2025 Fellows and Pathfinders Connect in San Diego

(San Diego, CA) — From March 19–22, the newest classes of LCLD Fellows and Pathfinders met in sunny San Diego for their first in-person gathering of the year. Over the course of several days, attendees forged connections, sharpened their leadership skills, and gained invaluable insights from top experts.

Welcoming 778 Attendees to LCLD Nation

With 371 Fellows and 407 Pathfinders touching down in San Diego, the energy was undeniable. LCLD President Robert Grey welcomed each class, reinforcing what it means to be a part of LCLD Nation—a community that understands, sees, and supports you. “Let’s get after it,” he added, setting the tone for the days ahead. Both groups took his words to heart, diving into networking with intentionality and bringing authenticity and eagerness to every session.

Pathfinders Build Their Leadership Foundations

With an agenda focused on strengthening their leadership presence, Pathfinders engaged in a dynamic lineup of sessions.

Looking Within with Carrie Fletcher: Using the TypeCoach tool, Pathfinders discovered their communication preferences and how to tailor interactions with others for greater impact.
Navigating Feedback with Rudhir Krishtel: This hands-on workshop provided strategies for seeking, receiving, and implementing feedback effectively.
The Power of Communication with Denise Thomas: Pathfinders learned that effective leadership is more than just making the right decisions—it’s about inspiring, influencing, and driving results.
Supercharging Your Career Development with Katie Aldrich: Pathfinders left this session with a framework for setting short and long-term goals and strategies for overcoming obstacles.
Understanding the Changing Workforce with Chris De Santis: In their final session, Pathfinders explored the evolution of workplace dynamics and tips for improving cross-generational collaboration.

“My heart is energized by this experience, my practice is improved by the skills I’ve learned and connections I’ve made, and my clients will be better served for it.” — 2025 Pathfinder Zoe Uvin

Fellows Learn How to Lead with Authenticity

Over two-and-a-half days, Fellows focused on improving their leadership styles through trust, storytelling, and relationship-building.

Building Trust with Rudhir Krishtel: During their opening session, Fellows reflected on the role of trust in business relationships and how to cultivate it.
Telling Your Story with Chris Graham: Fellows learned how to craft a personal story that illustrates their values and answers the question: “Why should I trust you?”.
Crafting Your Personal Brand with Paula Edgar: Fellows gained practical tools for developing a strong personal brand—plus a reminder to update their headshots.
Managing Up, Down, and Across with Mary Abbajay: Fellows closed out the meeting on a high note, exploring how to establish meaningful relationships with those above them, next to them, and below them in the workplace.

“The agenda was packed with thought-provoking sessions and speakers that truly challenged me to dig deep and think differently about leadership. But what made this conference even more special was the opportunity to connect with such an amazing group of Fellows—each one bringing their unique perspectives and experiences to the table.” — 2025 Fellow Renee Brutus

Golden Hour Aboard the USS Midway

Against the stunning backdrop of a San Diego sunset, Fellows and Pathfinders joined together to break bread, hear firsthand from veteran docents, and take their networking to new heights by pairing up for flight simulations aboard the USS Midway Museum.

“Our networking reception on the USS Midway at sunset was a highlight of the experience. I was able to make meaningful connections with so many top in-house and law firm leaders, and what better way to build a relationship than going in a flight simulator together?” — 2025 Fellow Rebecca Malanga

“I met so many thoughtful, driven leaders who I know I’ll be seeing throughout my career. It’s amazing to think where we’ll all be one, five, ten, or even 20 years from now.” — 2025 Pathfinder Sargina Desargones

Making Time for Wellness

For the first time, attendees had the opportunity to join quick and impactful Wellness at Work sessions led by Heather Denniston. Early risers started their day with guided walks along the bay, while others participated in workshops on topics like building a realistic morning routine and tools for relieving anxiety. 100% of Pathfinders and 99% of Fellows who attended a wellness session said they plan to use the tools they learned going forward.

Refreshed, Inspired, and Ready for What’s Next

The energy throughout the Spring Meetings was electric. With a 99% satisfaction rate from Pathfinders and 98% from Fellows, it’s clear that this gathering set the bar high for the year ahead.

“As I reflect on my experience at the conference, I am more inspired than ever to continue to create and advance inclusivity in the legal community. I am very grateful to have shared this experience with so many amazing legal professionals who are committed to elevating their career and fostering inclusivity.” — 2025 Pathfinder Kelechi Ajoku

“Just got back from an incredible weekend at the LCLD conference in San Diego, and I have to say—I’m often skeptical about these kinds of events, but this one exceeded all expectations. The panels and workshops LCLD put together for the Spring Meeting were insightful, practical, and immediately applicable. I walked away with actionable takeaways from every session, and I’m excited to start putting them into practice.” — 2025 Fellow Stephanie Poucher

Photos by Cali Griebel Photography