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FDCC PILLARS
Building the FDCC’s Future
Through Recruitment
by Valerie Kellner
The FDCC has
always been defined
by the caliber of its
members-over and
above. FDCC is built
on excellence-the
Valerie Kellner
most accomplished
defense counsel and
in-house counsel in the country.
Recruitment is one of the most
important ways members can
contribute to the continued vitality
of the FDCC.
As a current member, you hold
the keys to the future of the FDCC.
You are our best ambassadors.
You know about our amazing
Winter and Summer Meetings in
fabulous locations with dynamic
speakers and cutting edge topics.
We just had an incredible Summer
Meeting in Park City, Utah. We
have our upcoming Winter meeting
in Scottsdale (February 2026)
and Summer meeting in Lisbon
(July 2026). You know about our
engaging substantive law sections;
our incredible podcasts and
webinars. You know about our
Blue Book-where you have the
confidence to refer any member
of the FDCC to your clients and
colleagues.
Why Recruitment Matters
Recruitment ensures that the
FDCC remains dynamic and
representative of the best defense
lawyers, corporate counsel, and
industry leaders. Each new member
When nominating
a potential new
member, please
explain the benefits
of membership.
Being accepted to the
FDCC is a prestigious
recognition.
brings fresh insights, unique
experiences, and valuable networks.
Together, these contributions
elevate the quality of programming,
expand professional opportunities,
and enrich the collegial fellowship
for which the FDCC is known.
How Members Can Recruit
The recruitment process begins
with intentionality. Members
are encouraged to think about
colleagues they admire — lawyers
whose professionalism, skill, and
character would strengthen the
Federation. These may include:
•
Rising leaders in your legal
community who are poised to
make an impact.
•
Peers you respect for their skill,
judgment, or collegial spirit.
•
Clients for their in-house
perspectives.
•
International colleagues who
can expand the FDCC’s global
reach.
When nominating a potential new
member, please explain the benefits
of membership. Being accepted
to the FDCC is a prestigious
recognition. Membership provides
access to cutting edge training
and resources. Membership is a
unique and valuable networking
opportunity. Membership offers
wonderful opportunities for
networking and fellowship.
Encouraging Action
Recruitment works best when it
becomes a shared responsibility.
Every member has a role in shaping
the future of the FDCC. Whether
you are a long-time member or
relatively new, your perspective
matters. Think about those around
you who would benefit from and
contribute to FDCC membership
— and take the step to nominate
them. Nominating new members is
not just about numbers, it is about
investing in the future of the FDCC.
All you need to do in send us a
name of a potential nominee and
we will do the rest. Please send to
Liz Mycek at Liz@thefederation.
com and Valerie Kellner, the
Membership Recruitment
Chairperson at Valerie.Kellner@
wilsonelser.com
Valerie Kellner is an FDCC Defense Counsel
Member and our Membership Recruitment
Chairperson. She serves as a Senior Director
on the FDCC Board. She is also Of Counsel
at Wilson Elser in Philadelphia, PA.
30 February 2026 | Federation Flyer www.thefederation.org