SAN FRANCISCO, CA - May 16, 2025 - This week, Second Vice President and Membership Chair Catherine Reagan welcomed new admittees, Board members, committee chairs, and members to our Spring Meet and Greet Reception and Mixer. Reagan hosted this year's springtime reception and mixer at the Civic Center Courthouse in San Francisco, CA.

In her opening remarks, Reagan shared more information with new members regarding Queen's Bench rich history. As one of the first ten women's bar associations founded in the United States, Queen's Bench remains a leading figure in championing issues of special concern to women both in the Greater Bay Area and nationwide.

This year's remarks were given by 2024 Lifetime Achievement Award Recipient and 1988 Past President Judge Mary E. Wiss, who emphasized the significant impact Queen's Bench members have on local leaders. Approximately 15% of prior Queen's Bench leadership later go on to judgeships, reflecting the high standards of excellence and public service embodied by our membership.

The event concluded with remarks from 2025 President Elisha Jussen Cooke, recognizing Immediate Past President Kara Wild for her leadership last year. Wild's achievements as Immediate Past President include establishing the Fighting for Democracy Series, enabling the bar association to partner with long-standing community-based organizations such as League of Women Voters. Wild also spearheaded revisions to the bar association's bylaws, enabling paraprofessionals and affiliates to obtain memberships at accessible rates.