September 2025 Tulsa Lawyer Magazine

By Ralph Schaefer

A Message from the President Michael P. Taubman

My friend and our new Past President, Stephanie Jackson, kept giving me a countdown to when she would matriculate into her new role to prepare me for this. As a former editor of Tulsa Lawyer, there were ambitions for inspiring prose, a meaningful colloquy on legal topics, but the page remained blank for a long time when I sat down to pen this monthly message. Hubris set in quickly as the Muse was not singing to me, so I reflected on the 20+ years I’ve had the privilege to count myself among the members of our Tulsa County Bar Association.

First, I’m proud to be serving as the president for our TCBA, and the opportunity to give back to our legal community that has given me so many opportunities throughout my career. As my predecessors said to me, time waits for no one, so we’re off on what I expect to be an excellent year. The days between taking the oath and signing the roll of attorneys to now only seem distant, and it’s my esteemed pleasure to follow in the footsteps of those who held this office. No one gets here alone, so thank you to our spouses, families, classmates, judges, partners, mentors, and adversaries who shape and hone our lives to enable our successes and retool when necessary.

Our Annual Meeting on August 21st at the Discovery Lab rooftop of the Tulsa Children’s Museum revealed the winners of awards (see them spotlighted in this month’s issue), and I want to thank our TCBA team

And Just Like That… Your 1st Article is Due!

for making the event a success. We heard an engaging presentation from Janet Johnson, Executive Director of the Oklahoma Bar Association, and I appreciate her leadership and support from the OBA. Our TCBA looks forward to working together with OBA to make this membership year successful. Also, I thank our Presenting Sponsor, Graves McClain, and all our members and firms who agreed to support and attend this Annual Meeting event.

Our TCBA is here to serve you, our members and our community – it’s Our Bar! We provide people opportunities to grow and learn, and we share the resources and tools necessary to better serve the public in the practice of law. Everything our Committees and Sections plan, create and implement is done with serving you, our TCBA community, in mind. Since we are not a compulsory member bar, we appreciate your choice to participate as members through your hours of service, financial commitments, and on-going support of our organization. To shamelessly steal from Woody Guthrie, this Bar was made for you and me!

Our Bar works to provide for your professional development as well as personal needs in your practice. Check out the CLE programs that our new CLE chair, Morgan Smith, and our Membership Director, Heather Heck, have slated for the next several months. Look at the member benefits our Executive Director, Tami Williams, has negotiated with our partner service providers. Need

new clients to grow your practice? Contact Jeril Haug and our Lawyer Referral Service to sign up to bring your skills to bear for people in need. The next ingredient to add to this recipe is you, our members – dive in, water’s fine!

Your focus time is constantly beset with the demands and constraints of daily life, so we want to offer opportunities for our committees and sections to work together – working smarter, not harder. As an association, we share information among our membership, and we serve our community by assisting individuals in need. A goal for this year is an increase in the cross-functionality of our committees and sections. Each of us brings a base of knowledge from our practice experiences, and, collectively, we improve the profession and our practice by working together.

This year began before the the Annual Meeting, with the opportunity to present the gavel to our new Special District Judge and recent Past President, Michael E. Esmond, on August 4th while Stephanie was abroad with her family. It was an honor to stand-in for Stephanie, and it was a privilege to hand the gavel to a fellow classmate and board member of our TCBA. The first step on the journey is saying “yes” to joining the TCBA; come write the next chapters through your participation in our legal community.

The foundations for the concepts of justice and the rule of law in modern legal practice trace back to the Twelve Tables of Roman laws circa 450 BCE. The doors we walk through were framed up by those who came before us, but each of us can take part in shoring up and expanding the frame for those who come next through our service in the TCBA. In the immortal words of Derick “Chubbs” Peterson, “we’ve only just begun…”

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Sincerely,

Michael P. Taubman TCBA President, 2025-2026

2024-2025 President's Awards

Shena Burgess

Shena has been a steadfast source of mentoring, encouragement, and advocacy, not only to me, but within our bar association. She gives her time and wisdom freely to those who seek guidance and actively champions the growth and success of her colleagues. Her dedication to uplifting others and fostering a supportive legal community has made a lasting impact this year.

Kara Vincent

Kara’s commitment to mentoring and supporting others is truly inspiring. She consistently goes above and beyond, offering guidance, encouragement, and advocacy for our Street Law students, and her peers. Her willingness to champion the success of others while fostering a spirit of collaboration reflects the very best of our profession and our association’s values.

Madison Cataudella

Madison stepped into leadership this year with grace and determination, co-chairing both our Tulsa Lawyer Magazine and our TCBF’s Community Outreach committees. Her dedication to service is evident in every project she touches, and she remains ever willing to give back to the community through her tireless work with the TCBA while balancing work and family life. Her commitment, leadership, and support have been invaluable to our success this year

Marvin Lizama

As chair of our diversity efforts, Marvin has been an unwavering advocate for inclusion and representation. He has dedicated his time to speaking on law school panels, coordinating the MLK parade—even braving this year’s bitter cold—and showing up to support other committees, from the Veterans parade to community events. On top of that, he still finds time to contribute insightful diversity articles for the Tulsa Law Magazine. Marvin’s encouragement, presence, and dedication have truly strengthened our association this year and I am forever grateful for his support during my term.

Mary Clement

Mary has done an incredible amount of work this year behind the scenes, chairing our Solo/Small Firm section and thinking outside the box to host monthly “Coffee & Coworking” days at Foolish Things Coffee Shop. She even created a Friday “meet and relax” gathering for solos at her office building. On top of all that, she has generously provided me with support, time, and guidance throughout my term—all while managing her own busy work docket and fulfilling numerous OBA duties and roles. Mary’s creativity, dedication, and willingness to go the extra mile have been invaluable to our association this year.

Thank You!

Stephanie Jackson

TCBA President, 2024-2025

Mbilike Mwafulirwa and Mark Smith

Mbilike and Mark have been an exceptional leadership team for our Litigation Section, delivering stellar programming and bringing my vision for a judgeled series to life. Among the highlights of their efforts was our powerful judgeled CLE series, A View From Within, which featured compelling sessions with Chief Judge John Heil, III of the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Oklahoma and Presiding Judge Dawn Moody of the Tulsa County District Court. These sessions went far beyond traditional CLEs—they provided our members with rare and meaningful opportunities for open dialogue, judicial insight, and professional connection that deepened our understanding and strengthened our legal community. Their collaboration, vision, and dedication have elevated our section and inspired our members.

Golden Rule Award

4th

Quarter - Randall A. Gill

It is with great pride that we announce Randall Gill as the recipient of the Golden Rule Award. Randall's unwavering dedication to our profession and his community exemplifies the highest ideals of integrity, mentorship, and public service.

In addition to managing his own successful small law firm, Randall serves as an adjunct law professor, consistently going above and beyond to mentor young lawyers and colleagues at every stage of their careers. His generosity with his time, guidance, and expertise—whether through reviewing pleadings, assisting with complex client fact patterns, or sharing exemplar forms—demonstrates his commitment to fostering a collaborative and ethical legal community.

Randall's professional excellence is recognized through his “A-V” peer rating by Martindale-Hubell, signifying the highest levels of legal ability and ethical standards. He

President's Awards Continued...

Madison Cataudella & Ashley Webb

Throughout their involvement with the TCBA and TCBF, Madison Cataudella & Ashley Webb have given generously of their time as Committee Chairs and volunteers. The Outreach programs they are involved present a great public image for the Tulsa County Bar Association & Foundation, but most importantly the programs generate support and funds for deserving organizations in our community. I would like to personally thank them for sharing their time and talent and encourage others to follow the great example set by Madison and Ashley.

practices in Tulsa and Northeast Oklahoma, focusing on litigation, transactional matters, and appellate work, and is actively engaged in the Tulsa County Bar Association.

He is also a pioneer in legal education and community service, founding the innovative “Docket Day” program at The University of Tulsa College of Law, and establishing a partnership to bring real courtroom experiences to firstyear law students. Furthermore, Randall founded a program at the university that allows students to observe key court proceedings, enriching their practical understanding and professional development

As a mediator and Special Master trained at Pepperdine University, Randall conducts mediations both virtually and in-person, further exemplifying his dedication to dispute resolution.Randall

Gill embodies the essence of the Golden Rule— treating others with respect, kindness, and fairness—and is truly deserving of this prestigious honor. Please join us in congratulating Randall on this well-earned recognition.

Golden Rule Award Criteria

The Golden Rule award is given to lawyers who make outstanding contributions to their professions, have the highest of ideals, and are willng to mentor to those with less experience.

1. Recognizes the ethical and professional obligations as an officer of the court, as well as the spirit and intent of the Rules of Professional Conduct.

2. Practices ethically and honestly and is true to his/her word.

3. Strives for the traditional goals of moral excellence.

4 Exhibits the highest standards of fairness and integrity.

5. Sets a model example for conduct with members of the Bar and the Judiciary, not only by words but more importantly deeds.

6. Is civil, courteous and respectful towards the court and his/her opponents.

7 Is loyal to his/her client without trickery and deception and without using abusive practices or misleading the court or opposing counsel.

8 Avoids the temptation to make his/her client’s case into a personal vendetta.

9 Conducts himself/herself in a manner that improves the image of the legal profession in the eyes of the public.

2024-2025 TCBA Awards

Outstanding Young Lawyer

This award recognizes attorneys who have been practicing for less than ten years and have made outstanding contributions to the profession and the community.

Trevion Freeman & JP Ray

We are incredibly honored to award Trevion and JP the Young Lawyer of the Year Award. While both have made significant individual contributions to the legal profession and our community, their combined efforts and shared commitment to educating young people about their legal rights, fostering life skills, and promoting careers in law make them truly exceptional candidates. Their collaborative spirit has significantly bolstered the Tulsa County Bar Association's (TCBA) Street Law program, leaving a lasting impact on countless young lives.

Trevion's dedication to the Street Law program has been nothing short of inspiring. A 2022 graduate of the University of Tulsa, where he excelled as Articles Editor and Student Bar Association President, Trevion immediately joined the Street Law Committee upon becoming a TCBA member in 2023. As an Assistant District Attorney, he brings invaluable real-world experience to the classroom. He attended almost all lessons at KIPP and Central High School, tirelessly offering thoughtful guidance to students on a wide range of questions, both legal and personal. His commitment to empowering young people with knowledge and practical advice is evident in every interaction.

JP, in his relatively short time practicing, has also made a conscious and profound effort to contribute to both the legal profession and the broader community. His commitment to diversity and inclusion is particularly noteworthy; he serves as a mentor to law students, was a guest speaker for a Political Science class at Tulsa

Community College, and represented his firm at TU Law’s inaugural Diversity Day. JP's desire to improve the TCBA extends to his involvement with the Litigation Section and, significantly, the Fundraising Committee for Legal Aid, demonstrating his tireless mission to help those less fortunate. Beyond the legal realm, his deep involvement with The First Tee of Tulsa—a program he grew up with—showcases his dedication to youth development and community betterment, even earning him features in Forbes Magazine and during the 2022 PGA Championship.

Together, Trevion and JP are a formidable team, especially within the Street Law program. Trevion's consistent presence and direct engagement with students at schools like KIPP and Central High provide a stable and knowledgeable foundation for the program. His ability to distill complex legal concepts into understandable guidance, combined with his empathetic approach, directly addresses students' inquiries and builds trust. JP's broader community engagement, his commitment to diversity, and his experience in mentorship complement Trevion's efforts by reinforcing the importance of legal education and making the legal profession more approachable and inclusive for young people. His active participation in speaking to younger groups, which he "always accepts," further extends the reach and impact of the messages championed by the Street Law program.

Their combined presence ensures that the TCBA's Street Law efforts are not only consistent and wellexecuted but also infused with diverse perspectives and a deep commitment to community upliftment. Trevion and JP embody the ideal qualities of young lawyers dedicated to public service and the betterment of our society. For their exceptional individual achievements and their powerful, synergistic impact on educating and inspiring the next generation through the Street Law program, we wholeheartedly thank Trevion and JP for their contributions to the law and to the community.

Roger R. Scott Award for Community Service

This award honors a member who has demonstrated a long-standing commitment to community service.

Graves McLain Injury Lawyers

Graves McLain Injury Lawyers is this year's Roger R. Scott Community Service award recipient for its sustained and meaningful contributions to the Tulsa community.

Community involvement is at the heart of the Graves McLain mission. The firm’s attorneys and staff have consistently demonstrated an unwavering dedication to improving the lives of those in need. Through volunteer efforts with organizations such as Lawyers Against Hunger and Tulsa Lawyers for Children, the team works directly to support vulnerable populations, ensuring access to necessities and legal protection for at-risk youth.

In 2016, the firm launched its Backpack Drive, an initiative that has become a hallmark of its community service efforts. Designed to support children in underprivileged areas of the Tulsa Public School system, this program has grown significantly year after year, providing essential school supplies and a positive start to the academic year for hundreds of students. The drive is not only financially

supported by the firm but also powered by the hands-on involvement of its attorneys and staff, who donate their time and effort to packing and distributing backpacks.

The firm's leadership further reflects a strong commitment to public service. Both Dan Graves and Rachel Gusman have served as prosecutors for the Oklahoma Medical Board, exemplifying the firm’s engagement in protecting the welfare of Oklahomans beyond the courtroom.

In addition to hands-on service, Graves McLain consistently sponsors nonprofit events and local charitable initiatives, offering not just resources but a visible and heartfelt presence in the community. This impact has not gone unnoticed — the firm was recently named 2025 TulsaKids Magazine Family Favorite in the category of Favorite Law Firm. This honor, driven by the voices of the Tulsa community, is a testament to the trust, appreciation, and respect the firm has earned.

For their consistent dedication to service, their creative and lasting outreach programs, and their positive impact on the legal and broader Tulsa community, Graves McLain Injury Lawyers is a most deserving recipient of the Roger R. Scott Community Service Award.

Outstanding Senior Lawyer

Recognizes those who exemplify the ideals and standards that all attorneys should strive to achieve with their outstanding reputation as lawyers and for dedicated service to the profession and community.

Truman B. Rucker, Jr.

We are proud to announce the recipient of the Outstanding Senior Attorney Award: Truman B. Rucker, Jr.. With over 40 years of legal practice, Truman has exemplified professionalism, integrity, and a positive attitude throughout his distinguished career. Whether trying cases with or against him, or observing how he interacts with other counsel, Truman consistently demonstrates respect, kindness, and a genuine concern for others.

Known for his unwavering professionalism and gracious demeanor, Truman has never personalized negativity and always maintains a respectful approach

towards colleagues and the bar. His willingness to assist and support fellow professionals exemplifies the true spirit of a gentleman and a leader in our legal community.

Truman's dedication and exemplary character make him highly deserving of this award. His representation of this honor will undoubtedly reflect the highest standards of our local bar.

Please join us in celebrating Truman’s outstanding contributions and character.

Norma J. Wheaton Trailblazer Award

This award honors an individual whose advocacy and leadership embody Norma Wheaton’s values. The recipient demonstrates a commitment to advancing women’s rights, social justice, and equitable legal treatment, reflecting Wheaton’s historic efforts. Their legal excellence, integrity, and trailblazing approach inspire progress and positively impact the communities they serve. Their community service activities support and mentor women and minorities, continuing Wheaton’s legacy of empowerment and advocacy.

Stephanie Jackson

Stephanie Jackson exemplifies the essence of this award through her exceptional advocacy, trailblazing leadership, and unwavering commitment to women’s rights, social justice, and equitable access to legal protections. As the first Black female president of the Tulsa County Bar Association—elected in October 2024—she has shattered barriers, amplified underrepresented voices, and modeled a vision of inclusion and integrity in the legal profession. Stephanie owes her success to a career defined by integrity, educational empowerment, and community-centered legal excellence.

Prior to launching her practice in 2018, she served Tulsa as a police sergeant—earning national recognition for her leadership and service, including mandatory commendations for Officer of the Month from the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund. Her trailblazing extends beyond the courtroom and her practice. Through mentorship initiatives like the Jobs For Life program at Christian Chapel, board service with local non-profits, and active engagement with the Tulsa County Bar and University of Tulsa law alumni boards, she consistently uplifts women and minorities and nurtures the next generation of legal leaders.

Stephanie Jackson carries forward Norma Wheaton’s legacy: championing legal equity, embodying integrity and innovation in her profession, and empowering her community through service and leadership.

BOOK CLUB!

2025 Law Day Book Club will conclude in November with participant’s choice of reading one of H.W. Brands’ American history books. Brands is the 2024 Peggy V. Helmerich Distinguished Author Award recipient who is scheduled to be in Tulsa for a book signing on December 5. His Pulitzer Prize Finalist is about Benjamin Franklin’s life and times. Learning why Franklin Delano Roosevelt was a traitor to his class would be fascinating reading as well.

Contact heatherh@tulsabar.com or visit www.tulsabar.com

Note: Book Club generally meets at 5:30 p.m. on the fourth Tuesdays at the Bar Center, except August and December.

• September 23 - Anxious People, Fredrik Backman

• October 28 - When Will There Be Good News, Kate Atkinson

• November 25 - Book by H.W. Brands, American historian

Neil E. Bogan

Distinguished Service Award

Honors those who personify professionalism, not just in how they deal with their colleagues, but in how they treat their clients. Demonstrates the highest level of excellence and professionalism as an attorney while never forgetting to see things from their client's perspective.

Stan Monroe

Stan Monroe is truly deserving of the Neil E. Bogan Award for Professionalism.

"Over the years, many have had the privilege of observing Mr. Monroe's exemplary conduct in the practice of law, beginning during my time as a law student when we interned at the public defender's office", Shena Burgess noted.

"Throughout those early days, Mr. Monroe consistently demonstrated unwavering professionalism on the courthouse dockets—handling clients, prosecutors, and judges with an even temper and genuine respect. His interactions conveyed that everyone he engaged with was the only person in the room, ensuring all voices were heard and respected.

"Decades later, Shena had the opportunity to work alongside Stan in a civil litigation case involving a car

wreck—a situation outside his primary criminal defense practice. Despite the different practice area, Stan showed himself to be the epitome of professionalism and gentlemanly conduct. On the day of trial, his reputation and professionalism were so prominent that the judge, upon seeing his name on the docket, quickly agreed to take our case, which was tried efficiently over two days. Stan’s zealousness in trial is balanced by finesse, and his approach embodies the qualities this award celebrates.

Further, Ann Keele highlights that Stan's career spans 47 years during which he has exemplified integrity, humility, and kindness. He has consistently taken the high road in advocacy, mentoring numerous lawyers along the way—always willing to offer help or guidance. His respectful demeanor, regardless of whether others are new or seasoned, sets him apart. Judges hold him in high regard, trusting his competence, honor, and integrity

In sum, Stan Monroe’s unwavering professionalism, combined with his mentorship, humility, and respect for others, make him a model advocate and a perfect recipient of the Neil E. Bogan Award for Professionalism.

Gary C. Clark Distinguished Service Award

This award is given to those who have provided extraordinary service to the Bar and made distinguished contributions to the legal profession. It recognizes those few individuals who, over many years, have donated their time and talents to the TCBA above and beyond what others do.

Julie Evans

Julie has long demonstrated her commitment to serving our TCBA community through her efforts as a Library Trustee. The Tulsa County Law Library has continued improving its appearance and technology in recent years. Julie has worked hard to engage with county personnel and the TCBA to improve the offerings and services available to attorneys and the public. I have not seen a facility as excellent as those in other courthouses surrounding Tulsa County.

Julie has been a member of the TCBA since 1998. During that time, she served the association in various capacities. She has served the Probate, Estate & Elder Law Section as Treasurer, Secretary, and Co-Chair. She has served as an OBA Delegate for Tulsa County since 2015 and as TCBA Law Library Trustee since 2016. Julie hasn’t just served the TCBA; she has been the President of the University of Tulsa College of Law Alumni Association and the OBA Estate Planning, Probate and Trust Section Chair.

James C. Lang Mentoring Award

This award recognizes those who encourage, guide, and support aspiring attorneys.

Michael F. Smith

With over thirty years of experience as a trial and appellate lawyer, Michael has built an impressive reputation in complex civil litigation, including products liability, consumer protection class actions, multi-district litigation, malpractice, and insurance bad faith. His breadth of expertise is evident in his representation of clients in state and federal courts across the United States, as well as his recognition for his mastery of appellate practice and procedure in the Oklahoma Supreme Court and the United States Court of Appeals for the Tenth Circuit. Michael’s primary briefing responsibilities on a broad range of cases have often involved issues of first impression, establishing new legal precedents that influence the law nationally.

Michael’s credentials include admission to practice in state courts in Oklahoma, Illinois, and New York, as well as numerous federal courts, including the U.S. Supreme Court. His successful appellate work, including cases before the U.S. Supreme Court, highlights his legal acumen and dedication to justice.

Beyond his legal achievements, what truly makes Michael exceptional is his unwavering commitment to

mentoring others. Whether he works with law students, colleagues, or clients, he consistently answers the call to help. His intelligence, kindness, and quick wit foster an environment of trust and growth. He has always been generous with his time, willingly mentoring young attorneys and students, guiding them through complex legal issues with patience and insight.

Michael’s leadership roles, including chairing the Oklahoma Bar Association’s Appellate Practice Committee and active participation in the Council Oak/JohnsonSontag American Inns of Court, demonstrate his dedication to fostering a strong legal community. His inclusion in Benchmark Litigation, The Best Lawyers in America, and Oklahoma Super Lawyers further reflects his standing as a legal leader.

He is a graduate of Oklahoma State University and the University of Tulsa College of Law, where he received the Robert C. Butler, Jr., Award for Excellence in Legal Scholarship and Writing—a testament to his scholarly rigor and dedication to the craft of law.

More than his impressive resume, it is Michael’s heart of gold, approachability, and genuine interest in mentoring others that make him a deserving recipient of this award. His mentorship has left a lasting impact on many in the legal community, inspiring professionalism, integrity, and growth.

Michael Smith’s ongoing commitment to fostering new talent exemplifies the true spirit of mentorship.

Hood Corbitt Family Law Award

In recognition of the ability to demonstrate the highest level of legal ability, ethics and professionalism in the area of family law while also providing exemplary services to the Family Bench and Bar

Keith A. Jones

Keith A. Jones has recently been admitted as a Certified Fellow to the American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers, which alone attests to his abilities in the field, and has been a leading member of the Oklahoma Family Law Bar his entire career. William “Bill” Hood and Sharon Corbitt, the namesakes of this award, would agree that Keith is more than deserving of this recognition by our local Tulsa County Bar Association.

Keith consistently demonstrates proactive support by inquiring about the needs of our judges and clerks, ensuring they have the necessary resources. Annually, he takes the lead in providing all local family judges with the most current versions of the Oklahoma Family Law Statutes and Handbook. He readily shares his expertise with the local bar and frequently conducts Continuing Legal Education sessions. Keith is a highly valuable member of our local family law community and truly deserving of this recognition.

Voices of the Tulsa County Bar Association

Gary C. Clark

Law was the farthest thing from Gary C. Clark’s mind until he started kicking men out of the U.S. Army.

Prior to that, he was an agriculture education teacher in rural Laverne, Oklahoma, when he was drafted into the U.S. Army.

It was during the Vietnam era, but he was sent to Germany. As a Sergeant (E5), he and a group of four soldiers were tasked with “administrative eliminations” of personnel who had run afoul of Army rules or orders that deemed them unfit for military duty.

“I had to interpret the regulations that would determine if the soldier would receive either a general or undesirable discharge,” he said.

Those experiences awakened an inner call that law might be an interesting career. It was.

Over the next 50 years, Gary C. Clark would become a partner or shareholder in several law firms, serve in various legal capacities at Oklahoma State University, in addition to serving as president of the Tulsa County Bar Association

By Ralph Schaefer

and Foundation, and as president of the Oklahoma Bar Association.

It might not have seemed likely for a person with a teaching degree in agriculture education.

There were no lawyers in the family, and it wasn’t a longterm personal dream.

While serving in Germany, Gary went to the the base library, where he found a well-worn volume of “Barron’s Guide To Law Schools” that was “fairly well out-of-date” and listed national law schools according to reputation and cost.

It happened that the University of Texas (UT) was listed as a top school with reasonable rates ($250 per semester).

Actually, UT tuition in 1972 was $1,350 per semester, he continued. It was higher for out-of-state students; however, a person was considered a Texas resident if they held a state driver’s license and were registered to vote.

That was easily solved, and Gary qualified as a Texas resident for the last two years of his legal academic career, which ended in 1975. Gary graduated in the top 10 percent of his class and wanted to return to his home state to begin his practice.

He considered medium-sized communities, including Enid, Lawton, or Weatherford, but quickly realized that practices in these cities would not allow him to concentrate on estate planning, his chosen field.

Tulsa was particularly attractive because it was close to Morris, his native home just 50 miles away.

“I always had a favorable impression of Tulsa, and I was at the end of my second year of law school when firms started interviewing for future attorneys,” Gary said. “I don’t recall any Tulsa firms coming to the University of Texas at that time. So, I wrote to probably four or five of the larger Tulsa firms to see if I could interest them in my services.

“I Interviewed in Tulsa around Thanksgiving, and was so excited when I got an offer to clerk with Conner, Winters, Ballaine, Barry and McGowen.”

That provided an opportunity to work under the tutelage

of Chuck Killen, Henry Will, and other firm attorneys who stressed top-quality work.

“I remember working with Barry Galt, one of the top business transaction lawyers in Tulsa,” Gary said. “I was doing a project for him and when I got it back, it had more red ink than my black ink.”

It was a lesson the young attorney never forgot.

He learned that while he had good grades in law school, there was another level of practicing law that is a notch or two above being just satisfied with a project.

Conner Winters lawyers required an excellent product, and Gary really needed to apply himself to elevate his work to the next level.

“Those experiences really shook my confidence,” he said. “But it made me realize that I needed to take greater care about what I wrote, how to proofread my work, and I needed to work harder to get better”.

Six years after joining Conner and Winters, Gary and four firm members decided to embark on their own.

The four included Gary Baker, Craig Hoster, Gary McSpadden, and Dana Rasure.

“We practiced together for 16 years, from 1981 to 1997,” Gary said. “It was an amazing experience. The founders were approximately the same age, and everyone was an outstanding attorney, highly ethical; we also had a terrific staff. Everyone contributed, and no one was any better than the other.

“If copies or other tasks needed to be done, everyone pitched in.”

Firm meetings included everyone’s opinions, and all were treated equally. Ultimately, decisions were made based on a consensus. Eventually, Dana Rasure was named a bankruptcy judge, Dee Sokolosky joined the Bank of Owasso, and most of the remaining members joined the Crowe and Dunlevy Firm.

In 2004, Gary was recruited to become Vice President and General Counsel of the Oklahoma State University Foundation.

“I met many supporters of OSU and professors and felt it was a privilege to work at the foundation and help make OSU a better university,” he said.

The change continued when he was contacted about becoming something of a chief of staff and legal counsel to Burns Hargis.

Initially, Gary wasn’t keen on the position because the person who had held the position was a chauffeur, briefcase

carrier, and notetaker to the previous president.

“I knew I wouldn’t enjoy that type of role,” he said. “Still, I talked to Hargis and within 10 minutes was excited to join his staff.

Gary and Hargis started their new jobs on March 10, 2008, and worked together until both retired on July 2, 2021.

Hargis, known as witty and since then , was also dedicated to leading the university.

“Hargis was a very intelligent, strategic, and ethical person, and it was a privilege to work with him,” Gary said.

Fundraising was one of the OSU president’s many talents, and he raised about $168 million in private donations for chairs and professorships.

The state matched those funds for a total of $336 million.

That fundraising effort was a tremendous boon for the OSU faculty, he added.

Gary retired in 2021 and has worked as of counsel at Crowe and Dunlevy.

Looking back over his career, he encourages attorneys, especially young lawyers, to get involved in the TCBA and OBA.

Gary feels that while being a lawyer involves helping people, it also means giving back to the legal profession.

He joined the TCBA early in his career and helped organize young lawyer sports leagues — “so I could play sports.”

His peers noticed that work, and he was elected to the board of directors.

The first TCBA board meeting raised concerns.

He was sitting on the board with former UT classmate Bill Kellough when he got his first look at the organization’s finances.

“I saw they lost $100,000 the previous year and wondered what I had gotten into,” he said.

He was advised that there was an explanation; he learned that the building at 1446 South Boston Ave. had been purchased and would be the new TCBA home.

Previously, the TCBA offices had regularly moved to various locations, wherever there was free rent.

The building was purchased by attorney Ron Main, who gambled that the TCBA would buy it from him.

The Tulsa County Bar Foundation bought the building, then leased it back to the TCBA, he said.

Bill Jacobus, then the president, immediately stated that they were going to renovate the old building, which had previously been a furniture store, among other tenants.

“I thought, oh my gosh, this guy has lost his mind,” Gary said.

The legal economy was not thriving in the early 1980s, but Jacobus sold the renovation idea to Sid Dunagan, then the president-elect.

Dunagan, with the GableGotwals Law Firm, approached other firms and secured commitments of $50,000 each for the renovations.

The fundraising drive was a success.

That included upgrading the DOS-based computers to the new Windows program that had just come out.

Gary worked late nights at the TCBA, replacing computer motherboards and installing software one unit at a time.

Police noticed the building lights were on one night and contacted Sandra Cousins, executive director.

It was a little after midnight when Cousins called and was

relieved when Gary answered.

TCBA involvement should fit the individual’s circumstances, Gary said.

One might become involved in the Professional Responsibility Committee that hears complaints against lawyers. It might be serving with fellow attorneys outside their regular practice areas.

Serving the local and state bar associations introduces one to attorneys across the state who were very talented, even though they might not practice against each other.

Gary is a staunch supporter of mandatory Continuing Legal Education (CLE) programs, which help attorneys upgrade their skills and stay abreast of changes in the law.

“My legal career has been extremely satisfying,” Gary said. “I have been able to help people accomplish their goals, in particular with estate planning and getting their affairs in order. “I have been very fortunate to be a part of outstanding law firms and work with people I admire and respect very highly.”

TCBA Diversity Committee Matt Ingham, Chair

Colleagues, as you are aware, the Tulsa Legal Community is comprised of professionals who come from a very diverse range of backgrounds – some of us are from affluent families, while some of us are from working class families; some of us grew up as urbanites, some as suburbanites, while still others of us grew up in small towns and rural communities.

As you are probably further aware, in the recent past, the Tulsa Legal Community has made strides forward to encourage inclusion of individuals who come from a diverse range of cultural backgrounds.

On a national scale, the legal profession (in every state) was once comprised almost entirely of individuals who only fit my demographic. The legal profession (also in every state) once excluded Black Americans from participation and further only allowed women to participate in positions where they were paid a mere fraction of the amount their male colleagues were paid.

Locally, the Tulsa Legal Community has made strides forward in the recent past regarding inclusion. Thanks to your encouragement and your participation, it continues to make strides forward.

As we are all VERY aware, in the ‘2025 version of America’ there is a constant, daily barrage of hate-filled, angry rhetoric that inundates our lives. Every single day, every single time we log into our cell phones or turn on our televisions, we receive a barrage of angry, hate-filled rhetoric from social media and purported news outlets.

I encourage each member of the Tulsa Legal Community to not let the daily barrage of hate-filled rhetoric deter us from our mission – maintaining and strengthening a Tulsa Legal Community that encourages civility towards each other and also encourages the inclusion of individuals who come from diverse backgrounds.

Voices of the Tulsa County Bar Association Justice Dana Kuehn

By Ralph Schaefer

Dana Kuehn is following her dreams – and they keep growing.

Now, the Oklahoma State Supreme Court Vice Chief Justice will become the Chief Justice in 2027 if elected by her court peers.

While that role may be in the future, Dana is the only woman to have been named to the Oklahoma Court of Appeals and then to the state’s high court.

Living her dream of becoming a lawyer and helping others has been a lifelong focus.

Dana recalled that since she was young, she wanted to help people.

“My mother found a letter I had written stating I wanted a job to help people,” she said. “I’m talking about when I was in the sixth grade. We were coming home from the Boston Avenue Church, and I saw stray dogs.”

“I am a big animal lover and told mom that I was going to write to the mayor and he needs to help these dogs – or I’m going to be the mayor.”

That driving force, as a sixth-grade student at Jenks, motivated her to explore and find a profession that helps people.

Dana attended Oklahoma State University and then the University of Tulsa College of Law.

While attending TU, she interned at GableGotwals Law Firm, initially answering telephones and later working in the billing department. That exposure introduced her to transactional work and contract handling, something she enjoyed and thought she might pursue in the future.

The focus changed when she joined TU’s Mock Trial team.

“I became obsessed with trial work,” she said.

Dana joined the Tulsa County District Attorney’s office in 1996, following graduation, a role she held for almost ten years.

She served as an intern under David L. Moss and, following his death, remained with the office when District Attorney Bill LaFortune hired her.

Chuck Richardson and Tim Harris followed as district attorneys.

“I worked with Steve Kunzweiler, who was an assistant district attorney at that time,” she said.

The courtroom was “exactly the place” Dana wanted to be, and she quickly found that “you mature fast” in that role.

Dana, with an internship law license, had the opportunity to try a rape case under then Assistant District Attorney John Priddy’s supervision.

Priddy allowed Dana to pick the jury and conduct direct examinations, even though she was a third-year law student.

“It was a great learning experience,” she said. “He (Priddy) was one of my mentors in the district attorney’s office, and we are friends today.”

Dana left the district attorney’s office in 1999 to be a stay-athome mom with her son, Carter.

When she was ready to return to work, she joined Steidley & Neal Law Firm and practiced insurance defense law. At that time, the firm was based in McAlester.

Following the birth of Christopher, her second son, Dana decided to return to full-time work and the district attorney’s office.Tim Harris had offered her the position of Director of Crimes Against Children.

“Child abuse prosecution is very difficult because having a child on a witness stand is strenuous”, she said. Being a mother, it was a double-edged sword and possible to

understand and communicate with the children.

Cases often brought out personal emotions.

“You can’t cry at work right in front of people,” Dana said. “That was the hard part of the job. Sometimes I would be helping victims the same age as my two sons. Later, I would go to my office and cry.”

Dana was working with the Child Abuse Network (CAN) when she was asked to leave the Juvenile Bureau and return to the District Attorney’s office.

It was at that time that she decided to move on to the next season of her life and seek the position of Tulsa County Associate District Judge.

That marked the beginning of a political career and a campaign she ultimately won.

“My sons, Carter, Christopher, Nicholas, and stepson Zachary, were tired of wearing the Dana Kuehn for Associate District Judge in parades at the end of the nine-month campaign,” she said.

Stepping into the judicial role and being assigned to the criminal docket was a natural fit, given her experience as a prosecutor.

“I started to learn how to be on the bench,” she said. It provided the opportunity to see the hard-working defense attorneys who worried about their clients.

As a judge, Dana found she had high courtroom expectations. She compared her judicial role to that of a baseball umpire calling balls and strikes.

“Everyone hates the umpire even if they are doing their job right,” Dana laughed.

That analogy between a little league umpire and a judge is similar. The difference is that a judge decides whether someone goes to prison, whether someone can be a guardian, determines if someone can adopt, or signs papers that end marriages.

“I took my job seriously and always did my homework,” Dana continued.

The late District Judge Carlos Chappelle was one of Dana’s many career mentors.

“He was a great friend and taught me a lot, lessons I still use,” she said. “If I was all fired up about something that happened in the courtroom, I could go to his chambers and talk to him.”

Picture this, if you can.

“Judge Chappelle would lean back in his chair with his beautiful smile, put his thumbs under his suspenders, and just smile at me. Then he would say, ‘Dana, you just need to be still and listen.’ ”

Listening became part of the job. She heard requests for help. One such request involved helping women in prison who needed a second chance through Tulsa's Women in Recovery program.

“I remember meeting with attorney Joel Wohlgemuth and Mimi Tarrasch, chief program officer, as the concept was being introduced to Tulsa,” she said. Similar programs were on the East Coast, and they wanted one here.

“I was asked if I would be willing to help them with what needed to be done in the courts.”

Women in Recovery gave them a second chance.

Many have gone through the program and are successful, she said. Some of them were not, of course, but it was great to be able to be part of someone’s second chance.

The step to the Oklahoma Court of Criminal Appeals came when long-time friend Judge Clancy Smith retired.

“I talked to Patrick, my husband, and family, then prayed about whether or not I should try for the position,” Dana said.

She was considered by the Judicial Nominating Committee (JNC), and her name was one of three sent to Governor Mary Fallin, who made the appointment.

Dana began her service on October 2, 2017, and was “grading papers” from cases instead of writing them.

“I’m not the one calling strikes and balls anymore,” she said. “Now I am reading the records, reviewing briefs and attorney arguments, coming up with a legal conclusion that is reviewed by four others. It’s not just me making the decision. I have my own voice, but appellate judges debate the law and the case to ensure the outcome is just.”

“Not everyone agrees, but it’s good if everyone can work together and make the right decision.”

The Oklahoma Supreme Court appointment came when Justice Tom Colbert retired, and her name was presented again, by the JNC, this time to Governor Kevin Stitt.

Governor Stitt named her to the bench on July 26, 2021.

Dana wiped away a tear as she recalled learning she had been named to the high court.

She was having lunch on July 26 with her dad, Bill Peacher, her biggest supporter, who kept saying, “Are you sure?” when his daughter told him what she was doing. His encouragement changed to “I believe in you.”

“I was on a call when the phone buzzed alerting me that another was coming in,” Dana said. “I played back the message, and it was from the governor’s office. I immediately called back. I was on speaker phone. The governor called to tell me he wanted me to serve on the Supreme Court. Dad was doing

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the silent cheering, and when I hung up, he started crying, telling me how proud he was. It was a great moment, and I am so glad he was there.”

Her father died of cancer in 2023.

Work on the Oklahoma Supreme Court is exciting because nine justices are faced with constitutional cases that affect the entire state.

“Now I have eight colleagues instead of four,” she said. “We still have the ability to help people locally, but it is a different array of legal problems.”

Additionally, the court is responsible for regulating lawyer discipline and addressing issues encountered by courts throughout the state.

Courts in rural areas have different needs than their metropolitan counterparts, she said.

When she became Vice Chief Justice, she relinquished her role as adjunct professor at the TU College of Law, stating that it would not be possible to balance both roles.

Reflecting on that possible role, she looks at chief justice predecessors Dustin P. Rowe, John Kane, and Richard Darby.

“All had different leadership styles, and I admired them,” Dana said. “Hopefully, I am qualified with my experience. I understand the importance of the role.”

“It is important that, as the chief justice, one remains humble,” she continued. “It will be a whole different ball game.”

Dana reflected on Judge Chappelle’s instruction “to listen,” noting the importance of hearing opinions coming from state trial judges and understanding their different issues.

U.S. Supreme Court Justice Anton Scalia had a great observation when he said that if people want a justice to put their personal feelings and beliefs into their interpretations, then the public should know it; she continued. Justice Scalia went on to say it was important for a judge to read the law and look at the Constitutional language as written.

Any questions about their judicial philosophy, legal background, and past legal decisions should be known at that time.

“Personal beliefs should never mix in decisions, but that doesn’t mean you don’t want good, moral people serving in those roles,” Dana continued.

Despite current efforts to politicize the courts, Dana feels the judicial branch should remain independent, free from pressures or threats, to maintain our system of government.

Reflecting on Judge Chappelle’s counsel many years ago, Dana said she would tell young lawyers coming into the profession, and all lawyers, “to listen” before they react,

“Lawyers are under pressure to do things quickly, better, and faster,” she said. “Sometimes that causes them ethical behavior problems.”“You can’t go back on someone thinking you aren’t ethical. Your reputation always sticks with you.”

The social, print, and electronic media have changed people’s outlook on the legal profession.

Faster communication techniques have resulted in lawyers not meeting face-to-face with people, and that can be a disadvantage when someone is not looking someone in the eye about issues.

The Supreme Court held programs on Civility and Justice, and they were well attended, she said.

“Education has always been part of my life,” she continued. Lynn, her mother, taught fourth-grade students at Jenks and was elected Teacher of the Year in 1999.

Currently, Dana is enrolled in an OSU master’s degree program on hidden student populations.

Next is an application for a PhD program in higher administration.

“I love working with and helping students”, she said. “I believe my next calling will be to continue to give back to the people what I have so graciously been honored to do. I am hoping my next role will be leading a higher education institution. Education is part of my DNA.”

Looking back over her legal career, Dana said, “Change is part of my path because I believe there’s a reason for everything, even when you fall or make a mistake.”

“I have been honored to serve our state and community throughout my career. I started a long time ago to have a job that would serve others, and I think I have been able to do that.”

Voices of TCBA

This innovative project, by the TCBA Law Week Committee, aims to preserve and share the rich stories of our members and the history of the Association. Members interviewed are encouraged to contribute their unique experiences and insights, reflecting on their journeys within the legal profession and their connection to the TCBA. Through this initiative, we strive to highlight the diverse voices and histories that shape our community.

Leading the project and interviewing members is Ralph Schaefer, retired senior editor of the Tulsa Business and Legal News. He has interviewed U.S. Supreme Court Justices and did a series on the Oklahoma Supreme Court Justices. The Tulsa County Bar Foundation and Oklahoma Bar Association honored him with the Liberty Bell Award, the highest recognition for a non-lawyer.

Your voice matters, and we look forward to celebrating the legacy of the Tulsa County Bar Association. Let’s bring our stories to life!

VP's Corner Shena Burgess

Getting Involved

Welcome to the new year for the Tulsa County Bar Association. I will

be serving as your Vice President for the coming year. I am excited to be working with the Executive Committee and the Board of Directors to make this the best year yet. With the new year, I would like to invite each and every one of you to come to at least one new activity this year at the Bar.

To start my year, I recently went to volunteer with the Court Assistance Program which provides pro bono attorneys on the eviction docket. It was rewarding to get my first client the ability to stay in her home and extra time to get caught up on her rent. Three hours of giving voice to individuals who are on the verge of homelessness was not only a gift to the clients but to the attorneys from our firm, being able to work together to help others. This is a great opportunity for firms to give back to the community. To volunteer reach out to Shani Stoner and Eric Yoder of the Pro Bono committee or Jeril Haug at the Bar Center.

For our new lawyers/members who have received the exciting news that you have passed the bar, Welcome. We are excited to have you here. As new members of the Tulsa County Bar Association, you will get the opportunity to meet your brethren at a variety of Continuing Legal Education (CLE) courses. I would encourage you to join a committee that intrigues you and join a section that matches your area of practice (or one that just has always interested you). Another way to get involved is to look at the YLD Leadership Academy which focuses on leadership, nonprofit skills, networking and receiving CLE. Our Young Lawyers Division is very active and always has the greatest events from trivia to pickleball tournaments.

I look forward to seeing old and new friends over the next year, if there is anything I can do to assist you please reach out.

Shena Burgess TCBA Vice President, 2025-2026

Courier Service? Yes, They Have That!

Want to avoid the stress associated with visiting the Tulsa County Courthouse? If so, then you should know about the Tulsa County Law Library’s courier service! The Law Library offers an email-based courier service whereby licensed attorneys may submit their requests for the filing and/or delivery of documents at the Tulsa County Courthouse. Please note, though, that the Law Library is unable to file any documents requiring payment of a filing or issuing fee, nor can we file and deliver documents relating to Juvenile Justice proceedings.

The Tulsa County Law Library’s courier service offers two basic functions (i.e. filing and delivery of documents) that you may request via our “E-File Invoice” form. This form is located on our page located at www.tulsacounty.org, or you may email the Law Library directly at lawlibrary@tulsacounty.org to obtain a copy.

For filing related requests, the Law Library generally charges $1.00 for the first 10 pages, plus $0.50 for each additional page thereafter. You may also include a request that we deliver a filed stamped copy of your document and a proposed Order to the Judge’s inbox, which is only an additional $3.00 charge. Once the Law Library completes a delivery to a Judge’s inbox, then it is the attorney’s responsibility to watch OSCN to ascertain from the Judge’s minute when, and if, their Order has been signed and placed in the Judge’s outbox. At this point you may submit a second request to the Law Library requesting that we pick up the signed Order, file it, and then we will return a complete filed stamped copy of your Order with your invoice.

For delivery related requests, the Law Library will deliver documents to a Judge’s inbox in the Tulsa County Courthouse for a $3.00 charge. The Law Library may also charge a copy fee of $0.25 per page to print the documents being delivered depending on the number of pages in your request. You may contact the Law Library prior to submitting a request to ask for more detailed information on the potential cost of your request or for assistance with how to complete the E-File Invoice form. The telephone number for the Law Library is 918-596-5404, if you would like to give us a call. You are also welcome to send an email to lawlibrary@tulsacounty. org with any questions.

Connecting and Sharing the TCBA Mission

The Tulsa County Bar Association is committed to providing opportunities to foster engagement and connection for our members. One pathway to connecting and networking with members across the green country is volunteering to serve on an Association or Foundation committee. In addition to fulfilling the organizations' missions, these committees create a sense of community and shared purpose among members. The excellence of the Association and Foundation is directly due to the involvement and dedication of its members and the services these committees provide to the community. Meeting times vary by committee but are generally held over the lunch hour either monthly, quarterly, or as needed, depending on the committee. Learn more about committees by contacting the chairs on the committee or a TCBA staff member.

Access to Justice: Supports, coordinates, and advocates for civil justice in the community. Chair: Katie Dilks

Animal Law: Works to educate members, advocate within the community, and fundraise/volunteer for local animalaffiliated organizations. Co-Chairs: Erica Grayson & Katy Inhofe

Bench & Bar: A committee made up of judges, practitioners, professors, and law students to promote civility, efficiency, and professionalism within the court system. Ongoing projects include the Brown Bag CLE series and the Judicial Dinner. Co-Chairs: Austin Bond & Mbilike Mwafulirwa

Children & the Law: Offers lawyers the opportunity to utilize their skills to assist children in need. Co-Chairs: Lexie Allen & Michael Nesser

Community Outreach: Supports civic organizations through various fundraising efforts and hands-on activities. Co-Chairs: Ashley Webb & Madison Cataudella

Continuing Legal Education (CLE): Coordinates highquality programs on current and practical interest subjects. Chair: Morgan Smith

Diversity Development: Committed to developing diversity

within the law and the local Bar Association. Chair: Matt Ingham

Fee Arbitration (Must be in Practice for 5+ Years): At no cost to lawyers or former clients, this Committee resolves disputes involving the amount or reasonableness of attorney fees and/or costs charged or to be charged by the lawyer for professional services for the benefit of the former client. Committee decisions are made by a majority vote of a quorum of at least 12 people, including attorneys and non-attorneys. This Committee does not resolve client grievances. Chair: R. Scott Savage

Golf Tournament: This annual fundraising event fosters fellowship and networking among the legal community while supporting predetermined charities. Chair: Michael Thelen, Vice Chairs: Paul Hood and Nathan Miramontes

Lawyer Referral Service: Supervises and oversees the panel of lawyers handling referrals from the public; establishes the rules and procedures of the panel; and maintains the programs to expand the public's knowledge of the program. Chair: Alan Barker

Law-Related Education/Street Law: Provides training seminars for Tulsa-area teachers and lawyers to develop meaningful classroom activities. Currently oversees the Street Law Program (works with various community partners to bring legal life skills to high school students). Co-Chairs: Trevion Freeman, Pierre Robertson, & JP Ray

Law Week: Responsible for coordinating Law Week activities during April/May, including events such as AskA-Lawyer, Student Art and Writing Contest, the Law Day Luncheon, and ongoing groups like the TCBF Law Day Book Club. Chair: Tana Van Cleave

Membership Services: Recruits and encourages nonmembers to join and develop programs, activities, and partnership benefits for members. Chair: Kara Pratt

Mentor/Mentee (Must Apply to be Matched): Coordinates mentoring, networking opportunities, and resources for current University of Tulsa College of Law students, recent graduates, and new attorneys. Co-Chairs: Kevinn Matthews and Natalie Frost

Military/Veterans: Volunteer lawyers who provide legal education on related veterans' legal issues. Chair: Diana Cupps

Professionalism: Determine the appropriate criteria for recognizing ethics and professionalism in the practice of law and prepare brief articles on ethical practices for the Tulsa Lawyer Magazine. Chair: TBA

Pro Bono: The committee shall establish programs and procedures to solicit TCBA members to volunteer for pro bono activities serving indigent citizens of the Tulsa

metropolitan area. Currently oversees the Court Assistance Program (CAP). Chair: Eric Yoder

Publications: Promotes the TCBA’s mission and member contributions through Tulsa Lawyer Magazine, social media, and other communications, fostering public understanding of the law and encouraging civic engagement. It also manages content creation, outreach, and advertising to support these efforts. Co-Chairs: Madison Cataudella & Rhiannon Thoreson

Special Events: Assist with planning member events, happy hours, etc.. Chair: Natalie Sears

Young Lawyers Division (Admitted Less than 10 Years): The YLD provides Tulsa County's young lawyers with opportunities for networking, business and professional development, community service, and bar-related projects, and encourages them to have a voice in our association. Chair: Kyle Trice

ALL SECTIONS provide a means of keeping current on various issues related to their members’ practice, often including CLE. Sections may meet monthly, bimonthly, or quarterly. Sections also come together for meetings with other sections or committees for activities and CLEs. Meetings usually include lunch, are typically hosted at the TCBA, and may be available to attend in a hybrid, virtual, or in-person format.

ALL COMMITTEES AND SECTIONS have a Chair or Chair(s) helping to facilitate meetings, CLE, social hours, and more. Questions pertinent to that committee or section should go to the Chair(s) or to the Membership Director.

FUND THE FOUNDATION

By being a member of the TCBA, you are also a member of the Tulsa County Bar Foundation. As a general rule, the funds that come into the Foundation are the result of a fundraising event for our community, and the monies raised are immediately distributed back out into the community through non-profit organizations.

In an effort to assist the Foundation, we have implemented a monthly “Fund the Foundation” program. To participate we are asking each member who has a birthday this month to consider making a donation to the Foundation. You can do so with the QR Code shown here.

If you are not currently a Fellow, please consider joining that program. As a thank you (and let’s be honest, an encouragement to other members), if you donate before the 10th of the month we will include a shout out to you in the next issue of Tulsa Lawyer Magazine.

TCBA Happenings

2025 YLD Softball League

Congratulations to Coffey Senger Hancock & Harmon for winning this year’s TCBA Softball Championship! A huge thank you to all the teams who participated!

July 26th - Adult Mental Health First Aid Certification Class and CLE

A few attendees with our co-leads, Porsha Burden and Barbara Reed.

July 22nd - Intern Ice Cream Social

Oklahoma civil litigation firm looking for Tulsa based attorney to handle work focused in collections on the East side of the State. Looking for selfmotivated individual who desires courtroom work. Candidate will remote work. Salary is $80,000.00 a year, plus insurance and work vehicle provided. Firm has bonus structure for new business. Please email resume to resumeokclaw@gmail.com.

2025-2026 TCBA CONTACTS, COMMITTEE &

www.tulsabar.com

PHONE: 918-584-5243 FAX: 918-592-0208

1446 South Boston, Tulsa, OK 74119-3612

Executive Director

Tami Williams tamiw@tulsabar.com Ext. 1002

Membership Director CLE, Sections & Committees

Heather Heck heatherh@tulsabar.com Ext. 1001

Front Desk Coordinator

General Inquiries frontdesk@tulsabar.com Ext. 1000 Accounting accounting@tulsabar.com

Lawyer Referral & Community Resource Navigator

Jeril Haug jerilh@tulsabar.com Ext. 1003

Tulsa Lawyer Editors - Rhiannon Thoreson Madison Cataudella

Associate Editor - Milly Dunlap Tulsa Lawyer Submissions - tulsabarnews@yahoo.com

TCBA OFFICERS

President .............................................................Michael Taubman

Past President......................................................Stephanie Jackson

President-Elect............................................................Billy Duncan Vice President...........................................................Shena Burgess

Secretary................................................................. Jennifer Struble

Treasurer.....................................................................John Gotwals

Budget/Internal Operations..............................Madison Cataudella

Director at Large (1) Large Firm...............................Sean McCalip

Director at Large (2) Large Firm................................Natalie Sears

Director at Large (1) Medium Firm.......................Jennifer Struble

Director at Large (2) Medium Firm................................Kara Pratt

Director at Large (1) Small Firm...........................Spencer Pittman

Director at Large (2) Small Firm..............................Mary Clement

Director at Large (1) Public Sector................. Judge April Seibert

ABA Delegate............................................................ Molly Aspan

OBA Delegate.............................................................Philip Hixon

Library Trustee (1).................................................Caitlin Getchell

Library Trustee (2)...................................................... Julie Evans

Presiding Judge ...............................................Hon. Dawn Moody

Chief Judge, U.S. District Court ..................Hon. John F. Heil, III

Chief Judge, Tulsa Municipal Court........Hon. Gerald Hofmeister

TU Law Student Bar Representative.......................Lori Whitlock

YOUNG LAWYERS DIVISION BOARD

YLD Chair......................................................................Kyle Trice

YLD Past-Chair....................................................Lacy Williamson

YLD Chair Elect........................................................Isaiah Brydie

YLD Vice President.................................................Morgan Smith

YLD Treasurer..........................................................Bryan Seaton

YLD Secretary.................................................Nathan Miramontes

FOUNDATION APPOINTMENTS

Law Day Chair ....................................................Tana Van Cleave

Community Outreach................................................ Ashley Webb

Community Outreach Co-Chair...................... Madison Cataudella

Golf Chair................................................................Michael Thelen

Scholarship Chair.....................................................................TBD

FOUNDATION

President....................................................................Kara Vincent Treasurer...........................................................Catherine Hoopert

Trustee...............................................................Stephanie Jackson

Trustee.................................................Timothy Michaels Johnson

Trustee..........................................................................Rick White Trustee.........................................................................Lizzie Riter

Trustee ..................................................................Chad McLain

Trustee ...................................................................Kara Vincent

Trustee .................................................................Mike Esmond

Trustee ...................................................................Ashley Webb

TCBA President.................................................Michael Taubman

COMMITTEE CHAIRPERSONS

Access to Justice... .............Katie Dilks

Animal Law .................................................... ............Katy Inhofe

Animal Law Co-Chair..................................... .........Erica Grayson

Bench & Bar..............................................Austin Bond & Mbilike

Mwafulirwa

Children & the Law.......................................................Lexie Allen

Children & the Law Co-Chair .......Michael Nesser

CLE...........................................................................Morgan Smith

Diversity Development...............................................Matt Ingham

Fee Arbitration.............................................................Scott Savage

Law Related Education / Street Law Co-Chairs..............................

............................... Trevion Freeman, Pierre Robertson, & JP Ray

Lawyer Referral ............Alan Barker

Mentor/Mentee...........................Kevinn Matthews & Natalie Frost

Military/Veterans ...........Diana Cupps

Nominations & Awards........................................Stephanie Jackson

Pro Bono Chair...............................................................Eric Yoder

Membership.....................................................................Kara Pratt

Publications......................................................Rhiannon Thoreson

Publications Co-Chair ..................................... Madison Cataudella

Special Events ................................................. ..........Natalie Sears

SECTION CHAIRPERSONS

ADR/Mediation................................................... .......Zack Brown

Bankruptcy ..Hon. Paul Thomas

Business/Corporate................................................Spencer Pittman

Criminal Law ...........Dustin Allen

Energy & Mineral Law.............................................Buford Pollett

Employment Law ..........Chris Vaught

Family Law ..........................................Anastasia Krich-Mahoney

Health Law................................................................Shelby Fields

Immigration ............................................................Maria Mattern

Juvenile Law. .......Michael Nesser

Juvenile Law Co-Chair..................................................Lexie Allen

Litigation.................................................................................TBD

Municipal Law........................................................................TBD

Native American Law Section................................Hannah Scandy

Paralegals/Legal Assistant.......................................Danna Malone

Paralegal /Legal Assistants Vice Chair.....................Sabrina Nitz

Paralegals / Legal Assistant - Secretary..............Ashleigh Casebolt

Probate/Estate/Elder Co-chairs............ ..Linda Van Arkel-Greubel

......................................................................... ....... & Justin Munn

Solo/Small Firm .......................................................Mary Clement

Tax......................................................................Alexander Bratton

Technology ...............................................................Trevor Riddle

Workers Comp.........................................................................TBD

Workers Comp Co-Chair ................. ......TBD

* Section Chairs will be updated as positions are filled