Dear friends and colleagues,
As this year comes to a close, the strongest feeling is gratitude — for this community, for the way you support one another and for how consistently you show up for our profession. In a time of significant change across the legal industry, you leaned in, shared ideas generously, and reinforced how essential legal marketing and business development professionals are to the success of our firms.
As my term as president of the LMA Northeast Region comes to an end, I have been reflecting not only on what we accomplished this year, but on what it says about who we are and where our profession is headed. When faced with industry shifts and new demands, this community did not hesitate. We stepped up together and demonstrated the growing influence, impact and strategic importance of our work.
The strength of this network was especially visible throughout the year. Membership grew to 1,067 professionals, making the Northeast the largest region in LMA. That growth reflects a profession in motion and a community people actively seek out for connection, insight and leadership.
Across the region, programming was ambitious and engaging. We delivered 36 programs — 20 in person and 16 virtual — with attendance up significantly from 2024. From Boston to New York, Philadelphia to Pittsburgh, board members, local leaders, SIG leaders and volunteers brought creativity, fresh thinking and strong execution to every experience. Communications remained consistent and thoughtful, helping members stay connected in an increasingly crowded and busy world.
One of the year’s standout moments was the reimagined Northeast Regional Conference. A sold-out event and the largest turnout in the region’s history, the 2025 conference reflected what is possible when committed volunteers bring a bold vision to life. The conference committee created an immersive experience with a compressed, high-impact schedule that respected the realities of day-to-day work while challenging attendees to think differently about how they serve clients and firms — and how purposeful innovation can drive meaningful impact.
The region also strengthened connections beyond the Northeast. At the LMA Annual Conference in Washington, D.C., the Northeast co-hosted a breakfast and networking event with Mid-Atlantic colleagues, welcoming more than 150 attendees. Thank you to Diana Dillon, president of LMA Mid-Atlantic, and to the volunteers who helped make the collaboration a success.
None of this would have been possible without an extraordinary group of volunteer leaders. Board members, local leaders, SIG leaders, conference planners and contributors across the region gave generously of their time, energy and ideas. LMA runs on volunteer leadership, and the spirit of service and collaboration remains one of the community’s greatest strengths.
As the holidays approach, I hope you find time to rest, reflect and enjoy the people and traditions that matter most to you. This season offers an opportunity to celebrate not only what you have helped build professionally, but also who you are as leaders, colleagues and friends.
Looking ahead, there is much to be hopeful about. Our roles continue to expand in influence and impact, and this community is well positioned to navigate what comes next with confidence and creativity. As I pass the gavel, I do so with great confidence in the future of the Northeast Region. Matt Goffe, incoming president, brings insight, energy and a deep commitment to LMA, and I know he will continue to build on this momentum.
Wishing you and your loved ones a peaceful holiday season and a healthy, happy and fulfilling year ahead. Thank you for the privilege of serving you. It has truly been an honor.
With appreciation,
Lynn Tellefsen-Stehle
2025 LMA Northeast Region President