Investing in Diversity And the Future of the Legal Profession

By Mary Ann Lambert

King County Bar’s annual Bar Scholars Reception, held on Apr. 8, 2026, celebrated the achievements and promise of 2025–26 law students who received scholarship support through the organization. More than 50 minority law scholars joined faculty from Seattle University and the University of Washington, along with King County Bar board members, for an evening of recognition and connection. The event highlighted the Bar’s ongoing investment in diversifying the legal profession.

The most notable moment of the evening was hearing directly from student speakers representing each law school. They shared personal reflections on what inspired them to pursue legal careers, and the critical role scholarship support has played in making that path possible. For some, the journey to law school has required navigating significant barriers, including being the first in their families to attend college, overcoming language obstacles, and managing financial pressures. Their stories underscored both the urgency and the impact of expanding access to legal education.

Since 1970, King County Bar has awarded more than $3.25 million in scholarships to law students from historically underrepresented communities. This legacy of investment continues to strengthen a pipeline of future attorneys whose diverse perspectives are essential to improving access to justice and better serving our communities.

The reception also fostered mentorship and networking. King County Bar extends sincere thanks to Emma Gillespie of Preg O’Donnell & Gillett for hosting, Board President Jim Morrison for welcoming guests, and all who made the evening possible. 

Mary Ann Lambert is the KCBA Development Director.