Candidates for Board of Governors

The following names were submitted by nomination petition fo​r election to the Board of Governors. The Board of Governors is the State Bar's policymaking body. Governors serve two-year terms.

Districts 1, 2, 3, 5, 6, 7, 9, 11, 13, and 15 will elect governors in 2019. District 2 (Milwaukee) elects seven; District 9 (Dane) elects three; and all other districts elect one.

State Bar election ballots are mailed no later than April 12, 2019, and members return them by April 26, 2019.

Persons elected will take office July 1, 2019.

District Map | View Officer Candidates ​

District 1 (one vacancy)​

• Joseph M. Cardamone III, Kenosha County Corporation Counsel, Kenosha, U.W. 1998

District 2 (seven vacancies)

• Kori L. Ashley, Legal Action of Wisconsin Inc., Milwaukee, U.W. 2012
• Christopher K. Flowers, Godfrey & Kahn SC, Milwaukee, Marquette 2014
• Margaret W. Hickey, Becker, Hickey & Poster SC, Milwaukee, U.W. 1986
• Rochelle Johnson-Bent, Boys & Girls Club of Greater Milwaukee, Milwaukee, U.W. 2010 
• Lisa M. Lawless, Husch Blackwell LLP, Milwaukee, Indiana University-Bloomington 1992
• Odalo J. Ohiku, Law Office of Odalo J. Ohiku, Milwaukee, Marquette 2002
• Anthony J. Procaccio, Milwaukee, Marquette 2013
• Gretchen G. Rosenke, Milwaukee County District Attorney’s Office, Milwaukee, Marquette 2003
• Mary L. Schanning, City of Milwaukee, Milwaukee, William & Mary 1997
• Amy E. Wochos, Milwaukee County Clerk of Courts, Milwaukee, U.W. 1996

District 3 (one vacancy)

• Renee A. Read, Remley & Sensenbrenner SC, Neenah, St. Louis 2004

District 5 (one vacancy)

• Danielle M. Kranz, Monroe County District Attorney’s Office, Sparta, William Mitchell 2009
• Craig R. Steger, Hale, Skemp, Hanson, Skemp & Sleik, La Crosse, Ave Maria School of Law 2005

District 6 (one vacancy)

• John P. Macy, Municipal Law & Litigation Group SC, Waukesha, Marquette 1980

District 7 (one vacancy)

• Bradley A. Yanke, Anderson, O’Brien, Bertz, Skrenes & Golla LLP, Steven Point, Marquette 2011

District 9 (three vacancies)

• Corey G. Lorenz, Habush Habush & Rottier SC, Madison, DePaul 2011
• Sam Wayne, Wayne Law SC, Madison, U.W. 2009
• Katie R. York, State Public Defenders Office, Madison, Golden Gate University 2006

District 11 (one vacancy)

• Johanna R. Kirk, Kirk Law Office LLC, Superior, Hamline 2006

District 13 (one vacancy)

• Robert G. Barrington, Dodge County District Attorney’s Office, Juneau, U.W. 2007

District 15 (one vacancy)

• Lucas P. Bennewitz, Racine County District Attorney’s Office, Racine, Marquette 2015
• Brian P. Dimmer, Richards & Dimmer SC, Racine, Marquette 2009

District 1

JOSEPH M. CARDAMONE III of Kenosha. Education: University of Wisconsin Law School, 1998. Current employment: Kenosha County Corporation Counsel, 2015-present. Member, International Municipal Lawyers Association. President-Elect, State Bar of Wisconsin Government Lawyers Division. Former member of: Board of Governors, Strategic Planning Committee (Chair), CLE Committee, Public Image Committee, Communications Committee, Convention Committee. Previously served as President of Young Lawyers Division, member of Executive Committee; Former President and current member of Kenosha County Bar Association. Employment history: Kenosha County Assistant District Attorney, 1999-2000; Associate, Gagliardi, Nelson & O’Brien, 2000-2005; solo practitioner, 2005-2008; Kenosha County Assistant Corporation Counsel, 2008-2012; Kenosha County 1^st Assistant Corporation Counsel, 2012-2015.

District 2

KORI L. ASHLEY of Milwaukee. Kori was born and raised in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. She completed her undergraduate education at DePaul University where she received a Bachelor’s degree in Political Science and in 2012; she received her Juris Doctorate from the University of Wisconsin Law School. Kori is a member of the Wisconsin Association of African American Lawyers, Milwaukee Bar Association, Eastern District of Wisconsin Bar Association, Mentor with Eastern District Bar Association’s Mentoring Program, Co-Chair of Young Lawyers Division Free Legal Clinic, Project Street Youth, current BOG representative for District 2 and member of the Executive Committee. Kori lives in Milwaukee with her husband. In her spare time, she enjoys gardening, watching television and spending time with her family.

Kori L. Ashley Campaign Statement

I have had the privilege of representing District 2, in the City of Milwaukee, on the Board of Governors (BOG) since June, 2017. I am a public interest attorney with Legal Action of Wisconsin’s Milwaukee Office. My practice primarily involves mitigating the negative collateral consequences of involvement in the criminal justice system with the objective of improving employment opportunities. During my first term as a BOG member I learned about how the State Bar functions and how it works to best serve its members. As a member of the Executive Committee, I have had the opportunity work with State Bar leadership directly to ensure the overall stability of the State Bar, so that it can continue to flourish. I believe that I have demonstrated the merits of involvement and perspective of younger members of the State Bar.

I continue to believe that the State Bar is not monolithic; consequently, it is essential that all members of the bar, meaningfully participate, and support the State Bar by contributing their views diverse perspectives and be the diverse group of professionals that we are. During my term, I participated in two working committees. I worked on a team to develop an action plan to promote diversity and inclusion at the Bar and in the legal profession. The other workgroup’s mission was to create an action plan to implement strategies within the State Bar to work to identify, address and prevent sexual harassment in our profession. I am proud of the work completed by the two action committees and encouraged that both action plans were voted on and approved by the BOG. This work will result in creating a more diverse and inclusive State Bar and BOG consistent with the State Bar’s mission.

If chosen, to represent District 2, I will continue to work to ensure that the State Bar serves and supports all of its members in the public, private, corporate and nonprofit sectors, and attorneys recently admitted to the bar equally and impartially and promise to assist with recruiting younger members who believe in and support our mission. I will continue to work with State Bar leadership to prospectively problem solve and craft creative solutions to address issues that the State Bar will face in the future, one of which is the declining rate of dues paying members. I will continue to be a team player that is accessible, and open to all thoughts, actively listen, to all suggestions and perspectives on the multitude of issues facing the State Bar and positively represent the State Bar in the communities that I serve.

I would be honored to continue to represent District 2 on the State Board of Governors and humbly ask for your vote.

CHRISTOPHER K. FLOWERS of Milwaukee. Chris is a litigation attorney in the Milwaukee office of Godfrey & Kahn, S.C. Chris concentrates his practice in the area of general commercial litigation, devoting a significant portion of his practice to advising and counseling clients in distributor and dealer-related disputes. Chris is a member of the American Bar Association, the State Bar of Wisconsin and the Milwaukee Bar Association. Chris earned his J.D. from Marquette University Law School in 2014. He earned his undergraduate and graduate degrees from the University at Albany SUNY. Prior to law school, Chris worked at both the New York State Assembly and the New York State Senate. In addition to his litigation practice, Chris is an active board member of the Down Syndrome Association of Wisconsin and a member of the Milwaukee Repertory Theater’s Equity, Diversity and Inclusion Committee. Chris also works closely with Milwaukee small business owners as a volunteer with the Wisconsin Women’s Business Initiative and the African American Chamber of Commerce of Wisconsin. Chris grew up in upstate New York and is an avid jazz fan.

MARGARET W. HICKEY of Milwaukee. Margaret is a shareholder in the law firm of Becker, Hickey, & Poster S.C., Milwaukee, since 1991, practices family and elder law. She received her B.A. from Marquette University (1982, summa cum laude, Phi Beta Kappa) and her J.D. from the University of Wisconsin Law School (1986, cum laude). Margaret has served on the Milwaukee Bar Association Board of Directors (President, 2004-05) and is past Chair of the State Bar Elder Law and Family Law Section Boards and served previously on the Board of Governors (Chair 2006- 07, Treasurer 2009-11). She served on the Legal Aid Society of Milwaukee Board. Currently she serves on the Wisconsin Equal Justice Foundation Board and is a member of the State Bar Diversity and Inclusion Oversight Committee and the Leadership Development Committee. She is a member of State Bar of Wisconsin, and the Milwaukee, Waukesha and Ozaukee Bar Associations, National Academy of Elder Law Attorneys, the Association for Women Lawyers, American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers and is an ABA fellow. Best Lawyers in America named her in both family and elder law and she has been a “Super Lawyer,” for about ten years. She and Bob have 4 children, 4 grandchildren and 2 dogs.

Margaret W. Hickey Campaign Statement

I am running for the Board of Governors because I value participation in professional life. Many of us became attorneys to make a difference, yet in the daily practice of law it can be a tough to remember that ideal. My past participation in State Bar Committees and the Board of Governors has taught me that this is a way not only to give back to the profession, but also to learn about and contribute to the important decisions that affect the practice of law.

Working in and managing a small firm, I understand the challenges that most lawyers face earning a living in a competitive market and the economics of practicing law. Prior to working at Becker, Hickey & Poster, S.C., my practice began in insurance defense and litigation, but has narrowed to family law and elder law. Since my clients are usually individuals in crisis, much of my work deals with problem solving and client management. My work includes ADR, using mediation and arbitration, and I am a litigator.

For many years I have been involved in the Family Law and Elder Law sections. I have served on and chaired the Boards of both sections. I am particularly proud of helping to organize the first Elder Law Section Workshop which just completed its 21st annual program. In addition, I have served on the Board of Governors for about ten years ending in 2015. During that time, I served a Board Chair (2006-07), Treasurer (2011-13) and I served on both the Finance and Executive Committees. Since leaving the Board, I have served on the Diversity and Inclusion Oversight Committee helping to organize presentations of national speakers on topics such as implicit bias, cultural competence, best practices for diversity and inclusion and the #metoo movement.

I received my B.A. from Marquette University (1982, summa cum laude, Phi Beta Kappa) and J.D. from the University of Wisconsin Law School (1986, cum laude). I served on the Milwaukee Bar Association Board of Directors (President, 2004-05) and the Elder Law and Family Law Section Boards and on the Board of Governors. I also served on the Legal Aid Society of Milwaukee Board. Currently, I serve on the Wisconsin Equal Justice Foundation Board and am a member of the State Bar Diversity and Inclusion Oversight Committee and the Leadership Development Committee.

My memberships include: State Bar of Wisconsin, and the Milwaukee, Waukesha and Ozaukee Bar Associations, National Academy of Elder Law Attorneys, the Association for Women Lawyers, American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers and I am an ABA fellow. Best Lawyers in America named me in both family and elder law and I am named in “Super Lawyers.”

If elected to the Board of Governors, I will work to strengthen the Bar’s commitment to diversity and inclusion as stated in our mission statement at all levels of the Bar, to maintain fiscally responsible use of our members’ money and to ensure that member voices are heard on important issues before the Board.

ROCHELLE JOHNSON-BENT of Milwaukee. University of Wisconsin, J.D., 2010. Rochelle currently serves on the Board of Governors, representing Milwaukee (District 2), since September 2018, and sits on the Policy Committee. Rochelle is the Director of Compliance at Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Milwaukee. Prior to that, Rochelle was the Supervising Attorney at Legal Aid Society of Milwaukee from 2013-2018, and Associate Attorney at Laster and Associates, LLC from 2011-2013. Rochelle is a member of Wisconsin Young Lawyers Division; Wisconsin Associate of African American Lawyers; Wisconsin Family Law Section; Society of Corporate Compliance and Ethics; and Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. Rochelle was named the Young Lawyer’s Division 2017 Outstanding Mentor and a 2015 Wisconsin State Bar Leadership Development Summit participant. Rochelle graduated undergrad from North Carolina A&T State University, majoring in Political Science. Rochelle lives in Milwaukee with her children, Seanna (4) and Winston (2). Rochelle is running to bring a voice of diversity and inclusion to the Board of Governors.

LISA M. LAWLESS of Milwaukee. Indiana University, J.D. 1992, summa cum laude; University of Virginia, B.A. 1989. Husch Blackwell LLP (formerly, Whyte Hirschboeck Dudek), 2016-present; Whyte Hirschboeck Dudek, 2002-2016. Foley & Lardner, 1993-1998; Fenwick & West, 2000-2002; Troutman Sanders, 1998-2000; Law Clerk, Chief Justice Randall Shepard, Indiana Supreme Court, 1992-1993. Bar Activities: Fellow, Wisconsin Law Foundation; State Bar: Board of Governors, 2017-present; 2011-2015; 2004-2008; President’s Awards, 2015, 2007; Chair, Strategic Planning Committee, 2014-2015 & member, 2017-2018; 2011-2014; Governance Committee, 2018-present; Appellate Help Desk, 2016-present; Liaison, ADR section, 2017-present; Liaison, IP section, 2011-2015; 2004-2008; Law-Related Education Committee, 1996-97; Milwaukee Bar Association: Board of Directors, 2008-2011; Co-Chair, Bench Bar-Appeals Committee, 2015-present; Co-Chair, IP Section, 2004-2007; Professionalism Committee, 1994-1996, vice-chair, 1996-1997, chair, 1997-1998; MYLA secretary, newsletter editor, 1996-1997. Community Activities: Wauwatosa School District: Co-Chair, Facilities Advisory Committee, 2017-2018; Legislative Advocacy Committee, 2018-present; Wild Space Dance Company Board of Directors, 2007-present; 1995-1998; Tosa Kickers Board of Directors, 2015-present; Women’s Soccer Club; Nicolet High School Foundation Board of Directors, 2004-2008. Other: Author, Annual Review of Wisconsin Supreme Court Decisions, Wisconsin Lawyer, Dec. 2015-Dec. 2018; Thomas E. Fairchild Inn of Court, 2004-present; Martindale-Hubbell AV-rated; Leader in the Law 2019; Super Lawyer® 2010-2012.

Lisa M. Lawless Campaign Statement

I am a Board of Governors member seeking reelection. I previously served eight years on the BOG during 2004-2015. I am running to continue serving the State Bar and Milwaukee lawyers. I am also an active participant and volunteer in State Bar activities. For the last four years, I have authored the annual review of Wisconsin Supreme Court decisions for Wisconsin Lawyer and I am a monthly volunteer for the Appellate Help Desk, an innovative and excellent pro bono initiative.

From my time on the BOG and leadership roles including as chair of the Strategic Planning Committee and currently as member of the Governance Committee, I have seen the great services, initiatives, and opportunities offered by the bar and gained a broad understanding of its operations and functions. As a mandatory bar for which members pay substantial fees, I am especially attuned to its finances, both revenues and expenses, and our obligation to act as fiscal stewards for our members.

Equally important to providing excellent services and programs is communication with bar members to inform of these activities and of current and impending challenges to the bar and the profession. In our Milwaukee legal community in particular, it is vitally important to keep strong lines of connection.

Areas of particular importance and focus to me are:

• Fiscal responsibility and attention to spending and bar dues: Carefully review expenditures and revenues, with an eye to cutting expenditures before taking the step of raising dues.

• Member communication, both outgoing and incoming: Share information about bar activities and initiatives and policy decisions and listen to members to identify and hear their concerns, challenges, and needs, to ensure the bar is serving them.

• Leadership and diversity of the bar and bar leadership: There is a wealth of untapped talent, experience, and energy amongst Milwaukee lawyers. That pool should be tapped and nurtured to increase bar involvement and cultivate new leaders.

• Service to the justice system and our community: The bar should continue its excellent programs and also identify unserved needs and opportunities to partner with our communities and local and specialty bar associations.

I am a litigator with Husch Blackwell (formerly Whyte Hirschboeck Dudek) in Milwaukee with an emphasis in appellate practice and commercial litigation. A resident of Wauwatosa, I am married with two teenage daughters. Active in the community, I serve on the boards of Wild Space Dance Company and Tosa Kickers and recently co-chaired the Facilities Advisory Committee of the Wauwatosa School District, which culminated in a referendum for school facilities approved by voters in November 2018. In my spare time, I play soccer with the Women’s Soccer Club and I am an avid fan of EPL soccer.

ODALO J. OHIKU of Milwaukee. Law Office of Odalo J. Ohiku, Milwaukee. Marquette University Law School, J.D., 2002. Professional Memberships: African-American Chamber of Commerce, American Bar Association, American Bar Foundation – Wisconsin Fellow, Association for Conflict Resolution, Association of Family and Conciliation Courts, Divorce Cooperation Institute, FINRA, Milwaukee Bar Association, Milwaukee Urban League, National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers, The National Trial Lawyers, Wisconsin Association of African-American Lawyers, Wisconsin Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers, Wisconsin Association of Mediators, Wisconsin Law Foundation – Wisconsin Fellow, Wisconsin Pro Bono Honor Society, Wisconsin State Bar Association, Wisconsin State Bar Association – Chair, Board of Governors.

 

ANTHONY J. PROCACCIO of Milwaukee. Marquette University, J.D., 2013. Lagmann, Inc., Milwaukee. Member State Bar of Wisconsin, member of Bench/Bar Committee 2016- present. Member Young Lawyers Division.

Anthony J. Procaccio Campaign Statement

My goal is to ensure the State Bar of Wisconsin provides substantive value for all of its members, but especially to ensure that the State Bar is adequately serving and preparing its younger members. The struggles young attorneys face are numerous – Job searching, meaningful mentorship opportunities, non-traditional career paths, and mental health concerns. By focusing on these problem areas, the State Bar can contribute to attaining the ultimate goal of every attorney: to be happy and fulfilled in their chosen profession. In my career, I have worked for public and private institutions, big firms and small, handling civil and criminal law, and in practicing and non-practicing capacities. This experience has exposed me to a diverse set of problems and concerns among attorneys. I want to use my experience and struggles in navigating the legal profession to make it easier for all attorneys, young and old, to thrive in this profession. Of course, the common gripe for lawyers, young and old, relates to not knowing what exactly the State Bar is doing with their dues. Therefore it is critical to ensure the State Bar is responsive to the needs of its members and grows and changes as the membership grows and changes.

GRETCHEN G. ROSENKE of Milwaukee. Marquette University, J.D. 2003. Milwaukee County District Attorney’s Office, juvenile court. Member Racine County Bar since 2003. Racine Bar Board of Governors’ 2006-2009. Member State Bar of Wisconsin. Board of Director’s for Racine Friendship Clubhouse 2012-Present. I joined the Milwaukee County DA’s Office in October 2018. Prior to that I was with the Racine Public Defender’s Office for 12 years and active in the legal community there. I became the board of governor’s representative for Racine County in February 2018, when a vacancy occurred. I would like to continue serving on the board of governors for a full term.

 

MARY L. SCHANNING of Milwaukee. Atty. Schanning is a Deputy City Attorney for the City of Milwaukee. She received her J.D. in 1997 from the College of William & Mary in Williamsburg, VA. Atty. Schanning has served on the Board of the State Bar’s Government Lawyers Division since 2009 serving as its President, Treasurer and a member of its CLE, Nominating and Career Paths Committees. She previously served one year on the State Bar’s Board of Governors and its Executive Committee in 2017-18 as the representative of the GLD. She is currently a member of the Supreme Court’s Appointment Selection Committee.

Mary L. Schanning Campaign Statement

I am currently finishing my term as Past-President of the State Bar’s Government Lawyers Division and will be transitioning off the GLD Board at the end of June after serving on it for ten years. I want to continue my service to the Bar and its members by representing the attorneys of Milwaukee County on the Board of Governors. During my previous term on the Board of Governors as GLD President I became very interested in the State Bar’s efforts to increase diversity and realized that there is much work yet to be done in that endeavor. If elected, increasing diversity and inclusion in State Bar leadership positions is a high priority for me, so much so that if you find yourself trying to decide between me and a more diverse candidate in this election, I urge you to vote for the more diverse candidate! Other matters of importance to me include educating State Bar members on the benefits available to them through the State Bar and looking at cost saving measures to avoid increases in State Bar membership dues.

My professional background includes working in the Milwaukee City Attorney’s Office since 2011 where, as a Deputy City Attorney, I manage the Real Estate, Education and Housing Section of the office. I also handle complex real estate development and have worked on notable projects including the Fiserv Forum, the Lakefront Gateway Project, the Northwestern Mutual office tower, tax incremental financing for the Milwaukee Streetcar, the City’s efforts to get the DNC’s 2020 Convention and many others. Prior to my current position in Milwaukee, I was the City Attorney for West Bend, Wisconsin for over 10 years. In West Bend, I handled all aspects of municipal law including eminent domain, land use and development, public construction, citation prosecution, employment law, open meetings and public records. I also have prior experience doing civil litigation in a private, insurance defense law firm.

AMY E. WOCHOS of Milwaukee. EDUCATION: University of Wisconsin- Madison, B.A. (1991) with honors, J.D. (1996) cum laude. PRACTICE: Deputy Register in Probate/Acting Court Commissioner, Milwaukee County Probate Court, (2018-present); Legal Counsel – Courts, Milwaukee County Clerk of Circuit Court Office, (Administration (2014-2018), Probate Division (2011-2014), and the Milwaukee Justice Center (2007-2011)); Piper & Schmidt, 1996-2007. PROFESSIONAL ACTIVITIES: State Bar of Wisconsin: Board of Governors, 2007-2012, 2014-present (Chairperson of Board, 2016-17), Executive Committee, 2007-2008, 2016-17; Client Protection Fund Committee, 2008-present (Chair, 2012-2014); Representative to the Judicial Council (2013-2016); Young Lawyers Division (YLD), president, 2006-2007, YLD board member, 1998-2008; American Bar Association: House of Delegates, 2003-04, YLD Service teams, 2002-05, YLD Meetings Coordinator, 2005-06. Milwaukee Bar Association: Committee on Legal Access (formerly LSIC), 2007-present (Chair, 2014-16, 2018-present) Marquette Volunteer Legal Clinic, Advisory Board member (2015-present). U.W.-Milwaukee: Lecturer, Political Science Department (Law and Society, Constitutional Law), 2003-2012.

District 3

RENEE A. READ of Neenah. Saint Louis University, J.D., 2004. Remley & Sensenbrenner, S.C., Neenah. Member of State Bar of Wisconsin, Winnebago County Bar Association, and Outagamie County Bar Association. Member of the State Bar Leadership Development Committee 2018-present. Member of Family Law Section and Bankruptcy, Insolvency and Creditor’s Rights Section. Member of the Association of Family and Conciliation Courts. Board member: Fox West Chamber of Commerce. Member and Past-President: Fox Cities Morning Rotary Club.

Renee A. Read Campaign Statement

My goal for myself in pursuit of a position on the Board of Governors is the same goal I hope to achieve for other members: connectedness, understanding, support and knowledge. Membership in the State Bar should be providing us with each of these benefits, made available through various mechanisms consistent with our diverse membership. Although my work is now focused, having come from a general practice background I have insight into several fields of law and know the challenges faced by practitioners. Given the intrinsic difficulties of our profession, it is important that membership in our State Bar offers opportunities to improve our work and lives, thus providing value. I would utilize my time and voice on the Board of Governors with that objective.

District 5

DANIELLE M. KRANZ of Barre Mills. William Mitchell College of Law, J.D., 2009. Assistant District Attorney for Monroe County (2016 – present). Young Lawyers Division (YLD) Board Member 2012 – present; Treasurer 2014-2015; President-Elect 2016-2017, President 2017-2018, Past-President 2018-2019. Chair of the 7^th Annual Young Lawyers Conference, 2016. Current YLD representative to the State Bar of Wisconsin (SBW) Board of Governors. Member of the Executive and Strategic Planning Committees of SBW.

Danielle M. Kranz Campaign Statement

I ask for your vote to serve on the Board of Governors, representing District 5 (Buffalo, Clark, Crawford, Jackson, La Crosse, Monroe, Pepin, Richland, Trempealeau, and Vernon County).

When I first ran for the Young Lawyers Division Board in 2012, I did so because I was practicing in rural Wisconsin (Taylor County, to be precise). I felt I was the young lawyer in that area, and I wanted to not only build my professional network, but also begin addressing the issues that face young lawyers in rural parts of the state. As I have served the profession through the Young Lawyers Division and continued to practice in other rural areas (Keshena and Sparta, subsequently), I have experienced first-hand the dearth of resources devoted to both attracting young lawyers to those areas and to ensure there is adequate legal representation available to the residents of our more rural parts.

I was involved in one of the early iterations of the committee that planned and implemented what would eventually be known as the Wisconsin Bus Tour Initiative, which was designed to show third-year law students and new lawyers parts of the state outside of Madison and Milwaukee. These areas of the state are some of the most beautiful, and are also some of the most desperately in need of lawyers to serve the area.

As someone who grew up in a small town (Columbus) and has practiced exclusively in rural areas, I see how the needs of our more rural communities are unique and are also not being met. Additionally, as someone who graduated from law school in 2009, I see how the needs of our younger lawyers are not being met as many of us came out of law school with staggering amounts of debt and little in the way of sustainable job prospects.

I have practiced criminal law for the majority of my career, and have seen first-hand how the lack of available attorneys impacts our communities. The deficiency of staffing in district attorneys’ offices coupled with the lack of available attorneys willing to take on public defender appointments causes the system to grind to a near-halt. Not only does this take a significant toll on defense attorneys and their clients, but it also delays justice for victims. I pledge to be a voice for criminal justice reform and work with people from all facets of criminal justice, specifically in terms of adequate staffing and compensation.

As a State Bar Governor, I promise to represent the people of District 5 and be a voice for the distinct challenges that face rural communities and practitioners. I would be honored to be the representative for District 5 to ensure that the profession and bar continues to thrive while delivering valuable products and services to the members, while also guaranteeing our district’s specific concerns being addressed by the bar. I ask for your vote, and look forward to the opportunity to continue serving the profession as a whole and District 5 specifically.

CRAIG R. STEGER of La Crosse. Ave Maria School of Law, J.D. 2005. Partner at Hale, Skemp, Hanson, Skemp & Sleik, La Crosse. Member of State Bar of Wisconsin, State Bar of Minnesota, State Bar of Iowa. Finance Council Member: Sacred Heart School. Organic Farmer and CrossFitter.

District 6

JOHN P. MACY of Waukesha. Marquette University, J.D., 1980. Carroll University, B.A., 1977. Municipal Law and Litigation Group, S.C. (Arenz, Molter, Macy, Riffle, Larson & Bitar). Our firm is engaged in the general practice of law, with a heavy emphasis on municipal law and municipal insurance defense throughout Wisconsin. Our firm currently represents approximately 50 municipal entities and several insurance companies. American Bar Association General Practice, House of Delegates from 1996 through 2002 and 2006 through 2012, Solo and Small Firm Division, numerous offices held including Chair of the Division and other ABA positions. State Bar of Wisconsin, Board of Governors from 1992 through 1996, 2003 through 2008, 2018 to date as well as in numerous other positions including Chair of the Board of Governors, Chair of the Finance Committee, and a member of the Executive Committee. Waukesha County Bar Association where he has served as President as well as in many other positions including Membership Chair and Entertainment Chair. Board member for the Citizens Bank of Mukwonago, past Chair of the Waukesha County Community Foundation, President of the Carroll University Delta Rho Upsilon Alumni Association, and involved in numerous professional, civic, and non-profit organizations.

John P. Macy Campaign Statement

I have been involved in Local, State and National Bar Association work for over 38 years. I do so because I believe that the legal profession and more importantly that both the members of the profession as well as those who are served by the same, need conscientious and hardworking people to volunteer their time and talents. I hope that my past work has shown that I am one of those people.

While staying involved in State Bar committee work the entire time, I took a 10-year absence from serving on the Board of Governors. When an opportunity arose to again serve, I accepted. Great changes have occurred at the Bar in my absence mainly because many good people “stepped up to the plate,” donated their time and talents, and worked hard. Of particular significance is the great strides made to have a diverse organization. Many of the voices missing from the table in the past are now present.

That being said, some of the same issues face the profession today that faced the State Bar 10 years ago. Prioritization of programs, budget issues, planning for the future, governing today are all still being discussed. I believe that my past experience as well as bringing a new face to the current discussions will be helpful.

My overriding philosophy which controls my thinking and actions is that these organizations should first and foremost exist to serve the needs of the members. The State Bar does so in many ways. This is not to say that there is not a lot more to do; there always is. Since being appointed I have endeavored by the District 6 reports to provide to the members in more detail, hopefully without overburdening them, a comprehensive report on the goings-on of the Bar. Please take moment to read through the same when they are emailed to you.

My passions are the finances of the association and in particular making sure that your dues money is spent wisely as well as programs that are available to every member as a benefit at no cost such as WisLAP, the Ethics Hotline, Practice 411, and the Wisconsin Lawyer magazine.

With your vote, I hope to continue to serve you and the profession. I will vigilantly watch that the State Bar is always working for you. I will be your conscience, your voice, if re-elected. I ask for your vote. Thank you for your consideration.

District 7

BRADLEY A. YANKE of Stevens Point. Marquette University Law School, J.D. cum laude, 2011. University of Wisconsin-Madison, B.S., 2008. Partner at Anderson, O’Brien, Bertz, Skrenes & Golla, LLP, Stevens Point. State Bar of Wisconsin Board of Governors – District 7, Portage County Bar Association, Wisconsin Association for Justice (Executive Committee, Board of Directors and Legislative Task Force), Attorneys Information Exchange Group. Mentor for Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Wisconsin.

Bradley A. Yanke Campaign Statement

I respectfully seek a second term as the Governor representing District 7. I want to continue advancing the Bar’s positions that are to the benefit of the bar and the administration of justice in Wisconsin. Of import, one of the Bar’s legislative pushes has been, and is, to support increased pay for Assistant District Attorneys, staff Public Defender attorneys and private bar Public Defender appointments. As a representative of rural counties, I see how these public servants make up a large portion of our local bar, and by extension, our community leaders. It is imperative for the efficient and effective administration of justice in these counties that we are able to recruit and continue to retain talented attorneys for these practices. I very much want to continue to work on these issues.

I spent my formative years in Marshfield. After school and a short stint practicing in Appleton, I returned to Central Wisconsin in 2013 to practice at Anderson, O’Brien, Bertz, Skrenes & Golla, LLP, and concentrate my practice on representing those who have been injured by the negligence of others. I love living and practicing in this area, and I would love to continue being its voice with the Board of Governors.

District 9

COREY G. LORENZ of Madison. DePaul University College of Law, J.D., 2011; University of Wisconsin-Madison, B.A., 2008. Corey is a shareholder at Habush Habush & Rottier S.C.® Her primary practice is personal injury and medical malpractice, and over the years she has litigated numerous complex product liability matters in both state and federal court. Corey has worked to represent clients throughout Wisconsin and across the country. She is a member of the American Bar Association, American Association for Justice, State Bar of Wisconsin, Wisconsin Association for Justice, and Dane County Bar Association. Corey currently serves on the Board of Directors for the Dane County Legal Association for Women, promoting women’s interests in the legal profession.

 

SAM WAYNE of Madison. Sam is a solo practitioner in Madison litigating business, consumer, fraud, contract, and tort claims. He graduated from the University of Wisconsin Law School in 2009, the University of Wisconsin La Follette School of Public Affairs with an MPA in 2005, and Cornell University with a BS in 2003. He served on the Young Lawyers Division Board from 2012 - 2014, growing the Law School Committee’s mission to educate students about this great profession. He was selected as a 2018 SuperLawyers Rising Star, was named to InBusiness Magazine’s 40 Under 40 in 2012, was awarded the YLD Professional Achievement Award in 2011, and was a U.W. Law School Dean's Fellow in 2010. He presented at the 2015 YLD Leadership Conference and was published in the Wisconsin Lawyer in 2016 and the DCBA Newsletter in 2010. He’s chipped in with Wills for Heroes in 2009, 2011, and 2015, and with Big Brothers Big Sisters from 2011 - 2013. He teaches some yoga, swims, plays soccer, tennis, and pond hockey whenever he gets a chance, and loves his wife, their infant daughter Julia, their dog Miller, music, cooking, farmers markets, national parks, traveling the world, and meeting its incredible people.

Sam Wayne Campaign Statement

Two years ago I shared the Shakespeare quote about killing all the lawyers. This quote is often misconstrued as a dismissal of the value of lawyers, but in actuality it is a recognition that attorneys are the first and last lines of defense from tyranny and serve a vital role in any civil society.

I'm running for a second term on the Board of Governors because it’s still imperative for the health of our democracy that lawyers work to ensure good governance in every branch and at every level of policymaking. Perhaps more liberal than Shakespearean, I also believe that lawyers, and the State Bar of Wisconsin, have an obligation to support our fellow Wisconsinites to reach and lobby their legislators to effect policies that benefit the working and middle classes. My candidacy, though, is not about left vs. right politics. It is about lawyers recognizing and utilizing their role in protecting democracy so that we can once again enjoy the privilege of sane, measured, deliberate, and productive left vs. right politics.

The State Bar's Strategic Priorities include (i) increasing access to justice for all, (ii) advancing public trust and advocating for a high functioning justice system, (iii) ensuring commitment to diversity and inclusion, (iv) advocating for the public interest, and (v) optimizing bar members' and the public's potential. These are all incredibly worthy goals that recognize the position lawyers hold as civic leaders.

While these goals are admirable, they were set forth in a seemingly more stable political era, and don't fully meet the governance challenges our state and nation so obviously face today. We are still governed by white supremacists, anti-intellectuals, corporate cronies, and those who hate our first, fourth, fifth, sixth, fourteenth, fifteenth, nineteenth, and twenty-fourth amendment freedoms. While remaining generally apolitical, the State Bar has done an admirable job rallying lawyers to defend what is right, rather than donning blinders so that we may remain "neutral" in service to across-the-aisle harmony. The State Bar and all of its members must continue to aggressively champion transparency, civil rights, science, and democracy.

I am passionate about these issues. Alongside this passion I carry a counterweight of pragmatism and geniality. I don’t shout down those governors with whom I disagree. Instead, I engage them in debate about good governance and our role, and seek to move the State Bar towards an even more active role as a protector of democracy. In this past term on the board, I have spoken passionately in support of gender equality and other issues I care about and served on the President's Working Group on Sexual Harassment in the Legal Profession.

I have also served as the Vice Chair of the board’s Strategic Planning Committee, and on the Finance/Strategic Planning Joint Review Committee, developing new ideas to streamline the bar’s operations to keep dues down while maintaining its best-in-the-business service.

Take action, as a lawyer and as a citizen. Together we can make a positive change.

KATIE R. YORK of Madison. Katie is the Deputy Trial Division Direction for the Wisconsin State Public Defender (SPD). Katie started with the SPD eleven years ago as an Assistant State Public Defender in the Green Bay trial office. In 2010 she transferred to the SPD’s Madison Appellate office and in 2015 she was promoted to Local Attorney Manager. In 2018, she began her current position in the Trial Division. Katie was born and raised on a dairy farm in Lake Geneva, Wisconsin. She lives in Madison with her husband and two young sons. Katie is an avid runner and biker, participating in many races throughout the state, including the Madison Marathon and Ironman.

Katie R. York Campaign Statement

I would be honored to have the opportunity to represent the attorneys of District 9 – Dane County – on the State Bar’s Board of Governors. I have truly enjoyed working for the SPD for the last eleven years. I have had the opportunity to learn from and work with very dedicated and talented attorneys. I have had the satisfaction of working with individual clients, while litigating a wide array of issues in circuit courts around the state, the court of appeals, and the Wisconsin Supreme Court. As a member of the Board of Governors, I will be able to draw on my experiences from practicing as a government attorney in all three judicial levels in Wisconsin.

I have also had the opportunity to work with private attorneys taking SPD appointments by presenting at various trainings and answering questions directed to the Madison Appellate office and as the Deputy Trial Division Director. This has given me a different perspective on the challenges associated with solo practitioners and other private attorneys that I can utilize as a member of the Board of Governors.

I believe it is important to have open communication and collaboration. I am always open to hearing different perspectives. I truly believe the ability to respectfully express differing opinions will facilitate an open dialogue and will allow for full consideration and analysis of the issues before the Board of Governors.

I ask that you consider my candidacy to be your representative on the Board of Governors. Thank you.

District 11

JOHANNA R. KIRK of Superior. Johanna has practiced law in Superior since 2006 after graduating from Hamline University School of Law. Johanna opened a solo practice in 2013 and focuses in the areas of estate and elder planning, probate, real estate, guardianships, and representing business owners. Johanna also serves as guardian ad litem in CHIPS, JIPS, TPR and guardianship cases. Johanna’s past Bar involvement includes the Solo Small Firm Conference Planning Committee, the Solo Small Firm and General Practice Section Board, Local Bar Relations Committee, LOMAP Advisory Committee, New Lawyers Task Force. Johanna is a mother of two and very active with other groups and organizations in her community.

District 13

ROBERT G. BARRINGTON of Beaver Dam. University of Wisconsin Law School, J.D., 2007. Managing Attorney, Dodge County District Attorney’s Office, Juneau. .Member State Bar of Wisconsin, Dodge County Bar Association, Wisconsin District Attorney Association WDAA) (2007 to present), WDAA IT Committee (2009 to present, currently chairperson), Department of Transportation Uniform Citation Council (2010-2013), State Bar of Wisconsin Board of Governors (2016-2017, 2018-2019), State Bar Board Executive Committee (2016-2017) Government Lawyers Division Board (2014-preseent, President 2016-2017), Wisconsin Court Records Management Committee (2018-present).

Robert G. Barrington Campaign Statement

I presently represent District 13 on the State Bar of Wisconsin Board of Governors. I would like to continue serving you in this role and would greatly appreciate your support in the upcoming election.

I appreciate you taking the time to read this, and I would like to tell you why I’m qualified to remain your representative. I am the Managing Attorney in the Dodge County District Attorney’s Office, a position I’ve held for over eleven years. I earned my Juris Doctor from the University of Wisconsin and my Bachelor’s degree from Ripon College. Throughout the past several years, I have been very active in State Bar issues and affairs. For example, I previously served on the State Bar Board of Governors as the District 13 Representative and also served as the Government Lawyers Division (GLD) Representative. Currently, I am on the Board of the GLD and have also served as its president. Additionally, I served on the Board of the GLD’s Executive Committee as well as the Vice-Chair of its Policy Committee. It was a pleasure to contribute to a special committee that formulated and implemented the WisBar Paralegal Certification Program. Likewise, the National High School Mock Trial competition was held in Wisconsin and I enjoyed serving on the planning committee. In addition to the State Bar Board of Governors and Board of the GLD, I am a member of the Criminal Law Section.

Throughout my career, I have been particularly interested in systems and efficiencies. Currently, I serve as the State DA IT Advisory Committee’s chairperson and have been a longstanding member. I spearheaded the first “paperless” District Attorney’s Office in Wisconsin in 2009. In fact, Dodge County District Attorney’s Office now serves as the best-practices model for the entire State. Moreover, I worked closely with the Wisconsin Department of Administration and Court Operations to develop and implement criminal electronic filing statewide. Dodge County was the first District Attorney’s Office to electronically file, which we have been doing since 2014. It was a great honor to receive a State Bar Legal Innovator award in its inaugural year.

Finally, I previously served on the Wisconsin Department of Transportation Uniform Citation Council and I am currently a member of the State Court System’s Record Management Committee. Teaching has also become a passion of mine. I am an adjunct faculty member at the Madison Area Technical College where I have taught Criminal Law, Civil Law, and Introductory Paralegal courses.

It would be a privilege to continue serving you as the District 13 Representative. I would appreciate your support.

District 15

LUCAS P. BENNEWITZ of Racine. Lucas is an Assistant District Attorney in the Racine County District Attorney’s Office prosecuting felony property crimes. He started his professional career in the Waukesha County District Attorney’s Office in 2015 as a Special Prosecutor and spent a year in private practice focusing on creditor’s rights and tort litigation. Lucas received his B.A. from Carroll University in 2012 and his J.D. from Marquette University Law School in 2015. Lucas was born and raised in New Berlin, Wisconsin and is a current member of the Racine County Bar Association and the State Bar of Wisconsin. In his spare time, Lucas enjoys running marathons across Wisconsin, spending time with his dogs, and volunteering for Marquette’s Moot Court program whenever he has the chance.

Lucas P. Bennewitz Campaign Statement

I’m focused on making the State Bar of Wisconsin an accessible and collaborative entity that is concentrated on listening to its members and willing to take action on worthwhile causes. During my time on the Board of Governors, I want to focus on the following goals:

First, I want to explore ways the State Bar can be an active resource for newly licensed lawyers, not simply a responsive body. Young lawyers could often benefit from available mentoring and guidance during the first chapter of their professional career, and I want to focus my time on providing new ways the State Bar can support us. Second, I want to be a voice for public sector attorneys by listening to their concerns and providing an avenue to improvements in government service. Engaging in robust discussions about various public sector issues, such as loan forgiveness and staffing concerns, are now more vital than ever. Third, the Bar should continue to strive for diversity in all aspects of its work, including membership and resources.

I would appreciate your vote.

BRIAN P. DIMMER of Racine. Marquette University, J.D., Cum Laude, 2009. Richards & Dimmer, S.C. Racine 2012-Present. IT Specialist Board Officer of the Racine County Bar Association 2014-Present. Member of State Bar of Wisconsin, Racine County Bar Association, 2012-Present. Mock Trial Attorney Coach, Saint Catherine’s High School, 2017-2019.

Brian P. Dimmer Campaign Statement

Bar Associations, local and statewide, stand at a crossroads. As technology and communities change, these Associations struggle to find their place and provide value to members. As the Racine County representative, my goal is to provide a voice to the concerns of our members at the state level. In turn, my responsibility is to educate our local attorneys of how the State Bar provides continued value and opportunities to members.

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