The following are highlights from the KCBA Board of Trustees meeting held on February 15, convened by KCBA President Tahmina Watson.
President Watson called the meeting to order. New Lawyers’ Division Chair Benjamin Byers reported that they were working with career centers at both Seattle University and the University of Washington to increase mentorship and drive engagement with KCBA. Chair Byers encouraged the Board to help nominate lawyers that have gone above and beyond in their first 10 years of service for the Outstanding New Lawyer of the year award.
President Watson updated the Board on her trip to the National Conference of Bar Presidents in New Orleans. She also noted that the KCBA office lease is up for renewal, so she asked if individuals would be interested in participating in an ad hoc committee.
Interim Executive Director Jensen shared that the KCBF Executive Committee will meet on Friday, and that they are working hard on preparing for the Breakfast with Champions. She also noted that the Goldmark Luncheon would be March 17 and asked if anyone is interested in attending.
The Board approved the January meeting minutes with two abstentions. The Board reviewed the 2022 audit, and after questions and further discussion, the Board approved the 2022 audit as presented.
Member Services Director Bridget Schuster presented an overview of a request to change names of the Membership Committee. After brief discussion, the Board voted to approve the new committee name to be Member Services Committee.
Trustee Neal Black presented on the ABA Resolution, noting the hard work, team effort, and overwhelming support. There was pressure to remove the word “binding” from the proposed resolution, which remained in the resolution that was approved, also thanks to great advocacy by KCBF Board Trustee James Williams. It was a proud and historical moment for KCBA and the country when the resolution was adopted. ABA Liaison Kathleen Hopkins briefed the Board about next steps and plans to bring proponents of the resolution from around the country to join in encouraging the Supreme Court of the United States to take action and adopt a code of ethics. President Watson and Interim Executive Director Jensen will work on outreach for support. All parties were thanked for their hard work.
Vice-President Orehoski informed the Board that strategic planning committee is on track and that facilitators connected with Member Services Director Schuster about getting the membership plugged into the strategic planning. Member Services Director added that a memo to the Board provided the update on membership and that KCBA hired a new CLE Education Coordinator.
The Board then went into executive session.
