Young Lawyers Division | 2027 YLD Leadership Candidates

By Alexandra J. “Allie” Gage

September is the month we can all look forward to the return of cooler weather and exciting autumn events and activities. Along with that, we can all look forward, once again, to our traditional November Annual Meeting. With the meeting approaching, it’s now time to announce the candidates for the 2027 OBA Young Lawyers Division Board of Directors. Serving as your YLD chair this year has been an incredible experience, and I am looking forward to making the most of the remaining months of 2026 while also anticipating what lies ahead.

The YLD’s governing structure has a Board of Directors who, after qualifying with nominating petitions, run for seats in each district and/or an at-large seat. Each lawyer is a volunteer who works hard to serve other YLD members and the association at large. The YLD is an important division of the state bar that gives new lawyers the opportunity to gain leadership experience, network with other attorneys, get involved in service projects and so much more. The YLD board plays the important role of leading the division and deciding what events and service projects it will spearhead from year to year. Each officer serves a one-year term, and members of the Board of Directors serve two-year terms.

Get to know your YLD board members! Remember that any OBA member who has been practicing for 10 years or fewer is automatically part of the OBA Young Lawyers Division. Your district representatives are your voice and provide a direct connection to the statewide bar association. If you identify a need or opportunity in your district, reach out to your representative and share your thoughts. Your involvement can make a difference. And think about pursuing a YLD leadership position yourself in the future!

On the following pages, you will find the list of 2027 leadership candidates. Nominating petitions were accepted through Aug. 14. Per the YLD bylaws, “Those offices that are not contested will be deemed elected by acclamation.” You can read more about the election process at www.okbar.org/yld.

In conjunction with this year's OBA Annual Meeting, the YLD Board of Directors will also host a meeting where your new YLD officers and directors will be announced. As a YLD member, you are invited and encouraged to attend. This is an excellent opportunity to greet your new YLD board, get to know your fellow YLD members and hear what goes on in the YLD board meetings if you are unfamiliar. Make plans now to attend the OBA Annual Meeting and the YLD board meeting this November at the Skirvin Hotel and Conference Center in downtown Oklahoma City. This will be a great chance to network with other attorneys from across the state and, of course, get more involved with your YLD!