A Final Message to the Hawai'i State Bar Association

Aloha Bar Members,

As 2024 comes to a close, so too does my term as your president. Serving on the HSBA Board over the past three years as vice president, president-elect, and president has been one of the greatest honors of my career. I am deeply thankful for this opportunity to serve our legal community, which is a cornerstone of justice and progress in Hawai’i.

This year brought both challenges and triumphs. We began the year mourning the loss of our beloved Executive Director, Pat Mau Shimizu, whose leadership shaped the HSBA for many years. Her legacy continues through the Leadership Institute and other programs that reflect her commitment to service and mentorship.

In May, Cathy Betts joined us as Executive Director, building upon Pat’s foundation with vision and energy. I extend my deepest gratitude to Cathy, to interim Executive Director Lynn Flanigan for her steady guidance, and to the HSBA staff, who consistently go above and beyond to support our members.

The devastating Maui wildfires tested us all, but the outpouring of support from our bar exemplified the aloha spirit. From free legal assistance through the Disaster Legal Hotline to community relief efforts, your generosity and dedication made a profound impact.

One key accomplishment this year was reestablishing the Committee on Professional Courtesy and Civility, formerly known as the Bench–Bar Committee. This collaborative effort between the Hawai’i State Trial Judges Association and the HSBA provides a confidential forum for early intervention to address concerns among judges and attorneys and promote civility and professionalism within our legal community. An upcoming article in the Hawai’i Bar Journal will feature more information about the committee and its work.

This year also saw the completion of the HSBA’s Strategic Plan. The plan sets a clear course for the future and prioritizes initiatives like enhanced communication, member engagement, and emergency preparedness. These initiatives ensure that the HSBA remains responsive to the needs of members and the broader community.

One of the most rewarding experiences this year was welcoming new bar admittees and judges to the bench. These moments remind us of the vital role we play as stewards of justice and the importance of mentoring the next generation of lawyers.

A special mahalo to Chief Justice Recktenwald and the Judiciary for their partnership, and to the Hawai’i State Bar Foundation, for supporting initiatives like Courts in the Community and civic education. Your tireless efforts enrich our profession and inspire future generations.

As my presidency ends, I leave with immense gratitude and optimism for the future of our bar. Thank you for your support, collaboration, and dedication to making Hawai’i a better place for current and future generations.

Mahalo and be well,

Jesse K. Souki, 2024 HSBA President