F E A T U R E A R T I C L E A m a n d a M. U l i a n o – H C B A P r e s i d e n t & A l e x a M. C l i n e – Y L D P r e s i d e n t
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partner, judge, or longtime bar leader. A few years of experience, a willingness to listen, and an honest desire to help another lawyer grow are what matter most.
For fellows, the benefits are immediate: practical advice, greater confidence, a broader professional network, and dedicated time to think beyond the next deadline. For mentors, the program offers an opportunity to pay forward the guidance they received, strengthen their own leadership and communication skills, and see the profession through a fresh perspective. Both participants gain a deeper connection to the HCBA and to colleagues they might not otherwise meet.
Participation also carries real responsibility, and the program is built with that in mind. Mentors and fellows are held to the highest standards of professionalism, consistent with The Florida Bar’ s Standards of Professionalism. Conversations between pairs are intended to be candid and confidential, but no attorneyclient relationship is created by participation, mentors do not provide legal advice, and potential conflicts are screened when pairs are matched and revisited throughout the year. Pairs are thoughtfully matched by the program committee based on practice setting, career goals, and shared interests.
Mentoring is also an investment in the health of our profession. Young lawyers are more likely to thrive when they have someone they can turn to for perspective, encouragement, and practical wisdom. Strong professional relationships promote wellness, retention, civility, and a shared sense that none of us has to navigate this profession alone. In that way, the program advances priorities shared by both the HCBA and YLD: professionalism, service, leadership, and genuine connection.
We invite experienced attorneys to serve as mentors and eligible YLD members to apply as fellows. The commitment is manageable— one meaningful conversation each month, plus a kickoff event and a closing reception— but its impact may last for years. Applications for both mentors and fellows are open now and close on September 25, 2026. Apply at www. hillsbar. com, or contact YLD Mentor-Fellow Program Co-Chairs, Hillary Thornton( hthornton @ mcintyrefirm. com) and
YlD hosted a mentoring event“ sweet tea with a Mentor” last september.
Valeria Obi( vobi @ cocacolaflorida. com) with questions. Join us as we reconnect across generations, learn from one another, and build an even stronger Hillsborough County legal community. n
s e P- O C T 2 0 2 6 | H C B A L A W Y e R
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