The VBA Journal is the official publication of The Virginia Bar Association.
Issue link: http://vba.epubxp.com/i/436865
WINTER 2014 - 2015 • 7 and the needs of that lawyer and his or her community. Engaging this energetic and diverse group of young lawyers not only ensures that the VBA and YLD continue to thrive by tapping into the future leaders of our organization but also ensures that the VBA and YLD are current with respect to the ever-changing landscape of the feld of law. In addition to pulling from the area law school councils, another rich source for recruiting diverse talent and ideas is collaborating with state, area and regional bar associations. Last year's joint winter meeting with the Old Dominion Bar Association highlighted the wonderful collaborations that can occur when the VBA and other bar associations join together. Te additional CLE oferings and various speaking topics ofered by the ODBA greatly expanded and enhanced our annual meeting. I am confdent that similar enhancements would occur on the YLD level if we reach out to the area bar associations as well. I thank each of you for allowing me the opportunity to serve as chair of the YLD this past year. It was a wonderful year full of new personal and professional achievements. While I am transitioning out of my role as chair, I fully intend to remain as engaged as ever with the ultimate goal of enhancing this wonderful organization and having a positive impact on our Virginia legal community. I also want to thank all of the wonderful people who made this year a resounding success for the VBA YLD. Te VBA staf is second to none and the thanks we give cannot adequately express the gratitude that we have for all of its hard work in keeping this fabulous organization moving forward. Te VBA Board of Governors has always been and continues to be a source of support for the YLD and allows the YLD programs to thrive while also providing a wealth of experience for new ideas that arise. Te VBA membership and leadership cannot be more appreciated as they always keep the YLD at the forefront of their many conversations. And, fnally, the volunteers who put in the time and efort by being active participants in the YLD are truly deserving of all the accolades that can be bestowed. Tis past year was one full of activity and dedication all aimed toward ensuring that the Commonwealth of Virginia continues to have a legal community that is committed to giving back and helping the communities in which we live, work and play. I am thankful for the support from the various frms, companies and practitioners that have permitted us the ability to function and operate our many programs in the community. ■ Elaina L. Blanks-Green, a general tax attorney at Norfolk Southern Corp., is a huge sports fan and VBA devotee. A VBA member since 2005, she served two terms as Chair of the Taxation section. In addition to terms as secretary/treasurer and Chair-elect of the Young Lawyers Division, she has chaired two YLD committees.