IndyBar: Meet the IBF President

Who’s the new Indianapolis Bar Foundation president? We sat down with Rebecca Geyer to give you an exclusive peek inside the mind of the IBF’s newest leader! Check it out below.

How’d you decide to become a lawyer?

I’m a third-generation attorney. I grew up watching my dad and my grandfather serve clients, and I knew from an early age that I also wanted to become a lawyer and assist individuals and families.

How did you initially get involved with the IBF? What made you interested in being president?

The new IBF president doing one of her favorite things with her husband, Paul: cheering on the Hoosiers!

I’ve been involved with the IndyBar since becoming a lawyer in 1999.  After serving on the IndyBar Board and volunteering for pro bono projects, I became interested in working with the IBF because the dollars raised directly support those in need in our community: attorneys and those seeking legal representation. Those service goals are in line with the reasons why I became a lawyer.

What is your biggest goal for 2018 as president of the IBF? 

2018 marks the 50th anniversary of the IBF. The IBF, in conjunction with the IndyBar, is launching an ambitious campaign to raise money to adapt our services in the next 50 years to the needs of the Indianapolis community in an evolving legal profession. We need the physical spaces and technology to help our community continue to access justice in the twenty-first century. I hope people will pay attention to this important endeavor and give to ensure the future of our profession.

What is the one thing you wish every lawyer knew about the IBF?

The IBF and the IndyBar are not synonymous. The IBF is the fundraising arm of the IndyBar, and the money we raise supports all of the IndyBar’s pro bono programs and our annual Impact Fund Grant, which benefits an Indianapolis nonprofit assisting members of our community with access to legal representation. Your donations make a huge impact annually.

Tell us about your favorite thing to do when you’re NOT at the office.

When I’m NOT at the office, I love to spend time with my family, go to the movies and read. I’m also a huge IU and Colts fan.

Which historical figure do you most identify with?

Abraham Lincoln. I spend much of my life trying to build consensus, and he is a fantastic role model of how to do it well.

Who are your heroes in real life?

Rebecca Geyer poses with her family in festive Halloween costumes. (Amici Photography)

My parents are my heroes in real life. They’ve both been excellent role models for both my personal and professional life. My parents instilled the value of doing a job well and of participating in and giving back to your community. These are life lessons I am working to instill in my own children.

Tell us your favorites: Movie, food item and sports team. 

This is hard as I have a lot of favorite movies and foods. If I have to choose, I would say “Gone With the Wind,” the toffee pudding at Late Harvest Kitchen and IU, of course!