Merriam-Webster defines conference as:
Conference
noun kən-ˈfər-ən(t)s
a: a meeting of two or more persons for discussing matters of common concern
b: a usually formal interchange of views
c: a meeting of members of the Association of Legal Administrators in Aurora, Colorado May 19–22, 2024
We added the ending of part c, but if you are the slightest bit involved with the management of law, there’s no other way to define the largest conference of legal management professionals in the world. Knowing many of you personally, we’re confident that we’re not telling you anything that you don’t already know. If by some twist of fate, you haven’t yet registered to attend, there’s still time to get on-board and discover the difference. ALA’s Annual Conference and Expo is the place where we’re: Creating Excellence. Driving Innovation. Empowering Leaders in Law.
What you may not know is that there are over 50 sessions including general, break-out and meeting-of-the-minds sessions. Additionally, there are 14 Business Matters sessions brought to us by our business partners. There’s a general session each day featuring some world-renowned speakers who are sure to motivate and enlighten us. Then there are the break-out sessions which cover operations, human resources, finance, information technology, legal industry issues and a focus on individual wellness. Our meeting-of-the-minds sessions give you the opportunity to meet with like individuals to discuss select topics and share ideas to collaboratively further the legal industry. Our Business Matters sessions help you evaluate trends and meet with some of the top subject matter experts of the day.
Finally, there’s no better place to find the latest and greatest products and services being offered to the legal community than the Expo Hall. If you’re in the market for new services, technologies, software solutions, etc., there’s nothing quite like the excitement of the Expo Hall to get your creative juices flowing.
The educational offerings and Expo offerings of the Annual Conference are all you need to find solutions and learn new skills for your personal betterment and that of your legal operations. But there’s more…so much more!
Merriam-Webster defines networking as:
Networking
noun ˈnet-ˌwər-king
the exchange of information among individuals, groups, or institutions
specifically: cultivation of productive relationships which can be achieved at ALA’s Annual Conference
Okay, we might have edited that last part. However, many of us do rely on ALA’s Annual Conference to provide ample networking opportunities in addition to educational sessions. Simply speak to those sitting at your table or who are seated nearby in classes, and you will learn you are surrounded by like-minded individuals with the same concerns and facing the same challenges as you are – and you are often within arm’s reach of 50+ years of experience overcoming similar hurdles to your own. What’s the best way to network? Just start talking. Introduce yourself and share something about your company. Hi, my name is Missy Hirst, and my firm has 40 employees and a fear of ChatGPT. And, you are?
The ALA knows full well we learn from one another while at conference, so you’ll see they have formally scheduled opportunities to network on the agenda. If you’re relatively new to ALA or if you’ve been a member for a while but this is your first ALA conference, plan to attend the Newcomers Connection on Sunday at 5 p.m. From there, you can head on to the Welcome Reception to meet and greet everyone else anxious for the conference to begin. It’s social and it’s fun. And there will be food, drink, music, and good times, I assure you.
Once the conference kicks off, take advantage of the multiple networking opportunities available to you over the next few days. There’s a networking continental breakfast on Monday beginning at 7:30 a.m. Networking breaks will be in the Exhibit Hall mid-morning on Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday. There will be networking luncheons on Monday and Wednesday. Mid-afternoon networking breaks are scheduled for Monday and Tuesday. And, there will be a networking reception at 5:15 p.m. on Tuesday and a closing networking event at 6 p.m. on Wednesday.
Plan on capitalizing on your ALA Annual Conference by experiencing networking at its most productive.
Colorado
geographical name Col·o·ra·do ˌkä-lə-ˈra-(ˌ)dō chiefly by outsiders -ˈrä-
According to Merriam-Webster, Colorado is defined as a state located in the western United States, known for its stunning mountain landscapes, vibrant culture, and diverse recreational opportunities. Visiting Colorado in May promises an eclectic blend of activities catering to all tastes. Sporting enthusiasts can revel in the excitement of baseball games at Coors Field or witness the intense athleticism of the Colorado Rockies climbing season. Golf aficionados can tee off amidst stunning mountain backdrops at world-class courses such as the Broadmoor in Colorado Springs or the Keystone Ranch Golf Course. Those inclined towards culture can explore the vibrant art scene in Denver's RiNo Art District or immerse themselves in the rich history of Mesa Verde National Park. Shopping enthusiasts can indulge in boutique finds along Denver's Larimer Square or peruse artisanal crafts at the Boulder Farmers' Market. Culinary delights await at every corner, from farm-to-table restaurants serving up delectable Colorado cuisine to the myriad of food trucks offering diverse flavors. Microbrew aficionados can sample the state's renowned craft beer scene with brewery tours and tastings. Outdoor adventurers can embark on breathtaking hikes in Rocky Mountain National Park or whitewater raft down the roaring rivers. For relaxation, spa and wellness retreats nestled in serene mountain settings offer rejuvenating treatments. It is crucial to remember to wear sunscreen, stay hydrated, and be mindful of altitude sickness symptoms when exploring Colorado's awe-inspiring landscapes.