ND Law Asian Pacific American Law Students Association Members Attend the National Asian Pacific American Bar Association Convention
Members of Notre Dame Law School’s Asian Pacific American Law Students Association (APALSA) attended the National Asian Pacific American Bar Association (NAPABA) Convention in Seattle, Washington from November 9 to 11. Serving as the national voice for the Asian Pacific American legal profession, NAPABA is the nation's largest Asian Pacific American membership organization representing the interest of 80,000 attorneys, judges, law professors, and law students. The organization aims to foster professional development, legal scholarship, advocacy, and community involvement for Asian Pacific Americans.
Our APALSA students participated in an insightful program that included an international law symposium addressing U.S. inbound entity equity structure and tax planning for foreign entrepreneurs and investors; a solo and small firm boot camp that offered advice on branding in a digital world; a women's leadership workshop that featured a panel discussion with AANHPI women leaders; and a young lawyers workshop that offered strategies for success in a post-pandemic work world.
On the second and third days of the convention, the program featured Continuing Legal Education (CLE) panels covering several topics, such as attorney well-being; strengthening anti-discrimination laws; the ethics of communicating in high-profile litigation; navigating international disputes through arbitration and mediation; and understanding language access as a civil right. Led by esteemed legal practitioners and national policymakers, these breakout sessions offered invaluable insights into the dynamic legal landscape. In addition to the workshops and panel discussions, attendees had opportunities to network with leaders from top law firms, corporations, and government agencies.
Read about the unique experiences, reflections, and takeaways that some of our APALSA students gained from attending the prestigious NAPABA event.
"The NAPABA Convention was a remarkable experience. It was incredibly inspiring to see so many Asian American lawyers — around 3,400 — all gathered in one place. The conference provided so many opportunities to learn and network through panel discussions, socials, career counseling sessions, and more. I’m so grateful to be a part of this community and for all the new connections and friendships made during the conference!" -Tessa Hong ‘26 J.D.
"The NAPABA Convention was a powerful reminder of the collective impact we can achieve when we come together. Connecting with inspiring legal professionals and supportive alumni reinforced the importance of community in driving positive change. I'm excited to contribute to this vibrant network and work towards a future where we can collectively shape the legal landscape for the better." -Brian Kim ‘26 J.D.
“Attending the NAPABA Convention was an incredibly fulfilling experience. Connecting with fellow Asian Pacific American legal professionals and students, and hearing from Asian leaders in the legal profession, was truly inspiring. The convention instilled in me a greater sense of belonging and community, and has made me determined to continue being involved and someday give back in the same way current leaders have.” -Tony Moon ‘26 J.D.
“I had a great time and it was a privilege that our school let me attend! Really just honored to attend NAPABA's conference and connect with inspiring lawyers and law students from schools across the country. It was amazing to mix and mingle, get career advice and counseling from alumni, and see how CLE sessions help lawyers keep learning. Meeting so many people passionate about fostering diversity in the legal profession was a great reminder of how important NAPABA’s work is in bringing the Asian Pacific American legal community together and shaping the future of the profession.” -Lynnie Song ‘26 J.D.
“This was my second time attending the NAPABA Convention, having first attended last year in Indianapolis. The conference is an incredible opportunity to connect with fellow Asian Pacific Americans who have achieved success in a field where representation can still be limited. I’ve built meaningful relationships — some of which I’ve maintained since last year — and this year, I enjoyed continuing to strengthen those connections while also meeting new people. It’s inspiring to see how everyone uplifts each other by sharing support, insights, and resources to stay connected and grow together. Experiences like this make me even prouder of my Asian heritage, and I look forward to continuing to represent it throughout my career.” -Sage Yang ‘25 J.D.
“I was inspired by the breadth and excellence of the AANHPI bar nationally. The NAPABA conference showcased the many trailblazers and thought leaders that have deeply impacted our communities while paving the way for the future generations to come. Also, and as always, it was great to connect and reconnect with Notre Dame Law students and alumni.” -Dillon Yang ‘23 J.D.