Fort Lauderdale, FL- Women from across the legal community came together for an inspiring and thought-provoking forum, Candid Conversation: Women in the Law – Triumphs, Challenges, and Strategies for Today’s Women Lawyers, co-hosted by Coast to Coast Legal Aid of South Florida (CCLA) and NSU Shepard Broad College of Law. The event united law students, emerging attorneys, seasoned professionals, and members of the judiciary in a powerful exchange on leadership, balance, and forging meaningful careers in the law. Attendees received five CLE credits in professionalism, ethics, and mental health and wellness.
The full day forum was designed to empower and connect women in the law. Beth Feder, Esq., Vice Chair of CCLA and Partner at Winston Law Firm, served as moderator, guiding a series of dynamic and insightful discussions.
Highlights included a powerful conversation with Rosalyn “Sia” Baker-Barnes, the first Black woman President of The Florida Bar, and Alison F. Smith, Partner at Weiss Serota Helfman Cole + Bierman. Both leaders shared candid advice on career advancement, leadership, and the delicate art of blending professional success with personal and family responsibilities.
NSU professors Jane Cross, Laura Varela, and Sherea Randle provided practical insights into bridging the gap between law school and practice, while The Honorable Stacy Ross emphasized the importance of courtroom presence, professionalism, and ethics. Dr. Jessica Ruiz of NSU’s College of Psychology offered valuable strategies for maintaining mental health and encouraging attendees to prioritize well-being alongside career growth.
“This conversation was about honesty, empowerment, and shared experience,” said Lisa Goldberg, CCLA’s Executive Director. “It was remarkable to see women across all stages of their careers come together to learn from and uplift one another.”