IndyBar: Straight Talk Straight from the Top

Members of the current IndyBar Board of Directors discuss their roles, responsibilities and also offer advice to those considering serving on the board in 2015. Today’s edition features Magistrate Jason Reyome of Marion Superior Court and Thomas Barnard of Taft Stettinius & Hollister LLP, who both serve as At-Large board members.

Here’s what they had to say about their position on the board and what others considering nomination should expect.

“Wallflowers need not apply”

Magistrate Jason Reyome, Marion Superior Court

Board position: At-Large Member

Board member: 5 years

IndyBar member: 17 years

What does an At-Large member do?
 

Reyome

I attend monthly board meetings, meetings of the members and I also try to attend as many section events as I can. As Board Liaison to the Criminal Justice Section and the ADR Section, I offer a direct line of communication to the board for the sections I serve. Generally, I work to further the IndyBar mission: to serve our members, promote justice and enhance the legal profession.

Describe the board in a few words: Extremely organized, efficient and effective.

What piece of advice would you give to those considering joining the board?

I would share a modified version of the advice I was given when first asked to serve: Wallflowers need not apply. The current board members are active and engaged. Service on the board can be a lot of work, but it is well worth it. IndyBar staff and our executive director are fantastic. Let them help you. If you have questions, ask. If you have ideas, develop and share them.

Why should someone want to be on the board?

The applicants selected will have the opportunity to collaborate and develop lifelong friendships with some of the most interesting and talented people in the Indianapolis legal community.

“Go for it!”
Thomas Barnard, Partner at Taft Stettinius & Hollister LLP

Board position: At-Large Member

Board member: Two years

IndyBar member: 34 years

What does an At-Large member do?

Barnard

Prepare for, attend and participate in monthly board meetings, as well as respond to interim issues involving board consideration (such as potential amicus briefs and legislative proposals).

What will you miss most about being on the board?

Witnessing and being a part of the collective intelligence and wisdom of the IndyBar staff and board members. All of us, as members of IndyBar and the Indiana Bar in general, should be proud of the diligence, sincerity and creative tenacity of this board. Without exception, I have departed each board meeting feeling enriched, having heard some of Indiana’s most respected judges, attorneys and executive staff share ideas and insights. I have been particularly impressed with the leadership and inclusiveness of the board, where difficult issues facing the legal profession, bar organizations and the general public are addressed with the benefit of experience, intelligence and compassion. Every board member’s viewpoint is respected and valued, and this culture encourages

 productive discussion. In addition, board members are constantly invited to think outside the box and consider cutting edge technologies, embrace new perspectives on service delivery and strive for new and increasing value for IndyBar members.

What piece of advice would you give to those considering joining the board?

Go for it! The board contains a unique combination of history, innovation and stability. You will value your time on the board, and the board will value your time.

Why should someone want to be on the board?

Where else can you witness a nationally renowned executive staff assist some of our state’s leading judges and attorneys discuss and take positions on some of the most pressing issues affecting our beloved profession? If you want to make a positive difference in your own practice while also enriching the lives of fellow attorneys, there is no better place to start.

Any other info you’d like to share about Board of Directors?

I am very fortunate to have fostered and deepened friendships through my board experience.•