Greetings Appellate Practice Section Members, 

Several past APS chairs had a theme for their year. Sorry friends, I do not. Instead, at the Annual Convention, I issued a challenge to all our members.

I joined the Section in my first year of practice. However, I did not know how to get involved. I watched from the sidelines, not exactly sure where I fit in. I was fortunate to be friends with one of my opposing counsels. After hearing that I wanted to get involved, she called me and asked me to come to a meeting with her. We carpooled early one morning from Jacksonville to the Winter Meeting in Orlando. She introduced me to numerous people. She helped me figure out which committees I wanted to join. She helped guide me through the meetings and process. Feeling inspired, I even volunteered to chair a CLE.

 That one phone call changed the course of my career and involvement in the Section. Raising my hand and volunteering for that one CLE led to more opportunities. I wrote articles for The Record and presented CLEs. It also led to more responsibility within the Section. I eventually co-chaired the webinar series, became CLE Chair, and then graduated to being an officer.

 Throughout this process, I have met amazing appellate lawyers. I have made lifelong friends through the Section. We call on each other often for life advice, to talk through cases, and to share funny stories or memes. We grab lunch together after oral arguments or if we are passing through town. My involvement has helped build a book business. The Section opens so many doors. 

 My challenge to all of you is simple: help someone else open those doors like my colleague did back in my early years of practice. Bring a friend. Bring an opposing counsel. Bring an associate. Bring a law student. Bring a law clerk. 

 These individuals will be the future of our Section. They will ensure that our Section is around for the next thirty years. I hope you accept this challenge and look forward to seeing who you bring to our next meeting.

 

 

Kansas Gooden

Chair, Appellate Practice Section