Mission Statement
NExT - a 501(c)3 non/profit organization - is dedicated to improving outcomes and driving innovation in the legal technology field by promoting education, mentorship, entrepreneurship -- and diversity so that pathways are created for all qualified persons to thrive and thereby strengthen the industry for the future.
NExT's existence is crucial as it expands the talent pool by helping to ensure fair and equal access by qualified diverse candidates, particularly those from underrepresented communities and communities of color, to opportunities in the legal tech field. NExT establishes industry awareness, enables professional growth, fosters innovation, and drives business success. Studies consistently show that diverse teams and inclusive practices lead to better decision-making, enhanced innovation, and improved financial performance, aligning with the business imperatives of the legal technology industry.
By fostering community engagement, providing resources and relationships, and uncovering employment and entrepreneurial opportunities for a diverse cohort of persons, NExT contributes to the growth and success of businesses in the legal tech sector. This, in turn, enables companies to tap into new markets, enhance their competitive edge, and achieve sustainable growth. NExT's impact extends beyond the present, as it inspires future generations, establishes a legacy of inclusivity, and cultivates a diverse and equitable legal tech industry for the benefit of all.
Board Of Directors
Leading With Purpose
Our Board of Directors at NExT is composed of experienced leaders and innovators committed to advancing diversity and inclusion within the legal tech industry. Each member brings a wealth of knowledge and a shared passion for empowering individuals through education, mentorship, advocacy, and career development. Together, they guide our strategic direction, ensuring NExT's mission to foster professional growth, drive innovation, and shape a more inclusive industry.
Working together, our Board guides NExT’s strategic direction, ensures alignment with our mission, and champions initiatives that foster professional growth, inspire innovation, and build a more equitable and representative legal tech community.
Dawson Horn
Associate General Counsel & Vice President, AIG (ret.)
Co-Founder, NExT
James Edwell
Vice President, DEI Partnerships , Consilio (ret.)
Co-Founder, NExT
Stacy Ybarra
Chief Marketing Officer, Lighthouse LLC
Vice President, NExT
Val Charles-Pierre
Global Head of eDiscovery, Goldman Sachs & Co.
Audit Chair, NExT
Diversity & Inclusion First
Community & Collaboration
Continuous Learning & Innovation
Advisory Committee
Guiding Strategy, Elevating Impact
Our Advisory Committee plays a pivotal role in guiding and shaping the direction of NExT. Comprising seasoned professionals and experts from diverse backgrounds in the legal technology industry, this dedicated team is committed to steering our organization toward achieving its mission and goals.
In collaboration with our dedicated team and passionate members, our Advisory Committee is instrumental in driving NExT's mission forward, creating a more inclusive and equitable future for all in the legal technology field.
Assistant General Counsel, Vice President, JPMorgan Chase & Co.
eDiscovery Program Owner, MassMutual
Chief Executive Officer, Consult Harris LLC
Partner, Shook, Hardy & Bacon LLP
Director of Business Development, Lighthouse LLC
Director of Information Governance,Cadwalder, Wickersham & Taft
Knowledge & Innovation Attorney, Sheppard Mullin Richter & Hampton LLP
Vice President - eDiscovery Services,HaystackID
Chief Revenue Officer, Bright Line Counsel