Posted by:
Susan McCourt Baltz
on Nov 4, 2025
As 2025 draws to a close, the Bar Association of Metropolitan St. Louis looks forward to 2026 with energy, optimism, and purpose. The past year has laid a strong foundation—rooted in service, collaboration, and innovation—preparing us for a year ahead that promises even greater growth and connection.
I would be remiss if I did not acknowledge the significant losses our BAMSL family has experienced in 2025. We mourn the passing of Maury Poscover (President, 1983–1984), and shortly following Jim McDaniel (President, 1972–1973). We also remember Marcy Graham, a dear friend and mentor to so many — myself included — who chaired the Hiring Committee when I became Executive Director. Their guidance, generosity, and enduring commitment to mentorship have left a lasting impact on our Association and the legal profession.
A Season of Giving and Service
In December, our members will once again embody the spirit of generosity through Motion for Kids, bringing gifts and joy to children whose families are impacted by the justice system. We have about 2,100 children signed up as I write. It’s one of our most meaningful traditions—proof that the legal community’s compassion extends well beyond the courtroom.
The “Time of Giving” season reminds us that every small act of service matters. Whether mentoring a student, volunteering for a community event, or contributing time and talent to a cause, our members continue to show what it means to lead with heart. In 2025, we filled over 1,600 hours with community service events such at the 9/11 Day of Service, Motion for Kids, and the Mock Trial programs.
In May, and in partnership with other bar associations and legal organizations, BAMSL members swiftly responded to the request to assist those affected by the devastating tornado in our community. We had members knocking on doors, soliciting funds, and partnering with KSDK on a phone bank for affected members to ask questions. We came together swiftly, with little to guide us, to assist those in need!
Educating and Inspiring the Next Generation
The next class of advocates is watching—and we’re giving them reason to believe in the power of this profession. One of the brightest highlights of the year was our Mock Trial program, which continues to thrive and expand. We had a record 101 teams of students from across Missouri who honed their advocacy skills, tested their courage, and demonstrated remarkable professionalism.
As we prepare to host the 2027 National High School Mock Trial Championship in St. Louis, anticipation is building. The event will bring students and educators from across the country to our city—a chance to showcase both our legal excellence and our hospitality.
Our mentoring initiatives are also growing:
- In June we launched a program for high school and undergraduate students who have expressed interest in law school.
- We also hosted summer associates for a tour of the Federal Courthouse, an educational program at the Freedom Suits Memorial, and visited the Law Library before a lunch of networking and fellowship.
- Our Young Lawyers Division is in the early stages of developing a formal mentorship program. Stay tuned for more information on this initiative in LegalPulse.
Strategic Growth for a Stronger Future
As we turn toward 2026, we’re exploring smarter approaches to advertising outlets for service providers, working toward expense reduction, and, as mentioned, strengthening our mentorship pipelines to support young lawyers and students entering the field.
The American Bar Association's average renewal rate for bar associations is approximately 85%. With our retention rate steadily remaining above 90%, remaining strong, it’s clear that members continue to find professional and personal value in being part of this community.
Also, I invite you to meet Shepard. Shepard is our newest AI Receptionist, implemented to assist callers who are sent to BAMSL to report their attorney or request an attorney. BAMSL has received approximately 100 calls per month for this type of assistance. Shepard is named after Past-President John C. Shepard, and helps to “shepherd” callers though the steps. Thus far, Shepherd has helped 120 callers for 2 hours and 45 minutes.
Legal Placements, or “Hot Jobs” has been a staple member benefit with Jennifer Macke providing attorney and support staff job hirings for 21 years. So far, 19 roles have been filled this year with 90 job orders from St. Louis area law firms this year.
Celebrating Unique Experiences
The past year offered countless moments of pride and connection, covering a myriad of topics. We offered 81.7 CLE hours over 31 total CLE offerings, but overall offered 204 events/meetings. A total of 4,876 registrations were completed for these events.
A Vision for 2026
Looking ahead, our mission remains the same: to serve our members, uplift our community, and advance the ideals of justice with heart and humility. Together, we’ll continue to build on what makes this profession—and this Association—so exceptional.
Home
