Executive director granted administrative leave

July 16, 1999

Steve Smay, executive director of the State Bar for more than 20 years, requested and was granted paid administrative leave mid-June. Since Smay became executive director in 1978, the Bar has undergone tremendous growth in membership, programming, and staff, which has placed extraordinary demands on Bar management. Throughout Smay's 21 years, the State Bar has been recognized nationwide as one of the top professional legal organizations and has received numerous awards for its activities and programs.

The State Bar Executive Committee recently appointed George C. Brown as interim executive director. Brown returned to the association a year ago from a private law firm to take the post of assistant executive director. "George has 12 years experience as a State Bar staff director and has served other state and national associations in various capacities for more than 20 years," said State Bar President Leonard Loeb.

"The State Bar is in fine shape," Loeb continued. "We are financially and programmatically sound. The State Bar also is fortunate enough to have a talented, experienced staff to carry on day-to-day operations. Leadership is using this time to focus on future opportunities and challenges facing the association and the profession."