This seems to be a time of transitions in the access to justice world.  I’d like to take the opportunity to note the very significant contributions of those that I know about.

Allison McDermott is leaving Pro Bono Net after 12 years helping shape what is now a leading force for access to justice.  She will be Executive Director of the Havens Relief Fund Society.  News of the appointment is here.  All who have worked with her, and know her energy, generosity of spirit, deep personal warmth, and great skill will know what a gap she will leave at PBN.  And, all who have observed PBN’s history of attracting great talent will have no doubt that the organization will find the right person or persons.

Laura Abel, of the National Center for Access to Justice, is moving to the Lawyers Alliance for New York to serve as Senior Policy Counsel, where she will be guiding nonprofits in New York on issues of policy and compliance. Again a wonderful person on whom so many of us already rely for commonsense, insight, and intelligence.   Stepping in will be Jamie Gamble, former Simpson Thacher Bartlett partner, who will take on the role of pro bono Director of  NCAJ’s Access to Justice Index Project.

Finally, Danielle Hirsch, who has done such a wonderful job at the Chicago Bar Foundation, including working on expanding the Justice Corps concept, is moving to be the new first executive director of the Illinois Supreme Court Commission on Access to Justice.  She will be a great addition to the ever-strengthening network of Commissions (including, I understand, continuing to work with the Justice Corps program in Chicago).

Congratulations to all of you, thanks for your contributions, and we look forward to new triumphs.