IndyBar Record Spring 2026

Rallying Together for the Rule of Law

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CONTENTS

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BAR NEWS AND UPDATES IndyBar recently installed its Board of Directors for 2026 and they are already making moves to better our legal community. Hear from 2026 President Katie Jackson-Lindsay about the future direction of the bar and how you can get involved.

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RALLYING FOR THE RULE OF LAW Attorneys from across the state will join together on April 30 for a powerful demonstration reaffirming their dedication to defend the rule of law, judicial independence, and the independence of the legal profession.

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BEYOND THE PRACTICE We caught up with local IndyBar members who are leading the charge in spreading good in our community. From coaching, to volunteering, to documenting history, learn what some of your colleagues do in and for Indianapolis.

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MENTORSHIP LEADS THE WAY IndyBar's Women and the Law Division recently held its sold-out Mentorship Reception. This annual program recognizes female attorneys who are on the path to becoming trailblazers while also demonstrating a commitment to mentorship.

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MEMBERS ON THE MOVE

Keep up to date with your fellow IndyBar members. Check out the goings-on of your colleagues and celebrate their recent achievements!

Spring 2026 / Volume 1 Executive Director Julie Armstrong Marketing & Communications Director Bryssa Helton Creative Direction Robert Adams

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FROM OUR PRESIDENT

The Power of Professional Community The true value of IndyBar membership extends beyond dollars and discounts. One of the greatest benefits of IndyBar membership has been access to colleagues, mentors, judges, and future leaders of our profession. Our bar association provides networking opportunities that are not just social events but meaningful professional touchpoints. Through sections, divisions, committees, and events, we connect with others who share our practice areas, interests, and challenges. These connections lead to referrals, collaborations, mentorship opportunities, and lifelong friendships. Sometimes these connections lead to a simple reassuring conversation that you are not alone with the daily pressures of the profession. In a profession where trust and reputation matter deeply, these relationships are invaluable. What ’ s Ahead for IndyBar This year will bring exciting opportunities for all of us. We will continue expanding educational programming, including CLE offerings addressing emerging issues such as artificial intelligence, cybersecurity risks for law firms, and the evolving expectations of clients and courts. Members can also look forward to signature community events including the Law Day Celebration on April 30, where we will recommit to the rule of law in a nonpartisan manner, the June Bench Bar Conference, and other networking events designed to strengthen our professional relationships and celebrate our legal community. IndyBar will also continue developing new ways to keep members informed. The fact that you are reading this means you are already plugged in. This new association magazine provides space to tell the stories of our Indy legal community by highlighting the work of our members, sharing perspectives from judges and practitioners, and documenting the work that shapes us. We will continue to publish our very well received, daily Afternoon Brief email highlighting Supreme Court and Indiana Court of Appeals decisions to legislative changes and professional trends. By reducing communications to one daily email, we hope to unclutter your inbox while improving your ability to stay informed. Our goal is simple: to ensure that when Indianapolis lawyers ask, “Where can I find the people and information I need to navigate my practice?” The answer is IndyBar. An Invitation Ultimately, the value of the Indianapolis Bar Association comes from its diverse membership. Every program, every mentoring relationship, every educational opportunity, and every professional connection exists because lawyers choose to invest in our shared professional community. At a time when the legal profession faces rapid change and increasing complexity, this community matters more than ever. Because you are holding this magazine, you are already a part of this work, and we THANK YOU. But, take a moment to stop and think of just one colleague or friend that is not a member and missing out on all the benefits and community IndyBar has to offer. Invite that friend to join us. Our mentoring initiatives will grow, helping connect experienced attorneys and paralegals with those just entering the profession.

Community, Connection, and Our Future n a profession defined by change, uncertainty, and growing demands, one constant remains: our need for community. I became a member of IndyBar because it offered both tangible and intangible value. That was many years ago and what I value about my membership has evolved with my development and the challenges we face in the profession. Today there is increasing pressure on the rule of law, heightened public scrutiny of the legal profession, and AI evolution…all combined with the daily demands of practicing law. With these challenges, having access to fellowship opportunities with colleagues who can relate while also being connected to the diverse thoughts and experiences of IndyBar members is more valuable than ever. The Value As lawyers, we know that voluntary professional memberships are an investment, and we often evaluate them through the same lens: what do we receive in return for our dues? One of the most obvious benefits of our IndyBar membership is CLE. Members receive low registration rates and at least 50% off CLE programs, savings that can quickly offset the cost of dues. But with all the options for CLE in today’s market, CLE alone would never be enough. IndyBar membership provides access to professional tools and services that support daily practice. For a fraction of the actual cost, membership offers more than $2,000 in potential annual benefits, including our referral service, professional resources, and discounts on practice management tools used by lawyers across the country. As members, we also enjoy practical perks that support professional visibility, business development, and wellness. Monthly professional headshot opportunities help maintain a polished online presence, while the Indy LawyerFinder referral service can connect members with new clients. Discounts on legal technology platforms such as Clio and LawPay further support efficient and modern law practice. Our vibrant IndyBar Headquarters offers a home away from home base when members need to host a downtown meeting or simply want a change of scenery from their daily workspace. Did you know with a quick visit to the IndyBar website members can reserve a workspace for just a few hours or the entire day? As an added bonus, you are sure to run into a colleague that you haven’t seen in a while or another you’ve been meaning to connect with. It is a true members’ clubhouse! This is one of my favorite perks of membership and I take full advantage of spending time at IndyBarHQ. I BY KATHERINE F. JACKSON-LINDSAY, PRESIDENT

Together, we are not just practicing law. We are strengthening our entire community.

Katherine F. Jackson-Lindsay is the founder of Jackson Legal Services PC, where she practices criminal defense. She earned her undergraduate degree from Indiana State University and her J.D. from the Indiana University Maurer School of Law. Katie is active in the legal community, serving on the Marion County Judicial Selection Committee since its inception, on the board of the Indiana Federal Community Defenders, and as the 2022 president of the Marion County Bar Association. She is also an adjunct professor at the Indiana University Robert H. McKinney School of Law and a legal analyst for WTHR Channel 13, where she has provided commentary on high-profile cases for national outlets including ABC News, NewsNation, and CNN. In the course of providing she was awarded two Emmy Awards from the National Association of Television Arts and Sciences. In 2025, she was inducted into the American College of Trial Lawyers. Outside of work, Katie enjoys cooking, baking, hosting holidays, traveling, and trying new restaurants with her husband, Brandon.

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Association Update he start of a new year brings new leadership to the Indianapolis Bar Association, and the 2026 Leadership Celebration & Installation Breakfast was the perfect way to kick things off. On Thursday, January 29, members of the legal community gathered to celebrate the volunteers who will help guide our organization in the year ahead. Our board is a reminder that the strength of the Indianapolis legal community comes from the variety of attorneys and judges who step forward to serve, helping IndyBar continue its work supporting the profession, strengthening our community, and expanding access to justice across central Indiana. At the helm for IndyBar in 2026 is President Katie Jackson-Lindsay of Jackson Legal Services PC. As remarked by Past IndyBar President James Bell Hoover Hull Turner LLP, "Katie is an excellent lawyer and an exceptional person. We’re so happy that she stepped forward to share her time and put her outstanding leadership skills to work for the benefit of all IndyBar members. She is a visionary leader that will continue to elevate our association.” T

We look forward to the new heights that Katie and our board will lead us to. Meet IndyBar's leaders for 2026:

Rallying for the

Rule of Law

BY CHRISTINE HICKEY , RUBIN & LEVIN PC & TRAVIS JENSEN , JOHNSON JENSEN WILLIAMS LLP

judges, we are entrusted to carry the torch of this pledge; to do our best to ensure that the pledge made 250 years ago and the Rule of Law continue to be the foundation upon which all things rest. That we uphold our duty to protect the independence of the judiciary, to honor the law, and to educate and inform our community that the rules we live by, while not perfect, are what make our society just. This is indeed a year to celebrate; to be involved; to inspire others; and to empower people by giving them the knowledge necessary to embrace and exercise their constitutional rights. And to be reminded how fortunate we are to play an integral role in shouldering this responsibility. Join us again this year in swearing to our oath as attorneys and judges. Join us in our pledge to reach out, educate, and inform the people. Below is what we are doing. We hope you will join us.

The Pledge of the People This year we celebrate 250 years. In Rule of Law speak, we call it the "SQC," short for Semiquincentennial. The big "Two Five OH." This is important. The SQC is not just a word. It is a celebration of a pledge of the people, one

that was intended to be an enduring pledge for and among the people. The final words of the Declaration of Independence are passionate and life-changing: "And for the support of this Declaration, with a firm reliance on the protection of divine Providence, we mutually pledge to each other our Lives, our Fortunes and our sacred Honor."

Think about that. What a gift we were given. And as lawyers and

The Indianapolis Bar Association / Since 1878 - 6

THE RULE OF LAW

Constitution Week In addition to an appropriately themed CLE program and a lunch with law students, we will again invite high school students to participate through a contest incorporating both an essay and other forms of expression this year. We will also be partnering with community organizations to host town halls and to educate the public on their constitutional rights and the Rule of Law, and we will be coordinating visits by lawyers and judges to schools to share the Constitution with students of all ages. Educating and Celebrating Our History For everyone. In November, the IndyBar and Rule of Law Committee will be partnering with key organizations for a marquee event to celebrate our history and the 175th Anniversary of Indiana’s 1851 Constitution. More information to come; be on the lookout for a Save the Date. For detailed information on all of these events, including a Rule of Law Trivia Night and additional upcoming activities, please visit www.IndyBar.org/RuleOfLaw and watch for news and updates in IndyBar’s daily newsletter, the Afternoon Brief .

Header: Indiana legal community members during the inaugural 2025 Law Day rally Above: 2025 Indianapolis Bar Association President, Lee Christie, Christie Bell & Marshall PC, speaks on the significance of the Oath of Attorneys.

Voter Empowerment The IndyBar Rule of Law Committee will be hosting training sessions for poll workers and other election volunteers to help ensure that access to free and fair elections is available to all. Our goal is to provide a

positive voter experience and to increase voter participation so that every voice can be heard. We will also be informing the public of voters' rights in coordination with community partners, providing education on the process and encouraging them to exercise their right to vote. Retake the Oath During Law Day Even bigger and better than last year, on April 30 we will meet you on the steps of the federal courthouse for one hour of inspiring words from special guests in reflection, celebration, and great pride. Bring your mentees and your mentors. Bring your colleagues. Bring a law student. Bring your family. The message is powerful.

Bottom Left: Hundreds of attorneys and judges gathered at the Birch Bayh Federal Building and U.S. Courthouse to renew their vows to the Constitution. Right: IndyBar Rule of Law Committee Members posed with local high school students that participated in in the 2025 Constitution Week essay writing contest.

Christine Hickey is the managing partner of Rubin & Levin PC in Indianapolis where she practices in the area of creditors’ rights. She is a Past President of both the Indianapolis Bar Association and Foundation, the National Conference of Bar Foundations and National Conference of Bar Presidents, and a past member of the ABA Board of Governors and ABA Executive Committee. Chris is co-chair of IndyBar’s Rule of Law Committee. Travis Jensen is a partner at Johnson Jensen Williams LLP where he represents individuals who have suffered serious injuries or lost loved ones due to negligence. He is a Past President of the Indianapolis Bar Foundation, co-chair of IndyBar’s Rule of Law Committee, and currently serves as Counsel to the Board for the Indianapolis Bar Association.

The Indianapolis Bar Association / Since 1878 - 7

Tinker Firehouse Cozy little setting. Parking isn’t the easiest. The charm and historic nature of the building itself is something I treasure. • Outlet Accessibility: 90% — power outlets everywhere, truly a rare and beautiful thing. • Ambient Vibes: Not too noisy, background hum keeps you on task while also not stifling other coffee goers’ conversations. • Professionalism Risk: Moderate — a fair chance you’ll spot familiar faces, but no judgment on casual wear. It is my go-to spot for early morning coffee meetings. • Snackability: Solid breakfast sandwich options. Good selection of pastries. • Distraction Level: Low — focused enough to get work done, but lively enough to keep the mood up. Final Rating: 4.75/5 Mansion Society Beautiful space. Great parking. Wonderful owners. This is far from my normal routes, so a trip here is a deliberate, stay-a-while kind of visit (while respecting seating limits when busy). • Outlet Accessibility: 90% - the table configuration to outlets is quite ideal. • Ambient Vibes: Immaculate. Whimsical. From the tray that brings out your banana pancakes latte, to the latte art and décor – great vibes. • Professionalism Risk: Low — so I’ll be in leggings, sneakers, a grungy crewneck and a trusty ball cap. • Snackability: So many great sweet treats. Great sandwich options. • Distraction Level: Moderate – I always have to stop and chat with Barbie, one of the amazing baristas. Final Rating: 4.5/5 With spring in the air, I can’t help but follow the sun and explore the city. Visiting these coffee shops gives me a few hours of productive work, good coffee, and the simple joy of a little seasonal adventure.

Grounds

A Little Guide to Indy Coffee Shops for Appeal

BY ANA CAROLINA HOHN , PAGANELLI LAW GROUP

I’ve come to expect a certain restlessness this time of year in Indianapolis. The days get longer, the sun starts showing up with some consistency, and suddenly fluorescent lighting feels like a poor substitute for what is happening just outside. Just as birds are innately draw

to new locations better suited for survival, I find myself drawn to relocate, if only for a few hours, to somewhere with natural light, ambient noise, and a good cup of coffee.

POPP

This spring, I scouted coffee shops around Indianapolis on a quest to find a suitable roost for my laptop and latte.

Parlor Public House The coffee was excellent. The seasonal drinks are great. Seating was varied – plenty of spots to fit your mood. The plethora of plants and wonderful patio space help connect you with nature, while still being close enough to an outlet. • Outlet Accessibility: 50% - choose your seat wisely. • Ambient Vibes: Great lighting, enough bustle to feel alive, but not very distracting. • Professionalism Risk: Moderate to High — Due to its space and downtown location, I’ve run into a handful of other lawyers. Watch out for drinks with fancy garnishes or chocolate rims. They look great, but can end up on your face at the wrong moment. • Snackability: High — great café nibbles. • Distraction Level: Moderate — the baristas are the life of the party, and I got drawn into many a distracting conversation. Final Rating: 4/5

Pictures courtesy of Tinker Coffee Co., our highest rated cafe in this review.

Ana Carolina Hohn is an attorney at Paganelli Law Group. She concentrates her practice on healthcare litigation, with an emphasis on defending hospitals in medical malpractice lawsuits. Additionally, she is an adjunct professor at the Indiana University Robert H. McKinney School of Law, her alma mater. Ana attended Purdue University as an undergraduate, double majoring in linguistics and law & society while also minoring in French and Portuguese. During law school, Ana was a Dreamers Scholarship recipient, a Hispanic Scholarship Fund scholar, and a member of the Dean’s Tutorial Society. She was a member of the Moot Court Order of Barristers and Assistant Chief Justice of National Competitions. She is active in the Indianapolis Bar Association, where she serves on the executive board for the Hispanic Lawyers Division and as Chair of the Young Lawyers Division. She was also selected to be part of the IndyBar's Bar Leader Series Class XXI. Outside of work, Ana enjoys running, baking, and spending time with her family.

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Beyond the

PRACTICE

We caught up with some local attorneys who are spreading the good in our community. From coaching, to volunteering, to documenting history, learn what some of your colleagues do in and for Indianapolis.

BUILDING MORE THAN HOMES

IndyBar member attorney Emily Angel-Shaw of Kids' Voice of Indiana has found a meaningful way to give back by helping build the community from the ground up. Through her work with Habitat for Humanity and its Women Build Habitat for Humanity initiative, Emily serves on the organizing committee and leads her own team. Now in her 11th year leading Women Who Wrench and her sixth year on the Women Build organizing committee, Emily has brought together dozens of local women attorneys to participate in the builds. “I always try to get lady lawyers on my team,” she said. Year after year, her team returns not only to construct homes, but also to strengthen connections within the profession and across the broader Indianapolis community. For Emily, the work is both practical and personal, creating opportunities to give back while building lasting relationships.

The Indianapolis Bar Association / Since 1878 - 10

SECOND CHANCES, SOFT LANDINGS

IndyBar members Rob Shive and Megan Lewis , both of Emswiller Williams Noland & Clarke LLC, have always been pet people. In 2020, they felt called to take that love a step further by adopting senior dogs, those often overlooked in shelters. Their first adoption was an elderly beagle named Chase, who was given only about a month to live and showed clear signs of depression. Renamed Ernie, and sometimes affectionately called “Little Old Man,” he quickly found joy in simple comforts, especially roaming their fenced-in yard. With Rob and Megan’s care, Ernie lived nearly a full year, often sleeping with what they described as a smile on his face.

ON AND OFF THE FIELD

IndyBar member attorney Eric Schmadeke , Densborn Blachly LLP, has found a meaningful way to stay involved in his son’s life while giving back to the community: as a coach for the HSE/Fishers Mudsock rugby program. Eric began coaching when his son Jack was in fifth grade. What started as a way to support his child’s interests has grown into a lasting commitment to the team. Now, with Jack a freshman, Eric remains a steady presence on the sidelines, helping guide young athletes both on and off the field. That dedication has paid off. The team captured a state championship in 2024 and returned to the finals again in 2025. While they fell just short of a repeat title, the goal remains the same: get back and win. It’s not just about the competition for Eric; it’s about mentorship, teamwork, and investing in the next generation.

Since then, their home has welcomed a rotating cast of senior companions, including a blind puggle named George Cranberry, a Chihuahua named Pepsi, and a Dachshund Chihuahua mix named Prince. “What we’ve found is that these old guys are the sweetest creatures, just looking for some love,” Rob said.

While Megan has taken on the work of keeping their home running smoothly amid the constant arrivals and departures, the couple has fully embraced the rhythm of life with their menagerie. For Rob and Megan, opening up their home to senior dogs, and giving them a comfortable, loving place to spend their years, has become a deeply meaningful part of how they live.

LEADING FROM THE FRONT ROW

IndyBar member attorney Melanie Reichert of Broyles Kight & Ricafort PC has built a strong presence in the local fitness community as an instructor. She began teaching at the Benjamin Harrison YMCA in 2019 and continued at the Fishers YMCA when it reopened in 2020. Since then, Melanie has consistently taught three to five classes each week and expanded to the Fishers Community Center in 2025. She is certified in multiple Les Mills formats, including BodyPump, BodyBalance, RPM, Sprint, and yoga, and she is also a Level 1 Spinning instructor. Her schedule includes a 45-minute faith-based cycling class, “Worship on Wheels,” each Tuesday evening. For Melanie, teaching provides an opportunity to build community while helping others recharge both physically and mentally.

IN THE SWIM OF THINGS

Charley Smith of Hunt Suedhoff Kearney LLP has spent the past decade building a routine in the pool as an “adult-onset swimmer.” He first started swimming while his daughter trained at the Natatorium, using the time to get in a few laps of his own. What began casually grew into a more serious commitment. After several years training with a triathlon club, Charley shifted his focus to swimming and joined Indy Aquatic Masters, where he has trained for the past five years. He now swims early in the morning at pools across the north side, often logging around 3,000 yards per workout. He competes in one to three meets each year and also serves as a meet announcer. While he is quick to note that he is not the fastest in the pool, he values the consistency and community the sport provides. For Charley, swimming offers a way to stay active, reset mentally, and connect with others, including many fellow attorneys and IndyBar members.

RAISING THE BAR, AND THE VOLUME

Sam Laurin , IndyBar member and partner at Bose McKinney & Evans LLP, found his way to Tonic Ball through a simple connection. Knowing his interest in music, a board member invited him to join the organizing committee. Nearly a decade later, Sam remains closely involved in what has become one of Indianapolis’s most distinctive fundraising events. Now in its 25th year, Tonic Ball brings together more than 60 local bands for a one-night, multi-venue concert experience, with each group performing in the style of a selected artist. The event regularly draws more than 2,600 attendees and has become a signature collaboration across the community, including support from local law firms. Beyond the music, the impact is substantial. Proceeds from last year’s event helped provide 48,000 free meals to individuals in need. For Sam, the combination of creativity and purpose is what makes the experience stand out. “I have more fun on Tonic Ball night than any night in the year,” he said. “It just keeps getting better.”

TAKING THE STAGE

OPENING DOORS, CHANGING TRAJECTORIES

For nearly five decades, Maria Matters , Maria Matters Attorney at Law LLC, has been a constant presence in Indianapolis’s local theater community through her work with Footlite Musicals. She first became involved in 1976 while still in high school, initially drawn in through an old flame. What started with stage management and lighting design soon grew into performing. Over the years, Maria has taken on nearly every role onstage and behind the scenes. Today, she primarily focuses on directing and lighting design, continuing to shape productions and mentor others. While she says her favorite show is usually the one she’s currently working on, her 2020 production of Fun Home stands out as especially meaningful. The reward lies not just in the performances, but in the community the theater creates. “It’s a creative outlet for me,” she said, “and the arts benefit the city at large in so many ways; expanding minds and providing escape.” Over the years, she has watched generations of young performers grow up through Footlite’s programs, with some even returning later with children of their own.

IndyBar member attorneys Lee Christie , Christie Bell & Marshall PC, and Rick Norris , Norris Choplin Schroeder LLP, have spent nearly a decade helping expand access to higher education for Indianapolis students through their work as founding board members of the Walker Charitable Foundation. Rick’s connection to the mission is personal as he was friends with James Walker. The estates of the Walker brothers made the foundation possible. For Lee, Rick, and their fellow volunteer board members, the goal remains clear: remove barriers, invest in potential, and help change the trajectory of a life. Inspired by the brothers’ experience receiving support to attend Ball State University, the foundation was created to provide similar opportunities for students from Indianapolis Public Schools. Since launching its first cohort in 2016, it has supported roughly 120 students, covering tuition, laptops, supplies, and living expenses, ensuring students can focus on their education & graduate debt-free. Each recipient is paired with a mentor who stays alongside them throughout college, offering guidance and consistency.

MEETING NEEDS, WEEK AFTER WEEK

Chuck Niblick , IndyBar member and Associate at Ice Miller LLP, has found a hands-on way to serve some of Indianapolis’s most vulnerable neighbors. Through his work with Circle City Mutual Aid, Chuck organizes a weekly “survival share” aimed at meeting immediate, everyday needs.

Every Sunday from 4 to 6 p.m., rain or shine, Chuck and fellow volunteers gather at the southeast corner of Meridian and St. Clair to distribute essential items, including bus passes secured through a grant, harm reduction supplies, toilet paper, and survival kits with basic hygiene necessities. The effort is made in collaboration with Food Not Bombs, which provides a warm meal each week. What began as a simple act of service has become a consistent presence in the community, offering both practical support and a sense of dignity to those who need it most. For Chuck, the commitment is straightforward: show up, week after week, and help meet people where they are.

UNEARTHING INDIANAPOLIS

A WALK, A SECOND CHANCE

IndyBar member Ed Fujawa turned a small writing project into a lasting creative outlet focused on local history. In 2018, he began researching Indianapolis history for his wife’s neighborhood newsletter, then expanded that work into a blog, Class900Indy . Over time, the blog developed an audience and led to new opportunities. In 2023, Ed published Vanished Indianapolis , a book exploring historic sites that have disappeared or changed, which earned a Hoosier Author Award for nonfiction in 2024. His work highlights both the city’s past and what might have been, from early decisions about Indianapolis’s location to unrealized plans that could have reshaped entire neighborhoods. For Ed, what began as a hobby has become a meaningful way to explore, share, and preserve the evolving story of Indianapolis outside of his day job.

IndyBar Past President Nissa Ricafort , Broyles Kight and Ricafort PC, found a way to reconnect with the community following the pandemic. That search led her to Hamilton County Humane Society, where she signed up for volunteer training. Since September 2021, Nissa has volunteered two to three times each week, walking shelter dogs.

Much of her time is spent with animals who have been let down by humans and need extra patience and care. Some have been waiting more than a year to find homes. With three rescue dogs of her own, the work felt like a natural fit and a break from the demands of legal practice. “They always brighten my day because they are so grateful for any attention,” she said. What began as a way to give back has become a source of perspective and connection, one walk at a time.

COACHING FOR GROWTH

Since 2004, IndyBar member Eddie Abel of Lewis Wagner & Trimble LLP has brought the same discipline and drive from the practice of law to the rugby field, building a long-standing commitment to coaching and player development. What began as a practical decision avoid a weekly conditioning session during his undergrad at Indiana University quickly evolved into something more meaningful. While working as a high school teacher after graduation, coaching became a natural extension of his role as a mentor. He advanced through the ranks and eventually earned opportunities to coach at the High School All American camp and with the USA U18 Stars and Stripes national team. In 2020, he returned to lead the Midwest Thunderbirds youth program, driven by a desire to increase representation of Midwest athletes on national teams. Since stepping into the head coach role, he has focused not only on developing talent, but also on instilling a mindset of growth and accountability. “Coaching forces you to self-evaluate and evolve if you want to stay successful,” he said. It is a lesson he emphasizes with his players, one that extends far beyond the field.

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Women and the Law Division ' s

Mentorship Reception

BY REBECCA MCCLAIN , INDIANA DEPARTMENT OF NATURAL RESOURCES

mentor and friend all these years.” Dina had many words of wisdom to share and honored her own mentor, Robert Wagner, who taught her the meaning of mentorship and deep reverence for the profession. But the room fell silent and reflective on this: “Love is not always a word we use in law practice. But I have come to believe it is the most powerful one. To love the work enough to do it well. To love the people you mentor enough to tell them the truth. To love the profession enough to demand excellence. And to love the next generation enough to give them not just instruction — but confidence.” Like many well-rounded lawyers, Dina’s interests stretch beyond the courtroom to traveling, gardening, hiking, and paddle boarding. The interests we share as individuals often bring us together as lawyers and make us better advocates for our communities as well. From WLD, we are forever grateful to Dina and all the mentors who pour into our community.

The Women and the Law Division (WLD) hosted its mentorship reception on February 24, 2026. This annual event features a cocktail reception, award ceremony, and networking. Every year the Mentorship Committee accepts members to the Mentorship Program where new and

established attorneys, judges, and other legal professionals are matched into groups to build strong support systems. Year after year this program sees returning members due to the impact it makes. The goal of this program is to provide an open and honest sounding board for female legal professionals at every phase of life. Over the years the hope is that these relationships turn into lifelong friendships. A lot of the mentorship participants can attest to the fact we would not be where we are in our careers if not for the support of our community and allies. The Mentorship Program serves as a space to uplift and inspire one another in both our professional and personal achievements. Each year WLD honors a female legal professional who has demonstrated consistent and exceptional mentorship, along with strong leadership within the legal community with their Mentorship Award. This year WLD honored Dina Cox from Lewis, Wagner & Trimble LLP for her contribution to mentees over her decorated career. The event was filled with love and support from many attendees who showed up in order to bestow Dina with this honor. Nabeela Virjee of the WLD Executive Committee stated, “As a young lawyer, Dina taught me the fundamentals of practicing law. Her mentorship of me did not end when I transitioned to work for the City. Instead, it grew and strengthened. She is the person I go to when I want to talk through a case, get ready for trial, cry to when I feel overwhelmed by the job, and celebrate with when a win comes my way. She isn't just this way for me, but for so many others.” Janelle Kilies of Lewis Wagner & Trimble LLP presented the Mentorship Award to Dina, “She’s been more than just a mentor to me (and many others). She’s been a steady source of encouragement, perspective, and kindness. Her belief in me has shaped the way I see myself and the work I do. Even now, she continues to lead by example, showing that true mentorship isn’t about a single moment, but a lasting presence that continues to guide and inspire. I feel incredibly honored to have her as my

We look forward to next year’s event and to honoring another mentor, so please be on the lookout for the call for nominations later this year.

Rebecca earned her J.D. from the University of San Francisco School of Law. She was a member of the Intellectual Property & Technology Law Journal and obtained an Intellectual Property Law Certificate cum laude. Rebecca currently serves as Assistant General Counsel at the Indiana Department of Natural Resources for the Regulatory Bureau over all regulatory and enforcement matters ranging from oil and gas wells to dam safety. She joined DNR in 2020 and her practice mainly includes representing the Divisions of Water, Historic Preservation & Archaeology, and Fish & Wildlife in administrative proceedings. She previously practiced at the Office of the Indiana Attorney General in the Litigation Division’s Administrative and Regulatory Enforcement Section. Rebecca enjoys hiking with her dog, attending farmer’s market, traveling to new museums, and supporting the arts such as her neighborhood Shakespeare group and the Indianapolis Opera in her spare time.

IndyBar Members gathered at the 2026 Women and the Law Mentorship Reception, Dina Cox pictured with award at top.

The Indianapolis Bar Association / Since 1878 - 15

IndyBar Companions of

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Find Your Common Circle

BY RANI AMANI , ICE MILLER LLP

The IndyBar Well-Being Committee is excited to introduce its programming for the coming year. Our goal is simple: to support the well-being of lawyers and legal professionals while building meaningful connections within the IndyBar community. The practice of law is deeply rewarding, but it can also be demanding. The Well-Being Committee was created in 2017 to provide resources, programming, and opportunities for connection that help lawyers sustain their professional and personal well-being. Throughout the year, the Committee will offer programming focused on differed dimensions of well being, along with opportunities to connect socially and serve or legal community together. A Year Focused on Well-Being Our programming this year will highlight several key aspects of well-being. The Practice of Well-Being (January – April) We began the year by focusing on connection. Strong professional relationships are an important part of a healthy legal career, and creating space for attorneys to connect outside of their daily work can help strengthen our legal community. Mental Health and Mindfulness (May – August) Programming from May to August will focus on mental health and mindfulness. We’ll kick things off with Mental Health Awareness month. The legal profession

can bring significant stress, and learning practical strategies to manage that stress is an important part of maintaining well-being. Physical Well-Being (September – December) To close out the year, we will focus on physical well being. Programming will include conversations about exercise, nutrition, sleep, and other habits that support long-term health and sustainability in the legal field. Join a Common Circle One of the ways members can get involved is by participating in Common Circles—small groups that bring lawyers together around shared interests, experiences, or practice areas.

Meal Trains and Supporting Our Community One of the most meaningful ways the Well-Being Committee has supported our legal community has been through organizing meal trains for members experiencing significant life events, navigating an illness, or facing a challenging season. These small acts allow our legal community to show up for one another. Preparing, ordering, or delivering meals may seem simple, but it sends a powerful message: no one in our profession has to go through difficult moments alone. If you are aware of a member of our legal community who could benefit from this kind of support, please feel free to reach out so we can help coordinate a meal train. Get Involved The Well-Being Committee welcomes participation from IndyBar Members at every stage of their careers. Whether you attend a program, volunteer for a meal train, or join a Common Circle, we hope you will take advantage of these opportunities to prioritize your well-being and strengthen our legal community. We look forward to a year of connection, learning, and growth together. Rani Amani is the Chair of IndyBar's Well-Being Committee and an associate in Ice Miller’s Litigation Group. She previously clerked for the Hon. Derek R. Molter at both the Court of Appeals of Indiana and the Indiana Supreme Court, and ex-terned for the Hon. Christopher M. Goff of the Indiana Supreme Court and the Hon. Mark J. Dinsmore of the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Indiana. Rani earned her J.D. from the Indiana University Robert H. McKinney School of Law, where she served as editor-in-chief of the Indiana Health Law Review, held leadership roles in the Women’s Caucus, Moot Court Executive Board, and received the Mary H. Mitchell Outstanding Service Award for her pro bono work.

Current circles include: - Family Law Practitioners Common Circle - Mental Health Common Circle - Sandwich Generation Common Circle - Sober/Sober-Curious Common Circle - Walk the Block Common Circle

These Common Circles are designed to create smaller communities within IndyBar, where members can connect more regularly and support on another. Scan this code to join a Common Circle today!

Cy Young at Heart

By: John Gallo, Marion County Prosecutor's Office

ACROSS 1 Fountain pen part 4 Offering at Sidedoor on 10th St. 9 Really, really long naps 11 Skirt style 12 "Ick." 13 "I don't know her!" 14 Alaska town known for salmon shares 15 Don Jr. to Donald 16 Points that are the pitcher's fault 20 "Gross, can't ______ that." 21 An unlikely way to achieve 16A 26 Produced Bowie's "Heroes" 27 Nemesis 29 Cathedral of Florence 32 Narrow groove

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17 About 18 Intense dislike 19 You may not do this at most professional sporting events 21 Ibsen's Gabbler 22 Original Alaskan 23 A bone that lives outside and hangs from your gums like a bat 24 Showed again, probably on TNT 25 Jimmy from NYPD Blue and Star Wars 28 "___ queen!" 30 How the subs are prepared at Sheetz or Wawa, abbr. 31 Rabbi's sighs

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I'm a world of dreams, yet made of light, I flicker in darkness, a wondrous sight. Stars are born here, stories unfold. In just a short time, whole lives are told. I'm silver and gold, but not a coin, a place where reality and fantasy join. What am I?

Among verdant lands I sit and wait, longing for the rains of fate. Fruiting upwards towards the sky, though the shade I often pry. Those that fell make my home, deeply set within a combe. Gills and stalks, tasty or pox. What am I?

Sudoku

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(All answers on page 24)

The Indianapolis Bar Association / Since 1878 - 17

Keep Up With Fellow IndyBar Members Members

On the Move

Joseph "Neal" Bowling started his own practice, Neal Bowling Legal LLC. His practice is focused on serving businesses and entrepreneurs. Shyann Boyer was promoted to Partner at Church Church Hittle + Antrim. Shyann focuses in the K-12 School and Education Law practice group. Kenneth Chigges joined Krieg DeVault LLP. He focuses his practice on assisting clients seeking to finance affordable housing and community development projects using low-income housing tax credits and bonds. Louise Conces was named Partner at Bose McKinney & Evans LLP. Conces practices in the medical malpractice and litigation groups, where she focuses her practice on medical malpractice defense and healthcare litigation. Adam Doerr was named Partner at Kroger Gardis & Regas. His practice focuses on business and commercial litigation, as well as municipal law.

Alex Eads was promoted to Senior Associate at Krieg Devault LLP. He is a member of the employee benefits and executive compensations practice. Nicole Goodson joined Butler University where she will serve as the Director for the Office of the Executive Vice President for Finance and Chief Operating Officer Melissa Hamer was named Partner at Kroger Gardis & Regas LLP. She is a litigator within the Construction and Environmental Law Practice Groups. Justin Hays was named Partner at Church Church Hittle + Antrim. Justin primarily focuses in the firm's Business Services practice group. Kaitlin Herrera joined Woodford Sathappan McGee. Kaitlin joins as an Associate Attorney focused on family law. John Higgins joined Krieg DeVault LLP as a Partner. He concentrates his practice on representing construction industry clients.

Congratulations to these IndyBar members on their recent accomplishments! Do you have have something you'd like to share with the bar? Email us at IBA@IndyBar.org and we'll feature you in our Afternoon Brief and the next edition of The Record!

Zechariah Banks joined Gutwein Law as part of it's commercial litigation practice area.

Stephanie Bibbs was inducted to the American College of Trial Lawyers.

Katherine Bingaman joined Drewry Simmons Vornehm LLP. She concentrates her practice in the area of civil litigation.

The Indianapolis Bar Association / Since 1878 - 18

John Higgins joined Krieg DeVault LLP as a partner of the firm's Litigation and Dispute Resolution services. His represents construction industry clients, ranging from contractors/remodelers to developers and related businesses, in complex disputes. LaToya Highsaw started her own practice, Highsaw Jointer Law. Her practice focuses on divorce, custody, parenting time, and guardianship matters throughout Indianapolis and Central Indiana. Katrinia Hopkins joined Highsaw Jointer Law as an associate attorney. She focuses her practice on divorce, paternity, guardianships, and adoption matters with preparation and discipline. Melinda Hudson joined EdChoice Legal Advocates. Before joining EdChoice, she practiced at a national law firm representing clients in complex litigation, investigations, and regulatory matters. Laurel Judkins was picked by the Greater Indianapolis Progress Committee as its next Executive Director. Thomas Jones joined The Gibson Legal Group. He is an experienced litigator who represents clients across a wide spectrum of business and real estate disputes. Douglas Louks has joined Tradebe Environmental Services as Senior Counsel. Douglas has a background in environmental and insurance litigation. Michael Moffatt, Jr. was promoted to Senior Associate at Krieg DeVault LLP. He is a member of the firm's litigation practice, specializing in commercial litigation. Thao Nguyen was elected as Managing Partner at Plews Shadley Racher & Braun LLP. Nguyen focuses her practice on insurance coverage for policyholders and environmental and commercial litigation. Cassie Nielsen joined Krieg DeVault LLP as a Partner. She is a seasoned construction and commercial litigator whose practice spans high stakes construction matters, complex business disputes and litigation, and contract negotiation.

Justin R. Olson , IndyBar Member & Chair of IndyBar's Health Care & Life Sciences Section, was confirmed by the Senate for his appointment to become a U.S. District Court Judge for the Southern District of Indiana. In a statement released by his office, Senator Todd Young said "Justin is a Hoosier through and through, with a distinguished record of public service, legal excellence, and respect for the rule of law. Over the course of his career, he has demonstrated the integrity, judgment, and temperament that are essential for service on the federal bench. I look forward to his service.” Olson has been an active IndyBar member for several years. He currently works at Kroger Gardis & Regas LLP practicing civil litigation. Prior to joining the firm, Olson was an Assistant U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Indiana and clerked for Chief Justice Loretta H. Rush. He is a graduate of the Indiana University Maurer School of Law. Annie Pagonis joined Frank & Kraft. Annie focuses on helping families preserve their wealth by avoiding guardianship and probate, saving taxes, and avoiding unnecessary expenses to leave their legacy to their heirs. Sarah Pfister joined Kroger Gardis & Regas LLP. She is a litigator supporting multiple practice groups. Jackson Schroeder was named Partner at Bose McKinney & Evans LLP. Schroeder concentrates his practice on administrative litigation, environmental litigation, and insurance coverage disputes. Jenna Shives joined Krieg DeVault LLP. Shives represents clients in employment disputes, commercial and environmental litigation, and appellate matters, bringing more than a decade of litigation experience to high-stakes cases.

Fernando Silva joined Gordon Rees Scully Mansukhani LLP. Silva is a multistate attorney licensed in Indiana and Illinois whose practice focuses on commercial litigation, general liability, and employment law. He has helped clients to achieve favorable outcomes in both state and federal court. Brooke Smith joined Krieg DeVault LLP as a partner. She represents construction contractors, subcontractors, owners and design professionals,. Eric Speer joined Barnes & Thornburg LLP as an Associate Attorney. Speer will be joining the healthcare department. Kyle Steinbrueck was admitted into Partnership at Plews Shadley Racher & Braun LLP. Steinbrueck is an experienced attorney specializing in real estate litigation and environmental disputes. Ned Tonner joined The Nice Law Firm LLP. Ned is a seasoned advocate for individuals, families, and businesses throughout Northwest and Central Indiana. Patrick Toole joined Kirchoff & Jewel LLC as their newest Associate Attorney. Patrick will focus his practice on estate planning, estate and trust administration, probate and trust litigation, and business law. Kathryn Tomey was promoted to Senior Associate at Krieg DeVault LLP. She is a member of the firm's commercial real estate and lending practice, specializing in finance. Justin Wiser joined Ogletree Deakins as an Associate. Justin's practice is primarily focused in the employment law space. Alexandra Young joined Highsaw Jointer Law as an Associate Attorney. Her practice centers around divorce, custody, paternity, guardianships, and adoptions, including experience as a Guardian Ad Litem.

The Indianapolis Bar Association / Since 1878 - 19