The National Legal Aid and Defender Association (NLADA) held its 2007 Annual Conference in Tucson, Arizona, on November 7-10.

LSC President Helaine M. Barnett updated the conferees on developments at LSC, including the 2008 All Executive Directors Meeting, the upcoming Technology Initiative Grant Conference, and the development of LSC's strategic plan for technology. She also discussed elements of LSC's Quality Agenda, including LSC's focus on recruitment and retention issues at LSC-funded programs.

LSC staff were major presenters at a number of training sessions on LSC initiatives, including the revised Case Service Report Handbook, Performance Criteria, and pro bono action plan. LSC staff also presented on other issues of broad importance to the legal services community, including technology, disaster planning, leadership development, and intake.

LSC held a meeting with staff from Native American programs immediately prior to the conference. The more than 45 people in attendance participated in productive discussions on funding and delivery issues unique to their programs.

Representatives of two LSC-funded programs were honored during the NLADA's Annual Awards Luncheon held on November 9. Amelia Nieto, board member of the Legal Aid Foundation of Los Angeles (LAFLA), received the Mary Ellen Hamilton Award, given to clients who have provided extraordinary support to the delivery of legal services to the poor. Nieto has served on LAFLA's board since 1999 and has a deep commitment to the low-income community.Rau Mona Tawatao, regional counsel with Legal Services of Northern California, received the prestigious Reginald Heber Smith Award, given in recognition of dedicated services and outstanding achievements of a civil legal aid attorney. Tawatao has developed a national reputation for her groundbreaking advocacy on housing preservation initiatives and other issues.

For more information on the NLADA Annual Conference, click here.

For more information on the award winners, click here.