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
Hilton Chicago
720 South Michigan Avenue
Chicago, IL 60605
Testimonials
Our Sponsors
Power-Up - JAMS
Friend - Barack Ferrazzano
Workshop - Shorepoint Advisory Group
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.
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.
Wednesday
July 22
2:00 - 4:00 pm CT
Opening Workshops
Sponsor:
Beyond the Paycheck: Advanced Planning to Reach Your Financial Potential
Being paid well doesn't always translate into having a high net worth. But it can by taking a holistic approach that gives you the control you want with a strategy you trust, while working towards the financial freedom you crave.
In this presentation (and conversation), you'll:
- Learn how to maximize your current income
- Discover the 3 mistakes most professionals are making with their money
- Learn how money can actually make you happier
- Get clarity on the difference between investing your money and building your wealth
- Understand why it’s never too late to start (or pivot)
- Leave with a plan to build your roadmap to financial freedom today – no matter where you are in your career
CEO & Financial Advisor, ShorePoint Advisory Group
CEO, WTR Enterprises
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!
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!
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.
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.
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.
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.
Thursday
July 23
11:45 am - 1:00 pm CT
Lunch + Fireside Chat
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.
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.
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.
The Annual Meeting conference is open to registered attendees only.
Venue
HILTON CHICAGO
720 South Michigan Avenue
Chicago, IL 60605
HOTEL RESERVATIONS
Book your room before June 28 for our special rate. Reservations can be made online 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.
TRAVEL
We're partnering with United to offer discounted rates for flights to the Annual Meeting.
Additional information is provided in your registration confirmation email.
Registration
Registration Types
NAWL Member / Sponsor
Non-Member
Non-Profit / Government Attorney
By June 21
$700
$900
$330
After June 21
$800
$1,000
$330
Ticket includes a reception with hors d'oeuvres on Wednesday followed by breakfast, lunch, and a reception with hors d'oeuvres on Thursday. Beverages and snacks are included between meals on Thursday.
Complimentary registrations are available for unemployed attorneys and law students. Please apply for a scholarship as indicated in the FAQs section.
Need help making the case to your employer?
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 the legal profession who is interested in attending the Annual Meeting, we offer sponsorship opportunities. See the Sponsorship section above or email nawl@nawl.org to learn more.
How do I become a NAWL member?
Membership with the National Association of Women Lawyers is open to practicing lawyers, retired lawyers, and law students. Learn more about membership and become a member here. We'd love to have you!
Can I earn CLE?
Yes, we expect the Annual Meeting to be approved for 5-7 CLE credit hours.
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 the Annual Meeting to a limited number of attorneys, law students, and unemployed attorneys who wish to attend but are not able to 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 a 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?
Please include your dietary needs information during online registration. If you have already registered and did not include this information, please email us at nawl@nawl.org with your 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.
