The 2025 (un)conference challenges the traditional law conference format. It will be an intimate, personalized event in the incredible setting of the Omni Rancho Las Palmas for leaders in the legal profession who are looking to hone their skills and network with peers.
Everything from the peer-to-peer roundtable discussions to the resort-style networking is meant to spark innovative ideas around defying the (un)written rules for women in the legal profession. The event will foster authentic relationship-building and provide practical solutions for strategic professional growth.
Knowing that women network differently than men, preferring to build smaller, deeper, and more trusting networks, the
(un)conference is an intentionally small, intimate experience.
Join us to share your expertise and experience while expanding your influence within a community of professionals grappling with the same challenges and embracing opportunities for change.
It'll be a conference (un)like any you've attended before.
The (un)conference is ideal for:
- Legal leaders with at least a decade of experience, eager to collaborate with other changemakers in similar roles and learn from their experiences.
- Innovators wanting to explore new strengths and share strategies to empower transformative change within themselves and their organizations.
- Seasoned attorneys ready to amplify their leadership capabilities and leverage their influence to challenge and rewrite the (un)written rules of the legal profession.
Sponsors
Browse the pop-up shop onsite throughout the (un)conference!
A note from the owner:
For the last 30 years, I have been traveling back and forth to Paris, curating a collection of the finest luxury couture jewelry designers. Many of my pieces are one of a kind, some vintage (Chanel, YSL, Hermes). This season I am working with 15 different artists with whom I often co-design.
Jewelry is my passion and I am looking forward to sharing it with you in Palm Springs!
A bientôt,
Isabelle
Nemecek & Cole is generously hosting a private wine reception at CODA Gallery on Thursday, March 6.
Find more information in the agenda below.
Sponsorship
With this new type of program, we're focusing on an (un)traditional type of sponsor.
Benefit packages are tailored toward legal vendors and consumer brands interested in interacting with our audience of senior leaders and high-net-worth women, but anyone is welcome to sponsor.
Wednesday
March 5
12:00 pm - 1:30 pm PT
Welcome Lunch
Hollywood on Trial: Images of Women in Law
This will be one of the few times we'll gather everyone together. "Hollywood on Trial: Images of Women in Law" is (un)like any program you’ve seen before--but it will change the way you look at everything going forward.
Elizabeth Weitzman's unique multimedia program contextualizes essential issues like gatekeeping, diversity, and inclusion through popular culture. Using fascinating film and television portrayals that span a full century, Weitzman will illustrate the dramatically varied ways Hollywood has reflected and redefined our views of women in law, to explore how media shapes perception - and how perception shapes our reality.
Approved for 1.0 "Ethics Equity" CLE credit hour by the Washington State Bar Association.
Wednesday
March 5
1:30 pm - 2:00 pm PT
Break
Taking advantage of the beautiful setting of the Omni in Palm Springs, we'll enjoy facilitated activities in an outdoor setting.
Wednesday
March 5
2:15 pm - 3:45 pm PT
Roundtable Discussions
We'll break into more intimate groups to discuss topics related to the (un)written rules for women in the legal profession. But rather than being talked at, you will be an integral part of the conversation, with facilitators rather than "speakers" to help guide the discussion. Personalize your experience by choosing from the following roundtable topics:
(un)spoken Career Paths: Part 1
This discussion challenges the traditional narratives surrounding career advancement in the legal profession. Conversations will focus on the often (un)spoken, and highly impactful, career journeys of women lawyers who choose to excel at their careers without necessarily aiming for general counsel or firm management roles.
You’ll hear from facilitators about their own (un)common career decisions and changes that led to their current roles before engaging in your own peer-to-peer conversations around your career journey and future aspirations.
Approved for 1.5 "Other" CLE credit hours by the Washington State Bar Association.
Associate Dean, Director, Acting Assistant Professor,
University of Washington School of Law
(un)apologetic: Empowering Ways to Tackle Life’s Eras
In this roundtable discussion, join in a heartfelt conversation exploring strategies for navigating life’s significant caregiving roles while balancing your professional aspirations. Whether you’re a new mother, a seasoned caregiver, or supporting aging parents, this interactive session is designed to provide support, encouragement, and practical advice.
(un)comfortable Conversations
Focused on developing the skills and strategies on how to navigate those uncomfortable conversations and communications in the workplace, this is a not-to-miss conversation. From advocating for yourself, negotiating terms, asking for a promotion, or challenging ideas while staying true to your authentic self, this discussion will empower you with the confidence and tools to handle these conversations effectively.
Wednesday
March 5
5:00 pm - 6:00 pm PT
Sunset Cocktails
What's the best part of being in Palm Spring in March? Why, it's warm weather and beautiful sunsets of course! So leave your winter wear in your suitcase and join us on the Terrace for a stunning sunset.
Wednesday
March 5
6:00 pm - 9:00 pm PT
Alfresco Dinner
We'll keep the warm-weather vibes going with dinner under cafe lights.
Thursday
March 6
8:00 am - 9:00 am PT
Breakfast on the Lawn
Rinse and shine! The day begins by a healthy and delicious breakfast in the sunshine.
Thursday
March 6
9:30 am - 11:00 am PT
Roundtable Discussions
Similar in format to Wednesday's Roundtable Discussion, you'll choose from the following topics:
(un)apologetic: Empowering Ways to Tackle Life’s Eras
In part two of our discussion around life’s eras, join in a supportive conversation exploring strategies for navigating personal health with your career goals. From expected health changes like menopause to dealing with illness or other health challenges, this interactive session is designed to provide valuable insights and a community of support to help you balance your health and professional goals.
(un)diminished
Life is full of transitions, and in some of the most profound changes we end up feeling diminished – whether it’s through a personal event like divorce or a professional shift like a job change. Hear from individuals who have navigated the complexities of significant life changes as they share their journeys and insights to avoid feeling less than in the process. Peer-to-peer conversations will revolve around strategies to overcome challenges and seize new opportunities.
Partner, Firmwide Women’s Program Founder, The ESG Collaborative Co-Chair,
Thompson Hine LLP
(un)relenting: A Commitment to a Sustainable Workload and Workforce
Join us for an interactive discussion that delves into the critical topic of sustaining a healthy workload and ensuring a resilient workforce as we prepare for a generation to transition into retirement. Conversations will focus on practical tips to combat the seemingly unrelenting workload that leads to burnout and strategies to build a sustainable workforce for the future.
Approved for 1.5 "Other" CLE credit hours by the Washington State Bar Association.
Thursday
March 6
11:00 am - 11:30 am PT
Break
No matter which choice you choose above, there will be a healthy snack ready for you before moving on to the next activity.
Thursday
March 6
11:30 am - 1:00 pm PT
Roundtable Discussions
Once again, we'll break into more intimate groups discussing those (un)written rules and how they impact us as leaders and the next generation:
(un)spoken Career Paths: Part 2
Building on Wednesday's session, connect with facilitators in a more personal way for individual advice, ask questions that have risen up from the first session, share inspiration, and make plans for what’s next on your own career journey.
Approved for 1.5 "Other" CLE credit hours by the Washington State Bar Association.
Associate Dean, Director, Acting Assistant Professor,
University of Washington School of Law
(un)wavering: The Profession's Responsibility to Meet the Moment
In a time marked by rapid societal changes and evolving legal landscapes, the legal profession faces unprecedented challenges and opportunities. This audience-led discussion will explore the critical responsibility of attorneys to meet these moments with integrity and uphold the ethical commitments that define the profession. Through open dialogue, we'll explore how attorneys can navigate complex ethical dilemmas, maintain professional standards, and contribute to an equitable society.
Approved for 1.5 "Ethics General" CLE credit hours by the Washington State Bar Association.
Thursday
March 6
1:00 pm - 2:00 pm PT
Lunch
While we're bringing the group together for lunch, this an an intentionally unstructured break in the day. We have boxed lunches and plenty of seating, but we encourage you to grab your lunch, find folks you're interested in continuing to chat with, and find a beautiful outdoor space on the Omni property to enjoy.
Thursday
March 6
2:00 pm - 4:00 pm PT
Choose Your Own Adventure
Choose from resort-style networking activities led by members of the Host Committee. Options of on-property activities including hiking, spa treatments, or just lounging by the pool. Additional details available to participants in the (un)conference app.
Thursday
March 6
4:00 pm PT - Varied End Times
Explore
What's the point of traveling to Palm Springs if we don't give you time to enjoy it? We've highlight nearby must-see spots for you to explore on your own or in small-groups. More details available in the (un)conference app available to participants.
Thursday
March 6
5:00 pm - 7:00 pm PT
Sponsor:
Offsite Reception at CODA Gallery
Do Palm Springs like a local and visit the stunning CODA Gallery for a private wine reception and opening of an exhibition featuring work by artist Robin Austin. Meet the artist, mingle with new friends and enjoy beautiful works of modern art.
Thursday
March 6
7:00 - 10:00 pm PT
Dinner Under the Desert Stars
This will be an unforgettable evening under the desert sky, where the stars above set the perfect backdrop for a stunning outdoor dinner. Savor exquisite flavors and enjoy lively conversation.
Friday
March 7
8:00 am - 9:00 am PT
Breakfast
This will be our final gathering as a full group as we enjoy the morning fresh air over an outdoor breakfast.
Friday
March 7
9:00 am - 10:30 am PT
(un)leash: Reflect on Your (un)conference Experience and Turn Insights Into Action
We'll break into small-groups one last time for facilitated discussions about your (un)conference experience and how you can bring your findings back to your everyday life. Our hope is this event allows you to reflect on your role as a woman lawyer. We want to give you the tools you need to ensure you maximize the experience rather than leaving it all behind in Palm Springs.
The (un)conference is open to registered attendees only.
More (un)expected Elements
Attire
Going from lawn yoga, to small-group discussions, to hikes will be much easier in casual/athleisure attire. We encourage you to wear whatever makes you comfortable and that you can move in.
Bring the Fam (If You Want)
Feel free to bring the family to enjoy Palm Springs in March. We encourage you to use our discounted room rate to extend your stay over the weekend. And we've intentionally kept Wednesday morning and Friday afternoon free for you to spend time with family or friends. And that Thursday evening activity, we're hoping to make that family friendly as well.
Pricing
$2,500
(un)conference ticket
Note: Ticket includes all meals from lunch on Wednesday to breakfast on Friday.
Venue + Travel
Omni Rancho Las Palmas
41000 Bob Hope Drive
Rancho Mirage, CA
HOTEL RESERVATIONS
The Omni is sold out on March 6.
Book your room at the Omni for any other night from March 1 - 11 at this link
or by calling 1-800-THE-OMNI (1-800-843-6664)
Our suggested alternate hotels:
Agua Caliente Resort Rancho Mirage (10-minute drive from the Omni)
Westin Rancho Mirage Gold Resort & Spa (12-minute drive from the Omni)
Embassy Suites by Hilton Palm Desert (12-minute drive from the Omni)
NEARBY AIRPORTS
Palm Springs International Airport is just a 20-minute drive away from the Omni. The airport is served by twelve airlines (including American, Delta, JetBlue, Southwest, United, Air Canada, and Alaska) from over 30 non-stop departure cities (including, JFK, Austin, ORD, DWF, Houston, Atlanta, Minneapolis, Seattle, and Denver).
Other nearby airports include LAX or San Diego International Airport (both a 2 ½ hour drive).
Host Committee
The Host Committee is made up of an incredible group of members who curate and coordinate the (un)conference, from the networking activities to programming and speakers.
Heather Stenmark
Markel
Chicago, IL
Co-Chair
Rashelle Tanner
Meta
Seattle, WA
Co-Chair
Nikki Adame-Winningham
Pfizer
New York, NY
Board Liaison
Bernadette Catalana
Thompson, Coe, Cousins & Irons, LLP
New York, NY
Camille Fisher
Perkins Coie LLP
Seattle, WA
Barbara Klas
Mitchell Hamline School of Law
Minneapolis, MN
Lisa Only
Salmon Ricchezza Singer & Turchi LLP
Princeton, NJ
Ellen Pansky
Nemecek & Cole
South Pasadena, CA
Ayushi Rajpurohit
Amazon
Los Angeles, CA
Stephanie Riley
Womble Bond Dickinson (US) LLP
Wilmington, DE
Katina Thornock
Providence St. Joseph Health
Seattle, WA
Frequently Asked Questions
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