Kristin Haugen

 Candidate for Director

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Candidate Statement

I humbly ask for the opportunity to be a NAPABA Director so that I may serve you and this amazing organization.

I will never forget my first NAPABA Convention. I was simultaneously astounded, overwhelmed, and thrilled –I instantly felt a sense of belonging, of family. Over the years, NAPABA has never disappointed. As my career took twists and turns, NAPABA was the constant –a place I could call home and always find support whether from the Partner Network, Women’s Leadership Network, Solo and Small Firm Network or now, the In-House Counsel Network.

Those who know me, know that I am “ALL IN” on whatever I choose to do and NAPABA is no exception. I initially waded into committees and networks, frequently volunteering for whatever needed to be done, learning as I went. I leveraged that knowledge, and experience from leadership roles in other organizations, to contribute more–serving in leadership roles, on task forces, the Board and Advisory Board. Yet, I can and need to do more.

Developing our Strategic Plan was a massive undertaking, but one of which I am tremendously proud. We took the time necessary to scrutinize NAPABA’s organizational structure, governance practices, and mission. We have made significant strides forward, particularly inbuilding out a more robust and clear governance structure and implementing best practices, but there is more work to be done. In the coming year, I see –and would help –NAPABA advance its mission and expand on President Cruz’s #NAPABA4ALL by (1) building enhanced relationships with NAPALSA and focusing on pipeline; (2) recruiting and actively engaging members with quality programming, increased opportunities to connect, and easier ways to become involved in committees and networks; and (3) expanding support of members’ professional development by equipping them with the skills needed to advance to more prominent roles with increasing influence.

My ability to bring people and organizations together, develop innovative programming, and invest in the success of others aligns with these NAPABA goals. I have established a connection with NAPALSA by serving as a panelist and mentor. Within NAPABA’s Administration, Policy, and Programs Standing Committee, we are exploring other ways to enhance this relationship between the organizations. At Minnesota Women Lawyers(MWL), I conceived and oversaw creation and development of our Partner Leadership Council, to strengthen relationships with financial supporters. Attending the Collaborative Bar Leadership Academy (CBLA) as a NAPABA representative, I built solid relationships with leaders of other bar associations. I later revamped and reinvigorated the alumni programmingand ultimately served as CBLA Chair. I find these relationships provide opportunities to share experiences with our sister bar organizations, collaborate on programming and advance our mission.

My ability to see issues from multiple perspectives, skill at building consensus, and commitment to NAPABA’s mission would be assets to the Board. Geographically, I am an East Coast native working out of Toronto(Canada) from my home in Minnesota with strong family ties to Florida, California, and Hawaii. At work, I lead a multinational team and support our global operations, often needing to ensure regional and cultural differences are reflected in the services we deliver. I am in house counsel, having previously practiced as a large law firm litigator, solo attorney, and volunteer public defender. As an attorney coach, I honed my ability to listen and guide others. Whether as part of the NAPABA Board, an editorial board, ora local community board, fostering positive discussion, exploring possibilities, and then executing on decisions are critical areas in which I excel.

My diverse professional experience, history of mentorship, and dedication to the development of others has prepared me to make additional, meaningful contributions to the Board. I love NAPABA –our members, groups, and events. I welcome the opportunity to connect with you (kristin.haugen@lifeworks.com) and to give back to this organization that has given me so much.

Candidate Bio

Kristin is currently Vice President, Legal at LifeWorks, a publicly traded company operating in over 160 countries and supporting over 26 million people, focused on improving the health and wellness of employees and their families.

In addition to serving on the Advisory Board of NAPABA, Kristin is the President of Minnesota Women Lawyers, and serves on various boards including National Association of Asian American Professionals-Minnesota(NAAAP-MN)and the Institute for Well-Being in Law. She has been recognized as MNAPABA Attorney of the Year.

Originally, from Syracuse, New York, Kristin received her B.A. with distinction in all subjects from Cornell University and her J.D. cum laude from University of Illinois College of Law.

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