10 Reasons Why You Should Go to Convention (especially if you have never been before!)

Last year was my first time attending the CWBA annual convention. I had an incredible experience and want to share my top ten reasons why I think it is a can't-miss event!

• First time attendees lunch 

The first time attendees lunch takes place on Friday, the first day of convention. It is a great opportunity to meet other first timers and make new connections that you will surely run into throughout the weekend. Don’t be shy, sit down with some strangers and see how quickly they turn into friends!

• Meet new friends 

In addition to the fabulous first time attendees lunch, every session and presentation is a new opportunity to meet new friends and connections. When you see an open seat next to some folks you don’t know, take a seat and say hi! You know attorneys always have lots to talk about, whether it be personal or professional. 

• Get sweet swag 

Every convention attendee receives a swag bag with free stuff! The items can vary from snacks and drinks to office supplies and water bottles! You also may receive coupons for awesome deals at local shops and businesses, these are exclusive for the CWBA!

• Professional connections, not just with attorneys!

Attorneys are not the only fabulous folks in attendance! Meet and exchange information with other legal professionals who specialize in everything from depositions to document review. 

• Delicious food 

Breakfast, lunch, and dinner at the Hythe are absolutely delicious. There are options for all diets and preferences. Fuel up and power your brain with healthy and yummy options throughout the day. Plus, you can’t miss the Chasteilet cheese on Friday afternoon in the lobby, a swiss tradition of freshly melted cheese with all the fixings your heart desires. In the mood for a sweet campfire treat? Head outside to the firepits for complimentary s’mores. 

• Beautiful scenery along the creek, ski hill 

The Hythe is located just steps away from the scenic Gore creek, which runs throughout Vail. Go for a morning or evening stroll and enjoy the soothing sounds of springtime in the Rockies. Head out to the pool area for gorgeous views of the Vail ski resort. Although ski season is over, the views are still lovely to take in. Also, there are opportunities to stay active throughout the weekend, with a yoga class on Saturday morning and a walk along the creek on Sunday. 

• Inspiring programming 

This year’s theme, “Be Bright, Build Bridges and Break Barriers” is sure to inspire, no matter what field you practice in. The weekend’s presentations and workshops will focus on empowering women, advocating for our authentic selves, and going beyond survival to thrive in our lives and careers. You will leave reenergized and shining from the inside out!

Check out this year's presentation schedule here!

• Uplifting award presentation 

The Mary Lathrop Award, the CWBA’s highest honor, will be awarded on Friday night to Judge Angela R. Arkin. The award reception dinner allows attendees to hear directly from this incredible pillar in the Colorado legal community. It is a fabulous kickoff to a weekend of inspiring messages from some of our best and brightest. 

• Passing the gavel 

On Saturday night, the CWBA leadership takes the wheel and the new executive board is sworn in for the 2025-2026 year! Current President Carime Lee will pass the gavel to our incoming President Alison Connaughty. The dinner and presentation is a great celebration of all that the CWBA accomplished in the last year, and a look ahead to the future of the organization for the next year and beyond!

• Dance and Karaoke party 

My personal favorite moment of the entire convention is the karaoke party after the passing of the gavel! This is your chance to really Shine Your Truth and sing your heart out! Props and choreography are recommended but not required. If singing is not your thing, enjoy the entertainment and cheer on your new friends! 

There are so many more reasons to join us at this year's Convention. Register now!

For the first-timers luncheon, RSVP here.

The Convention hotel block closes Friday, May 2. Rooms start at only $207/night. 

Click here to watch a short video of highlights from our 2024 Convention. Thanks to Law Firm Videos for their work on the video.

REGISTER TODAY FOR EARLY BIRD PRICING!

Save at least $50 if you register by the early-bird deadline of May 2, 2025.

Katherine Carroll is an associate attorney practicing family and probate law. A New York native, she moved to Colorado after completing a clerkship in New Jersey Superior Court. Katherine received her J.D. from Touro University Law School in Central Islip, New York in 2022 and her Bachelors from the State University of New York at New Paltz in 2017. Prior to law school, she worked as a radio and television journalist in Albany, New York and New York City. Katherine is a member of the Colorado Bar Association, Colorado Women's Bar Association, the National Association of Women Lawyers, and the American Bar Association. In her spare time, Katherine enjoys reading historical fiction novels, watching RuPaul's Drag Race, and going on hikes with her boyfriend and their dog, Moose.