Ashlea Edwards, center left, the new president of the Young Lawyers Division, is passed the gavel by the division’s immediate past president, Anisha Patel, while former YLD presidents look on. Edwards says the division will strive to “instill kindness, compassion, and service” among young lawyers throughout Florida this year.

Ashlea Edwards of Jacksonville, inspired by her parents’ lessons in kindness, compassion, and hard work, has been sworn in as president of the Young Lawyers Division after eight years of service on the board.

Reflecting on her upbringing, Edwards, an associate with Akerman, expressed gratitude for her parents’ example during challenging times, which fueled her desire to improve the world through law.