The theme of February's newsletter is passion, but what does that mean? It could refer to ardent affection, a strong desire, or devotion. You can feel passion for a person, place, object, activity, or concept.

If you are passionate about advocating for the paralegal profession, you may be interested in declaring your candidacy for a position on NALA’s Board of Directors. Do you have a passion for professional development? Reserve your Early Bird ticket for the 2025 NALA Conference & Expo this July and find out how Active type members can use their $80 education voucher! For a story that ties together passion and the law, read about how interracial marriage was legalized through a landmark Supreme Court decision in 1967. Then, head to our Facebook page to share the first thing that comes to mind when you consider your passion.

The President's Pulse is the monthly update from NALA's Board President. In the February edition, Cheryl Nodarse, ACP, discusses passion in our personal and professional lives. She also covers the 2024 Utilization & Compensation Report, Black History Month, and what it means to make "good trouble." Click below to watch.

This month’s volunteer spotlight is Maureen C. Washington, ACP, CAS, CEDS, a member of NALA's Professional Development Committee (PDC). Click here to read her spotlight and learn more about her dedication to NALA and the paralegal profession. Try to fill in the blank below, and then find out if you are right by reading her spotlight.

Maureen helped make _______ the official National Paralegal Day.

a) October 23rd
b) August 6th
c) April 19th

Black History Month is a time to honor the profound contributions of Black individuals to law, civil rights, and justice. From the landmark legal battles led by Thurgood Marshall to the advocacy of modern civil rights leaders, Black professionals have shaped the legal landscape we navigate today. As paralegals, you can celebrate this month by studying key cases that advanced racial justice, supporting Black-led legal organizations, and fostering diversity within the legal profession. Acknowledging this history deepens your understanding of the law and reinforces your commitment to equity and justice.

Passion for Justice: Loving v. Virginia and the Fight for the Right to Marry

Passion is a driving force in the legal profession, fueling the pursuit of justice and shaping the laws that govern society. This is particularly evident in Loving v. Virginia (1967), the landmark Supreme Court case that struck down laws banning interracial marriage. Richard and Mildred Loving’s quiet but unwavering fight for their right to marry exemplifies the profound impact of personal conviction and legal advocacy on civil rights. Their case, argued by passionate attorneys dedicated to equality, forever changed the legal landscape of marriage in America. For paralegals, Loving v. Virginia serves as a powerful reminder that behind every case file is a human story, and behind every legal battle is the potential to transform lives. Discover how passion, in the form of love and legal advocacy, was central to Loving v. Virginia and how it continues to inspire legal professionals today. Read more here.

Everyone is passionate about something: a hobby, a cause, a person. Maybe you are passionate about reading, advocating for justice, or loving your spouse. What sets your heart ablaze? To share the first thing that comes to mind when you consider your passion, comment on the Featured post on our Facebook page.

Come celebrate NALA’s 50th anniversary at the 2025 NALA Conference & Expo in Atlantic City, New Jersey, from July 10-12! Save $70 with Early Bird pricing when you register by May 7th! Do not miss this milestone event and the opportunity to earn up to 12.5 CLE hours while you network, socialize, and explore.

On behalf of the Board, the Talent Acquisition Committee invites qualified members to actively engage with your association. Serving on the Board is a rewarding and fulfilling opportunity to make a meaningful impact. For more information on the various Board positions, click here. Active type members who wish to run for officer or director positions must complete and submit the Declaration of Candidacy packet. NALA Headquarters must receive completed packets no later than March 15, 2025.

Do you know an exceptional paralegal student who goes above and beyond in academics, professional involvement, and dedication to the legal field? Nominate them for the Student of the Year Award by March 1st! This award recognizes outstanding achievement among full-time students pursuing a paralegal career.

Eligible nominees must:

• Be a student member of NALA
• Be enrolled in at least six semester hours
• Maintain a minimum 3.0 GPA
• Participate in a professional association
• Be chosen for an academic or professional recommendation
• Show commitment to the paralegal profession and legal community

The winner receives recognition at the Annual Membership Meeting at the NALA Conference & Expo (select expenses covered by NALA), a copy of The Paralegal’s Companion book, and the CP^® Review Course Bundle.

Submit your nomination here by March 1st to shine a light on the future leaders of the paralegal profession!

Each quarter, we honor NALA members who have reached MILESTONE membership anniversaries.

To see who reached five years, 10 years, 15 years, 20 years, and 25 years (Honorary Membership status) of continuous NALA membership between October and December 2024, please click here.

Thank you to the longtime members who have been recognized this quarter. You are truly appreciated! If you would like to request a complimentary, exclusive membership anniversary pin, click here.

Did you know Active type members receive an $80 education voucher each time they renew? If you are an Active type member, this voucher is an exclusive benefit you can redeem on any of NALA’s educational offerings. While NALA no longer sends out a physical or digital voucher, you can still access these savings by calling or emailing our office. To help you decide what to use your voucher on, click here for a list of eligible products that you can save on.

While DEI has been a fundamental aspect of workplace and educational policies for decades, these initiatives face growing scrutiny and legal challenges. The debate over DEI has intensified from President Kennedy’s 1961 executive order on affirmative action to the recent Supreme Court ruling overturning race-conscious admissions. As some organizations and institutions scale back their DEI commitments, others remain steadfast. This article explores the legal and political shifts surrounding DEI, evolving perspectives, and the broader impact on workplaces and professional organizations like NALA. With DEI at a crossroads, it is vital to keep the conversation going. How will these changes shape the future of diversity, equity, and inclusion in the legal profession? Click here to read the article.

Ready, Set, CP^® Exam: The Preparation You Need

In partnership with NALA, College of the Canyons continues to offer two comprehensive study courses, Knowledge and Skills, to paralegals pursuing certification. The courses are FREE for California residents and have a nominal fee of $75 for non-California residents. Enrollment for the upcoming Certified Paralegal (CP^®) Exam study courses is now open, and classes begin in late February. Do not miss out on the chance to benefit from top-tier instruction and guidance provided by experienced legal professionals. For more information on the CP^® Exam study courses and enrollment details, please click here (California residents) or here (non-California residents) or email Lori Young.

DISCLAIMER: The NALA CP^® Exam creators do not develop or deliver any CP^® Exam study materials. Producers of study materials do not have access to actual CP^® Exam content. Use of any suggested study materials does not guarantee success on the CP^® Exam.