Bankruptcy + Reorganizations group lawyer Richard Willi was selected to participate in the National Conference of Bankruptcy Judges’ (NCBJ) 2026 Next Generation Program.

The NextGen Program recognizes up to 40 up-and-coming bankruptcy practitioners who have demonstrated exceptional legal excellence in bankruptcy law, dedication to the highest standards of civility, ethics, professionalism, and service to the legal community, and commitment to the continuation of educational development of bankruptcy professionals that will benefit the public, members of the bar, and the court system. The program will be enacted at the NCBJ’s Annual Meeting hosted from October 7 – 10, 2026, in San Diego, CA.

This year’s event celebrates the NCBJ’s 100th anniversary of judicial scholarship, professional fellowship, and a steadfast commitment to the administration of justice. During the Annual Meeting, Rick will join fellow NextGen participants in a series of tailored programs focused on professional development, education, and leadership within the bankruptcy bar. The centerpiece of the NextGen experience is the Judicial Roundtable, which enables participants to engage with more than 20 bankruptcy judges in a single afternoon, fostering meaningful dialogue on the issues and challenges facing the profession. The program also includes educational sessions, networking events, and mentoring opportunities designed to help prepare the next generation of leaders in bankruptcy law.