Make a Difference by Joining the NAELA Board of Directors
By Bridget O'Brien Swartz
As chair of the NAELA Nominating Committee and immediate past president, I invite you to consider serving on the Academy’s Board of Directors or nominating a colleague. We are accepting nominations through September 20, 2024.
NAELA is looking to recruit strong, committed leaders who reflect the views and interests of all our members. Board directors set the standard for more than 4,000 NAELA attorney members who help support our nation’s older adults and people with disabilities. They provide leadership, foster a shared vision and sense of mission, and are responsible for NAELA’s fiscal health.
What Does the Nominating Committee Look for in a Candidate?
• Demonstrated commitment to NAELA and the profession of elder and special needs law.
• Strong background in committee and volunteer work on a local and/or national level.
• A proven track record of affecting change.
• Ability and commitment to dedicate the time to prepare for and attend three in-person board meetings per year and additional conference calls as needed.
• A proven team player.
• Sound judgment and integrity.
• Ability to subordinate special interests.
• Exemplary personal conduct.
Candidates must have at least two years of NAELA membership before nomination or appointment to the Board of Directors. Directors serve a two-year term that starts June 1, 2025.
What Is Expected of Board Members?
• Model and promote NAELA’s Aspirational Standards for the Practice of Elder Law, the Board Statement of Ethics and Responsibility, and the Academy’s bylaws and mission.
• Uphold the legal duties of Care, Loyalty, and Obedience.
• Prepare for, attend, and participate in all board meetings.
• Attend NAELA’s Annual Conference and meetings held by your chapter.
• Be an ambassador for NAELA at professional events.
• Stay informed on what’s happening at NAELA and its programs and resources.
• Serve as a mentor for another NAELA leader.
• Participate in a NAELA committee, section, or working group.
• Vote on issues requiring board approval.
• Be flexible and open to change.
• Demonstrate support for the NAELA Foundation by contributing financially or otherwise as your means permit.
What Are Some of the Benefits?
• Play a role in advancing our profession.
• Gain a wealth of personal and professional contacts.
• Get access to up-to-date information about the challenges facing your practice in the future.
• Exchange ideas and perspectives with other volunteer leaders.
Nominate Yourself or a Colleague by September 20, 2024
Share your experience and expertise. Help NAELA enhance its programs and value to members. Make a difference by shaping the future of elder and special needs law. On behalf of the Nominating Committee, I encourage you to nominate yourself or a colleague for the NAELA Board of Directors. Applications are due by September 20, 2024.
To Apply
Please complete the following items before the deadline of September 20, 2024:
1. Complete the online application found here
2. And send a resume to: Kirsten Brown Simpson, Chief Operating Officer at NAELA, via email to [email protected]; or via fax to 703-563-9504; or by mail to 1577 Spring Hill Road, Suite 310, Vienna, VA 22182
To Nominate Someone Other Than Yourself
All interested applicants must also meet the application deadline. If you would like to nominate someone, please either forward this information so they may apply directly, or send an email to [email protected] and we will forward this information to the individual and ask them to complete it if interested.