By Caleb O. Bonm, KCBA Board Secretary, and Sophie Petersen, KCBA Marketing & Communications
The KCBA Board of Trustees met on Dec. 17 under the leadership of President Sidney Tribe. Trustees, officers, staff, and guests received updates on leadership transitions, member programs, financial oversight, and several key governance actions.
President’s Remarks
President Tribe reported on discussions related to an ABA delegate information request, noting that no immediate response is required.
In addition, she shared that the Executive Committee has approved the formation of a task force to explore the feasibility and structure of a standing governance committee and to bring recommendations back to the Board; further details would be shared in January.
She also announced that she will be relocating to Australia in March and intends to finish closing cases and complete the remainder of her Board term while serving remotely.
Executive Director’s Update
Executive Director Kathleen Jensen announced that the Legal Foundation of Washington has selected the late Kim Tran, KCBA Board president from 2015–16, as the recipient of the 2026 Charles A. Goldmark Distinguished Service Award, which will be presented at the Foundation’s annual luncheon on Feb. 27.
She also provided updates on active recruitment efforts for the events coordinator, Records Project, and development director positions, and noted that Bar Bulletin Editor Lee Nacozy will be departing for a new role at The Seattle Times.
Board Actions and Financial Oversight
The Board approved the minutes from the Nov. 19, 2025, meeting. Treasurer Neal Black reported no material changes to the November 2025 financials beyond those included in the meeting packet. He also shared that additional information has been requested from KCBA’s CPA to clarify expectations for achieving a balanced budget and to provide a concise dashboard summarizing current revenue and expense variances as the budget cycle concludes.
Committee and Program Reports
- New Lawyers Division: Ray Williams reported on upcoming engagement events and ongoing outreach efforts. He also noted that the NLD Board has formally adopted its guidelines and operating procedures.
- Membership: Bridget Schuster highlighted a very successful “advent calendar” CLE email campaign, which increased CLE library views compared to the same period last year. She also announced the return of the annual 50% Off Membership campaign in January, including a referral incentive raffle for Beats noise-canceling headphones, and reminded trustees to register for the Jan. 16 MLK Luncheon.
- Pro Bono: Judy Lin reported a significant funding milestone, with a 25% increase in grant funding from the Legal Foundation of Washington for the next four years. She also updated the Board on HJP leadership continuity, noting that Vallen Solomon and Emily Kawahigashi will continue as permanent leaders while planning continues for the future hiring of an executive director.
Governance and Policy Decisions
- LRS Rules and Procedures: The Board voted to adopt revised LRS Rules and Procedures following the ad hoc committee’s review. The revisions include a clearer appeals process, with a one-page handout in development to outline timelines and required materials.
- Judicial Candidate Evaluation Committee: Trustees unanimously adopted the updated JCEC Rules and Procedures previously presented, strengthening clarity and consistency in committee operations.
- Public Policy: The Board reviewed and adopted the 2026 legislative advocacy agenda, with minor edits. Discussion included court funding challenges, particularly in family law and eviction matters, and plans to engage relevant KCBA sections for input. The Public Policy Committee will host a post-session recap meeting following the shortened legislative session.
Housing Justice Project Update
The Board received an update on the Housing Justice Project, including approval of the draft IRS Form 1023 application, which will now be finalized for submission.
In Closing
With no further business, President Tribe adjourned the meeting, closing a session focused on continuity, growth, and long-term planning for the Association.
