If you're a member of the National Association of Bar Executives, congratulations - you're turning 75.
Founded in 1941 with New Jersey lawyer Emma E. Dillon as its first chair, NABE has gone through several name changes over the years, from the Committee of Association Secretaries of the Section of Bar Organization Activities of the American Bar Association, to the National Conference of Bar Association Secretaries, to the National Conference of Bar Executives, and finally to NABE, its name since 1964.
From its roots as an organization for the often lone individuals who served as the "executive secretary" for a bar association and pretty much did it all - including administrative tasks—NABE has evolved as association work has become a complex profession of its own. Its sections, Listservs, and other resources provide assistance and connection not only for executive directors, but also for professionals in the many specialized departments that are typical for bar associations today.
A number of special events at the 2016 NABE Annual Meeting in San Francisco will help mark the occasion. Here are a few highlights:
- The traditional Wednesday night party will be a somewhat dressy affair at the Press Club, with a Motown band, food inspired by each decade of NABE's existence, and a special address by NABE member and beloved public speaker Tim Eigo from the State Bar of Arizona.
- Speaking of the State Bar of Arizona, the bar's Rick DeBruhl has prepared an anniversary video that will debut at the San Francisco meeting, featuring insights from many NABE members, both past and present.
- All attendees will receive a copy of NABE legend (and long-time executive director of the North Carolina Bar Association) Allan Head's words of wisdom, HEAD Notes.
- Best-selling author, adventurer, and leadership consultant Alison Levine will be a plenary speaker.
- A prize will be given to the winner of a trivia contest based on weekly "fun facts" that have been posted on NABE's Facebook page over the past few months.
On that last point, the article you're reading right now might contain an answer or two. Consider them our gift to you.