Association Spotlight: Pittsburgh Paralegal Association and Commonwealth of Virginia Paralegal Association

As NALA celebrates 50 years of service to the paralegal profession, we welcome two new affiliated associations to our network: the Pittsburgh Paralegal Association (PPA) and the Commonwealth of Virginia Paralegal Association (CVPA). In this comprehensive feature, we bring together insights from Anne Newcomer, President of the PPA, and Jessica Glickman, President of the CVPA, highlighting the shared values, challenges, and triumphs that unite these associations in their mission to elevate the paralegal profession.

History and Mission: Rooted in Service and Growth

Both PPA and CVPA share a firm commitment to professional development, education, and service to their communities, aligning perfectly with NALA’s mission.

Anne Newcomer shared the history of the PPA, established in 1977, and its role as a cornerstone for paralegal development in Pittsburgh and surrounding areas.

“The Pittsburgh Paralegal Association is a voluntary, non-profit association that promotes professional development and continuing education for paralegals,” Anne shared. “Our mission includes fostering communication, maintaining professional integrity, and educating the legal community about the value of paralegals.”

Similarly, CVPA’s foundation was built on the vision of its founding member, Donna Donavant, ACP, who sought to unite Virginia’s paralegals and enhance their contributions to the legal community.

“Our mission is to bring paralegals together, support their professional growth, and serve as a resource hub to elevate the profession’s standards,” Jessica expressed.

Both associations aim to strengthen the paralegal profession by providing valuable educational and networking opportunities while fostering community and collaboration.

Joining NALA: A Partnership with Purpose

When asked why their associations chose to affiliate with NALA, Anne and Jessica emphasized the national resources, credibility, and growth opportunities NALA provides.

“Our primary motivation for affiliating with NALA was to expand the benefits available to our members, including national certifications and continuing legal education (CLE) programs,” Anne explained.

Jessica echoed this sentiment, highlighting how NALA affiliation aligns with CVPA’s goals and elevates the association’s visibility.

“NALA is the hub of the paralegal world,” she declared. “Partnering with a nationally recognized organization strengthens our reputation and provides our members access to a broader network of resources and opportunities.”

Both leaders recognized that the affiliation has helped their associations open new doors for professional development, networking, and sponsorship opportunities.

Overcoming Challenges: Shared Resilience

While the journey to becoming NALA Affiliated Associations has been rewarding, both associations have faced and overcome significant challenges, demonstrating their resilience and determination.

For PPA, engaging members and communicating the value of affiliation with NALA were significant hurdles. Anne noted that a proactive approach to communication was key.

“We focused on showing members the tangible benefits of affiliation, such as CLE-approved programs, discounts, and resources tailored for those with NALA credentials,” she disclosed.

CVPA encountered similar challenges, particularly in managing limited resources and demonstrating its value to the local legal community. Jessica credited strong partnerships with local bar associations, law firms, and schools for helping overcome these obstacles.

“Building relationships with community peers and securing their support has been vital to our growth,” Jessica acknowledged.

Both associations emphasized fostering strong internal teams and clear communication to engage members and drive success.

Engagement and Member Support: A Unified Focus

Engaging members and meeting their needs is a top priority for both associations, and their efforts reflect a shared commitment to providing value.

– PPA offers weekly email updates, monthly CLE seminars, and special events like Paralegal Day celebrations to keep members informed and involved.
“These initiatives create a sense of community and ensure members know the available resources,” Anne revealed.
– CVPA focuses on mentorship, pairing seasoned paralegals with newer members to provide guidance and build connections.
“Our mentorship program has been one of our most impactful initiatives, supporting professional growth while fostering a sense of community,” Jessica boasted.

Both associations actively seek feedback from members and tailor their programs to meet the evolving needs of the profession.

Leadership: Guiding Vision and Growth

Anne and Jessica bring unique leadership styles and experiences to their roles as presidents of their respective associations.

Anne has been a member of PPA since 2000 and has held various leadership positions, including serving as Director of Marketing for the National Federation of Paralegal Associations (NFPA). Her leadership priorities include providing strong board governance and enhancing member engagement.

“My focus is on fostering collaboration within the board, offering quality education, and increasing interaction within the legal community,” Anne emphasized.

Jessica, in her first year as CVPA president, is focused on strengthening the association’s presence in the legal community and building a solid foundation for the future.

“I want to ensure our members feel supported through education, mentorship, and networking opportunities,” Jessica affirmed.

Both leaders credit their teams with their associations’ successes, highlighting the importance of collaboration and shared vision.

Looking Ahead: Opportunities for Growth

The future is indeed bright for both PPA and CVPA as they continue to strengthen their foundations and explore new growth opportunities, sparking optimism and excitement among their members.

PPA plans to expand its educational offerings and further enhance member engagement. CVPA’s focus is on increasing membership and sponsorships while refining its mentorship and outreach programs.

“We are excited about the opportunities ahead, especially as we continue to grow as NALA affiliates,” Jessica proclaimed.

Advice to Other Associations: Building Strong Partnerships

Anne and Jessica offered advice to other paralegal associations on partnering with each other and NALA:

1. Create a Welcoming Environment: Host events or webinars introducing new associations to the NALA network and resources.
2. Share Resources: Collaborate on CLE programs or mentorship exchanges to maximize value for members.
3. Foster Relationships: Partner with local paralegal organizations and NALA to create mutually beneficial opportunities.

“Having a passionate team and a clear vision is essential for success,” Jessica voiced. “The collaboration within NALA has been a game-changer for us.”

Closing Thoughts

The Pittsburgh Paralegal Association and Commonwealth of Virginia Paralegal Association exemplify the strength of the NALA affiliate network. Through shared values, innovative programs, and collaborative leadership, these associations are paving the way for the future of the paralegal profession. As they continue to grow and thrive, their journeys inspire other associations to embrace the power of partnership and the opportunities that come with NALA affiliation. Together, we can achieve more.