Continuing Education Program: Demystifying Leadership and Volunteering in CALL.

On Wednesday, November 20, the Mentorship and Career Development Committee hosted an online panel entitled Demystifying Leadership and Volunteering in CALL. This Continuing Education Program sought to inspire members to step into leadership roles within the organization and offered practical advice for navigating CALL’s opportunities.

Panelists featured CALL members with a variety of leadership experience within the organization:

  • Katrina Perez, Technical Services Manager Faegre Drinker Biddle & Reath LLP
  • Joseph Mitzenmacher, Reference and Electronic Services Librarian, Adjunct Professor of Law, Philip H. Corboy Law Center, Loyola Law Library
  • Lindsey Carpino, Legal Content Services Manager, Baker Hostetler
  • Clare Willis, Research and Instructional Services Librarian, Coordinator of Educational Outreach, Pritzker Legal Research Center, Northwestern Pritzker School of Law

Encouraging Leadership Engagement

President Philip Johnson set the tone by outlining the 2025 CALL election process, highlighting positions such as Vice President/President-Elect, Secretary, and Director. He also discussed the volunteer roles available in various committees, emphasizing the benefits of leadership within CALL.  The CALL president and panelists reassured attendees that many roles now incorporate virtual meetings, offering flexibility and reducing time commitments.

Each panelist shared personal anecdotes and insights, demystifying the journey to leadership. They emphasized that taking on a role within CALL does not require extensive prior experience. Instead, curiosity, willingness to learn, and a supportive community are key to success. Panelists described how CALL has not only enhanced their professional skills but also created lasting networks and friendships.

Panelists spoke candidly about their motivations for volunteering and the challenges they faced. The session also covered essential traits for effective leaders: taking initiative, listening actively, and fostering collaboration.

Benefits of Volunteering

Beyond professional growth, panelists highlighted the personal rewards of leadership. Volunteering in CALL provides a platform to propose new ideas, gain managerial experience, and build connections with a supportive group of peers. There was a general consensus among panelists that CALL offered a welcoming atmosphere for creative and collaborative leadership.

Looking Ahead

The panel concluded with advice for potential leaders: consult your workplace for support before taking on significant roles, ask questions, and approach leadership with an open mind. The 2025 election nominations, open from mid-February to mid-March, provide the perfect opportunity for members to step forward and contribute.