From the Desk of Maggie Sweeney, WDTL Executive Director
Reflecting on a Decade of Leadership and 25 Years with WDTL
It’s hard to believe that my journey as Executive Director of the Washington Defense Trial Lawyers Association (WDTL) began more than 10 years ago, in August 2014. At the time, former Executive Director Kristin Baldwin had moved on to new opportunities, and Melissa Roeder had just ascended to the Presidency. I was a member of the WDTL Board and felt a strong pull to apply for the Executive Director position—despite having no formal background in Association Management.
Looking back, that decision was life-changing. I’ve never stayed at the same job for this long, and I’ve certainly never had a role that has been this rewarding. The past ten years have been filled with challenges, opportunities, and meaningful relationships that have shaped both my career and my personal growth in ways I never expected.
My years as a practicing civil defense attorney and WDTL member gave me invaluable insights into the needs of defense trial lawyers and the importance of our organization. WDTL is more than a professional association—it is the collective voice of the Defense Bar. That understanding has guided my leadership and inspired my commitment to fostering a supportive community for our members.
An important part of our ongoing success has been the addition of Kathleen Howat as our contract Marketing Manager in 2019. Kathleen has been an integral part of enhancing WDTL’s service to our members and elevating our online image. Her creativity, dedication, and expertise have allowed us to connect more effectively with our members and sponsors, strengthening the defense community.
Collaboration has been central to everything we’ve achieved, and I am incredibly fortunate to have worked for the amazing attorneys who comprise WDTL’s Board of Trustees. Their vision, energy, and unwavering commitment have been integral to our success. I am also deeply grateful for the involvement and support of WDTL’s Past Presidents, whose experience, dedication, and financial support continue to inspire and guide us.
The challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic were a true test of resilience. In response, we adapted quickly, transitioning to online meetings to ensure that we continued to serve our members without interruption. Providing high-quality CLE programs during such an unprecedented time was a priority, and I’m proud of how we upheld our commitment to professional development and connection.
One of the highlights of this journey has been our legislative advocacy efforts. Together, we’ve worked to build relationships with legislators and the plaintiff’s bar so that we have a voice in legislation that upholds our values of justice, fairness, and equity. These efforts are a testament to the strength of WDTL’s leadership and the dedication of our members.
Building relationships with the judiciary and other legal organizations has also been a critical part of our work. Our judicial receptions across the state give our members the opportunity to connect with Judges in a social atmosphere to better foster mutual respect and collaboration, ensuring that our voice is heard and contributing to a more robust and united legal community.
Over the years, I’ve built lasting relationships with WDTL members, sponsors, and volunteers. These connections have not only enriched my professional life but have also deepened my appreciation for the community spirit that defines WDTL.
As I reflect on the past decade, I am overwhelmed with gratitude—for the lessons learned, the milestones achieved, and the incredible people who have been part of this journey. It is a privilege to serve as WDTL’s Executive Director, and I look forward to what the future holds for our organization.
Thank you for your continued trust, involvement, and passion. Let’s continue to build on our legacy of excellence, together.
Warm regards,
Maggie Sweeney
Executive Director, Washington Defense Trial Lawyers Association
It’s hard to believe that my journey as Executive Director of the Washington Defense Trial Lawyers Association (WDTL) began more than 10 years ago, in August 2014. At the time, former Executive Director Kristin Baldwin had moved on to new opportunities, and Melissa Roeder had just ascended to the Presidency. I was a member of the WDTL Board and felt a strong pull to apply for the Executive Director position—despite having no formal background in Association Management.
Looking back, that decision was life-changing. I’ve never stayed at the same job for this long, and I’ve certainly never had a role that has been this rewarding. The past ten years have been filled with challenges, opportunities, and meaningful relationships that have shaped both my career and my personal growth in ways I never expected.
My years as a practicing civil defense attorney and WDTL member gave me invaluable insights into the needs of defense trial lawyers and the importance of our organization. WDTL is more than a professional association—it is the collective voice of the Defense Bar. That understanding has guided my leadership and inspired my commitment to fostering a supportive community for our members.
An important part of our ongoing success has been the addition of Kathleen Howat as our contract Marketing Manager in 2019. Kathleen has been an integral part of enhancing WDTL’s service to our members and elevating our online image. Her creativity, dedication, and expertise have allowed us to connect more effectively with our members and sponsors, strengthening the defense community.
Collaboration has been central to everything we’ve achieved, and I am incredibly fortunate to have worked for the amazing attorneys who comprise WDTL’s Board of Trustees. Their vision, energy, and unwavering commitment have been integral to our success. I am also deeply grateful for the involvement and support of WDTL’s Past Presidents, whose experience, dedication, and financial support continue to inspire and guide us.
The challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic were a true test of resilience. In response, we adapted quickly, transitioning to online meetings to ensure that we continued to serve our members without interruption. Providing high-quality CLE programs during such an unprecedented time was a priority, and I’m proud of how we upheld our commitment to professional development and connection.
One of the highlights of this journey has been our legislative advocacy efforts. Together, we’ve worked to build relationships with legislators and the plaintiff’s bar so that we have a voice in legislation that upholds our values of justice, fairness, and equity. These efforts are a testament to the strength of WDTL’s leadership and the dedication of our members.
Building relationships with the judiciary and other legal organizations has also been a critical part of our work. Our judicial receptions across the state give our members the opportunity to connect with Judges in a social atmosphere to better foster mutual respect and collaboration, ensuring that our voice is heard and contributing to a more robust and united legal community.
Over the years, I’ve built lasting relationships with WDTL members, sponsors, and volunteers. These connections have not only enriched my professional life but have also deepened my appreciation for the community spirit that defines WDTL.
As I reflect on the past decade, I am overwhelmed with gratitude—for the lessons learned, the milestones achieved, and the incredible people who have been part of this journey. It is a privilege to serve as WDTL’s Executive Director, and I look forward to what the future holds for our organization.
Thank you for your continued trust, involvement, and passion. Let’s continue to build on our legacy of excellence, together.
Warm regards,
Maggie Sweeney
Executive Director, Washington Defense Trial Lawyers Association