THE OKLAHOMA BAR JOURNAL 72 | NOVEMBER 2025 From the Executive Director By Janet Johnson Giving Thanks To contact Executive Director Johnson, email her at janetj@okbar.org. AS WE BRING THIS YEAR TO a close, I want to pause and express heartfelt gratitude to every lawyer, volunteer, staff member, and member of the judiciary who has worked so diligently to advance and strengthen our profession. The successes of this past year, both large and small, are a direct reflection of your dedication, professionalism, and service. The legal profession endures because people like you give it life and meaning every day. Whether through advocacy in courtrooms, guidance in boardrooms, quiet counsel to clients, or outreach in our communities, lawyers uphold the values that ensure our system of justice remains strong and accessible. You demonstrate that the practice of law is not only a profession but also a public trust. To our lawyer members, thank you for your steadfast commitment to justice and professionalism. This has been another year of challenges and opportunities, and you have met them with resilience, integrity, and grace. Whether you practice solo or in a large firm, serve in public office or private counsel, teach, or judge, I want you to know that you have made a difference. Your work builds public confidence in the law and reminds us of the power of ethical advocacy and thoughtful leadership. To our volunteers, thank you for the gift of your time and expertise. You serve on committees, organize events, teach, mentor, and provide representation to clients. You are the heartbeat of our association. Your efforts remind us that service is at the core of our professional identity and that we are stronger when we lift one another up. To our staff, your contributions often take place behind the scenes, but your impact is felt everywhere. You keep the association running smoothly by planning programs, supporting members, managing communications, and ensuring every detail aligns with our core purpose. You bring professionalism, creativity, and care to all you do. I am deeply grateful for your dedication, and I am most thankful to have you as my colleagues. And to our judiciary, thank you for your steadfast service and leadership. Your work embodies the principles of fairness, impartiality, and wisdom. Each decision rendered, each courtroom managed with dignity and respect strengthens the public’s trust in our legal system. You remind us daily that justice is not an abstract concept. In fact, it is a lived experience that depends on the integrity and diligence of those who administer it. This year, our collective efforts have continued to promote access to justice, enhance civic education, and strengthen professional civility. From access to justice initiatives to continuing education programs, from mentoring new lawyers to embracing technology innovations in our practice, we have demonstrated once again that when we work together, we elevate not only our profession but also the society we serve. As we look toward a new year, let us carry forward the same spirit of collaboration and purpose. The challenges before us are real but so is our shared commitment to the ideals that guide us. With professionalism, civility, and service as our compass, we can continue to make meaningful progress together. Thank you for your hard work, partnership, and commitment to the practice of law. It is a privilege to serve alongside such dedicated professionals who believe, as I do, that the law remains one of our greatest tools for building a just and equitable society.
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