In this issue
GROW THE COMMUNITY
Know Someone Great?
Make the introduction. We’ll take it from there.
Know an administrator, office manager, operations professional, HR leader or legal-management professional who would benefit from ALA? A simple introduction can open the door to new connections, practical resources and a professional community built around the business of law.
YOUR INTRODUCTION PAYS OFF
Earn $100
when their Golden Gate Chapter membership is approved.
You may know exactly who belongs in the room next.
Questions? [email protected]
MEMBER MILESTONES
September Anniversaries
Celebrating dedication, connection and years of impact in the Golden Gate Chapter.
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Steven Morris, CLM, SPHR |
31 years |
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Jason Miguel Santiago |
21 years |
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Suzanne Lawler |
20 years |
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Carolina Altamirano |
12 years |
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Mike Lewis |
7 years |
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Rosario Greenbaum |
5 years |
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Christina May |
1 year |
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Summer Cohee |
1 year |
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Diana Galvez |
1 year |
THANK YOU FOR BEING PART OF OUR CHAPTER
Your continued involvement strengthens our community and helps the Golden Gate Chapter thrive.
| CELEBRATING YOU |
BE PART OF THE CONVERSATION
There’s a Whole Community Behind You
Ask. Share. Learn from people who get it.
Got a question? Chances are, another legal-management professional has faced it too. Exchange ideas, ask for advice, share what’s working and learn from professionals navigating many of the same challenges you are.
TAP INTO THE COLLECTIVE KNOWLEDGE
Sometimes the best resource is someone who has already been there.
MEMBER REMINDER
Keep Your Membership Information Current
Changed firms? Moved offices? Have a new phone number or email address? Keeping your member profile up to date ensures you continue receiving important ALA and Golden Gate Chapter news, event announcements and member communications.
UPDATE YOUR INFORMATION
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Log in to alanet.org and select My Account → Update Your Member Information. |
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Need help? Email ALA Membership for assistance. |
A current profile helps you stay connected with everything happening in ALA.
MEET THE EXECUTIVE BOARD
Your Chapter Leadership
Dedicated volunteers helping guide, strengthen and support the Golden Gate Chapter.
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2026 LEADERSHIP |
PRESIDENT
Ryan Hill
VICE PRESIDENT
Kate Bristol
TREASURER
May Rafanan
VICE TREASURER
Shannon Oliver
SECRETARY
Emilia “Mika” J. Bekkerman
DIRECTOR AT LARGE
Yadira Diaz
Questions, ideas or interested in getting involved? Your chapter leaders would love to hear from you.
Thank you to our Business Partners
BUSINESS PARTNER SPOTLIGHT
September Silver Partners
Meet three organizations whose expertise and support help strengthen our Golden Gate Chapter community.
Endsight
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Silver Business Partner Supporting the Golden Gate Chapter and legal-management community. |
Endsight provides managed IT services designed to help law firms and other organizations keep their technology secure, reliable and working for their business.
From day-to-day IT support and strategic technology planning to cybersecurity and risk management, Endsight helps organizations reduce technology headaches while strengthening security and productivity.
Julia Homan
Director of Sales
📞 (858) 956-2543
Brandon Galvin
Account Executive
📞 (510) 280-2009
PCBancard
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Silver Business Partner Supporting the Golden Gate Chapter and legal-management community. |
PCBancard is a full-service merchant-services provider helping businesses simplify payment processing while finding opportunities to reduce the cost of accepting credit cards.
With local representation, modern processing technology and personalized support, PCBancard works with businesses to build payment solutions around their operational needs.
Greg Sampson
Partner / Consultant
📞 (925) 339-6050
The People Connection
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Silver Business Partner Supporting the Golden Gate Chapter and legal-management community. |
The People Connection has been connecting talented professionals with leading businesses throughout San Francisco, the Bay Area and the West Coast since 1984.
The full-service staffing firm specializes in direct-hire, temporary and temp-to-hire placements across legal and non-legal sectors, working with clients to develop staffing strategies tailored to their unique personnel needs.
John Dorning
President
📞 (415) 397-6800
Josh Torres
Director of Talent Acquisition
Thank you to our Silver Business Partners for supporting the programs, resources and connections that strengthen our Chapter.
SEPTEMBER 2026 | Second Edition 
Introducing Our New VP/President Elect
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| A San Francisco native and COO at Ghitterman, Ghitterman & Feld , Kate brings extensive legal-management leadership experience and a strong commitment to ALA. Since returning to the Bay Area earlier this year, she has jumped right into Golden Gate Chapter life through her involvement with Social Media & Communications and Business Partnering . | |||||
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Executive Committee Corner
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| Not the Career I Planned, but the One I Love |
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Shannon Oliver, aPHR
Administrative Manager | Trucker Huss, APC
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When I began my career in advertising and marketing, I never imagined that I would one day become an Administrative Manager at a law firm. After several years in the industry, I was ready for a change and began exploring opportunities outside of marketing. That search eventually led me to the legal profession, a decision that changed the direction of my career. I began as a legal secretary, a role I held for four years. What I expected to be an introduction to the legal field quickly became much more. I enjoyed the fast pace, the variety of the work, and learning how a law firm operates. Wanting to build on what I was learning, I enrolled in the Paralegal Studies Program at UC Berkeley Extension and earned my paralegal certificate while working full time. The program broadened my legal knowledge and gave me a deeper appreciation for the work our attorneys do every day. For the next eight years, I worked as a paralegal. During that time, I also continued using my advertising and marketing background by taking on projects involving the firm's website, articles, branding, and listings. Balancing paralegal work with marketing responsibilities taught me how to juggle competing priorities and keep a variety of projects moving forward. As my role developed, I found myself increasingly drawn to the operational side of law firm management. I enjoyed improving processes, mentoring team members, and helping solve the day-to-day challenges that keep a firm running smoothly. In early 2023, I accepted the role of Administrative Manager at Trucker Huss. It felt like a natural next step after years of learning and growing in a variety of roles. Having worked in staff, professional, and management roles, I understand the firm from several different perspectives. I also appreciate many of the responsibilities and challenges faced by the people I support and manage because I have been in those roles myself. When I moved into administration, I also became involved with the Golden Gate Chapter of the Association of Legal Administrators. Through the chapter, I have participated in educational programs, developed a strong network, and served on committees and the board. I also attend ALA's national conference and continue my professional development through additional certifications. These experiences have strengthened my leadership skills and expanded my understanding of law firm management. Legal administration is challenging, rewarding, and always changing. My role includes everything from recruiting, onboarding, benefits, budgeting, and insurance renewals to facilities, marketing, and support for firm leadership, along with whatever else may be thrown my way on any particular day. I have also had the opportunity to work on larger projects, including evaluating staffing needs, outsourcing word processing, exploring staff workflow solutions, and revising the firm's employee manuals. One of the things I appreciate most about Trucker Huss is the opportunity to take on new challenges and continue learning. My role has evolved over time based on my experience and interests, and the firm has supported my continuing education, certifications, and involvement with professional organizations. |
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“Looking back, I am grateful for the opportunities I have had throughout my career and for the people who have supported me along the way. While my path was not one I could have predicted, each step helped prepare me for the role I have today. Although this was not the career I originally planned, it has become one that I genuinely enjoy.”
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Featured Business Partner
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Thank you, Nationwide Legal, for your continued support of the Golden Gate Chapter and the Bay Area legal community.
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STRONGER TOGETHER
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Month Spotlight
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SEPTEMBER FOCUS
Belonging & Well-Being
September invites us to recognize the cultures and traditions that shape our communities, support mental well-being and create workplaces where people feel seen, respected and connected.
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As summer gives way to fall, September brings meaningful opportunities to strengthen connection, recognize cultural and religious traditions and support the well-being of the people around us. This month’s spotlight offers a curated selection of observances and practical resources legal-management professionals can share with their teams or explore personally.
ALL MONTH LONG
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💛
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Suicide Prevention Month A reminder that connection, awareness and knowing how to respond when someone is struggling can make a meaningful difference. Workplaces can help by reducing stigma and making support resources visible and accessible. Explore 988 Lifeline resources |
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Hispanic Heritage Month Beginning September 15, Hispanic Heritage Month celebrates the histories, cultures, achievements and contributions of Hispanic and Latino communities in the United States. Explore Hispanic Heritage Month |
DATES TO RECOGNIZE
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SEP 10 |
World Suicide Prevention Day Encourages open conversation, greater awareness and compassionate action to help prevent suicide and connect people with support. Learn more about prevention |
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SEP 11 |
Rosh Hashanah Begins The Jewish New Year begins at sundown and marks the start of the High Holy Days, traditionally observed through prayer, reflection and gathering with family and community. Observance begins at sundown. |
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SEP 17 |
Constitution Day & Citizenship Day Commemorates the signing of the U.S. Constitution and recognizes those who have become U.S. citizens, offering a natural opportunity to reflect on civic participation and the rule of law. Explore the National Constitution Center |
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SEP 18 |
International Equal Pay Day Highlights continued efforts toward equal pay for work of equal value and encourages organizations to examine compensation, opportunity and advancement practices. Explore the UN resource |
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SEP 20 |
Yom Kippur Begins The Day of Atonement is the holiest day of the Jewish calendar and is traditionally observed through fasting, prayer and reflection. Observance begins at sundown. |
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SEP 21 |
International Day of Peace A global reminder that peace is built through everyday actions—including respectful communication, constructive conflict resolution and a willingness to understand different perspectives. Explore the United Nations resource |
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Building an Inclusive Calendar September includes several significant cultural and religious observances. Before scheduling major meetings, firm events or deadlines, consider checking an inclusive calendar and allowing flexibility for employees who may be fasting, attending services or observing important traditions. Small acts of awareness can make workplace inclusion feel much more tangible. Explore ALA DEIA resource hub |
SEPTEMBER INTENTION
Notice who is in the room. Make space for who isn't. Build belonging on purpose.
BELONGING STARTS WITH AWARENESS
Upcoming Events
There’s plenty happening across the Golden Gate Chapter this fall. From collaborative educational programs and peer roundtables to community service and opportunities to reconnect, we hope you’ll find an event that fits your interests and schedule.
SAVE THE DATES Learn something. Meet someone. Give back. There’s plenty happening this fall. View the Full Chapter CalendarCONNECT • LEARN • GROW
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ALA Organizational Pricing
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Job Bank
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CAREER CONNECTIONS Open Positions Explore current opportunities across legal administration, practice support, HR, finance and law firm operations. |
Whether you are considering your next career move, building your professional network or know someone who may be a great fit, explore the latest opportunities shared through the ALA Golden Gate Chapter Job Bank.
NEWEST OPPORTUNITIES
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Ross Family Law, PC Job Posting • Aug. 20, 2026 |
View Ad |
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Arnold & Porter Job Posting • Aug. 14, 2026 |
View Ad |
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Regional Administrative Manager Freeman Mathis and Gary, LLP Job Posting • Aug. 12, 2026 |
View Ad |
MORE CURRENT OPENINGS
Accounting Clerk (Flexible Hybrid in SF Bay Area)
Farella Braun + Martel
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Job Posting • Jul. 22, 2026 |
View Ad |
EXPLORE THE CAREER CENTER
Ready for what’s next? Your next professional opportunity may be one click away.
View All Job PostingsYOUR NEXT OPPORTUNITY STARTS HERE
Thank you to our Business Partners for their GGALA Chapter Sponsorship
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BUSINESS PARTNER CORNER September Partner Spotlights Meet the organizations helping our chapter connect, innovate and grow. |
Our Business Partners provide valuable expertise, services and support to the Golden Gate Chapter and the broader legal community. This month, we are pleased to recognize six organizations serving law firms across insurance and risk management, office operations, legal support, technology and commercial real estate.
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DIAMOND BUSINESS PARTNERS |
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Acrisure Insurance Risk Management, Insurance & Employee Benefits Acrisure is a global fintech leader and top-tier insurance brokerage providing customized risk management, insurance, employee benefits and cybersecurity solutions. Its combination of industry expertise and technology helps organizations protect and grow what matters most. Chapter contacts: Susan Kilano, Executive Vice President, and Reid Middleton, Executive Vice President |
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Pacific Office Automation Managed Office Services & Workplace Technology Pacific Office Automation provides tailored office solutions spanning equipment, software and staffing. From printers, copiers and scanning systems to mailroom solutions, cost recovery, cybersecurity software and facilities management, POA helps law firms create efficient, secure and productive workplaces. Chapter contacts: Austin Piombo, Field Sales Manager, and Troy Shawhan, Director of Services – Legal & Healthcare |
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GOLD BUSINESS PARTNERS |
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ASAP Legal LLC Legal Support Services ASAP Legal provides comprehensive legal support services including service of process, e-Filing, court reporting, record retrieval and investigations, delivering fast, accurate and professional support for evolving litigation needs. Chapter contact: Julien Laussade, Chief Operating Officer Visit ASAP Legal → |
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ECFX, Inc. Legal Technology & Workflow Automation ECFX develops legal technology designed to automate critical law-firm workflows. Its ECFX Notice platform automates the download, profiling, storage and distribution of federal and state electronic court filing notices, reducing repetitive manual work for attorneys and support teams. Contacts: Bob Moore, Account Executive, and Nelson Quintero, Co-Founder |
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First Legal File Thru Trial™ Litigation Support First Legal provides a comprehensive File Thru Trial™ approach to litigation support, including court filing, eFiling, service of process, court reporting, eDiscovery, record retrieval, digital services and investigations. Chapter contact: Sue Hammer, Senior Account Executive |
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Kidder Mathews Commercial Real Estate & Tenant Representation Kidder Mathews is the largest independent commercial real estate firm on the West Coast. Paul Picciani brings a tenant-only focus to helping law firms lease, sublease, renew, expand, right-size or purchase office space throughout the Bay Area and beyond. Chapter contact: Paul L. Picciani |
EXPLORE ALL CHAPTER BUSINESS PARTNERS
Discover trusted providers serving the legal-management community.
View the Business Partner Directory →PARTNERS WHO POWER OUR CHAPTER
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Turn your experience into a credential that strengthens your leadership story.
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Articles
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LEGAL MANAGEMENT MAGAZINE Worth Reading This Month Ideas, leadership insights and practical strategies for today’s legal-management professionals. |
Explore recent highlights from Legal Management Magazine, featuring practical insights on marketing, digital visibility, law firm growth, artificial intelligence and leadership.
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MARKETING & BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT |
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Are You Maximizing Your Marketing Team’s Time? By Erin Brereton |
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How to Best Market Your Law Firm in 2026 By Alex Heshmaty |
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By John Hellerman |
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The New Digital Visibility Stack By Robyn Addis |
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How Regional Firms Can Outrank National Firms in Local Markets By Jordanna Kalkhof |
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AI & INNOVATION |
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LEADERSHIP & GROWTH |
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Reaching the Summit: A Year of Climbing Higher By Travis Armstrong, CLM, CPA |
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Why Most Law Firm Growth Fails — And How Administrators Can Fix It By John Jakovenko |
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By Terry M. Isner |
KEEP READING
More practical insight is waiting in every issue.
Explore the latest articles, columns and industry updates from Legal Management Magazine.
Visit Legal Management MagazineLEARN & LEAD
ALA Code of Ethics
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PROFESSIONAL STANDARDS ALA Code of Ethics Reminder Integrity, responsibility and respect in every professional interaction. |
The ALA Code of Ethics serves as a practical guide for how legal-management professionals show up—with integrity, competence, respect and accountability.
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ETHICAL PRINCIPLES |
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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. |
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Responsibility to Our Organizations Ethical legal management includes sound business practices, respectful communication, accurate financial reporting, good judgment, risk awareness and the protection of confidential information. |
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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. |
Professional credibility is built through the choices we make every day.
INTEGRITY IN EVERY INTERACTION
Newsletter Archives
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PAST ISSUES & CHAPTER NEWS The Bridge Vault Revisit past issues, catch up on chapter updates and find resources worth saving. |
Missed an issue or want to revisit a favorite? Browse past newsletters for chapter news, member highlights, events, professional resources and updates from across the Golden Gate community.
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Catch Up Anytime From chapter happenings and career resources to Business Partner features and professional development, past issues are only a click away. |
Missed an issue? It is all waiting for you in the archive.
CATCH UP • REVISIT • RECONNECT
ALA's Vision Statement
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ABOUT ALA Purpose, Connection & Community Explore the mission, programs and resources that help guide ALA and support legal-management professionals. |
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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. |
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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. Learn more → |
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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. Read full statement → |
LEAD • CONNECT • BELONG
