Each year, the Public Interest Leadership Program (PILP) welcomes a select group of talented and highly motivated lawyers who have demonstrated a commitment to pro bono, public service, and organized bar activities. Working to advance the leadership role of lawyers in service to their community, profession and the Commonwealth, PILP reinforces the professional commitment of lawyers to civic and charitable endeavors.
What Our Members Say
PILP was a window into all the different ways that I could make a difference and have an impact as an attorney in Boston. PILP encouraged me to get out of my swim lane by building connections with other civically engaged and community-oriented attorneys practicing in different areas.
What Our Members Say
The activities presented during the organizational leadership module emphasized the connection between lawyering and leadership. Effective leadership skills are critical for every attorney, whether they advance from an associate attorney to a law partner; a corporate counsel to a business leader; or attorney to political official.
What Our Members Say
From our talk with local board leaders, to our lesson on best practices regarding board service, the charitable board service module was a reminder that there are plenty of options and opportunities available for attorneys at any stage in their career who are passionate about helping others.
This selective program attracts a diverse group of talented, motivated attorneys who have graduated law school within the last ten years and represent the next generation of Boston lawyer leaders. Participants learn from and connect with leaders in Boston’s legal, business and public service sectors and gain the critical skills to grow as an effective advocate and voice in the community.
After completing the 10-month program, graduates enter a growing network of over 200 accomplished alumni who provide mentoring and support to their successors. Participants have gone on to serve on the boards of local nonprofits, take on leadership roles at the BBA and Boston Bar Foundation, and play key roles in advocacy efforts like Walk to the Hill.
PILP provides intensive leadership and professional development training in:
Diversity, Equity & Inclusion
Board Service
Pro Bono
Effective Organizational Leadership
Personal Branding & Community Engagement
Applying for PILP
The BBA seeks applicants within their first ten years of practice who have demonstrated a commitment to leadership that furthers the Boston legal community. Rising leaders from law firms, in-house legal departments, affinity bars, government agencies, and non-profits are encouraged to apply to this 10- month program. Organizations are also invited to nominate a promising public interest-minded candidate to participate.
Applicants must complete an online application form and be sponsored by their employer or an affinity bar. The application requires a personal statement, a letter of recommendation from your sponsor, and a letter of commitment from your employer.
The application deadline has now passed. If you have questions or would like to be notified of an upcoming application period, please contact Jenna Kim at jkim@bostonbar.org.
