Wayfinders Among Us: First-Gen Professionals in AALL

Webinar presented by the American Association of Law Libraries First-Gen Professionals Caucus on January 20, 2022, from 11:00 am to 12:00 pm CDT.

Abstract

First-generation professionals are the first in their families to cross a threshold into a professional career. Many face socioeconomic issues not experienced by their colleagues, and can face a sense of isolation and a steep learning curve with regard to professional norms. Conversely, inclusion of first-gen professionals can help to foster diversity in law librarianship, and first-gens can serve as an empathetic point of contact for similarly situated students, patrons, and peers. Panelists, who are first-gen professionals from academic, government, and law firm settings, will discuss their triumphs and challenges, and provide insights into navigating their unique career paths. They will also discuss establishment of the First-Gen Professionals Caucus, which serves as a vehicle for professional development, mentorship, and coordination of recruitment efforts for first-gen law and library students.

Submitted in coordination with the First-Gen Professionals Caucus.

TARGET AUDIENCE:

Anyone who is interested in diversity and inclusion in law librarianship. First-gen professionals, colleagues or managers of first-gen professionals.

TAKEAWAYS:

  1. Meet other first-gen professionals within AALL.
  2. Build community around the shared experience of being an FGP.
  3. Learn about ways to be a resource for FG students/new associates/new colleagues.
  4. Assess the strengths we bring to the workplace as FGPs.

SPEAKERS:

  • Diane Deng, Seyfarth Shaw LLP
  • Joe Lawson, Harris County Law Library
  • Clanitra Stewart Nejdl, Massey Law Library at Vanderbilt University

COORDINATOR:

  • Geraldine Kalim, University of Georgia

MODERATOR:

  • Jill Kilgore, Littler Mendelson, P.C.

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