Jack Sweeney, former director of the ABA Division for Bar Services, passed away in November. Jack joined the Division in October 1977 and was on the ground floor in developing and growing the Bar Leadership Institute and Bar Leader magazine. He spent the greatest part of his adult career at the ABA, serving as Bar Services director from 1982-1994, and then as director of Justice Initiatives until his retirement in 2002. He was a mentor, colleague and friend, and touched many bar leaders and staff over the years.
He was first and foremost a family man. He was also a news guy and avid reader, and never travelled anywhere without a book and bar journals tucked away in his briefcase. His Boston accent and Irish humor were part of his DNA. Even in his retirement, he would send email messages regarding developments in the legal profession that he knew would be of interest.
We remember Jack fondly for his many achievements, his sparkling wit, and a spirit of service to bar associations that we try to emulate.