June 2026 President's Letter

Alaska 2026 Midyear ADVENTURE

As I sit and reflect on our Alaska Midyear Conference, one word comes to mind: extraordinary. While I will share the full story in the upcoming issue of Counterbalance, I want to offer a preview and express my heartfelt gratitude to everyone who made this experience so special.

Seventy-two of my closest NAWJ "member-friends" embarked on a remarkable journey together through Alaska's breathtaking Inside Passage. The stunning scenery was unforgettable, but the true highlight of the trip was the opportunity to spend meaningful time together. Having spouses, family members, and friends join us added a special dimension to the experience. It was a joy getting to know the people who support our members behind the scenes, and I am convinced that after this trip, it may be time to create an NAWJ Spouses Auxiliary! My husband was happily in tow, and I know many others would agree that our traveling companions contributed greatly to the fun, fellowship, and sense of community that made this voyage so memorable.

Throughout the week, we laughed together, learned together, explored together, and strengthened relationships old and new. We built bridges, traveled across some, and strengthened our core. New friendships were forged, longstanding friendships were deepened, and the spirit of NAWJ was evident everywhere. It reminded me once again that NAWJ is far more than an association—it is a growing and vibrant community.

Although we had an incredible turnout, we deeply missed one member of our NAWJ family. Our Operations Director, Brian Gorg, was unable to join us due to health concerns. We all wish him continued healing and a speedy recovery. We look forward to having him back with us soon.
I would also like to recognize the outstanding efforts of our Executive Director, Laurie Denham, who sailed with us and helped ensure everything ran smoothly throughout the week. Back home on land, Membership Administrator Janelle Mihoc worked tirelessly behind the scenes, providing invaluable support. Together, they exemplified the dedication, professionalism, and commitment that keep NAWJ moving forward.

Our journey was made even more memorable by the extraordinary hospitality shown by our Alaska colleagues. A special thank you to Retired Chief Justice Dana Fabe, the Anchorage Association of Women Lawyers, and Stoel Rives for hosting a spectacular closing reception in Anchorage. It was a wonderful celebration of friendship, leadership, and enduring connections. It was a perfect ending to an incredible adventure.

We are equally grateful to NAWJ Member and Alaska Superior Court Judge Marianna Carpeneti, the Juneau Association of Women Lawyers, and the Juneau Bar Association for hosting a warm and welcoming networking reception in Juneau. Their generosity and hospitality provided the perfect opportunity for members and guests to connect while experiencing the unique charm of Alaska's capital city.

As your President, I could not have imagined a better way to advance our theme of Building Bridges, Strengthening Ties. This voyage reminded us that NAWJ is a community of remarkable women and allies who support one another, learn from
one another, and celebrate one another.

But our journey together is far from over.

This weekend, we will continue Building Bridges, Strengthening Ties, and Creating Memories in Minneapolis at our first Regional Meeting- June 5^th and 6th. Our very own Rachel Pickering, District 10 Director and Judge of the Kansas Court of Appeals, has put together what promises to be a remarkable program. I cannot wait to gather with our members once again for another opportunity to connect, collaborate, and strengthen the relationships that make NAWJ so special.

And after Minneapolis, our sights turn to New Orleans! Registration is now open for the 2026 NAWJ Annual Conference, and I encourage each of you to make plans to join us. I cannot wait to welcome our NAWJ family to a city known for its rich culture, vibrant history, warm hospitality, and unmistakable spirit. If Alaska taught us anything, it is that when NAWJ members come together, extraordinary things happen. Sign up today and join us in New Orleans!

Thank you to everyone who joined us on for the unforgettable Alaska adventure. I enjoyed every minute of it, and I look forward to sharing more stories, photographs, and highlights in the next issue of Counterbalance.

The Honorable Pamela Scott Washington
President, National Association of Women Judges