2026 HNBA/VIA Latina Leadership Academy
Program Overview
The Latina Leadership Academy is a premier professional development program designed to accelerate the growth of early-career attorneys in their first five years of practice. Facilitated by experienced leadership coaches, legal industry leaders, and accomplished attorneys, the Academy equips participants with the foundational skills, strategies, and professional relationships needed to thrive in the legal profession.
Through a combination of leadership development, career planning, mentorship, and practical skill-building, participants gain the tools to navigate the early stages of their careers with confidence, authenticity, and purpose.
What the Program Includes
The Latina Leadership Academy provides emerging attorneys with a structured and supportive environment to develop the competencies essential for long-term success in the legal profession. Participants leave the program with tangible, career-enhancing outcomes, including:
- A stronger understanding of their personal leadership style and professional strengths
- Enhanced communication, networking, and relationship-building skills
- Increased confidence in managing career opportunities and challenges
- Greater visibility within the legal profession and access to a national network of leaders
- Practical strategies for business development, client service, and professional advancement
- Meaningful mentorship relationships and a supportive peer community
- A personalized roadmap for continued career growth and leadership development
- The Academy is designed not only to inspire participants, but also to provide actionable tools and lasting connections that support professional success and position emerging attorneys for future leadership opportunities.
The Academy is designed not only to inspire participants, but also to provide actionable tools and lasting connections that support professional success and position emerging attorneys for future leadership opportunities.
Need employer support to participate in LLA?
We have prepared an Employer Support Letter that explains the program, time commitment, and benefits of participation. Participants may share this letter with their employer when requesting financial sponsorship or professional development support for the LLA.
ELIGIBILITY
- Active HNBA membership required
- Attorneys with 5 years or less of legal experience (all practice areas welcome)
- Current law students are not eligible
- Accepted applicants must participate in all program segments
- Accepted applicants are responsible for their own travel arrangements and costs
APPLICATION INFORMATION
- Only complete applications will be considered
- All application materials are strictly confidential
PROGRAM TIMELINE
Application Opens | Wednesday, July 1, 2026 |
Deadline to Apply | Wednesday, August 5, 2026 by 11:59 p.m. (ET) |
Notify Applicants | Monday, August 10, 2026 |
Full Day, In-Person Academy | Wednesday, September 9, 2026 in Washington, DC |
All application materials must be received by Wednesday, August 5, 2026 by 11:59 p.m. (ET).
QUESTIONS Please contact the Latina Commission at latinacommission@hnba.com.
