From our Chapter President, MELISSA tOKAR

ALA President's Message 2018

Welcome to the New Orleans Chapter of the Association of Legal Administrators (ALA)! Whether you are here looking for information to become a new member or a business partner, we're glad you stopped by.

As I prepare myself for taking on the role of President of the New Orleans Chapter of ALA, I am reflecting back on how I first got started in ALA in 2008.  I had just started my first office manager position with a small firm in Kentucky after having worked as a legal secretary for many, many years.  My previous office administrator called me and told me I MUST join this group, it was going to give me great support, I was going to meet new friends and the educational opportunities were outstanding (especially for someone like me working in a small boutique firm).  Thus, began my ten-year membership in ALA.  I think there are several important items we should focus on from my story.  1) MENTORING:  Someone took the time to reach out to me and draw me into this organization - making sure I went to meetings, getting me involved in a committee, and eventually on the Board and President of the Kentucky Chapter.  It can be very intimidating to walk into a room full of strangers and having even just one friendly face can make all the difference in the world.  2) EDUCATION:  If there is one thing ALA does well, it is that it provides us with multiple opportunities to learn.  From local monthly lunch meetings, to regional conferences, national conferences, specialty conferences and webinars, there is something for everyone.  3) VOLUNTEERING: There is a spot for everyone on the many committees within ALA, both at the local level and the national level.  If you want to spend a little time and get more involved, there's a committee that will suit your needs.  Don't hesitate to reach out and let the Chapter know that you want to become more involved!  It's well worth it and you may just discover some great, new friends in the process.

The Chapter also has a wonderful Business Partner Program and an annual Expo.  This year, we are excited to host our Expo in the Mercedes Superdome and we are always looking to partner with new vendors that do business in our area.  If you are interested in more information about becoming one of our valued business partners, please click on the "Business Partner" link above or give me a call.

If you would like to hear more information about our organization or if you have any questions, please do not hesitate to reach out to me.  I look forward to hearing from you!

Melissa Tokar
President, New Orleans Chapter
of the Association of Legal Administrators
504-566-5208