The definition of insanity is glibly defined as, “doing the same thing over and over again and expecting different results.”  Since its inception in 2011, the MSJDN has continuously evolved to address the needs and goals of its members.  In the last MSJDN Annual Survey, 12 percent of participants reported that they found employment through MSJDN contacts.  Our State Licensing Initiative has reduced barriers to employment in 38 states, the U.S. Virgin Islands, and we are not done yet!

In August 2019, I attended the National Conference of Bar Presidents (NCBP) annual meeting to network with and to learn from other bar leaders across the country. It was not surprising to learn that many traditional bar associations today are struggling with membership and relevant programming.  In comparison, MSJDN has a healthy membership and is able consistently provide versatile programming for its members where traditional bar associations continue to do the same thing year after year and expect different results. (See: insanity definition above).

As a young organization, MSJDN has a unique perspective on the bar association model.  As innovators, MSJDN leads the way in providing a sense of community despite operating almost exclusively on a virtual platform.  Yet, MSJDN is also able to provide professional opportunities through leadership development and employment connections.  As professionals leading a military lifestyle, this access is incredibly helpful to build sustainable professional networks and to pursue meaningful opportunities.  All this, while also providing a space for support and fellowship to military spouse attorneys navigating a competitive profession and a complex lifestyle.

Coming up later this month is MSJDN’s signature event, Making the Right Moves (MRM).  This year promises to be action packed and content rich thanks to Michelle Richart and the Events Committee.  As MRM is a career development conference, it is no accident that it is being held the day before the Veterans’ Legal Career Fair (VLCF), sponsored by Orrick, which is the only legal career fair dedicated to the military community.  To all those who have already registered, I am looking forward to seeing you there.  If you have not already registered, tickets are still available, please consider buying one now!   If you are unable to come to MRM, do not despair, MSJDN will have more events in the coming months, so stay tuned!