SCBA
President’ s
COLUMN
Looking Ahead and Behind the Scenes
Leadership, Events, and What Drives SCBA
by Sara Castro, Esq. Castro Potts Law Firm, PLLC
It is a true honor to serve as your President of the Sarasota County Bar Association( SCBA) this year. As I begin this new role, I want to first thank the many SCBA members and leaders, past and present, who have made this organization the strong, collaborative, and community-minded association it is today.
This year, my focus as President is on engagement, accessibility, and transparency. Our profession, like the world around us, continues to evolve. As we adapt to the post-COVID landscape, our leadership has been working thoughtfully to ensure the SCBA remains relevant and responsive to the diverse needs of our membership.
Save the Date: 12th Circuit Bench Bar Conference
I’ m thrilled to announce that the 12th Circuit Bench Bar Conference will take place on May 8, 2026, at the stunning, newly constructed St. Regis Resort on Longboat Key. Please mark your calendars— this promises to be a flagship event. Among the exciting programming planned, we will feature a dynamic panel on artificial intelligence in the practice of law, along with other timely and evolving areas of legal practice. Whether you’ re returning for the camaraderie or joining us for the first time, we can’ t wait to welcome you.
Behind-the-Scenes Work: Committees in Action
Much of the important work of the SCBA happens quietly, behind the scenes. As just a few examples:
• The Governance Committee has been active in developing policies that support the long-term health of the organization. In coordination with the Finance Committee, it finalized a formal investment policy to guide responsible management of SCBA reserves. The committee also created a logo use policy, now available on our updated website, allowing members to purchase a license to use the SCBA logo in compliance with the policy. Currently, the Governance Committee is working hard on a comprehensive manual memorializing the substantive knowledge of our Executive Director to preserve institutional knowledge and ensure leadership continuity.
• The Technology Committee has been hard at work bringing the SCBA’ s redesigned website to life as well as reviewing the organization’ s cybersecurity needs and systems. The website is still evolving, with improved functionality, access to on-demand webinars, and easier navigation for members.
• The Programs Committee has invested significant time and energy into coordinating engaging CLEs, section events, and networking opportunities for SCBA membership.
These committees offer just a glimpse into the many moving parts that keep our organization running. This summary merely scratches the surface, as equally important and significant efforts are happening throughout the SCBA, including the South County Division, Council for Diversity and Inclusion, Young Lawyers Division, and our various sections. Each requires real commitment of time and work from dedicated volunteers to create value for all of our members.
Evolving to Serve a Changing Membership
As a legal community, we’ ve witnessed big shifts over the past several years. Many of our newer attorneys began their education in virtual environments, and more professionals are prioritizing work-life
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