From the Chair continued from page 22
our industry and society at large . The names of each Commission member can be found
here . Their interim and final reports were exceptional – worthy of the stature of this organization and a testament to the forwardthinking Fellows of which it is comprised . The DEI Commission undeniably accomplished its mission : “ To develop a comprehensive plan that instills mindfulness regarding all aspects of diversity , equity and inclusion , and actively promotes those values through the resources and endeavors of the College and Foundation .”
You will be hearing from the new DEI Committee headed by Judge Erithe Smith and Paul Harner , who have taken up the torch and will be working to truly institutionalize and realize the vision crafted by the DEI Commission . Their column describes in detail some of the resolutions passed by the Board as a result of the DEI Commission ’ s recommendations . At a high level , these actions incorporate advancement of DEI objectives into the mission statement of the College in the bylaws and embed members of the DEI Committee in the College ’ s leadership on the Executive Committee , Board of Regents and each Circuit Admissions Council and nominating committee . They provide for education on inclusive leadership and other topics that promote DEI , use our honorary capacity to establish a DEI annual award , pledge our financial resources to support DEI initiatives or diverse populations , and commit to active participation – and leadership – in efforts to advance DEI both within the College and the broader restructuring community .
We are at a historic moment as an organization . The work that our DEI Commission has done has the potential to be truly transformational . It is evident from looking at our new Fellows and
leadership and listening to conversations happening from the podium to the halls , that DEI principles – the mindfulness we are seeking – are already present and becoming ingrained in our decisions and our work . But much more remains to be done . We need your ongoing commitment and support in the days to come to ensure that the path the DEI Commission has laid out for us becomes a reality .
I will close by saying that I am so honored to serve as Chair of the College . To be given the opportunity to lead this incredible organization , among so many talented , capable leaders , is a privilege and a responsibility , one that I take very seriously . While I am the first financial advisor and second woman to hold this position , I am thrilled to be included among a number of firsts , including the first woman leading our Foundation , Jan Hayden , and the first woman leading the Board of Regents , Trish Redmond . Our profession is very special , unique I believe . The collegiality among the bench , bar , financial and other professionals makes this an industry where business contacts frequently become some of our closest friends ; where we can openly discuss and debate points of law and practice and work together to enhance our profession ; and where the specialization of the law combined with the generalization of its application create a niche practice of continued on page 24
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