In this issue
Archives
Side Articles
New Member Referral Program
Professional growth starts with connection
Know Someone Who
Should Be a Member?
Work with an administrator, office manager, operations professional, HR leader, or legal management professional who could benefit from ALA? Whether you're a member, business partner, or industry colleague, your introduction could help someone discover the connections, resources, and professional community that has helped so many of us grow.
Refer them to the Golden Gate Chapter and receive a $100 referral bonus when their membership is approved.
Help us welcome the next great chapter member
Contact [email protected] for referral details
Anniversaries
Recognizing dedication and years of impact
July Milestones
| Reid C. Miller | 37 years |
| Yvonne Millette | 23 years |
| Charity Woodward | 13 years |
| Jeffrey Lais | 11 years |
| Helen G. Miranda | 9 years |
| Rita Barie Barnes | 7 years |
| Janine Oliker | 7 years |
| Andy Hoedt | 6 years |
| Olivia B. Pavelchik | 3 years |
| Traci Yanez | 3 years |
| Lilliane Villanueva | 3 years |
| Kiran Thakkar | 3 years |
| Stephen Escobar | 1 year |
| Kimberly Ferer | 1 year |
| Lisette Estevez-Watkins | 1 year |
Newsletter Archives
Stay in the Loop
Browse past newsletters and stay connected with what’s happening across our community.
ALA's Vision Statement
Mission Statement
ALA is the premier professional association connecting leaders and managers within the legal industry. We provide extensive professional development, collaborative peer communities, strategic operational solutions, and business partner connections empowering our members to lead the business of law.
Membership Ambassador Program
The goals of the ALA MemberSHIP Ambassador Program are to welcome new members, build meaningful connections, provide an immediate peer resource, and help members access ALA benefits and services.
DEIA Resource Hub
ALA is committed to fostering an inclusive environment and recognizes the power of diversity to strengthen the organization through collaboration that values talent, skills, and lived experience.
ALA Online Community
💬 Join the Conversation
Connect with fellow ALA members, ask questions, share insights, and stay engaged with the community.
Update Your Profile
Keep Your Membership Info Current
Have a new address or changed firms? Update your information so you don’t miss chapter and ALA updates.
You can also email [email protected] , or log in to alanet.org and select My Account, then Update Your Member Information.
Leadership Roster
Your Chapter Leadership
President Ryan Hill
Vice President Katrina Combs
Treasurer May Rafanan
Vice Treasurer Shannon Oliver
Secretary Emilia "Mika" J. Bekkerman
Director at Large Yadira Diaz
Thank you to our Business Partners
Blaisdell's Business Products
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Emily Paasch Sales Executive ☎ (510) 483-3600 |
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Mike Fitting Business Development |
Blaisdell's Business Products is an independent, woman-owned, certified-green business providing office solutions, support, low prices, service, and speedy delivery.
🌐 Website
Corodata Records Management
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Steve Barry Senior Sales Representative ☎ (925) 984-4245 |
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Jason Perry Senior Account Executive ☎ (408) 709-9225 |
Corodata provides secure information management solutions, including records management, secure shredding, document imaging, data tape storage, and cloud data protection.
🌐 Website
Kraft Kennedy
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Annette Briffa Marketing and Business Development ☎ (800) 523-3081 |
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Chris Arrowsmith |
Kraft Kennedy provides legal technology, managed IT, cybersecurity, infrastructure design, project management, and enterprise content management services for law firms.
🌐 Website
The Bridge - July 15, 2026 Issue Your Semi-Monthly Chapter Connection
Executive Committee Corner
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FROM THE EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE The Power of Being “Voluntold” Mika Bekkerman |
“Sometimes the best opportunities begin because someone else saw something in us before we saw it ourselves.”
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If you’ve been around ALA long enough, you’ve probably experienced the “voluntold” phenomenon. You know the moment. Someone casually says, “You’d be perfect for this,” and before you know it, you’re attending a committee meeting, helping plan an event, or somehow finding yourself with a title you definitely did not see coming. The funny thing about “voluntold” is that it is usually not someone forcing you into something. It is someone seeing something in you before you see it in yourself. That has been my ALA journey in a nutshell. I originally joined ALA at the national level because I knew I wanted access to the resources and education. At the time, I did not even know there was a local chapter. |
Sometimes the best opportunities begin with a friendly little push. |
It was not until I was working with one of our business partners, Paul Picciani with Kidder Mathews (shout out!) during our firm’s office move that I learned about Golden Gate ALA. Somewhere between discussions about office layouts, moving logistics, and everything else that comes with opening a new space, he asked if I was involved with the local chapter.
When I said no, he told me it would be a mistake not to join.
My first step into chapter involvement was becoming the Small Firm Roundtable Administrator. It was a great introduction to the chapter, but I will admit, it was also incredibly humbling.
I quickly realized how much I did not know. I was surrounded by people who had years of experience, had solved problems I had not even encountered yet, and had a wealth of knowledge I wanted to absorb. At first, it felt intimidating. But it also gave me something I really needed: confidence.
I learned that I did not have to walk into every conversation with all the answers. I just had to be willing to ask questions, listen, and learn.
Then came BP Expo—another fantastic “voluntold” moment.
I was encouraged to get involved, and once I did, I jumped in. The campfire theme was one of those projects where we really leaned into creativity and engagement, and I loved seeing everyone get involved. It reminded me that ALA is not just about professional development. It is about creating connections and experiences that bring people together.
Of course, one “yes” led to another.
Next came the Business Partner Committee, which was also very much a “you’d be perfect for this” situation.
At the time, I was not sure I was ready, but that has become one of the best decisions I have made. The BP program is truly the beating heart of how our chapter operates. Being involved gave me a completely different perspective on the work that happens behind the scenes to create valuable programs, support our members, and strengthen our chapter.
I learned so much, gained a new appreciation for our business partners, and built relationships that made attending events even more meaningful. Suddenly, I knew more people in the room. I had more conversations. I felt more connected.
It was a win-win-win.
But luckily, the “volun-telling” did not stop there.
When the opportunity to serve on the Executive Committee came up, the same thing happened again. I felt very honored to have been nominated. Someone saw a fit and encouraged me to step forward.
I am grateful they did because every role has challenged me in a different way and helped me grow.
Now, serving on the Executive Committee as Secretary, I have realized that the more involved you become, the more you realize there is still so much to learn—and the more you get out of the experience.
I think that is what I love most about ALA. There is always another opportunity to grow, another person to meet, and another way to contribute. You do not have to come in knowing everything. You just have to be willing to say yes.
So, the next time someone tells you, “You’d be perfect for this,” don’t dismiss it too quickly. You might be getting “voluntold” to join a committee, help plan an event, or organize an education session, but you might also be opening the door to new friendships, new confidence, new opportunities, and a much richer ALA experience.
Sometimes the best things happen when someone else sees your potential and gives you the little push you didn’t know you needed.
Say yes. Sometimes the best opportunities begin with a little push from someone who believes in you.
Welcome New Members!
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Membership Committee Welcome New Members! |
Please join the Membership Committee in welcoming the newest members of the ALA Golden Gate Chapter. We're excited to have you with us and look forward to seeing you at future chapter events!
Michelle Walker
Saveri Law Firm
Michael Totah
Lieff Cabraser Heimann & Bernstein
Featured Business Partner
✨ Business Partner Spotlight
Our Platinum Business Partners go above and beyond in supporting the Golden Gate Chapter throughout the year. We are proud to highlight these outstanding organizations and the professionals who help strengthen our legal community.
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Platinum Partner Spotlight Nationwide LegalProud Platinum Business Partner of the Association of Legal Administrators – Golden Gate Chapter |
Platinum Business Partner |
Reliable legal support services helping law firms streamline litigation, court filing, process serving, and investigations nationwide. Why firms trust Nationwide Legal: Fast, dependable litigation support backed by nationwide coverage, experienced professionals, responsive customer service, and a commitment to getting legal work done accurately and on time.
Nationwide Legal LLC provides comprehensive litigation support services including process serving, court filing, investigations, skip tracing, records retrieval, and other legal support solutions for firms across the country. |
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Platinum Partner Spotlight One Legal, An InfoTrack CompanyProud Platinum Business Partner of the Association of Legal Administrators – Golden Gate Chapter |
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Platinum Business Partner |
California litigation support technology helping legal professionals manage eFiling, service of process, courtesy copy delivery, eService, skip tracing, and more from one convenient platform. Why firms trust One Legal: Statewide court coverage, nationwide and global service of process, streamlined order management, and an easy-to-use platform that keeps communications, files, and invoices organized.
One Legal, an InfoTrack company, gives California legal professionals a smarter way to manage litigation services including eFiling, service of process, courtesy copy delivery, eService, skip tracing, and related communications, files, and invoices. Services include: eFiling | Service of Process | Courtesy Copy Delivery | eService | Skip Tracing | And more |
Month Spotlight
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July Spotlight: Independence, Inclusion & Mid-Year Momentum |
July brings sunshine, celebration, and a natural pause to reflect on the second half of the year. This month highlights independence, accessibility, wellness, and the opportunity to carry our mid-year momentum forward with intention.
🇺🇸 Independence Day — July 4
Independence Day offers a moment to celebrate freedom, community, and the ongoing work of building a stronger and more inclusive nation. It is also a reminder to appreciate the people, institutions, and shared efforts that support civic life.
Explore Independence Day history ►♿️ Disability Pride Month
July is Disability Pride Month, recognizing the history, achievements, and contributions of people with disabilities. It is also a meaningful reminder of the importance of accessibility, inclusion, and designing workplaces where all individuals can participate fully.
Explore workplace accessibility resources ►💙 Minority Mental Health Awareness Month
National Minority Mental Health Awareness Month brings attention to the unique mental health challenges faced by racial and ethnic minority communities. It encourages open conversations, culturally responsive support, and workplaces that promote well-being for everyone.
Explore mental health resources ►☀️ Summer Momentum
With the second half of the year underway, July is a great time to revisit priorities, reconnect with professional goals, and make space for rest and renewal. Even small adjustments can help create steady momentum through the rest of the year.
Explore ALA learning opportunities ►Admin Confessions... Summer Edition
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Community Corner 🤭 Admin ConfessionsLegal administrators have seen things. Copier emergencies. Surprise deadlines. Mysterious calendar invitations. This is your chance to anonymously share the shortcuts, songs, stories, and tiny workplace moments that only another administrator would truly understand. |
Answer one, answer them all, or simply confess the one thing you have been waiting years to say.
No names. No judgment. No billable-hour requirement.
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💼 You know you're a legal administrator when... Possible confessions "...you've fixed the copier without ever being trained." "...your Outlook calendar has become your second brain." |
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😂 The fastest way to raise my blood pressure is... We can already hear the answers "Reply All." "A last-minute deadline that has apparently existed for three weeks." |
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⚡ What's one work shortcut you swear by? Share the secret sauce Outlook Quick Steps Keyboard shortcuts you now use without consciously thinking |
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🎵 If your office had walk-up music like baseball players, what song would play when you arrived each morning? Choose your entrance music "Eye of the Tiger" "9 to 5" |
The Confession Booth Is Open
📱 Scan, Share and Confess
No names required. We're only collecting laughs, useful tips and the occasional professionally appropriate cry for help.
Not in a scanning mood?
| Take the 60-Second Survey ► |
Selected responses may appear anonymously in an upcoming issue of The Bridge.
CLM
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Professional Development Certified Legal Manager (CLM) |
The CLM designation is the gold standard for legal management professionals, demonstrating mastery across the core competencies required to lead and support modern law firms effectively.
Why it matters
Through a combination of experience, coursework, and examination, CLM certification validates your expertise in the business of law—positioning you as a trusted leader within your organization.
How the chapter supports you
The Golden Gate Chapter provides funding for study groups and offers financial support for members who successfully pass the CLM exam—helping you invest in your growth with confidence.
Upcoming Events
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Learn • Connect • Grow Your Chapter Calendar |
Make the most of your membership by joining upcoming programs, roundtables, networking opportunities, and community events designed to keep you connected, informed, and engaged.
July Events
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The Finance Education Section Presents: Making Sense of the Numbers – A Finance Primer for Firm Administrators (Hybrid) 📅 July 22, 2026 🕛 11:45 AM – 1:00 PM 📍 Morrison & Foerster LLP This session is designed to help law firm administrators better understand the key financial concepts and metrics that drive firm performance. |
Upcoming in August
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Small Firm Roundtable - Virtual 📅 August 05, 2026 🕛 12:00 PM – 1:00 PM 📍 Via Zoom Join your fellow Small Firm Administrators for an engaging, collaborative discussion on challenges and opportunities small law firms are facing and how they are managing them. |
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Mental Health First Aid 📅 August 07, 2026 🕔 6:00 AM – 12:30 PM 📍 Via Zoom Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) prepares participants to recognize, understand, and respond to someone experiencing a mental health challenge or crisis while connecting them with appropriate support and resources. |
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Business Partner Game Night 📅 August 13, 2026 🕓 4:00 PM – 5:30 PM 📍 Cooley LLP Put your trivia knowledge to the test while connecting with fellow Golden Gate Chapter members and Business Partners during this fun networking event. |
Looking Ahead
More events are coming later in August, including our Not-So-Quarterly Social Hour, Emotional Intelligence program, and Coffee Pop-Up with Ryan and Katrina. Be sure to check the Chapter calendar for the latest updates.
Job Bank
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Career Connections Job Bank Opportunities |
Explore current openings shared through the ALA community and connect with firms seeking talented legal management professionals across a variety of practice areas and roles.
ALA Code of Ethics
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Professional Standards ALA Code of Ethics Reminder |
The ALA Code of Ethics is a practical guide for how legal management professionals show up—with integrity, competence, respect, and accountability.
Commitment to the Profession
ALA members are encouraged to support the mission of ALA, pursue continuing education, contribute to the credibility of the profession, and engage with honesty, fairness, respect, courtesy, and collaboration.
Responsibility to Our Organizations
Ethical legal management includes sound business practices, respectful communication, accurate financial reporting, good judgment, risk awareness, and protecting confidential information.
Respect Beyond the Workplace
The Code also reminds members to engage with clients, business partners, colleagues, and the broader community with respect, cultural awareness, tact, sincerity, and good citizenship.
Articles
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Legal Management Magazine Featured Reads |
Explore recent highlights from Legal Management Magazine, with practical insights on marketing, visibility, growth, AI, and leadership for today’s legal administrators.
Are You Maximizing Your Marketing Team’s Time?
By Erin Brereton
How to Best Market Your Law Firm in 2026
By Alex Heshmaty
By John Hellerman
Reaching the Summit: A Year of Climbing Higher
By Travis Armstrong, CLM, CPA
The New Digital Visibility Stack
By Robyn Addis
How Regional Firms Can Outrank National Firms in Local Markets
By Jordanna Kalkhof
Why Most Law Firm Growth Fails — And How Administrators Can Fix It
By John Jakovenko
By Terry M. Isner
For full access to Legal Management Magazine, visit alanet.org.
Thank you to our Business Partners for their GGALA Chapter Sponsorship
Thank You to Our Business Partners
Supporting the Golden Gate Chapter ALA
We are grateful for the business partners whose support helps strengthen our chapter programming, resources, and professional community.
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Acrisure InsuranceSusan Kilano, Executive Vice President Reid Middleton, Executive Vice President Acrisure is a global fintech leader and top-tier insurance brokerage that provides customized risk management, insurance, employee benefits, and cybersecurity solutions. |
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ASAP Legal LLCJulien Laussade, Chief Operating Officer ASAP Legal LLC provides comprehensive legal support services, including service of process, e-Filing, court reporting, record retrieval, and investigations. |
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Element Professional StaffingSteve Gomez, Managing Director Shareen Fanburg, Managing Director Element Professional Staffing is a premier direct-hire and contract legal staffing firm committed to connecting clients with top-tier legal talent. |
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Hughes MarinoCameron Love, Managing Director Cale Miller, Sr. Managing Director - Tenant Representation Hughes Marino represents tenants and buyers exclusively, helping businesses and law firms with strategic real estate representation and negotiation support. |
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Kidder MathewsPaul L. Picciani Kidder Mathews is the largest independent commercial real estate firm on the West Coast. Paul Picciani specializes in helping law firms with office space needs. |
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Pathways PersonnelChristopher Crowley, President / Owner Katy Bataller Pathways Personnel is a premier recruiting firm specializing in matching high-quality professionals with top-tier law firms and corporations nationwide. |
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San Francisco State Paralegal StudiesEduardo Cerpa, Program Specialist San Francisco State’s ABA-approved Paralegal Studies Program offers a rigorous, 100% online curriculum designed to prepare students for successful careers as paralegals. |
