The San Diego North County Bar Association recognized White and Bright, LLP Partner Melissa N. Engle with a service award in appreciation of her exceptional contributions during her tenure on the Board of Directors from 2022 to 2024. Melissa, who served as vice president in 2024, played a pivotal role in fostering community, mentorship, and inclusivity within the organization.

During her time on the Board, Melissa spearheaded several impactful initiatives. She was instrumental in creating the annual May Faire Event, a unique networking gathering designed to connect local bar associations representing diverse backgrounds. The event, which includes a swearing-in ceremony for newly admitted attorneys, fosters a sense of community by inviting their families and hosting a judge to perform the ceremony. Melissa’s efforts ensured that the May Faire became a signature event for building connections and celebrating the next generation of legal professionals.

In addition, Melissa relaunched NCBA’s Mentorship Program in 2022, reinvigorating multi-generational mentorship opportunities among attorneys from all walks of life. This program not only supports professional growth but also emphasizes the importance of collaboration and learning across diverse experiences.

Reflecting on her service, Melissa shared: “It was meaningful to welcome newly admitted attorneys into the North San Diego legal community while also providing them and other area attorneys with networking and mentoring opportunities. I also enjoyed connecting with other small, local bar associations of diverse backgrounds, learning about their initiatives, and helping them promote their efforts.”

White and Bright is proud to celebrate Melissa’s dedication and vision, both of which created a lasting impact on the organization and the broader Northern San Diego County legal community.