President’s Message

May 2026

REMARKS FROM THE PRESIDENT’S DESK

By: Dean McVay, Esq.

As we enter the month of May—a time when we celebrate Law Day and reflect on the vital role of the rule of law in our democracy—I am reminded of the enduring importance of an independent judiciary and the foundational principle of separation of powers. These ideals are not abstract; they are lived out daily in our courts, our practices, and our commitment to justice.

Law Day is a time to reflect not only on the rule of law, but on our individual and collective responsibility to uphold it. This year’s Law Day theme invites us to consider how the Constitution continues to shape our democracy and guide us through modern challenges. It is not simply a historical document, but a living framework that demands our attention, our understanding, and our stewardship.

Law Day provides an opportunity to reconnect with the foundational principles that brought many of us to the profession in the first place: equal justice under law, due process, and the protection of fundamental rights. In an era where public trust in institutions is often tested, the role of attorneys, judges, and legal professionals becomes even more critical. We are not just practitioners—we are guardians of a system that depends on integrity, transparency, and access.

Locally, Law Day also reminds us of the importance of civic education and community engagement. Whether through mentoring students, supporting access to justice initiatives, or simply helping the public better understand the legal system, our contributions extend far beyond the courtroom. Even small efforts—speaking at a school, volunteering at a legal clinic, or participating in bar-sponsored outreach—can reinforce confidence in the rule of law and inspire the next generation.

May is also a time of gratitude. As we celebrate Mother’s Day this month, we pause to recognize the mothers and caregivers in our lives whose love, sacrifice, and guidance have shaped our personal and professional journeys. Their influence is often the quiet force behind our achievements, and this month offers a meaningful opportunity to express our appreciation.

This year, May also marks an exciting new chapter for the Western San Bernardino County Bar Association—we have moved our offices! Like many bar associations across the country, we are taking this opportunity to streamline, refocus, and position ourselves for the future. We are proud to announce that our new home will be within the University of La Verne College of Law and Public Service.

This move represents far more than a change in location. It is the beginning of a dynamic partnership that will strengthen our mission and expand our reach. Through this collaboration, we will have access to conference rooms and classrooms that will enhance our mediation services and provide an ideal setting for our MCLE programming. Just as importantly, we will be more accessible to law students, creating a direct pathway for them to engage with our association, grow into membership, and ultimately become active participants in our legal community.

We are also deepening our commitment to supporting the next generation of attorneys. As part of this partnership, the University is providing us with space at no cost. In turn, we are establishing a $6,000 annual merit-based scholarship fund, to be awarded to the top two graduating law students each year. This initiative reflects our shared investment in excellence, opportunity, and the future of the profession.

This transition will also allow us to collaborate more closely with our sister organizations, expand our membership, and build new programming that reflects the evolving needs of our community.

We extend our sincere gratitude to Dean Kevin Marshall for his vision and advocacy in bringing this partnership to life. His leadership has made this opportunity possible, and we look forward to the many successes that will grow from this relationship.  Thanks as well to our incredible Executive Director, Lindsay Partridge, in obtaining all the necessary insurance needed for the new location and for all the labor in physically moving our offices after many years at the former location.  Thanks also to Board Treasurer Matthew Taylor, who assisted with the necessary documentation and negotiations in the new relationship with the new landlord, the College of Law and Public Service.  We are grateful for this new relationship and the opportunities it will provide.

As we continue our work this month, I encourage each of us to take a moment to reflect on what Law Day means personally and professionally. How are we contributing to a legal system that is fair, accessible, and worthy of public trust? And how can we, as a Bar Association, deepen our impact in the communities we serve?  Law Day is not just a celebration—it is a call to action.