AYLA

This is my first official article as president of the Austin Young Lawyers Association (AYLA). I have been a member of AYLA since before law school graduation, and I have had the opportunity to meet and work with many young attorneys over the years. 

AYLA is excited to announce that we have been honored with two awards from the Texas Young Lawyers Association!

Jenna is an associate counsel at CapMetro, where the mission is to empower and enhance communities through the delivery of high-quality public transportation in Austin and its surrounding areas. Jenna graduated from the University of Texas at Austin and St. Mary’s University School of Law. Her passion for leadership and bar service dates back to her time at St. Mary’s, where she served as the Student Bar President and held positions as director, Secretary, and Vice President of the San Antonio Young Lawyers Association before moving to Austin in 2016.

What a year it has been for young lawyers in Austin! I am honored and proud to have led such a dynamic board of attorneys who are committed to justice through service and making the process fun. When looking back at the year’s accomplishments, I am stunned at how much AYLA has been able to achieve.

AYLA’s Freshquires program hosted its annual Judicial Wine Tasting event on April 24, 2025. Members of the local judiciary, including Justice Karin Crump, Judge Elisabeth Earle, Judge Mark Lane, Judge Maya Guerra Gamble, Judge Alicia Key, and Judge Sherine Thomas, met with the Freshquires to share their wisdom and favorite wines. Be on the lookout for future Freshquires events, which are tailored for first- to third-year attorneys. 

The Leadership Academy Class of 2025 reached its goal of raising over $30,000 more than any other class in the history of the Leadership Academy. 

The Administrative Law Section of the Austin Bar sponsored AYLA’s February Docket Call at Mean Eyed Cat. The cold weather did not deter Austin lawyers from venturing out to network and learn about each other’s practice areas. Huge thanks for the Admin Law Section for an awesome event!

Each year, AYLA presents three awards to honor leaders in the Travis County legal profession: The Outstanding Young Lawyer Award, the Outstanding Mentor Award, and the Liberty Bell Award.

On Saturday, March 29, AYLA hosted its 4th Annual Crawfish Boil. This award-winning event has become a staple in the Austin legal community as an opportunity to enjoy the spring weather, connect with friends and colleagues, and raise money to support the Austin Young Lawyers Foundation. 

Being a Taurus, spring has always been my favorite season. As I write this column, the wildflowers are out in full force with bluebonnets leading the charge. It is a season of renewal, growth, and a push to finish projects that need to wrap before summer sets in. AYLA has enjoyed a busy spring full of inspiring CLEs, service projects, and community.