The inaugural class of the CELA Leadership Conservatory (LC) held its initial training modules on March 24, 2021 and March 26, 2021, in conjunction with the Committee Conclave. Represented are a total of 11 spectacular participants from diverse backgrounds, areas of focus, and geographic locations. The LC is an 18-month comprehensive training program that builds the knowledge and skills necessary to develop effective leaders within CELA. The first set of trainings focused on the history and formation of CELA and its committees, diversity in CELA’s membership and leadership, different leadership styles, and effective communication skills. The participants’ attendance at the Committee Conclave provided them with a comprehensive overview of each committee’s programming and priorities. In the next month, LC participants will be paired up with their assigned committees. The participants will benefit directly by observing their committees’ leadership and participating in committee work. Future trainings will center around committee goalsetting, leadership planning, business development, and networking skills and tools.

Please welcome the CELA Leadership Conservatory Class of 2021:

Mari Callado Bandoma, Dolan Law Firm, San Francisco

Cristal Cabrera, Cristal Law Offices, Los Angeles

Estella Cisneros, California Rural Legal Assistance, Inc, Fresno

Hugo Gamez, Law Offices of Hugo Gamez, Los Angeles

Rebecca Kagin, Law Offices of Rebecca G. Kagin, Petaluma

Erin Kelly, Law Offices of Scott R. Ames/ Law Offices of Steven J. Kaplan, Los Angeles

Sean McHenry, McHenry Law Firm, San Francisco

Tina Mehr, Vision Legal Inc, Long Beach

Sonya Mehta, Siegel, Yee, Brunner & Mehta, Oakland

Stephanie Sandler, Sandler Law, San Diego

Stephen Wiard, JML Law, Woodland Hills