Foley’s 2026 New Associate Orientation Builds a Foundation for Success
Author: Amy Pretty
On October 19, Foley welcomed its 2026 New Associate Class of 64 recent law school graduates and judicial clerks. Spanning 18 offices and 17 practice areas nationwide, the group brings fresh perspectives, diverse experiences, and a shared enthusiasm for beginning their careers at Foley.
To help our newest colleagues begin their integration into the firm, we brought them together in Chicago to kick off their first week at Foley. Over four days, the associates participated in training sessions and social activities, built relationships with their peers, and gained a deeper understanding of the firm’s people, culture, and resources.
This year’s New Associate Orientation program began with welcome remarks from Foley’s Professional Development team and Chairman and CEO Daljit Doogal, followed by technology training and an overview of the firm’s resources and benefits. The first day concluded with small-group dinners at various restaurants around town, where the associates began getting to know one another in a relaxed setting.
Over the next several days, the group participated in interactive training sessions and workshops led by Foley attorneys, firm leaders, and business professionals. The programming covered a broad range of topics, including career development, professional responsibility, business development and marketing, law firm operations, client service, and the evolving role of artificial intelligence in legal practice. A full day of department-specific programming provided associates in Business Law, Intellectual Property, and Litigation with substantive training tailored to their respective practices and opportunities to learn directly from department leaders.
Throughout their time in Chicago, our new associates enjoyed a variety of social events that encouraged camaraderie and new connections, including an architecture walk, a dinner cruise along the Chicago River, and department dinners. The week also provided a meaningful opportunity to give back to the community through Foley’s national partnership with the Boys & Girls Clubs of America. As part of a hands-on service project, associates assembled 140 hygiene kits for the Gantz Club in Chicago, each filled with personal care essentials and handwritten notes of encouragement.
After four days of learning, building relationships, and getting to know the firm and our people, the associates returned to their offices across the country ready to hit the ground running. Their professional development will continue through Foley’s New Associate Academy series, which provides ongoing training, resources, and guidance to help them navigate their first year of practice and beyond.
As the 2026 New Associate Class begins this exciting new chapter, we look forward to seeing the contributions they will make and all they will accomplish throughout their careers at Foley.