“We're all working professionals that have busy lives, but sometimes we really crave that connection that comes from being in person. There's really no one-size-fits-all model for CLE, but I think we have the ability to offer people a lot of different options.”

In this episode of Voices of NCAJ, host Amber Nimocks speaks with guest Anna Kalarites, NCAJ Education Vice President and partner at Pishko Kalarites Lawyers. Amber and Anna discuss major shifts in continuing legal education, NCAJ's efforts to innovate and adapt, and upcoming events such as the wine tour CLE and the inaugural NCAJ Tournament Battle for the Advocates Cup as part of NCAJ's member engagement strategy. NCAJ CLEs really are something special and to ensure that remains the case, NCAJ is working with consultant Michelle Hughes to develop a strategic plan for the future of CLE programming. Tune in to hear what’s in store for NCAJ CLEs!

Get registered for these CLEs (and more) at ncaj.com/events.

Name: Anna Kalarites

Connect: Pishko Kalarites Lawyers | NCAJ | LinkedIn

[01:48] Wine and CLE Credit?!: After this year’s Women’s Caucus, NCAJ will be embarking on a Yadkin Valley wine tasting and CLE, where attendees will get a 45-minute CLE between stops at three vineyards.

[03:02] NCAJ March Madness: To celebrate the start of NCAA March Madness, join us for the inaugural NCAJ Tournament Battle for the Advocates Cup, which will combine a 2-hour CLE, watching hoops, and playing some games of our own. This event is free and for NCAJ members only.

[5:25] A New Era of CLE: In an exciting transitional time for CLE, NCAJ is finding a way to cater to those craving a return to in-person events, especially those outside the NCAJ office, while also recognizing the flexibility of online or in-office programs.

[7:28] A Moment of Reflection: After the life-altering experience of COVID, the legal profession finds itself in an incredibly dynamic era, so we salute the work that the Education Committee and others are doing to reflect on what works well and what can be improved.

[9:52] Growing with CLE: NCAJ is taking steps to meet the evolving needs of CLE attendees, such as connecting with other organizations at the first ever Summit of CLE and hosting in-depth training for CLE program chairs.

[11:45] NCAJ’s Special Sauce: NCAJ offers something different thanall the other places one can choose to get CLE credit. With unique offerings and devoted presenters, the experience at an NCAJ CLE is one of a kind.

[13:40] Getting Outside Perspective: In order to ensure NCAJ CLE messages reach the most people possible and in the best ways possible, NCAJ is working with consultant Michelle Hughes to develop a strategic plan for CLE programming

[16:15] The Heart and Soul of NCAJ: While the name may have changed, the NCAJ still has the “academy” mindset that ensures continued growth through continuing legal education.