May 2025 Volunteer Spotlight – Caroline C. Wilkerson, ACP, FRP

Caroline C. Wilkerson, ACP, FRP, is a passionate paralegal whose commitment to excellence and heart for service have left a lasting impact on the NALA community. Caroline serves on NALA’s Professional Development Committee (PDC), where she helps NALA stay on top of legal trends.

“Artificial intelligence is a hot topic, and we are exploring how AI affects paralegals and the future of the profession.”

Her forward-thinking mindset and dedication to professional growth make her a valuable voice in shaping the path ahead for legal professionals. Caroline’s journey with NALA spans multiple leadership roles. She served for three years on the Continuing Education Council, one year as Ethics Chair, and is now in her third year on the PDC. Her service is rooted in gratitude and passion.

“NALA has been a wonderful, supportive association and provided many opportunities for me to grow professionally,” She shared. “I want to give back and promote the values, knowledge, and friendships NALA provides to the legal community.”

Caroline has been a Workers’ Compensation Defense Paralegal at Rissman, Barrett, Hurt, Donahue, McLain and Mangan, P.A. in Orlando, Florida, for nearly nine years. Her experience allows her to bring a wealth of knowledge to her volunteer work. Her educational background includes a BA in communication studies and marketing from Virginia Tech and an AS in legal studies from Pensacola State College. In recognition of her dedication to the paralegal profession, she received the NALA Affiliate Award from the Central Florida Paralegal Association during the 2024 NALA Conference & Expo in Louisville, Kentucky.

She joined NALA in 2012, over a decade ago, and considers membership a rewarding lifelong investment in her career. What she loves most about NALA is the people.

“I also enjoy the friendships I have made, sharing ideas, networking, and being an encouraging voice for paralegals and students.”

Caroline is especially grateful for NALA’s educational offerings, including webinars, Facts & Findings, and the annual conference. She has fond memories of her first NALA conference in Las Vegas in 2016.

“It was amazing!” She gushed. “With the networking, CLEs, and camaraderie, I was hooked. I have participated in every conference since.”

That enthusiasm fuels her efforts, and she encourages other NALA members to step into leadership roles.

“Never stop learning!” She implored. “Do not be afraid to get out of your comfort zone and volunteer.”

Outside of her professional life, Caroline enjoys reading and traveling. She has been married to her college sweetheart, Greg, for nearly 40 years. They have four adult children and two spoiled granddaughters. Her strong belief system serves as a guiding force in everything she does.

“My faith in God keeps me going, and I give Him all the glory.”

Caroline’s favorite quote comes from President Calvin Coolidge.

“Nothing in this world can take the place of persistence… Persistence and determination alone are omnipotent.”

From her dedication to the paralegal profession to her commitment to lifelong learning, Caroline embodies the spirit of service and leadership that makes the NALA community thrive. We are proud to spotlight her passion and contributions.