Melissa Forshey Schwind to Share Recruiting Insight at NALP’s Annual Education Conference

Ward and Smith’s Director of Attorney Talent, Melissa Forshey Schwind, will be a featured panelist at the NALP 2026 Annual Education Conference, taking place April 14–17, 2026, in Florida.

The conference is the largest and most respected gathering for legal career and talent professionals, bringing together leaders from law firms, law schools, and the broader legal profession.

Melissa will appear on the panel “Beyond the Big Law Blueprint: Recruiting Strategies for Small & Mid-Sized Firms,” a timely conversation focused on how firms outside the AmLaw 200 can compete effectively for top talent without relying on Big Law structures or budgets.

During the session, panelists will discuss how to build recruiting strategies that reflect a firm’s true identity, clearly communicate value to candidates, and adapt to a shifting legal hiring market. Topics will include developing compelling value propositions, attracting law students and lateral hires with limited resources, and using creative methods to source talent.

Melissa will be joined by fellow panelists:

• Kasey Fenn, Director of Professional Development & Recruiting, Davis Graham & Stubbs LLP
• Katie Greene, Senior Legal Recruiting Coordinator, Neal, Gerber & Eisenberg LLP
• Halle Sabo, Recruiting & Human Resources Manager, Rothwell, Figg, Ernst & Manbeck, P.C.

Melissa’s session will take place on April 15 from 1:15 to 2:15. Don’t miss this engaging panel discussion.