From the President, 1020 WYBJ, Vol. 43 No. 5. 8

PositionVol. 43 5 Pg. 8

From the President

No. Vol. 43 No. 5 Pg. 8

Wyoming Bar Journal

October, 2020

A Debt of Gratitude

Billie LM Addleman, Hirst Applegate, LLP Cheyenne, Wyoming

One of the most terrifying responsibilities for the State Bar President is writing a column in the Wyoming Lawyer. It is also daunting to follow the footsteps of Kelly Neville and so many other distinguished attorneys as your Wyoming State Bar President. For the last 16 years, I have practiced at the Cheyenne firm of Hirst Applegate, LLP, including serving as the Managing Partner the last four years. I look forward to serving as the Bar President. I think like most organizations, what makes the Wyoming State Bar a great organization is its members. While I have had the great fortune of meeting many Wyoming lawyers, during the next year I look forward to meeting many of our members that I have not had an opportunity to get to know and highlighting some of our outstanding members. We have an amazing membership that not only provides the legal services to our communities, but also serve as leaders in our communities and state.

Earlier this year, I saw a quote from Benjamin Franklin that resonated with me, "Well done is better than well said." It reminds me that my performance as a husband, lawyer, employer, and colleague speaks louder than anything else. In thinking about that quote and this column and reflecting on this past year, I was inspired to write about two individuals who truly exemplify that quote.

Over the last several months (although sometimes it feels like years) we all experienced the uncertainty of practicing law in the middle of a global pandemic. During these uncertain and tumultuous times, two individuals stood out in their performance to our members—Sharon Wilkinson, WSB Executive Director, and Kelly Neville, WSB President. Both showed tremendous initiative, grace and selfless service during these difficult times.

While I am sure most members of the Bar know Sharon, you may not know how much work she puts into the Bar. Sharon has been employed by the WSB for more than 19 years, serving as the Executive Director since 2013. As Executive Director, Sharon wears many hats, including coordinating with the Wyoming Supreme Court and various governmental entities, directing staff, staffing eight bar sections, publishing the Wyoming Lawyer, and organizing and planning our Wyoming State Bar Officers' and...

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