AGENDA

Registration and Light Breakfast/Coffee @9:15am

Welcome and Introductory Remarks @9:30am
Western New England University School of Law Dean Zelda B. Harris

Panel: Training Lawyers to Thrive in Today’s Legal Profession @9:45am-11:00am
This panel explores how legal education can better equip students with the emotional regulation, stress management, and interpersonal skills essential for success in today’s legal profession. Panelists will share clinical insights and practical strategies for integrating well-being into the curriculum while addressing how to bridge the gap between law school and the realities of legal practice. 

Speakers include Traci Cipriano (Yale School of Medicine), Elizabeth Knowles (Northeastern University School of Law), Natasha Varyani (Roger Williams University School of Law), Sarah McConnell (Roger Williams University School of Law), Nicole Pardo (Proskauer), Peggie Krippendorf (Norfolk District Attorney’s Office), and Melanie Lewis (Western New England University Law School). Moderated by Heidi Alexander (SJC Standing Committee on Lawyer Well-Being).

Refreshment Break @11:00am-11:15am

Speed Conversations: Engage in Four Different Speed Conversations on Relevant Topics with Colleagues. Facilitated by Faculty and Experts @11:15am-1:00pm
1. Caring for Yourself and Colleagues (Leaders: Filippa Anzalone (Boston College Law School) and Beth Cohen (Western New England University Law School)) 

2. Having Difficult & Crucial Conversations (Leader: Kara Simard (UNH Franklin Pierce School of Law))

3. Addressing Substance Use & Addiction (Leader: Shawn Healy (Lawyers Concerned for Lawyers))

4. Navigating Trauma & Grief (Leader: Stacey Best (Lawyers Concerned for Lawyers))

5. Understanding Mental Health & Accommodation Requests (Leaders: Pota Kaldis (Mass School of Law) & Kandace Kukas (Board of Bar Examiners))

6. Examining Bar Exam Prep and Licensure Reform (Leader: Brian Gallini (Quinnipiac University School of Law))

Working Lunch & Closing Reflection @1:00pm-1:30pm
Reflect on the Day’s Sessions, Share Key Takeaways, and Explore Next Steps for Applying What You've Learned.