It is my pleasure to welcome you to the 60th year of The Society of Bar and Gavel. 

First, let us take a trip back in time.  In 1949, four law students came together to create what would become—as determined by the University—the highest honor to be bestowed upon law students by their peers.  President Harry Hampilos, Vice President Marshall Simons, Treasurer Pearl Ferer, and Secretary Edward O’Flynn founded the Society of Bar & Gavel with four pillars—CHARACTER, SERVICE, LEADERSHIP, AND ATTITUDE—that they would and—60 years later still—use to determine who has gone above and beyond to warrant membership.  The founding members and the leaders to come after them founded some of the most important “institutions” at this school—Res Ipsa, the Moot Court Board, the list goes on. 

The Society of Bar and Gavel represents the epitome of accomplishment at UM Law.  Members are well-rounded leaders, are devoted to service, and are wonderful people.  Our members believe it is not enough to be involved today; rather, we should ensure that involvement today leads to an improvement in the community tomorrow.  The Society of Bar and Gavel can and should be the organization to unify all organizations under a common understanding that, while celebrating what makes us different is important, our real strength comes from our shared interests and goals as law students. 

We encourage not only our members but also all law students to remain committed and active in our communities.  Most law students have had opportunities that others will never have, and in light of these privileges, it is our inherent duty to give back and help to foster a society in which law students are respected for their commitment to improving their communities. 

This year The Society of Bar and Gavel will strive to have a strong presence on campus.   Whether this be in the form of a hurricane relief drive, Race Judicata - a 5K run/walk to benefit UM-NSU Center for Autism and Related Disabilities, or an off campus day of service spent beautifying the community, our Society is here, committed, and focused on making a difference. 

I am inspired by our members and proud to be a part of an organization that recognizes that good can come from all places.  I look forward to a rewarding year.

 

Sara Neugroschel
President, The Society of Bar and Gavel