Though my experience this time around was different from most who attended, having to do more behind the scenes to prepare to assume the role of president and less traditional session attendance and exhibit hall scouring, the sentiment with which I always leave remained the same. I love ALA. I love being a leader in law. How can I make an impact?
Amplifying both leadership and impact is my “platform” for the year ahead. Your leadership. Your impact.
Being broad was intentional. Demonstrating leadership and impact can be done in myriad ways, but I want to create a culture overflowing with leaders because I truly believe that everyone has the capacity to make an impact.
Demonstrating leadership and impact can be done in myriad ways.
We have 80 chapters throughout our association, and most are in real need of people who can make a difference. If you are not affiliated with a chapter, we have numerous opportunities to serve on committees, advisory councils and project teams; as a Membership Ambassador, Shared Interest Group leader or roundtable facilitator; or as a contributor to a publication just like this one. No matter the size or scope of what you undertake, your impact will be felt.
Of course, it is perfectly natural to feel overwhelmed or all-consumed by job, family, financial or other pressures, but I have found in my career, and in talking with other volunteer leaders, that volunteering can be a stress reliever. It feels good to give back and spend time with others who can relate, especially if you are the only administrator working in your law firm or legal organization.
It can also feel self-serving to raise your hand or nominate yourself for a leadership role. I assure you it is the opposite.
