One of the most important and energizing experiences for ABA leaders is connecting with a local legal community, and getting new perspective on important issues of the day.

This latest edition of the President’s Journal details how the ABA is reaching out to hear from its members, address thorny legal problems like truancy and foster care, and advance women lawyers in America’s corporate boardrooms.

Hearing from Members
Dozens of lawyers and judges met and shared their perspective with me during a special reception organized by the Memphis Bar Association and past ABA President Shepherd Tate. I learned a great deal from my time with these legal leaders, and was able to talk with some of the ABA's best and brightest volunteers who live in Memphis. Thanks to Bar President David Cook and Executive Director Ann Fritz for their efforts to begin the visit with such a positive, informative event.

Foster Care: Unique TN Program Involves ABA in Preparing Teens for Adulthood
The American Bar Association has asked all of its Tennessee members to mentor teenagers who will soon transition out of foster care into independent, adult living.

It's part of a new partnership between the ABA and the Tennessee Governor's "children's cabinet." The ABA announced the partnership in a joint appearance with Tennessee Governor Phil Bredesen, who had high praise for the ABA's leadership on the issue.…read more