for my first Legal Management letter, I wanted to reflect on what a vast array of resources and opportunities ALA provides for our members.

ALA is truly your all-inclusive source for legal management thought leadership, resources and networking. It serves almost 9,000 management professionals worldwide in law firms, legal departments and other legal-related organizations. As the undisputed leader for the business of law, ALA is focused on the delivery of cutting-edge management and leadership products and services for the global legal community. We take pride in being a dynamic, member-driven organization, committed to an elevated standard of excellence as we serve individuals comprising the legal industry ― wherever that person works or whatever the role he or she holds.

ALA provides it members and customers with solutions for the most critical, strategic and operational challenges they face today, while preparing them for the opportunities and challenges of tomorrow. This Association enriches members’ professional development through collaborative educational opportunities, leadership development, and a diverse and inclusive sense of community.

Our members rely upon the benefit of ALA membership now more than ever before. Browse our website to learn more about the latest innovations in the Association's offerings, from its educational programs and award-winning publications, to its many other resources such as its career and diversity resources, and ALA's renowned Certified Legal Manager CLM program.

Not a member? Well there’s not a better time than now to begin investing in yourself, your future, and your firm or legal-related organization’s success. You can learn more about ALA by visiting the member benefits section on the website.

If you would like to contact me directly about ALA, please do not hesitate. I welcome the opportunity to visit with you, and would love to share how ALA has enabled me to grow professionally, and personally, throughout my legal management career!

Finally, a huge shout out to the New Jersey Chapter who, in 2017, is celebrating 50 years as an organization! Congratulations on such an amazing accomplishment!