April 2025 Letter

Dear Sisters in the Law,

Its officially spring but SCWLA was already springing into action all across the state! Id like to recognize Meredith Cooper Brown of the law firm of Burnette Shutt McDaniel. Meredith spearheaded the Womens Shelter Donation Drive SCWLA sponsored to support women in need in various womens shelters across South Carolina. The project could not have been a success without her willingness to lend her time and talents. Thank you, Meredith!

Also, thank you to those that signed up to serve as mentors for SCWLA's inaugural Mentor - Mentee Connection Program. I had the privilege of hosting two bright and eager local high school students at my courthouse recently as a result of the program. SCWLA looks forward to connecting more mentors and mentees and to the stories to come from these invaluable opportunities to help shape the future of our profession.

Thanks are also in order for Judge Wofford-Kanwat (SCWLA Treasurer and Education Committee Chair). The “Lovely One” book club panel discussion featuring judges of Color of the South Carolina judiciary was well attended and fostered organic and insightful discussion. Also, SCWLA members enjoyed a “field trip” to see the RBG inspired play, “All Things Equal,” at the Newberry Theatre. Thanks, Judge Wofford-Kanwat for coordinating these membership enrichment opportunities in such excellence!

Finally, did you know April is National Poetry Month! I'll leave you with this poem about strong women as a reminder of the strength each of you carry!

In Service,
Judge R. Allyce Bailey
President, South Carolina Women Lawyers Association