2025 NCBF Annual Meeting and Conference Full Schedule
Innovating for Impact: Strengthening Bar Foundations through Collaboration, Technology, and Engagement is being held this week on August 14-16, in Washington, D.C., hosted by the DC Bar Foundation at the District of Columbia Bar offices.
Registration Information* - In-Person Registration is Closed.
- NCBF Members: Virtual attendance $159 per person WEBINAR ATTENDANCE IS OPEN FOR REGISTRATION.
- Non-Members: Virtual attendance $259 per person WEBINAR ATTENDANCE IS OPEN FOR REGISTRATION.
The 2025 NCBF Annual Meeting and Conference is being held at the offices of the District of Columbia Bar. See below for maps and details.
Thursday Meet and Greet NEW LOCATION IS AT ARRELS IN THE ARLO HOTEL (CLICK HERE TO VISIT ARRELS ONLINE)
Thursday, August 14th
5:00 PM – 6:30 PM Meet & Greet (REGISTERED GUESTS ONLY)
Join us for food and drink at our Meet & Greet. Thank you to the DC Bar Foundation for sponsoring our Meet & Greet! It will be held at the ARRELS IN THE ARLO HOTEL, 333 G Street NW, Washington, D.C. 20001.
Full Schedule of Programming and Events
Friday, August 15th – District of Columbia Bar
8:30 AM Breakfast Gathering
Continental Breakfast
9:00 AM Conference Welcome & First-Time Attendee Introductions
9:30 AM Session 1: The Future of Bar Foundations: Catalysts for Change in a Shifting Landscape
Amy Weber will explore how bar foundations can lead and innovate amidst declining funding, polarization, and evolving legal practices. Using strategic foresight, she’ll provide a reframed vision, future-ready strategies, and practical tools to navigate change and enhance your foundation’s impact.
Amy Weber – Social Impact Leader
Amy Weber is an experienced social impact leader focused on addressing complex community challenges to improve futures. With more than 15 years of experience in the social sector, she has a proven track record of success leveraging multi-disciplinary practices to support organizational transformation and community impact. Weber holds a Juris Doctorate from NKU Chase College of Law and a Master’s in Strategic Foresight from the University of Houston. She was named one of eight top innovators by United Way Worldwide in 2020 and has participated in local and national professional leadership programs including GEO’s Change Leaders in Philanthropy Fellowship, Cincinnati Chamber’s WE Lead Class 14, and Leadership Cincinnati Class 48.
Workshop led by Amy follows her presentation.
11:45 AM Break
12:00 PM Lunch and Awards
The 2025 NCBF Partnership for Success Award and 2025 NCBF Excellence Award Ceremony
1:00 PM Session 2: Lessons from Past NCBF Presidents
Join us for an enriching session featuring former National Conference of Bar Foundations (NCBF) Presidents Bob Glaves, Mary Groth, and Leslie Barineau. Drawing on their extensive leadership experience, they will share valuable lessons, practical insights, and key takeaways from their past and current leadership in the bar foundation world. This engaging discussion offers a unique opportunity to learn from their expertise and gain a deeper understanding of effective leadership within the bar foundation community.
Bob Glaves – Executive Director, The Chicago Bar Foundation
Mary Groth, NCBF Past President
Mary Groth served the Cleveland Metropolitan Bar Association and its Foundation for 32 years, retiring as Director of Member & Donor Engagement in 2024 after roles including Director of Development & Community Programs. She led efforts to enhance member engagement and community programs, significantly advancing the organization’s mission to promote the rule of law, access to justice, civics education, and inclusion in the legal profession. She helped grow the Bar Foundation as it established an Endowment Fund, Fellows program, and annual special event fundraising events. Groth is a past president of the National Conference of Bar Foundations and an active mentor in the Louis Stokes Scholars Program and College Now Greater Cleveland. She is a Foundation Fellow and Legacy Fellow, and continues to engage as a volunteer in Association and Foundation programs. A 1983 J.D. graduate of Cleveland State University College of Law, admitted to the Ohio Bar, and a 1980 B.A. graduate in History from Cleveland State University, she was honored with induction into the Cleveland State University College of Law Hall of Fame (2024), the Cleveland Metropolitan Bar Association’s Living Legacy Award (2023), and the Ohio Center for Law-Related Education Founders’ Award (2015).
Leslie Barineau – President, Alabama Law Foundation
2:15 PM Break
2:30 PM Session 3: If I can use AI, you can too!
Join Carey Shoufler, Development Director and the Law Related Education Director of the Idaho Law Foundation, and Lori Keating, Former Executive Director of the Ohio State Bar Foundation, for an engaging and practical session at the National Conference of Bar Foundations (NCBF). Following up on their popular webinar, this dynamic duo will demystify the use of AI in bar foundation work, sharing hands-on insights and innovative strategies to harness AI tools effectively. Learn how to integrate artificial intelligence into your foundation’s operations to boost efficiency, enhance outreach, and amplify your impact in law-related philanthropy. Whether you’re new to AI or looking to level up, this session will empower you with actionable ideas that you can test out with your peers during the session, providing you with the confidence to apply what you have learned when you go back to your foundation. Don’t miss this opportunity to explore the future of bar foundations with two forward-thinking leaders!
Carey Shoufler -Development Director and the Law Related Education Director, Idaho Law Foundation
Lori Keating – Former Executive Director, Ohio State Bar Foundation
3:30 PM Break
3:45 PM Session 4: Bridging the Access to Justice Gap: How Technology and Collaboration Can Strengthen Bar Foundations
Join Brandi J.W. Ray of the Philadelphia Bar Foundation and Farid Forozi of the DC Bar Foundation as they share their experience and the lessons they learned from integrating technology into their legal service frameworks. As city-wide bar foundations, they play a critical role in connecting legal service providers, private attorneys, and community stakeholders to drive systemic impact in improving access to justice. This session will offer practical strategies for bar foundations seeking to modernize service delivery and deepen their impact through technology and collaboration. By sharing these insights, we aim to equip attendees with actionable strategies to strengthen their foundations’ capacity, enhance their partnerships, and better serve their communities.
Brandi J.W. Ray – Equal Justice Center Program and Outreach Manager, Philadelphia Bar Foundation
Director of Evaluation and Innovation, DC Bar Foundation
Farid Forozi serves as the Director of Evaluation and Innovation at the DC Bar Foundation (DCBF), the leading funder of civil legal aid in the District of Columbia. Founded in 1977, the DCBF mission is to fund, support, and improve legal representation of people who are financially disenfranchised or who are otherwise underserved in the District of Columbia. DCBF also serves as the District’s IOLTA administrator
With over 20 years of nonprofit and international development experience, Farid specializes in legal aid, service delivery process improvement, and nonprofit program management and evaluation. In his role, he leads program evaluations and overseers the DC Bar Foundation’s innovative initiatives, including the DC Resource Bridge, a coordinated intake and referral system that connects DC residents to free or low-cost legal services, and the DC Social Justice Transformations Network, which unites diverse stakeholders to foster collective action for social justice.
Over the last 20 years, Farid has designed, implemented, and evaluated programs focused on access to justice, social development, and civic accountability across multiple countries, collaborating with prominent US and international organizations and donors.
A certified Project Management Professional (PMP), Farid holds a Master’s degree in Anti-Corruption Studies from the International Anti-Corruption Academy in Vienna, Austria. He lives in Fairfax, Virginia, and is deeply committed to advancing equitable access to justice and human rights for underserved communities.
4:45 PM Conclusion of Day 1 Presentations
6:30 PM Friday Night Cocktails & Dinner at Busboys and Poets (pre-registration required for attendees and guests)
Let’s come together after a great day of sessions and relax with your colleagues and friends.
Busboys and Poets
450 K St NW
Washington, DC 200011
Saturday, August 16th
8:30 AM Breakfast Gathering
Breakfast Buffet
9:00 AM 2025 NCBF Annual Meeting of Members
- Welcome and Call to Order (Baillie Milliken)
- Introduction of our Current Board Members (Baillie Milliken)
- Honoring Past Presidents
- Proposed Slate of New Board Members and Vote (Beth McElroy)
- Announcement of new Officers (Baillie Milliken)Effective September 1, 2025
• President – Sang Yup Lee, Chicago Bar Foundation• President-elect – Jessie Reeves, Illinois Bar Foundation
• Treasurer – DeLaine Ward, Austin Bar Foundation
• Secretary – Laura Sanford, Washington State Bar Foundation
•Past-President – Baillie Milliken
- Passing of the Gavel (Baillie Milliken)
- Brief Financial Report (Sang Lee/ Jessie Reeves)
- Bylaws Amended
- Board Member Requests (Sang Lee)
- Committee Member Requests (Sang Lee)
- Programming Suggestions for Next Year (Sang Lee)• Webinars
• Annual Meeting
- Location and Timing Suggestions for Annual Meeting (Sang Lee)
- Adjournment (Sang Lee)
9:30 AM Session 5: Engaging Board Members Effectively
Join Michael Ward and Kirra Jarratt for a dynamic discussion and workshop on boosting board engagement. Drawing from their transformative work at the DC Bar Foundation, Michael will share proven strategies to align boards and leadership for greater impact.
- Presentation by Michael Ward
- Case Study of the DC Bar Foundation by Michael Ward and Kira Jarratt
- Workshop led by Michael Ward
Michael Ward – Author of Align the Board and CEO: 8 Steps for Nonprofit Leaders to Overcome Dysfunction and Achieve Synergy
Kirra L. Jarratt – CEO, DC Bar Foundation
11:00 AM Break
11:15 AM Roundtable Discussions
Small group discussions on the following topics:
- Identifying, segmenting, and motivating donors
- Donor stewardship
- Outreach to potential supporters outside of the legal community
12:00 PM Lunch & Fireside Chat with Tiffany Carter with the National Council of Nonprofits
Tiffany Carter will lead a conversational fireside chat on the latest Executive Orders and litigation affecting nonprofits, including DEI initiatives. Expect updates, audience Q&A, and access to the National Council of Nonprofits’ litigation tracker and resources to stay informed and proactive.
Tiffany Carter – Public Policy Director and Counsel for the National Council of Nonprofits
Tiffany Gourley Carter is the Public Policy Director and Counsel at the National Council of Nonprofits and works to advance the public policy priorities for the nation’s largest network of nonprofits. She is a national thought leader on issues impacting nonprofit advocacy, policy, and sector sustainability. Working in all three levels of government and all three branches of government, she tracks and spots trends of policy threats and opportunities for nonprofits. Tiffany covers a broad range of issue areas, including taxation, budget and spending, employment, government grants and contracts, advocacy rights, and regulations. A native of small-town Western Pennsylvania, she earned her B.A., magna cum laude, from the University of Colorado and her law degree at the University of Hawai`i, receiving the CALI Award for Excellence in Nonprofit Organizations. She is a member of the U.S. Supreme Court Bar.
After Tiffany’s presentation, hang around for a get together filled with surprises, including our *Saturday afternoon outing*!!! before our final goodbye and conclusion of the 2025 NCBF Annual Meeting and Conference.
*In-Person Attendees Saturday afternoon group outing at 3 PM!
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- What: Tour of the Hirshhorn Museum and Sculpture Garden
- Where: Independence Ave SW and 7th St SW
- When: 3 – 4:30 pm
- Other details: The tour is free. No formal reservation is needed. Check in with Sang at the Annual Meeting if you would like to join!
We hope to see you in-person, virtually or both!
The 2025 NCBF Annual Meeting and Conference will be held at the District of Columbia Bar
District of Columbia Bar
901 4th Street NW
Washington, DC 20001
The 2025 NCBF Annual Meeting and Conference preferred hotel is the Arlo Washington DC.
Arlo Washington DC
333 G St NW
Washington, DC 20001
We’ve gotten some great rates for your stay starting at $189. Be sure to reserve your hotel rooms by Friday, July 11, 2025 to get your NCBF special rates. Please check room availability by clicking here. If you have any issues booking your hotel room during the Annual Meeting and Conference dates at the $189/night NCBF rate, please contact Lola White at Arlo Hotel directly at lwhite@arlohotels.com before you make your reservation to get the special rate.
The 2025 NCBF Annual Meeting and Conference Thursday Meet and Greet’s NEW LOCATION IS ARRELS IN THE ARLO HOTEL (CLICK HERE TO VISIT ARRELS ONLINE)
Thursday, August 14th
5:00 PM – 6:30 PM Meet & Greet (please register so we can have a guest list)
Join us for food and drink at our Meet & Greet. Thank you to the DC Bar Foundation for sponsoring our Meet & Greet! It will be held at the ARRELS IN THE ARLO HOTEL, 333 G Street NW, Washington, D.C. 20001.
The 2025 NCBF Annual Meeting and Conference Friday night dinner will be held at Busboys and Poets.
Busboys and Poets
450 K St NW
Washington, DC 200011
Join us for dinner where we can relax and enjoy a great meal together at Busboys and Poets. Your guests who are not attending the conference are invited to register for dinner and join us Friday evening. (https://www.busboysandpoets.com)
All in one Map:
Things To See and Do in DC
The Zoo
- Smithsonian’s National Zoo & Conservation Biology Institute – Visit the Zoo and see giant pandas, lions, elephants and more. Learn about the Zoo’s conservation programs, research, events and live animal cams. https://nationalzoo.si.edu/
Explore must-see museums
- Marvel at the Wright Flyer and Apollo 11 Command Module at the National Air and Space Museum – https://www.si.edu/museums/air-and-space-museum.
- See the Hope Diamond and dinosaur fossils at the National Museum of Natural History – https://www.si.edu/museums/natural-history-museum.
- Reflect at the National Museum of African American History and Culture – https://www.nmaahc.si.edu/.
- Wander through the National Gallery of Art to admire works from Da Vinci to O’Keeffe – https://www.nga.gov/.
- Step into history at the National Museum of American History, home to the Star-Spangled Banner – https://americanhistory.si.edu/.
- Visit the Smithsonian’s Arts and Industries Building for innovative exhibits – https://www.si.edu/museums/arts-and-industries-building.
- Stand in awe at the Lincoln Memorial and reflect at the Reflecting Pool – https://www.nps.gov/linc/index.htm.
- Climb the steps of the U.S. Capitol or take a guided tour of its historic halls – https://www.visitthecapitol.gov/.
- Snap a photo in front of the White House, a global symbol of power – https://www.whitehouse.gov/.
- Walk the National Mall and count the monuments, from Jefferson to MLK Jr. – https://www.nps.gov/nama/index.htm.
- Ride the elevator to the top of the Washington Monument for panoramic views – https://www.nps.gov/wamo/index.htm.
- Stroll through the Tidal Basin and admire the Jefferson Memorial framed by cherry blossoms (seasonal) – https://www.nps.gov/thje/index.htm.
- Discover hidden gems like the colorful murals in the NoMa district – https://washington.org/neighborhoods/noma.
- Paddle along the Potomac River on a kayak or paddleboard rental – https://www.boatingindc.com/.
- Stroll the vibrant Georgetown Waterfront Park and grab a bite at a riverside café – https://www.georgetowndc.com/explore/waterfront/.
- Take a water taxi to The Wharf, D.C.’s lively dining and entertainment hub – https://www.wharfdc.com/.
- Cruise the Potomac on an Odyssey or Spirit of Washington for dinner and views – https://www.cityexperiences.com/washington-dc/city-cruises/.
- Watch the sunset at Hains Point in East Potomac Park – https://www.nps.gov/places/hains-point.htm.
- Bike or walk the scenic Rock Creek Park trails, a green oasis in the city – https://www.nps.gov/rocr/index.htm.
- Explore the vibrant Eastern Market, a historic hub for food and crafts – https://www.easternmarket.org/.
- Run or skate along the Anacostia Riverwalk Trail for waterfront views – https://www.anacostiariverwalk.com/.
- Catch a Nationals baseball game at Nationals Park or a concert at The Anthem – https://www.mlb.com/nationals, https://www.theanthemdc.com/.
- Wander through Dupont Circle for bookstores, galleries, and cozy cafés – https://washington.org/neighborhoods/dupont-circle.
- Lose yourself in the U.S. Botanic Garden, a living museum of plants – https://www.usbg.gov/.
- Stroll through the cherry blossoms at the Tidal Basin (peak bloom in spring) – https://www.nps.gov/subjects/cherryblossom/index.htm.
- Visit the serene Dumbarton Oaks Gardens in Georgetown for historic landscapes – https://www.doaks.org/visit/garden.
- Discover the Kenilworth Aquatic Gardens, home to rare water lilies and lotus blooms – https://www.nps.gov/keaq/index.htm.
- Explore the National Arboretum’s bonsai collection and Capitol columns – https://www.usna.usda.gov/.
- Explore local brews at Atlas Brew Works or Right Proper Brewing Company – https://www.atlasbrewworks.com/, https://www.rightproperbrewing.com/.
- Visit rooftop bars like The Rooftop at The Graham for stunning city views – https://www.thegrahamgeorgetown.com/dine-drink/the-rooftop/.
- Experience mixology at Allegory, a speakeasy-style bar with a literary twist – https://www.allegory-dc.com/.
- Catch live jazz at Blues Alley in Georgetown, a historic music venue – https://www.bluesalley.com/.
- Dance the night away at U Street’s vibrant clubs and bars – https://washington.org/neighborhoods/u-street.
Restaurants:
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Old Ebbitt Grill – Steps from the White House and Smithsonian museums, this historic saloon, D.C.’s oldest, serves oysters, burgers, and classic American fare in a vibrant, power-lunch atmosphere. https://www.ebbitt.com/
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Zaytinya – Near the National Gallery of Art in Penn Quarter, this José Andrés spot offers Mediterranean-inspired mezze like hummus, falafel, and kebabs in a bright, airy space perfect for groups. https://www.zaytinya.com/
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Rasika – A modern Indian gem in Penn Quarter, known for crispy spinach palak chaat, tandoori lamb, and creative cocktails, ideal for a refined meal near the National Mall. https://www.rasikarestaurant.com/
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Lebanese Taverna – Close to the National Zoo in Woodley Park, this family-owned restaurant serves flavorful Middle Eastern dishes like shawarma, lamb kebabs, and hummus in a warm, welcoming setting. https://www.lebanesetaverna.com/
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Hot N Juicy Crawfish – A lively seafood boil spot near the Zoo, offering dishes like crab legs and shrimp in a casual, group-friendly environment, perfect for a fun post-Zoo meal. https://hotnjuicycrawfish.com/
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The Dabney – In Shaw, this Michelin-starred restaurant showcases Chesapeake Bay-inspired cuisine with wood-fired dishes like roasted chicken and seasonal vegetables in a rustic-chic setting. https://www.thedabney.com/
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Fiola Mare – At Georgetown’s waterfront, this upscale Italian seafood restaurant offers stunning Potomac views, fresh crudo, and pasta dishes, perfect for a special occasion. https://www.fiolamaredc.com/
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Ben’s Chili Bowl – A U Street institution since 1958, famous for its half-smoke sausages and chili, offering a taste of D.C.’s cultural history in a casual, iconic diner. https://benschilibowl.com/
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Maketto – In the H Street Corridor, this vibrant spot blends Cambodian and Taiwanese flavors with dishes like bao buns and spicy noodles, plus a lively café and market vibe. https://www.maketto1351.com/
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Rose’s Luxury – A Capitol Hill favorite, this Michelin-starred restaurant serves eclectic, shareable plates like pork sausage lychee salad in a cozy, no-reservations setting. https://www.rosesluxury.com/