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January 27, 2025 Feature Article

Collaborative Bar Leadership Academy (CBLA) 2025

Strengthening the Future of Bar Association Leadership

Scott Ellis

The Collaborative Bar Leadership Academy (CBLA) continues to stand as a beacon of progress in fostering diversity and inclusion within the legal profession. As Committee Chair of CBLA 2025, I am honored to invite you to join us for this transformative event, scheduled from Sunday, June 29, through Tuesday, July 1, 2025, in Washington, DC.

CBLA is a joint initiative led by the American Bar Association and its Commissions on Racial and Ethnic Diversity in the Profession and Disability Rights, in partnership with the Hispanic National Bar Association, National Asian Pacific American Bar Association, National Bar Association, National LGBT Bar Association, National Native American Bar Association, and the South Asian Bar Association of North America. Together, these organizations collaborate to build a strong pipeline of diverse bar association leaders, equipping them with the tools to lead with purpose and drive meaningful change.

The Vision of CBLA

CBLA’s mission is to empower diverse bar association leaders through comprehensive leadership training and professional development. This year’s program will build on the Academy’s strong tradition of providing a platform for participants to:

  • Strengthen leadership skills and navigate organizational dynamics effectively.
  • Advocate for diversity, equity, and inclusion within their bar associations and beyond.
  • Develop innovative solutions to the challenges and opportunities facing the legal profession today.

A Space for Growth and Collaboration

CBLA is more than a training program; it is a collaborative community of leaders united by their commitment to advancing equity and inclusion in the legal profession. Participants leave CBLA with enhanced leadership capabilities, expanded professional networks, and a renewed commitment to creating lasting change.

Looking Forward to CBLA 2025

As we prepare for CBLA 2025, I am inspired by the success stories of past participants who have gone on to assume pivotal roles in their organizations and communities. This year’s Academy promises to be an unforgettable experience, filled with engaging workshops, dynamic discussions, and mentorship opportunities designed to propel your leadership journey forward.

I look forward to welcoming you to Washington, DC, in June 2025, as we come together to strengthen the legal profession and ensure it reflects the diversity of the communities we serve.

Learn more about the Collaborative Bar Leadership Academy and CBLA 2025.

Let’s continue to foster inclusive leadership and a visionary legal profession. See you in Washington, DC!

Scott Ellis

Committee Chair, Collaborative Bar Leadership Academy 2025 (CBLA)

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