The Oklahoma Bar Journal January 2024

PRESIDENTIAL Q&A

What are the biggest issues you see facing Oklahoma attorneys today? Overworked but not always working effectively. We have more tools than ever, but that pulls us in more directions than ever, so we are less focused. How does the OBA help address these issues? They are always providing education, articles and in-person CLE. Best advice for a young attorney or for someone considering taking this path? Get a good mentor! Having someone to ask ques tions or talk through problems is the best resource. I was fortunate to have my parents. Best work-life balance tip for attorneys? Learn to say no – attorneys want to help, want to feel like they are needed and tend to say yes to everything. You have to say, “I’m not going to answer emails or calls after this time unless it’s super import ant.” Also, don’t take yourself too seriously. What are some fun or interesting ways to get involved with the OBA? You can write for the bar journal, help organize events with a committee, present a CLE session; there are so many ways to be involved. Why is it important to get involved? You get out of it what you put into it, and you can get something out of the OBA other than CLE: professional development, developing friendships in every corner of the state and developing your leadership skills.

Background Born and raised in Oklahoma City. Married to Andrea, two young sons – Fischer and Harrison. Currently working as general counsel and execu tive vice president at The Bankers Bank in northwest Oklahoma City. Education Bachelor’s degree from the University of Kansas, double major in political science and history; J.D. from the University of Missouri – Kansas City School of Law in 2010. Do you have any role models who have influenced your life or work? My parents, whom I worked with for nine years; past OBA President David Poarch; OBA Governor Angela Ailles Bahm, who is a terrific leader – I admire what she’s done throughout her career; and my CEO, Troy Appling, who has taught me a lot about leadership. Favorite OBA member benefit? CLE – they put on some great programs. Are there any other helpful resources the OBA offers that more attorneys should take advantage of? Ethics Counsel – you have access to a great attor ney who helps confidentially through tricky questions and situations.

JANUARY 2024 | 55

THE OKLAHOMA BAR JOURNAL