Overview

Since 2022, Tracey L. Schroeder has served as the Editor in Chief of the tri-annual newsletter for the Women’s Bar Association of Illinois (WBAI). This high-impact publication, reaching thousands of legal professionals across Illinois, is a resource for members of the legal community. The newsletter is distributed both digitally and in print, although the print version is reserved for select editions, adding an additional layer of complexity to its production and distribution. Schroeder’s leadership has been instrumental in managing this dynamic and multifaceted project, ensuring the publication continues to serve as a valuable platform for legal insights, professional development, and community building.

Key Challenges

Managing a publication of this scale requires meticulous planning and coordination, particularly when balancing the production of both digital and print editions. Tracey oversees a team of contributors, advertisers, and fellow editors, working collaboratively to create content that resonates with WBAI’s diverse audience of legal professionals.

Beyond managing a team, Tracey also writes content herself and actively shapes the editorial direction of each issue. As Editor in Chief, she is responsible for curating topics that reflect the evolving legal landscape, ensuring that the publication remains both relevant and impactful. This involves coordinating with dozens of legal professionals who contribute articles, as well as managing advertisers who seek exposure to the newsletter’s wide readership.

Contributions and Responsibilities

• Editorial Leadership: Since becoming Editor in Chief, Tracey has set the vision for each issue, identifying emerging trends in the legal profession and ensuring that the content reflects the interests and needs of WBAI members.
• Content Creation: In addition to managing the overall publication, Tracey writes her own articles for the newsletter, contributing thought leadership on key issues facing legal professionals today.
• Team Management: Tracey collaborates with a network of contributors, including attorneys, legal scholars, and industry experts. She also manages relationships with advertisers, ensuring that the newsletter maintains financial support while adhering to high editorial standards.
• Logistical Oversight: Balancing the demands of digital and print formats requires careful logistical planning. Tracey works closely with designers, printers, and digital distributors to ensure that each edition is produced on time and meets the high expectations of its readership.

Career Path Leading to Editor in Chief

Tracey’s journey with the association’s publication began in 2019 when she took on the role of Editor for the newsletter. Her exceptional organizational skills, keen editorial eye, and ability to work well under pressure led her to quickly rise through the ranks. In 2020, she was promoted to Lead Editor, where she took on more responsibilities, particularly in managing the content pipeline and refining the publication’s overall tone and style.

In 2022, her expertise, leadership, and dedication were recognized when she was appointed Editor in Chief. In this role, she has taken the publication to new heights, enhancing its reputation and expanding its reach within the legal community.

Impact

Under Tracey Schroeder’s leadership, the WBAI newsletter has continued to be a highly respected source of legal information and professional development. Her efforts have not only strengthened the newsletter’s content but have also streamlined its production process, particularly in managing the complexity of balancing digital and print editions.

As Editor in Chief, Tracey has demonstrated a unique ability to manage the editorial, operational, and business aspects of the publication. Her dedication and hard work have ensured that the WBAI newsletter remains an essential resource for legal professionals across Illinois.

Tracey Schroeder’s role as Editor in Chief of the Women’s Bar Association of Illinois newsletter is a testament to her editorial expertise, leadership skills, and commitment to the legal community. By successfully managing a tri-annual publication that reaches thousands of readers, she has proven herself a valuable asset to WBAI and the broader legal profession.