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By Hon. Helen Marchal, Marion Superior Court
Do you want to hit the reset button on your professional and/or personal life? Now’s your chance as registration for the Indianapolis Bar Association’s 2022 Bench Bar Conference from June 16-18 in Louisville is now open!
We’re all ready for a change, given events these past few years. With that in mind, the Bench Bar planning committee, which includes me, Judge Ryan Gardner and Ian Goodman of Paganelli Law Group, have constructed an agenda to help you hit the reset button in this almost-post-pandemic world. Whether you’re looking for guidance on practice efficiencies or seeking sound advice on interpersonal relationships, this year’s multifaceted approach promises to mix work and play seamlessly.
As for the “work” component, start your Friday morning with our engaging plenary speaker, Werten Bellamy of Stakeholders Inc. Werten, an attorney and well-respected career coach, will focus his message on an infinite resource critical to future success: relationships. Although it may sound simple, creating, maintaining and sustaining connections is challenging. Learn the pivotal role relationships play in determining personal growth and professional achievement.
From there, choose the learning track (family, civil or criminal) that best fits your interests. Regardless of your professional focus, you’ll find diverse breakout sessions providing practical, hands-on experience in a relaxed and supportive setting. Improve your proficiency by hearing the very latest in legal news and technological advances. Learn new approaches to broadening your client base along with marketing ideas to invigorate your firm’s business model. And, if you’ve not had the chance to tour the new Community Justice Center, come along for a VIP video tour of our new courthouse as well as a preview of its state-of-the-art technology.
On Saturday, we’ll gather to celebrate Juneteenth. Kevin Brown, IU Maurer professor and renowned scholar on race and American society, will lead our discussion on the historical significance of the holiday as we celebrate, together, the end of slavery. Brunch with a side of jazz will start your morning before our plenary session on the legal and cultural importance of the Juneteenth holiday.
On the social front, you’ll find dozens of ways to put Werten’s relationship lessons into action. Thursday’s organized activities kick off with a round of golf in the morning. You’ll find casual get-togethers by the pool and an opportunity for tours at the Muhammad Ali Center. Later, catch a ride on the shuttle bus to Churchill Downs for a reception, dinner and horse racing.
If so inclined, wake up early on Friday with yoga or a group run/walk through downtown Louisville. Spend your early evening with colleagues from the Marion County Bar Association and the Asian Pacific American Bar Association of Indiana. The fun (and fundraising) continues after dinner with the IndyBar Foundation’s Friday Nightcap event, where all proceeds will benefit the wonderful work of the IndyBar Foundation.
Whether you choose to build relationships in a poolside cabana or while enjoying Louisville’s finest historical and cultural offerings, you’ll find an abundance of opportunities to network, socialize and learn. Take a few days away from the office (you’ve earned it) and head to Louisville for a fresh start. See the full agenda, sign up to attend and book your hotel for the 2022 Bench Bar Conference at indybar.org/benchbar.•
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