Ellen Yang
Chief of Staff & Legal Counsel,
Cruise
Dear ACC Members and Friends,
As I begin my 7th year on the ACC SoCal Board, culminating in my role as President this 2024-2025 term, I find myself reflecting on my 16+ years as an active member of this incredible chapter. ACC has essentially been my “work partner,” supporting me from when I first went in-house in 2008 to now, having worked in the legal departments at several large companies.
When I first started attending ACC events, I was intimidated. Imagine a sea of polished, professionally dressed lawyers, confidently sharing their insights and experiences. In contrast, I stood shyly at the edge, clutching my drink in my Ann Taylor suit, with nothing to say. It was Betty St. Marie, our recently retired and beloved Executive Director, who would come to the rescue and draw me from my reclusive state by introducing me to people. Over time, I met more people, built connections, gained confidence, and started having fun.
ACC has given me much more than networking opportunities. The continuing legal education on timely topics has helped me to be a better in-house lawyer and stay abreast of current issues. I have been mentored by amazing legal practitioners and I, in turn, mentored junior attorneys. I have made lifelong friends who have become my support network. And I have been able to give back to my community through pro bono and service events.
In recent years, ACC SoCal has also evolved beyond traditional programming to offer unique experiences like sound baths, puppy yoga, pickleball, chocolate tasting, meditation, charcuterie board making, painting with cats, Shakespeare in the Park, Tai Chi, book clubs, and even ax throwing. Who said lawyers were boring?
Our chapter may not be the largest, but I’ve concluded that we have the highest ambitions (or we simply like to throw parties). When I attend ACC Global events, such as the Annual Meeting, I am often asked questions like, “Is it true that SoCal has an annual Gala where former Presidents speak?” “Is it true that SoCal hosts the BEST party called ‘Martinis Till Midnight’ at the Annual Meeting? How do I get in?” These questions underscore the passion and dedication of our Board, member volunteers, and sponsors. Thank you for your unwavering support of our chapter.
This 2024-2025 Term, I am proud to announce that we welcomed seven new Directors to the Board:
- Valerie Bono, Senior Counsel, IM Global Films;
- Ana Christian, Senior Counsel Specialist, Assistant General Counsel for R&D, Genentech, Inc.;
- Amber Enriquez, General Counsel & Corporate Secretary, & Head of Sustainability, ECOS;
- Cristina Hwang, Associate General Counsel, Hanmi Bank;
- Mark Karpe, Assistant Vice President & Managing Assistant General Counsel, Pacific Life Insurance Company;
- Peter Steckelman, Senior Vice President, Business & Legal Affairs, The Tennis Channel, LLC; and,
- Erik Valderhaug, Senior Vice President & General Counsel, Everest Properties.
These new board members have a proven track record of giving back to the Chapter having previously volunteered on various ACC SoCal committees and Global Networks.
I am also excited to introduce my Executive Committee for this term:
- Vice President of Programs and President-Elect – Rhea Ricard, Managing Director & Managing Counsel, The Bank of New York Mellon;
- Vice President of Services – Ako Shimada, Vice President, General Counsel & Corporate Secretary, Ushio America, Inc.;
- Treasurer – Wade Pyun, Chief Legal Officer, Altura Credit Union; and,
Secretary – Jennifer Bryant, SVP, General Counsel, ConcertoCare.
What should members expect for this coming year? For my Presidency, I outlined three priorities to guide the Board as we plan for 2025:
Family-friendly events—More programming where members can bring their families and enhance ACC SoCal’s sense of community.
Practical legal programming—Legal education that not only discusses the “why” of a legal topic, but also provides actionable advice on how to get it done. For example, outline practical “how to” advice on implementation strategies.
Inclusivity—Members should feel welcomed and included when they attend ACC events.
I would also like to extend a heartfelt thanks to our beloved Betty St. Marie, who has been the friendly face of ACC SoCal for many years. And although we will miss Betty, we’re fortunate to have found our new Executive Director, Shannon Keany. Shannon’s deep familiarity with ACC SoCal and her expertise in the legal industry give me full confidence for a smooth transition.
Serving ACC SoCal, and its almost 1700 members, is an honor, and I know I have tall “high heels” to fill. Elizabeth Duong, who is now serving as Immediate Past President, has been a role model. Elizabeth supported the Chapter in ways that most people do not realize and she never expects recognition or gratitude. Thank you for your service, Elizabeth!
I’m excited to kick off this new term with fresh ideas, programs, and experiences. My request to you: attend at least one event this year and introduce yourself to a Board member. Together, let’s make this ACC SoCal community even stronger.
Sincerely,
Ellen Yang
President, ACC Southern California, 2024-25
