In May the Texas Alliance of Paralegal Associations (TAPA) met in Austin, Texas. In case you are unfamiliar with TAPA, it is a group of local paralegal associations in Texas that meet two times a year to discuss problems and exchange ideas. A couple of years ago, the Division was added to the Alliance. At the recent Austin meeting, in anticipation of the first Public Forum on the Future of the Profession which will be held during the annual meeting, a focus group session was held on Saturday morning. A lively discussion was had and the Long Range Planning Task Force had the opportunity to hear what the delegates had to say on the subject. At the conclusion of the Public Forums which will be held throughout the State over the next couple of years, a plan will be formulated and presented to TAPA and the Division outlining the wishes of the majority of the paralegals in Texas as to the future of our profession. If you plan on attending the Annual Meeting in June, I urge you to attend the forum which will be held on Thursday afternoon, June 11, and make your voice heard. Many of us feel that our profession will go through some major changes in the next several years and we want our preferences included.
Please be sure to read about Austins own Stephanie Seuser, LADs 1998 Pro Bono recipient. Having known Stephanie for several years, I feel that a better person could not have been chosen for this honor. Stephanie will be presented with her award during the Legal Assistants Division luncheon which will be held on Friday, June 12, during the Annual Meeting.
Finally, on behalf of the Division, mucho kudos and many thanks to Wendi Rogers, the Divisions outgoing President. We thank you for all of your hard work and dedication to LAD throughout the past year.