NAPA VALLEY, CA - MARCH 9, 2025 - Queen’s Bench Bar Association sponsored the sixth annual Bay Area Women Lawyers Network (BAWLN) Retreat from March 7-9, 2025, at the Silverado Resort & Spa in Napa Valley, CA. Founded in 2019, the event provides an opportunity for women lawyers and paraprofessionals from all practice areas, mediators, and judges to develop relationships and learn from various speakers.
Group photo of all 2025 BAWLN Retreat attendees, including 2025 Queen’s Bench Board Member Alexandra Sepolen
This year’s retreat was hosted by several bar associations, including the Alameda County Bar Association, the Contra Costa County Bar Association, the California Judges Association, the Marin County Bar Association, the Santa Clara County Bar Association, the San Francisco Trial Lawyers Association, and the San Mateo County Bar Association. Queen’s Bench was a proud media co-sponsor of this year’s event and was represented by 2025 Treasurer and Diversity Committee Chair Alexandra Sepolen.
San Francisco Superior Court Judge Monica Wiley moderating the ‘When There Are Nine’ panel
The retreat commenced on Friday afternoon with an inspiring panel discussion, “When There Are Nine,” in honor of the late U.S. Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsberg, providing insights into the experiences and leadership of women at the highest levels of the judiciary across the United States. Moderated by San Francisco Superior Court Judge Monica Wiley, the panel included:
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Chief Justice Luckert of the Kansas Supreme Court;
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Chief Justice Mary Jane Theis of the Illinois Supreme Court;
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Chief Justice Mary R. Russell of the Missouri Supreme Court;
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Chief Justice Debra Lambert of the Kentucky Supreme Court;
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Chief Justice Meagan A. Flynn of the Oregon Supreme Court;
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Chief Justice Monica Marquez of the Colorado Supreme Court; and
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Chief Justice Loretta Rush of the Indiana Supreme Court.
After the panel, attendees reconvened for “Knowing Your Worth: Personal and Professional,” a discussion led by Judge Fannin covering crucial topics such as career transitions, pay negotiations, and setting competitive hourly rates. The day concluded with engaging networking activities, allowing attendees to unwind and build meaningful connections.
Former Queen’s Bench Director Mary Catherine Wiederhold speaking during the Fearless Founders - Women Leaders panel
Saturday’s programming featured thought-provoking discussions on civility, fearless leadership, and the evolving role of AI in legal practice. Santa Clara County Superior Court Judge Nahal Iravani-Sani opened the day with a session on the importance of professionalism and civility in the legal field.
Later, the “Fearless Founders – Women Leaders” panel brought together trailblazing women attorneys, including former Queen’s Bench Director Mary Catherine Wiederhold, San Francisco Superior Court Judge Anne Costin, Bobby Shukla, and Renee Livingston, who shared their experiences in launching and managing successful law firms during their careers.
From left to right: Lorena Campozano; Jody Irons; and Tasneem Nomanbhai
The morning concluded with “AI – Women Centric – Don’t Get Left Behind!” where industry experts, including Tasneem Nomanbhai of WSG and Lorena Campozano of LexisNexis, discussed the impact of bias in AI and strategies for leveraging technology in legal practice. Attendees then explored Downtown Napa followed by networking at various group dinners at local restaurants.
From left to right: Judge Veronica Rios Reddick, Judge Arcelia Hurtado, and Erica Dennings
Sunday began with a celebratory brunch before transitioning into the final sessions for the weekend. “From Bias to Brilliance: Unlocking Potential Through Self-Advocacy” featured an empowering discussion with Judge Veronica Rios Reddick, Erica Dennings, and Judge Arcelia Hurtado on the importance of self-advocacy, pay negotiation, and leveraging mentorship for professional growth.
Own It panelists and moderators
Following the session was “Own It,” during which Alameda Superior Court Judge Tamiza Hockenhull Stone, Alameda County Commissioner Elena Ramirez, and Alameda County Deputy Public Defender Rebecca Tran shared strategies for overcoming imposter syndrome and claiming confidence in one’s professional journey.
A final session led by San Mateo County Bar Association Executive Director Deborah Kemper wrapped up the weekend on a high note, reinforcing key takeaways and celebrating the accomplishments of women in law.
Queen’s Bench is honored to have supported our sister bar associations this year’s retreat, reinforcing our commitment to supporting, uplifting, and advancing women in the legal profession. “I am thrilled that Queen’s Bench sponsored such an important retreat in line with our mission during Women’s History Month and International Women’s Day Weekend. Not only did the retreat provide robust educational content and business development opportunities, but it also was an uplifting environment for women lawyers with varying levels of experience. I encourage Queen’s Bench members to attend next year,” remarked Sepolen.
We extend our gratitude to all the speakers, panelists, and attendees who contributed to making this event a resounding success. We look forward to continuing to support initiatives that encourage women lawyers to thrive.
Founded in 1921, Queen’s Bench Bar Association is a 501(c)(6) organization that promotes equality and opportunity for all, including the professional advancement of women in the legal profession. For more information about our bar association, please email admin@queensbench.org.
