The National Association of Women Lawyers ("NAWL") is gearing up for another spectacular Annual Meeting, highlighting our national network for community-building, educational sessions, and awards celebrations.


2026 Annual Meeting


Wednesday, July 22 - Thursday, July 23, 2026

Save the date!


Hilton Chicago

720 South Michigan Avenue

Chicago, IL 60605


Registration will open in early 2026.

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2026 Award Recipients

Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson
Supreme Court of the United States
Arabella Babb Mansfield Award

Testimonials

“All I can say is don’t miss out on the chance to get motivated and inspired by the community of professional friends you will encounter at the NAWL Annual Meeting!”

“Attending NAWL’s Annual Meeting checks all the boxes that I want in a conference: top-notch speakers, compelling CLE content, friendly atmosphere conducive to making business contacts and new friends, all combined with fun activities, excellent food and accommodations! Chicago couldn’t be more perfect in July!”

"I walked out of the meeting having made meaningful connections, some of which I am confident will become life-long friendships. As a first-generation attorney, I deeply understand the value of mentorship and representation, which is why I can't understate the importance of organizations such as this one."

"Conferences are boring. No one really wants to be there--the awkward interactions, pretend interest in what the other person is saying, cheesy ice-breakers...Not the NAWL Annual Meeting! Being in a room full of badass, fascinating women who want to support other women and who are genuinely interested in getting to know one another was beyond energizing."

"As a first time attendee, I felt so comfortable and necessary to the organization by just how wonderfully all of the ladies welcomed me in and immediately began thinking of a place for me. It is an organization that I am grateful I was introduced to and they put on an event that left me feeling included, motivated and extremely full of hope!"

“Meeting incredible and inspiring people from various fields was truly invigorating. The resources provided, like an open, centralized meeting place and dedicated mother's room, made the event welcoming and accommodating. It was an opportunity to grow, connect, and enjoy every moment!”

“High energy, great speakers, and fantastic opportunity to meet lots of attorneys across the legal ecosystem.”

“Last year’s Annual Meeting was my first NAWL in-person event and it was an amazing experience--especially getting to meet so many inspiring women in person after only connecting virtually. Grateful for the NAWL community! In a profession that sometimes feels isolating, connection is so important. I highly recommend attending!”

“The program was fantastic, with engaging speakers and interesting and relevant topics, including developing a personal brand, recent Supreme Court decisions and their impacts going forward, and the role media plays in the legal world today. We met awesome attorneys, got to share our different experiences, and gained so much in such a short time. Looking forward to continuing my involvement in NAWL and can’t wait for future NAWL events!”

“All I can say is don’t miss out on the chance to get motivated and inspired by the community of professional friends you will encounter at the NAWL Annual Meeting!”

“Attending NAWL’s Annual Meeting checks all the boxes that I want in a conference: top-notch speakers, compelling CLE content, friendly atmosphere conducive to making business contacts and new friends, all combined with fun activities, excellent food and accommodations! Chicago couldn’t be more perfect in July!”

Interested in Sponsoring?



Our biggest conference of the year is not just about networking—it's about building lasting relationships and celebrating the incredible achievements of women in law. With opportunities designed to foster meaningful connections, from small group dine-arounds to facilitated receptions and break activities, the Annual Meeting is designed to maximize in-person relationship-building that lasts beyond the conference.


Click here to see a sample of the firms and companies represented at our recent Annual Meetings.


Contact:

Stefanie Skaggs, Development Manager


Agenda


The agenda will be updated as programming is announced. Check back often!



Take a look at the 2025 agenda for a taste of what to expect.

2025 Agenda
Wednesday
July 22
2:00 - 4:00 pm CT
Opening Workshops
Wednesday
July 22
5:00 pm - 6:00 pm CT
Welcome Reception

We encourage you to wear NAWL colors (purple, white, and/or gold) and step into a room full of powerhouse professionals ready to inspire and engage. This is your moment to set the tone for your conference experience—share your superpower, spark new conversations, and connect with NAWL’s incredible national network. We can’t wait to welcome you!

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Wednesday
July 22
6:30 pm - 8:00 pm CT
Dine-Arounds

Elevate your conference experience through a curated networking opportunity to connect with fellow attendees over a delicious pay-on-your-own dinner. Join a host committee member at these intimate gatherings where you'll mix, mingle, and savor the flavors of the city at nearby restaurants.

Sign up for the restaurant of your choice in the conference app, which will be available a few weeks before the conference. Bon appétit!

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Wednesday
July 22
8:30 pm - 9:30 pm CT
Post-Dinner Meet-Ups

Not ready for the fun to end? Meet at the Hilton lobby bar to keep the conversations going or find our group in the lobby to walk over to Millennium Park to enjoy the Navy Pier fireworks together.

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Thursday
July 23
6:30 am - 8:00 am CT
Morning Walk or Run

Rise and shine! Start your day with an invigorating walk or run through the heart of Chicago's stunning architecture. Walkers get the chance to admire the iconic Bean (Cloud Gate) in Millennium Park as you stretch and connect with fellow attendees. This energizing activity will have you feeling refreshed and ready to tackle the day's events. Don't miss this chance to embrace the city's best season before a day of incredible programming.

Let's paint the town purple! Wear NAWL merch for your walk or run.

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Thursday
July 23
8:00 am - 8:30 am CT
Registration and Breakfast Reception

Collect your name badge and fuel up with a delicious breakfast, setting the stage for a productive and engaging day ahead.

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Thursday
July 23
8:30 am - 9:30 am CT
Breakfast Mainstage


Thursday
July 23
9:30 am - 11:00 am CT
"Choose Your Own Adventure" Concurrent Workshops

NAWL's Annual Meeting workshops dive into timely topics that address current trends and challenges. Expect interactive conversations that foster engagement, collaboration, and real-world solutions.

Thursday
July 23
11:00 am - 11:30 am CT
Networking Break

Use the time to grab a snack, refill your coffee, or join a group at one of many activity tables. From puzzles, to sticker by number, to friendship bracelet making, we have lots of ways to connect with the NAWL community.

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Thursday
July 23
11:45 am - 1:00 pm CT
Lunch + Fireside Chat with U.S. Supreme Court Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson

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Thursday
July 23
1:00 pm - 1:30 pm CT
Dessert and Coffee Break

Enjoy a sweet treat, refill your coffee, or join a group at one of many activity tables. From puzzles, to sticker by number, to friendship bracelet making, we have lots of ways to connect with the NAWL community.

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Thursday
July 23
1:30 pm - 2:45 pm CT
Concurrent Workshops

NAWL's Annual Meeting workshops dive into timely topics that address current trends and challenges. Expect interactive conversations that foster engagement, collaboration, and real-world solutions.

Thursday
July 23
2:45 pm - 3:15 pm CT
Networking Break


Use the time to grab a snack, refill your coffee, or join a group at one of many activity tables. From puzzles, to sticker by number, to friendship bracelet making, we have lots of ways to connect with the NAWL community.

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Thursday
July 23
3:15 pm - 4:30 pm CT
Closing Panel Discussion

NAWL's award recipients are integral to our program. They won't just receive their awards and leave the stage; they'll share their journeys and insights during this session. You’ll have the chance to hear their stories firsthand, ask your burning questions, and dive into timely conversations that matter to you.
Thursday
July 23
4:30 pm - 5:30 pm CT
Closing Reception

As we wrap up the 2026 Annual Meeting, join us for one last chance to connect with fellow attendees and celebrate our journey together.

This is the perfect moment to make plans and ensure the connections you've made continue to thrive after the conference.

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The Annual Meeting conference is open to registered attendees only.

Venue

HILTON CHICAGO

720 South Michigan Avenue

Chicago, IL 60605



HOTEL RESERVATIONS

The link to book your room at our discounted rate will be available soon and posted here.


Please be aware of scammers claiming to offer a better rate at the conference property. Use our link only to book your room at the Hilton Chicago. Remember to never follow a link or answer any questions if you are contacted by anyone other than NAWL. Please report any scams to nawl@nawl.org.


Pricing

Registration will open in early 2026.

Complimentary registrations are available for unemployed attorneys and law students. Please apply for a scholarship as indicated in the FAQs section.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Who should attend this event?

    NAWL welcomes all attorneys and law students regardless of age, race, religion, ancestry, disability, political affiliation, sexual orientation, or gender identity. We recognize and celebrate the value that a vast range of backgrounds, cultures, and professional experiences brings to our community.


    For anyone outside of the legal profession who is interested in attending the Annual Meeting, we offer sponsorship opportunities. Email nawl@nawl.org to learn more.


  • How do I become a NAWL member?

    If you are not already a member, simply register for the 2026 Annual Meeting at the “New Member” rate which includes a NAWL membership through December 2026.


  • Can I earn CLE?

    Yes, NAWL will apply for pre-approved credit in Illinois (with reciprocal credit in California, Connecticut, New York, and New Jersey), Texas, and Washington. Additional CLE provider applications may be submitted based on attendee location. Make sure you include the states where you want credit on your registration form.


    Speaker attendance is not guaranteed and is subject to change without notice.


    Questions? Email Ola.

  • Are scholarships available?

    NAWL will offer scholarship assistance for this conference to a limited number of attorneys, law students, and unemployed attorneys who wish to attend but may not be able to do so due to cost considerations. The financial assistance covers the registration fee for the events on July 22 - 23, 2026.


    The application process requires the applicant to demonstrate their eligibility and to provide a short essay setting forth the reasons why they are an appropriate candidate to receive scholarship funds, including how the conference will benefit them and information regarding financial need.


    Applicants should send materials to NAWL's Program Director, Chelsea Robinson at crobinson@nawl.org. Applications are due by Friday, June 19, 2026.

  • Is there a Code of Conduct for NAWL programs?

    Yes. NAWL programs are designed to evoke the spirit of community, curiosity, and consideration. Attendees and speakers are invited to join our programs with an open mind and willingness to learn.


    NAWL program participants have agreed to:

    • Be respectful of fellow attendees' boundaries.
    • Thoughtfully and openly communicate with others and be considerate of a diversity of viewpoints and opinions.
    • Approach difficult conversations with grace and empathy.
    • Avoid soliciting services or products.

    If you experienced or witnessed any behavior you feel violated this code of conduct, fill out this form to anonymously report the incident, or email Chelsea Robinson, NAWL's Program Director, at crobinson@nawl.org.


  • What is NAWL's cancellation policy?

    Please send cancellation requests to nawl@nawl.org by Monday, July 20, 2026. Full refunds will be honored before or on this date.


  • Whom do I speak to about my special dietary needs?

    You may include dietary needs information during online registration. If you have already registered, please contact us at nawl@nawl.org with a request at least two weeks before the conference.


  • What is the dress code?

    The typical attire is business, but there is no dress code for this program.