This column is adapted from Courtney Ballard’s speech delivered at the May 21, 2024 Annual Meeting.
I am deeply humbled and honored to serve as the inaugural president of the Mecklenburg Bar Association (MBA). Thanks to the leadership and dedication of Cary Davis, all past Mecklenburg County Bar presidents, and the hard-working Mecklenburg Bar staff, the MBA is in a strong position as we embark on this new adventure.
Our Vision: A Thriving Legal Community
The MBA’s journey forward begins with a vision - a vision of a vibrant legal community that thrives on collaboration, inclusivity, and shared purpose. Below are key aspects that I think will help make this vision a reality.
- Building a Community
The MBA is not just an organization, it is a community - a place where legal professionals come together to learn, grow, and make a difference. The Charlotte-Mecklenburg legal community is one of the fastest growing in the country, and with this growth comes tremendous opportunities to build relationships with a diverse group of professionals. The MBA is a place to bridge gaps, connect diverse practice areas, and foster meaningful relationships.
- Your Voice Matters
The heart of any association lies in its members, and the MBA is no exception. I’d like to encourage active participation from each MBA member. Your voice matters, and your ideas can shape our collective destiny. Whether it’s joining a committee, attending Continuing Legal Education events, or contributing to our publications, your involvement will define the MBA’s success. Let’s create a culture where everyone feels empowered to contribute, where no idea is too small, and where collaboration fuels innovation.
- Nurturing New Leaders
Our future rests in the hands of the next generation of legal professionals. As we move forward, let’s prioritize mentorship and leadership development:
- Seasoned Attorneys: Consider taking a new lawyer or legal professional under your wing. Share your experiences, guide them through challenges, and inspire them to lead.
- New Lawyers and Legal Professionals: Seize every opportunity to learn, ask questions, and grow. The MBA is your platform to shine, and we’re committed to nurturing your potential.
- Positive Community Impact
As legal professionals, we have a unique opportunity to impact our community. Our community is growing, and even with all the growth, there are still large numbers of individuals that do not have access to important legal resources. Let’s champion pro bono work, lend support for indigent defense representation, and promote access to justice. By doing so, we not only fulfill our professional responsibilities but also leave a lasting impact on the lives of those we serve.
Together Toward a Bright Future
With your active support and participation, the MBA will continue to serve as a hub for fostering professional and personal connections. Just as our Bar community has done for over a century, the MBA will address the needs of its members and contribute to the betterment of the legal profession and community.
The future of the MBA is bright. I invite each of you to get involved, share your passion, and help shape our journey. Let’s create an MBA that inspires, empowers, and leaves a lasting legacy. I look forward to embarking on this exciting adventure together!