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A Legacy of Giving, A Future of Impact: CELEBRATING 60 YEARS OF THE MARYLAND BAR FOUNDATION ON OCTOBER 23, 2025, the Maryland legal community gathered for a historic milestone: the Maryland Bar Foundation (MBF) 60th Anniversary Gala. Held in partnership with the Maryland State Bar Association (MSBA), the evening was more than a celebration of longevity; it was a powerful testament to six decades of commitment to integrity, justice, and service. As the philanthropic arm of MSBA, MBF used this momentous occasion to reflect on 60 years of its legacy of giving while charting a course for continued impact.
MSBA team for their partnership and to the many distinguished guests and members of the judiciary, whose presence emphasized the importance of MBF's work.
Honoring a Remarkable Legacy
The state’s highest offices also officially recognized MBF’s impact. MBF’s Immediate Past President, Wm. Carl Isler, II, announced the receipt of a governor’s citation from Governor Wes Moore, which congratulated MBF for its unwavering commitment to justice. Gregory Yancy, chief of staff, Governor’s Office of Community Initiatives, presented the citation.
The evening opened with a cocktail reception where current Fellows, distinguished judges, and legal leaders mingled. MBF President E. Regine Francois Williams, Esq., welcomed attendees with a message of profound appreciation for the visionaries who established MBF in 1965. She shared that for six decades, the Maryland Bar Foundation has stood as a beacon of integrity and service, emphasizing that the organization’s work continues to strengthen the honor of the legal profession. Williams noted that the evening’s success was built upon the tireless work of several key groups. She first recognized the dedicated board of directors for their efforts in elevating MBF both behind the scenes and through the execution of the Gala. She then recognized the Gala Planning Committee, whose members brought the anniversary vision to life. Turning to history, President Williams also honored the many past-presidents and former board members in attendance, noting that these leaders laid the essential foundation for the organization’s current success. Finally, she expressed her gratitude to the
Additionally, MBF received a comptroller’s certificate from Brooke Lierman, honoring the MBF’s phenomenal financial support of nonprofits and its contributions to public legal understanding. The Power of Philanthropy: Over $110,000 Raised One of the most remarkable moments of the night came during the fundraising update. MBF raised over $62,000 through sponsorships, donations, and ticket sales. The funds will allow MBF to continue to provide grants to Maryland legal aid organizations. A Partnership for Service and Justice The deep-rooted connection between the two organizations was a central theme of the night. MSBA President Marisa Trasatti took