ALA has been woven into every significant moment of my adult life. When I found out I was pregnant, I wasn’t quite ready to share the news, but the Region 4 2009 Conference in San Antonio had other plans for me. During a small, intimate dinner with two business partners and ALA Past President James Cornell, a large bottle of expensive wine was delivered to our table. I quietly passed on the wine in favor of water, hoping to avoid suspicion. But as the evening progressed, I also turned down soft cheeses and prime rib, and, just as my luck would have it, was suddenly struck with my first bout of morning sickness. When I returned to the table, the looks on their faces said it all: "You’re pregnant, aren’t you?" And just like that, my ALA colleagues knew before my own family did.
My husband often jokes that he married into ALA. And in a way, he’s right. Our life together has been shaped by my involvement with this incredible Association. When we got married, we each invited 25 guests. Of my 25, a significant portion were ALA friends and their spouses. One-third of the people I chose to witness one of the most important moments of my life were individuals I met through ALA. They weren’t just colleagues or professional acquaintances — they were family.
When my second child was born, the timing couldn’t have been more difficult. Just six weeks earlier, I had lost my mother. It was a time of profound grief and overwhelming responsibility. And yet, it was my ALA family that lifted me up. They planned my mother’s funeral, cleaned my house and sat by my side after a difficult delivery. Their support was unwavering, and while it may sound dramatic to say they saved my life, they certainly saved me during that chapter of my life.
Loving ALA means recognizing the power of community. This Association isn’t just about networking or professional development — it’s about fostering a space where we lift each other up, both personally and professionally.
I know my story isn’t unique. Time and time again, I’ve heard others say they love ALA. But what does it truly mean to love a professional association? What does it mean to love the people who connect us to it? Love, in this context, means more than appreciation — it means commitment, belonging and shared purpose.
Loving ALA means embracing the connections we form within it. We find colleagues who become lifelong friends, mentors who shape our careers and peers who support us in ways we never expected. It means investing in our own growth and the growth of those around us. ALA has been responsible for almost all my professional development, and I know many members feel the same.
Loving ALA means recognizing the power of community. This Association isn’t just about networking or professional development — it’s about fostering a space where we lift each other up, both personally and professionally. It’s about knowing that when life throws challenges our way, we have a support system ready to stand beside us.
As I approach my 20-year anniversary with ALA in March 2025, I find myself reflecting on this incredible journey. Serving as ALA’s President during this milestone year is an honor beyond words. My membership has evolved over the years, just as I have. From a new member in Austin to a leader at the international level, my path has been shaped by the relationships I’ve built, the lessons I’ve learned and the unwavering love I have for this Association.
So, during this Valentine’s Day week, I encourage you to take a moment to reflect on what ALA means to you. Whether it’s the friendships, the opportunities or the support you’ve received, know that you are part of something truly special. This Association is more than just an organization — it’s a community built on passion, dedication and, yes, love.
Happy Valentine’s Day to all my fellow legal administrators. May we continue to support, uplift and celebrate one another, today and always.
