BASF Because… is a series of brief profiles where we ask members to share why they joined the Bar Association of San Francisco (BASF). This year’s series profiles section leaders.

Kelly Woodruff

California Appellate Law Group

Co-Chair, Appellate Law Section

Law School:  University of California, Hastings College of the Law

Areas of Practice: Appellate Law

Fun Fact: I lived in Italy and had my own little law practice representing American businesses and individuals living abroad.

I initially joined BASF because: I wanted to connect with lawyers my age who were practicing at other firms or agencies.

I stay a BASF member because: I have made incredible connections and friendships with other lawyers and judges throughout San Francisco. BASF offers fantastic educational programming and great opportunities to write and speak myself, and I appreciate the commitment to improve diversity among the legal profession and providing equal access to justice for the community.

I am a Section Chair because: The Appellate Section used to be very robust when I was a young lawyer, but then languished for a number of years.  I was (and am) passionate about rebuilding a strong section, providing good programming for appellate lawyers, and increasing and improving the bench-bar connection.

Any suggestions would you like to share with your fellow BASF members?  Get involved!  Like with most things, the more you put into it, the more you’ll get out of it.