“In periods where there is no leadership, society stands still. Progress occurs when courageous, skillful leaders seize the opportunity to change things for the better.” – Harry Truman
Sept. 17, 2025 – The State Bar of Wisconsin is looking for attorneys to lead the practice of law in our state into the future. I am personally asking each of you to spend a moment of inner reflection to determine whether you will be one of the bold few willing to answer that call.
The State Bar Nominating Committee is looking for candidates for the positions of president-elect, secretary, and Judicial Council[1] member for the 2026-27 fiscal year.
The committee is also seeking candidates to serve on the State Bar Board of Governors[2] for a two-year term starting July 1, 2026.
Those interested in serving as a leader of the State Bar in these positions should submit their expression of interest to the Nominations Committee by Oct. 17, 2025, by sending a communication to Kim Jansen.
Impact on the Legal Profession
Service as a leader in the State Bar means having an impact on the direction and goals of the organization. It gives you a voice in identifying problems facing the legal profession and an active role in developing strategies and implementing solutions to those problems.
Stephen Sawyer, Notre Dame 1996, is the 2025-26 State Bar president-elect. He is with Sawyer Law LLC in Stephens Point.
If you are like me, you were drawn to the study and practice of law because it is truly the foundation upon which all just societies are built. Democracy, due process, fairness, and justice all depend upon a legal system steadfast in its adherence to the rule of law and the principle that we are all created equal. Ensuring that our legal system works for everyone in pursuit of justice is a goal much bigger than each of us as individuals. A group of intelligent and passionate professionals working together can move us all ever closer to this goal.
Impact on Your Career
Being identified as a leader in the legal profession in our state sets you apart from others in the profession. Leaders are those who have accepted the responsibility to think critically, problem-solve, advocate for change, and take action.
Participating in leadership opportunities with the State Bar of Wisconsin helps to develop not only your reputation in the profession, but also your skills in critical thinking, communication, working together to create consensus, and overcoming adversity. Leading cultivates and improves the talents critical to outstanding attorneys.
Building Connection
Giving back to a cause for which you have passion enriches your life and the lives of those you work with and for. Leaders in the State Bar of Wisconsin develop a broader perception and better understanding of the legal profession and how law fits into the world around us.
The diverse group of accomplished lawyers and community members working together to improve our legal system broadens the knowledge and perspectives of each member of this amazing group. Collaborating with other committed and compassionate professionals helps you to develop a real sense of community and gives you a unique sense of purpose.
Call to Action
Please do more than consider taking this opportunity to make a difference to the practice of law in the State of Wisconsin. Take the next step. Reach out to current and past bar leaders and ask them about their experiences in leadership. If you do, I am confident that you will discover the value in becoming one of the “bold few.”
Endnotes
[1] The Judicial Council is a 21-member body whose principal statutory responsibilities are to study and make recommendations relating to: (1) court pleading, practice and procedure; and (2) organization, jurisdiction and methods of administration and operation of Wisconsin courts.
[2] The Board of Governors manages and directs the affairs and activities of the State Bar of Wisconsin. The board includes: the association's five officers, the immediate past president (all of whom are ex officio members-at-large of the board), 35 members elected from the State Bar districts, one member selected by the Young Lawyers Division, one member selected by the Government Lawyers Division, one member selected by the Senior Lawyers Division, five members selected by the Nonresident Lawyers Division, one member selected by the Section Leaders Council, and three nonlawyers appointed by the Wisconsin Supreme Court.
