Resilience, Community, and the Strength of Women

Jessica Thomas, the current FAWL President, will be speaking about the essence of resilience, drawing inspiration from an unexpected source: a childhood mantra, "I'm rubber and you're glue," symbolizing the strength to endure and persist despite life's challenges. She will discuss the struggles faced by women lawyers, from navigating the hurdles of the legal profession to the heartache of child loss, and emphasizing how these challenges are met with unwavering resilience. Additionally, she will highlight the importance of community, especially groups like FAWL, that provide vital support to women in the legal field. Ultimately, Ms. Thomas's presentation will serve as a call to action for solidarity, encouraging others to join forces, show up for marginalized groups, and continue to create spaces where everyone can thrive.

Jessica D. Thomas is more than an attorney; she's a dedicated advocate with a passion for making a real difference in people's lives. Jessica is currently serving  as the President of the Florida Association of Women Lawyers. She has practiced in the area of family law while also serving as a Pro Bono Guardian Ad Litem, leading to her receipt of the prestigious Elizabeth Susan Khoury Guardian Ad Litem Award of Excellence from the Orange County Legal Aid Society in 2018. In addition, Jessica was a Supreme Court Certified Orange County Volunteer Mediator from 2010 to 2014. 

This year, JWLA is continuing its efforts of community outreach and giving back to the local community.  For each luncheon, we will spotlight a local charity or other nonprofit organization and will conduct a donation drive, to be collected at that month’s luncheon.  This luncheon, we will be spotlighting and collecting donations for Hey Mama Mobile Pantry.  Below is a list of items we will be collecting: