The WDTL Annual Convention, to me, has always represented the heartbeat of this special organization. I have now attended four conventions. And each time I have returned home with a joie de vivre for what the next year holds, supercharged to lead our organization and carry out its mission to our membership.
 
A month removed from celebrating at this year’s convention in stunning Whistler, British Columbia, I have reflected deeply on why our conventions mean so much to our organization:
 

• Electric energy, powering our leadership and membership for years to come;
• Indelible memories, lasting a lifetime, shared among new and old friends; and
• Meaningful bonds built by our membership and core sponsors, solidifying this organization’s strength.

 
But our conventions go nowhere without the unwavering commitment from our members, their families, and core sponsors. So to all who made the trek and attended the convention in Whistler, WDTL appreciates your love and support.
 
Now to the 2025 Convention’s recap. The Convention jumpstarted with a panel discussion that aimed to inspire younger lawyers to pursue their passions in building a law practice. And then the heart of the Convention’s programming kicked off. From presentations about (1) sharpening our membership’s oral and written advocacy from four Washington appellate judges; (2) stress management and lawyer empowerment from a leadership specialist; and (3) best practices for managing discovery and avoiding sanctions from seasoned trial veterans, our attendees left invigorated and ready to crush the plaintiff’s bar.
 
But that’s not all (cue Ron Popeil’s voice for those old enough to remember his famous infomercials). Five WDTL past presidents, spanning several generations, participated in a lively fireside chat to impart wisdom and elicit laughs. Our DRI Ted Lasso-costumed keynote speakers provided timeless lessons in leadership modeled on the consummate optimist and coach Ted Lasso. And finally our attendees learned about the nuts and bolts of staying enforcement of judgments and bad-faith and IFCA litigation.
 
Beyond the superb programming, our convention attendees enjoyed the beautiful Whistler outdoors on the golf course, at the pool, or in Olympic Village. And they partook in conversation, food, drinks, and camaraderie at the baseball-themed President’s Party honoring outgoing President Erin Seeberger at the base of Whistler Blackcomb during a gorgeous mountain sunset.
 
In addition, WDTL congratulates its Executive Board’s newest members: Secretary Kimberly Reppart of Forsberg & Umlauf, PS, Treasurer Alison Turnbull of KS Lawyers, PLLC, President-Elect Ashley Nagrodski of Smith Freed Eberhard, President Rory Cosgrove of Carney Badley Spellman, PS, and Immediate Past President Erin Seeberger of DeMaine Seeberger PLLC.
 
WDTL looks forward to another exciting year filled with top-notch programming and many marquee social events around the Puget Sound and Spokane. And please mark on your calendars next year’s convention (July 23–26, 2026) at the relaxing, picturesque Skamania Lodge.