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Oklahoma Bar Journal

Empowering the Next Generation

How the OBA Leadership Academy Shapes Future Leaders

By Gigi McCormick

The 2015-2016 OBA Leadership Academy class meets in the Centennial Plaza at the Oklahoma Bar Center.

As attorneys, we often find ourselves in leadership positions, either because of our own goals and ambitions or because of the public’s perception that attorneys inherently make good leaders. Whichever situation describes our leadership path, one thing that we understand is that leadership is a talent that needs to be honed and developed. The future of our association and our state depends on the intentional development of this talent. With this in mind, in 2007 OBA leadership established the OBA Leadership Academy.

The Leadership Academy hosted its first class in 2008, creating a rich history of leadership development for attorneys across the state. The focus of the program is to equip participants with the skills and connections to become leaders within the bar as well as in our local communities. Participants learn about OBA governance, special considerations for attorneys in public service, networking skills and effective communication. They also attend the Annual Meeting. As a participant in the 6th Leadership Academy class in 2017, I can attest to the profound impact this program can have on your professional and personal life.

I am so excited to officially announce the 8th class of the Leadership Academy, which will start in January 2024. Applications will be accepted from Nov. 15 – Dec. 15. (Editor's note: The deadline has been extended to Dec. 23.) Requirements for applicants are as follows:

  • Must be a member in good standing with the Oklahoma Bar Association
  • All attorneys may apply, but preference will be given to those who are members of the OBA Young Lawyers Division
  • Applicants should demonstrate a commitment to the profession and community impact

I hope you will join me in this commitment to service and stewardship within our profession and communities. A complete program schedule will be posted soon along with agendas for each session. An application form will be available online soon. Submit completed forms by email to CLE@okbar.org. I hope to see you in 2024!

Ms. McCormick is the OBA Director of Educational Programs. She can be reached at gigim@okbar.org.

 

Originally published in the Oklahoma Bar Journal – OBJ 95 Vol 9 (November 2023)

Note: This article has been updated from the version originally published in the November issue of the Oklahoma Bar Journal.

Statements or opinions expressed in the Oklahoma Bar Journal are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect those of the Oklahoma Bar Association, its officers, Board of Governors, Board of Editors or staff.