In an effort to draw on the leadership strengths of our law alumni and share that wisdom and experience with emerging leaders in our alumni community, UBalt Law has created an exciting new lunch-and-learn series, Lawyers as Leaders.
This three-part series, with panels in September, October and November, will cover essential leadership topics such as authentic leadership style, change management, and building a positive and inclusive culture. The series is an initiative launched by Associate Dean for Administration Joy Gaslevic, J.D. ’99.
The first of the three sessions, on Friday, Sept. 13, focuses on Authentic Leadership style. In the demanding legal profession, staying true to who you are is important. Effective leaders show up authentically and inspire others to do their best work.
This session is a call to action for lawyers to lead with vulnerability and authenticity. We’ll explore the power of self-awareness, emotional intelligence, and empathy – the core ingredients of an authentic leadership style that builds trust, inspires teams, improves communication and problem solving, and drives meaningful change.
When we have the courage to embrace our imperfections and lead from a place of authenticity, we unlock a wellspring of potential for ourselves and those we lead.
Attendees will hear from four UBalt Law alumni: Baltimore City Solicitor Ebony Thompson, JD ’13; Kramon & Graham principal David Shuster, JD ’94; former Children’s Defense Fund executive Rexanah Wyse Morrissette, JD ’13; and panel moderator, Johns Hopkins Dean Jill Green, JD ’94.
The second session, on Friday, Oct. 11, focuses on Leading Through Change. We know that change is inevitable, and lawyers often navigate complex transitions. This session will equip legal professionals with strategies for leading teams through change while minimizing disruption. We will discuss change management best practices and how to lead with confidence during times of uncertainty.
Hear from four UBalt Law alumni: GM Cruise public policy chief Henry Greenidge, J.D. ’10; retired CareFirst BCBS general counsel Meryl Burgin, J.D. ’87; Kerry Neal, J.D. ’06, associate commissioner, U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics; and moderator Laurie Lyte, J.D. ’92, principal, Lytehouse Solutions.
The third session, on Friday, Nov. 15, is on Building a Positive Culture. Climate and culture within an organization matter. Everyone in an organization is responsible for contributing to a positive climate and culture, but leaders are ultimately responsible for assessing, developing and maintaining both.
By establishing and maintaining a positive climate and culture, leaders can increase motivation, job satisfaction, morale, team cohesion, initiative and trust, and ultimately improve team dynamics and overall individual and team performance and results.
Hear from four experts: Imoh Akpan, J.D. ’06, a partner at Goldberg Segalla; retired judge Hon. Barbara Baer Waxman, J.D. ’80; Traci Mundy Jenkins, director of career development at Venable; and moderator Laurie Lyte, J.D. ’92, principal, Lytehouse Solutions.