Highlighting Developments in Fundraising and Planning for the Future
The following are highlights from the KCBA Board of Trustees meeting held May 20, 2026, and convened by KCBA President Sidney Tribe.
President Sidney Tribe opened the May meeting by reflecting on the success of Breakfast With Champions, noting that the event exceeded fundraising goals while drawing strong community support. She also encouraged trustees to attend the upcoming Annual Awards Reception on June 23.
Executive Director Updates
Executive Director Kathleen Jensen announced that Dalvin Williams-Yarbrough has agreed to serve as the new chair of the Public Policy Committee. An associate at Corr Cronin LLP, Williams-Yarbrough brings experience in civil litigation, federal court matters, and appellate practice. Kathleen also thanked Karen Murray for her year of service as interim chair.
Kathleen shared that the King County Bar Foundation recently received a $1 million estate gift designated exclusively for pro bono services. Because of the donor’s restrictions, the funds will support direct programming rather than be added to the Foundation’s endowment.
Financial Report
Treasurer Neal Black reported that KCBA remains financially stable and is currently operating in the black, despite revenue and expenses both tracking below budget. He noted that while the Board has approved deficit budgets in recent years, the Bar has consistently finished each fiscal year with a surplus due to conservative financial management and preparation for the eventual separation of the Housing Justice Project (HJP).
New Lawyers Division
Outgoing New Lawyers Division (NLD) Chair Rayshaun Williams introduced Jacob Roes of Seyfarth Shaw as the incoming NLD chair beginning July 1, 2026. Williams also invited trustees to attend the NLD barbecue at Gas Works Park and shared that the Division is currently selecting the recipient of its 2026 Outstanding New Lawyer Award.
Membership and Development
King County Bar Development Director Mary Ann Lambert reported that the 2026 Breakfast With Champions raised a record $381,000 for the King County Bar Foundation. While attendance fell slightly short of expectations, organizers plan to focus on audience growth strategies for next year’s event.
Membership Director Bridget Schuster’s updates included plans for a Supreme Court nominations forum following the primary election, the return of the annual Past Presidents Reception later this summer, and ongoing improvements to KCBA’s membership management system.
Pro Bono Services
Kathleen Jensen highlighted several positive developments within KCBA’s pro bono programs, including the successful award of two appellate attorney positions for HJP through the Office of Civil Legal Aid. She also reported that increased rental assistance funding, strategic staffing decisions, and the use of projected reserves have helped avoid potential staff reductions.
Annual Award Recipients Approved
The Board unanimously approved the Awards Committee’s recommendations for the Association’s annual honors:
- Outstanding Lawyer Award: Michael Wampold
- Outstanding Judge Award: Judge David Keenan
- Helen M. Geisness Award: Hon. John Ruhl, Ret.
- Pro Bono Award: David Zapolsky
The recipients will be recognized at the Annual Awards Reception on June 23.
FY2027 Budget Preview
Trustees received an early look at the proposed FY2027 budget. Neal Black explained that the draft assumes a full year of HJP-related revenue and expenses because the exact timing of the program’s separation remains uncertain. Discussion also focused on KCBA’s continued practice of adopting conservative budgets that project deficits while striving to maintain long-term financial stability.
Housing Justice Project Transition
Lisa Stone reported that HJP has officially obtained 501(c)(3) status and continues to make progress toward becoming an independent nonprofit organization. The transition board is actively recruiting an executive director, with plans to post the position soon and fill the role by October 1. Trustees were encouraged to share the opportunity within their professional networks.
Court Proceedings Matter and Appeal Authorization
The Board discussed a recent unlawful detainer case in which questions were raised regarding court procedures after the matter had already been settled and final orders entered. Following updates from Kathleen Jensen regarding discussions with court and Office of Civil Legal Aid representatives, trustees reviewed potential legal options and the implications for HJP clients.
To preserve appellate rights while further review continues, the Board authorized HJP to file a notice of appeal before the applicable deadline.
Board Working Group
President Tribe reported that the Board Working Group has begun its work and plans to convene a second meeting in the near future.
With no further business, the meeting adjourned. The session was marked by strong fundraising success, continued progress toward the Housing Justice Project’s independence, important investments in pro bono services, and thoughtful discussion of the Association’s long-term financial and governance priorities.
