Convene returns to two premier bar leadership events this March as the 2025 NABE Chief Executives (CE) Retreat and 2025 ABA Bar Leadership Institute take place at the Chicago Marriott Downtown Magnificent Mile from March 11 to 14.
The 2025 NABE Chief Executives Retreat offers a unique opportunity for bar leaders to connect, exchange ideas, and gain valuable insights. Designed exclusively for executive directors, CEOs, and equivalent leaders from state, local, and specialty bar associations, this retreat fosters collaboration and professional development.
Kicking off with an evening networking session on Tuesday, March 11, the retreat continues through Wednesday, March 12.
What You’ll Learn at the 2025 Bar Leadership Institute
- Learn how different bars are adapting to the evolving political landscape, including DEI initiatives and CLE requirements, while staying true to their mission.
- Understand when and how to communicate effectively during times of crisis with expert-led strategies for public relations and messaging.
- Explore innovative ways for voluntary bar associations to generate revenue amid declining membership.
- Discuss legal and policy changes, alternative licensing pathways, and access to justice concerns impacting mandatory bars.
- Discover practical approaches to leadership transitions, ensuring organizational stability and preparedness.
- Gain actionable tactics to increase participation and leadership involvement in bar associations.
The CE Retreat immediately precedes the 2025 ABA Bar Leadership Institute (BLI), an event dedicated to cultivating the next generation of leaders in the organized bar.
From March 12 to 14, the ABA BLI will focus on strengthening leadership skills, expanding professional networks, and advancing diversity within bar organizations. Through a combination of workshops, plenaries led by experienced leaders, and collaborative discussions, participants will gain practical insights and strategies to effectively lead their associations and serve their communities.
What You’ll Learn at the 2025 Chief Executives Retreat
- Leadership & Governance
- How to be a steward of your organization beyond your term
- Building trust with your board and staff
- Strategies for effective and collaborative board governance
- Decision-making frameworks to improve efficiency and accountability
- Communication & Public Engagement
- Public speaking skills for bar leaders
- Crafting compelling organizational stories and narratives
- Effective communication with policymakers and advocacy strategies
- Best practices for using LinkedIn to boost visibility
- Inclusion & Member Engagement
- Creating an inclusive and welcoming bar culture
- Understanding generational differences in leadership and engagement
- Developing a strong member value proposition to ensure retention and growth
- Building meaningful connections and fostering collaboration
- Strategic Thinking & Sustainability
- Leading with vision and purpose in an evolving legal landscape
- Bold strategies to ensure bar association sustainability
- Technology tips to enhance leadership efficiency and reduce stress
- Transforming meetings to be more productive and decision-driven
- Crisis & Advocacy Preparedness
- Crisis communication techniques for bar leaders
- Advocacy strategies and the role of bar associations in public policy
