President’s Message

April 2026

REMARKS FROM THE PRESIDENT’S DESK

By: Dean McVay, Esq.

As we usher in April and as spring arrives, many traditions in our community invite us to pause and reflect. This year, Easter coincides with Passover and follows closely after the solemn period of Ramadan. Though these sacred observances arise from different faith traditions, they share common themes—renewal, humility, service, and a recommitment to living with integrity. For those of us in the legal profession, these moments offer an opportunity to reflect on the deeper purpose of our work: to pursue justice, to serve our communities, and to treat one another with dignity, civility and compassion.

Lawyers and judges carry a unique responsibility. Our profession calls upon us not only to master the law, but to exercise wisdom, patience, and humanity in the application of it. Periods of reflection such as these remind us that becoming better lawyers is inseparable from becoming better people. Whether through faith, service, or quiet personal reflection, this season encourages us to consider how we can strengthen our character, renew our commitment to ethical practice, and extend grace to colleagues, clients, and the public we serve.

This spirit of service was beautifully reflected at our March 26 Judicial Officers Awards Dinner. We were honored to recognize Immediate Past Presiding Judge Lisa Rogan as our Judicial Officer of the Year. Judge Rogan has set a powerful example of leadership, fairness, and dedication to the administration of justice in San Bernardino County. Her stewardship of the court and her commitment to the rule of law remind us of the profound impact that principled judicial leadership can have on our entire legal community.

We also proudly recognized Judge John Vander Feer with the Judicial Lifetime Achievement Award, honoring nearly three decades of steadfast service on the bench in our county. Throughout his distinguished career, Judge Vander Feer has exemplified thoughtful, unwavering justice and a deep respect for the rule of law. His years of service have helped shape the integrity and strength of our local judiciary.

In addition, we were delighted to present the Mitchell Roth Service Award to local legal icon Bill Lemann. Bill’s extraordinary contributions to the legal profession and to the broader community demonstrate that excellence in the law can—and should—be accompanied by generosity of spirit. His work as a lawyer, mentor, and philanthropist serves as an inspiring reminder that our influence extends far beyond the courtroom.

The careers of these three incredible individuals stand out not only as remarkable personal achievements, but as guiding examples for all of us. In their pursuit of justice, mentorship, and community engagement, they illuminate a path forward, reminding us that the practice of law is at its finest when it is grounded in purpose, humility, and service to others.

Springtime naturally invites us to think about renewal. Just as we might engage in a bit of “spring cleaning” at home, this season encourages us to consider what we can set aside in our professional and personal lives—old frustrations, habits that no longer serve us, or distractions that pull us away from what truly matters. In their place, we can recommit ourselves to the values that define our profession: integrity, civility, service, and a genuine dedication to justice.

May this season of renewal inspire each of us to grow—as lawyers, as colleagues, and as human beings—and to continue building a legal community defined not only by excellence, but also by compassion, humility, and service to others.