Committee on Bar Leaders of New York State

Conference of Bar Leaders – Spring Meeting

At the Crossroads of Innovation and Integrity: AI, Advocacy, and Adaptation

Thursday, July 23, 2026

Join bar leaders and professionals from across New York for an engaging, free half-day conference designed by bar leaders. As the legal profession changes rapidly, this interactive program explores opportunities and challenges shaping the future of bar associations.

Current bar presidents, executive directors, and emerging leaders will gain practical insights, meaningful discussions, and collaborative solutions to help their organizations thrive in today’s evolving legal landscape.

Networking Lunch

12:00 – 1:00 pm
Neporent Café, Syracuse University College of Law

Program

1:00 – 5:00 p.m.
Syracuse University College of Law
950 Irving Avenue, Syracuse, NY

Reception and Innovation Award Ceremony

6:00 – 8:00 p.m.
Rosamond Gifford Zoo
One Conservation Place, Syracuse, NY

Program Details

Adaption: Strengthening the Value Proposition of Bar Membership

This panel will discuss how bar associations can better engage new and early-career attorneys, provide meaningful support like mentoring and professional development, and respond to changes in the legal profession that will shape their long-term success. The panel will feature law student from Syracuse University College of Law and will be moderated by Michelle Wildgrube, President-Elect Designee and Chair of the Membership Committee.

AI: Navigating the Future: Law Schools & Bar Associations in the Age of Generative AI
Generative Artificial Intelligence is quickly changing the practice of law. How are law schools responding to the quickly and ever-changing and how can bar association assist in helping new lawyers adapt to this new tool?  The interactive panel will feature members of the faculty and student body of Syracuse University College of Law to answer this question.

Advocacy: Standing up for the Rule of Law
This panel will discuss strategies for stand up for the rule of law in today’s environment.  This session will highlight approaches to maintaining professionalism, civility, and institutional integrity in navigating what can be challenging conversations. This panel will feature past bar presidents.

Adaption: Succession Planning Workshop
This interactive workshop will include small group discussions and report-outs focused on developing practical, collaborative succession planning strategies for bar associations. This workshop will be facilitated by Taa Grays, President-Elect and Chair of the Committee of Bar Leaders.

Each session will run approximately 45–60 minutes, including time for audience engagement and Q&A. These non-CLE panels are designed to deliver substantive value and actionable takeaways for bar leaders.

Following the program, continue the conversation and connect with colleagues at our evening reception at the Rosamond Gifford Zoo, where we will also recognize the recipients of the Bar Leaders Innovation Awards.

Registration Details

Free to attend, please RSVP by July 15

If you are a NYSBA member, you can register using the following link:

(You may register for the program, the reception, or both.)

If you are not currently a member or do not have an NYSBA account, you will need to create one before registering. You can create a free account here: https://portal.nysba.org/s/login/SelfRegister.

If you have any difficulty with registration, please contact the NYSBA Member Resource Center at 800.582.2452 for assistance.

If you have any questions, please feel free to reach out. Thank you for your continued support and leadership.

Kim McHargue
NYSBA Staff Liaison
kmchargue@nysba.org
518.487.5757

The Committee on Bar Leaders in New York State is a forum for New York bar leaders to exchange information and ideas.

The Committee works to advance the objectives of the organized bar, encourages communication and collaboration among bar associations, promotes leadership development for present and future bar leaders, hosts workshops and programs that provide educational opportunities and foster networking.