In 2025, you could not avoid two letters: AI. As generative AI capabilities quickly moved from sci-fi to the everyday—with use cases ranging from summarizing a transcript to planning a vacation—I was reminded at this year’s holiday party of what AI can’t do. With over 190 members and their guests mingling at the hot cocoa bar, sock ice skating after a liquid nitrogen wine slushie, and generally geeking out over fun science stuff at Discovery Place, I remembered: real connections cannot be artificially generated. 

The legal profession’s deadlines, client demands, and constant pressure to perform can make it easy for people to feel isolated. I am so proud of how the Mecklenburg Bar Association is focused on helping lawyers connect, lead, and serve. As we start a new year, I’m optimistic about the opportunities ahead.

Unfortunately, in the professional context, all too often connecting is a code word for networking, something that feels artificial, especially for the nearly 60% of us who are introverts.[1]  So how do we find authentic connection?

• Know Yourself
  If large mix-and-mingle events feel intimidating, start small. Try a section lunch or join a subcommittee. 
• Have a Go-To Question
  Networking can feel transactional. Instead of “How’s it going?” (which invites a flat “fine”) or “What are you working on,” ask about something to help you get to know the person, such as any travel, any pets or kids, or what brought them to Charlotte. 
• Follow Up Without Awkwardness
  Sending a quick email or LinkedIn message can help continue to foster the connection. It can be as simple as “so nice to meet you” or perhaps you follow up on a topic (“here’s the name of that Thai restaurant I mentioned.”).   

The Mecklenburg Bar Association and Bar Foundation have a full slate of events planned for 2026 to build connections. There are YLD Courthouse Tours, the BLI Kickoff Dinner, the MBA Friends and Family Event at PINS Mechanical, and the McMillian Fellowship Dinner—just to name a few. Click “Upcoming Events” at MeckBar.org for a full list.

Building community and connection isn’t about adding LinkedIn contacts. Instead, I hope the Bar can help build a support system, foster knowledge sharing, and contribute to the profession’s collective strength. And this is a legal community that we all should be proud of!

Disclaimer:  While I may use an AI editor to help me spruce up these newsletter articles, all em dashes were intentionally and thoughtfully placed by this former law review editor.