As I step into the role of president for the Board of Commissioners of the Idaho State Bar, I do so with deep humility and profound gratitude. This year marks an especially meaningful milestone for us—the 100-year anniversary of the Idaho State Bar. For a century, we have grown from humble beginnings into an enduring, respected community of professionals, shaped by tradition, sustained by fellowship, and driven by purpose. It is from this strong foundation that we now reach for tomorrow.

Our centennial celebration reminds us not only of our historical achievements but also of the enduring values that continue to define us. Among these, is the genuine closeness we share as members. Whether we’re meeting for conferences, gathering for local district bar meetings, or collaborating on cases, there’s a sense of unity and mutual respect. It’s a culture where people care, contribute, and connect.

As our state continues to grow—and with it, the membership of the Idaho State Bar—we must be intentional in preserving this sense of closeness. Growth brings opportunities, but it also poses challenges to our tight-knit culture. To meet this, we must actively foster environments where connection is cultivated, mentorship is encouraged, and traditions are passed on—not as relics, but as living practices that continue to shape and inspire.

Mentorship: Building Bridges to the Future

One of the most powerful tools we have for sustaining our culture is mentorship. Through mentoring, institutional knowledge is passed down, values are instilled, and professional development is personalized. Every one of us remembers someone who took the time to show us the ropes, answer our questions, and encourage our growth. Now, it’s our turn to do the same.

Mentorship doesn’t have to be formal. It can happen over coffee at a conference, during a committee meeting, or through a simple phone call to check in on a new attorney. Within your community, seasoned professionals could institute a monthly “Mentor Meetup” where newer members can bring real-world challenges to the table and receive feedback. A quarterly career development panel hosted by members of the bar to help early-career professionals gain clarity about advancement opportunities is another way to foster connection and provide guidance. These are just a few of the many ways we can give back by guiding others.

Volunteerism: Fueling Our Future

Equally essential to our future is volunteerism. Our organization has always depended on the generous contributions of time, talent, and heart from its members. Whether it’s planning a conference, serving on a committee, or helping with programming for a district bar event, volunteers are the lifeblood of what we do.

But volunteerism does more than power our organization, it enriches the lives of those who step up. Personally, I can say that some of my most meaningful professional relationships and learning experiences have come through volunteer roles. When you get involved, you don’t just contribute to the mission—you grow, connect, and lead in new ways.

If you’re unsure where to begin, start small. Sign up to help at an event. Join a short-term task force. Reach out to your local district bar leadership and ask where help is needed. The satisfaction that comes from making an impact is immediate. You might find yourself inspired to do even more.

Looking Ahead with Purpose

One of the most memorable highlights of this year was our 2025 Annual Meeting and Anniversary Gala, where we came together to celebrate the Centennial of the Idaho State Bar. It was an extraordinary event—part celebration, part reflection—as we looked back on the remarkable people and milestones that have shaped us over the past century.

A particularly moving moment was the unveiling of Tents to Towers, The History of the Practice of Law in Idaho, a book assembled by a dedicated group of members passionate about preserving our history. This publication beautifully chronicles the history of the bar and the professionals who have built and sustained our field, offering insight into their challenges, triumphs, and lasting legacies. It reminded us that our future is built on the dedication of those who came before us—and that we are responsible for carrying the torch forward.

As demonstrated by our history, being rooted in tradition doesn’t mean staying still. It means knowing where we’ve come from and using that knowledge to build a better tomorrow. Our centennial year has been a celebration of the past, but it is also a launching pad for the future.

Together, we can shape what the next 100 years will look like. We can continue to grow while remaining connected. We can honor our history by actively mentoring and lifting up those who will carry the profession forward. We can ensure our organization not only survives but thrives, fueled by the dedication of volunteers, strengthened by collegial bonds, and inspired by a common purpose.

To every member who has contributed, mentored, or volunteered: thank you. To those just beginning their journey with us: welcome. There’s a place for you here, and a future we can build—together.

Kristin Bjorkman is the current President of the Idaho State Bar Board of Commissioners, representing the Fourth District. She is a second-generation Idaho lawyer with decades of experience negotiating and documenting real estate, commercial finance, and business transactions. Her interest in law was influenced by her father who paused his career in education to get a law degree when Kristin was a teen.