I am truly honored to serve as the 104th President of WLALA and deeply grateful for the faith you have placed in me. Thank you to WLALA’s membership for entrusting me with this responsibility, for embracing our 2023-24 theme of Faith, Power, and Justice, and for indulging my passion for themed celebrations! To my partners in service—our WLALA Executive Officers and Executive Director, Kay Burt—you are the heart and soul of WLALA. Your often overlooked, tireless efforts make our progress possible.

This year, the principles of Faith, Power, and Justice have guided the core initiatives of WLALA’s Executive Committee, Board of Directors, and Board of Governors, including:

• launching an inaugural Board of Directors
• cultivating more meaningful relationships with our sister bar affiliates, and
• modernizing our judicial endorsement process

I am grateful for your willingness to bring these initiatives to life while continuing to deliver exceptional programs, sponsor important legislation, host festive networking receptions, and engage in mentorship activities.

To our incoming WLALA board members, congratulations! Your service is powerful, and I am hopeful that your leadership experience will be as rewarding as mine. My board service with WLALA has shaped me into a more well-rounded professional, taught me to listen more carefully, and deepened my appreciation for diverse perspectives. Reflecting on the past year, I was inspired by the remarks on the value of service from WLALA’s Distinguished Service Awardee, Wilma Pinder, and encourage you all to enjoy her message in the WLALA Gala highlight reel.

To our WLALA members serving on the bench, your service represents the limitless possibilities for women in law. We are uniquely suited to lead in the courtroom, the boardroom, and, in due time, this country! A special congratulations to WLALA’s most recent appointee to the bench, immediate past president Hong. You have been my sponsor, coach, mentor, and day one bestie. I would never have dared to lead WLALA without your persistence and faith in me and could not have succeeded without your support and guidance.

To all WLALA members, remember that WLALA is here to serve you. Whether you are looking for a mentor, a job opportunity, or a future best friend, you may find them among our 1,000 plus members. Whether you choose to serve on or support a WLALA board, our network and newsletter are here to celebrate your achievements, acknowledge your awards and recognitions, and support your overall success.

In your service,

Jeannine Taylor
President, Women Lawyers Association of Los Angeles