NBA President
Ashley L. Upkins

Dear esteemed members of the National Bar Association,

I hope this message finds you in good health and good spirits as we embark on this new chapter in the National Bar Association’s history. It is with great honor and privilege that I address you as the 83rd President of the National Bar Association. I write to you with purpose and determination, driven by the belief that the National Bar Association holds the key to empowering individuals, communities, and our nation through advocacy and service.

The National Bar Association has long been at the forefront of advancing jurisprudence, improving the administration of justice, and upholding the integrity of our esteemed legal profession. It is with the unwavering commitment to these principles, that our members have made tremendous strides to protecting the civil and political rights of our communities. However, we must continue forward in our pursuit of equality, liberty, and justice.

Our efforts must be dedicated to improving economic conditions for  every individual, ensuring equal access to opportunities, and the free,  untrammeled use of our rights guaranteed to us by the Constitution of  the United States. It is through this unified commitment that we can  build a more unified society for all.

As President of the National Bar Association, I invite each and every one of you to join me in making a lasting impact through our service.  Let us work together to ensure the administration of justice and  preserve the honor and integrity of our profession. You are paramount to the success of this organization and to the advancement of our mission.

Together, we have the power to shape history, safeguard democratic  ideals, and to leave a lasting legacy of justice and equality. Through  our shared commitment, we will achieve remarkable milestones and make a  meaningful contribution to the lives of countless individuals.

Thank you for being an integral part of the National Bar Association. I am honored to lead this distinguished organization and I am eager to  work alongside each of you to fulfill our mission.

NBA President
James Carter

Dear Members of the National Bar Association,

Welcome to a new year of purpose, progress, and possibility for the National Bar Association. It is a tremendous honor to serve as your President, and I am grateful for the confidence you have placed in me to help lead this remarkable organization into its next chapter.

For more than a century, the National Bar Association has stood as the nation’s leading voice for Black lawyers, judges, law professors, and law students. Our legacy is built on courageous advocacy, unwavering leadership, and an enduring commitment to advancing justice. As we look ahead, we do so with the understanding that our work remains as vital today as it has ever been.

This year presents an opportunity to strengthen our impact, deepen our engagement, and expand the reach of our collective voice. Together, we will continue to advocate for equal justice under the law, protect civil rights, support the professional growth of our members, and develop the next generation of legal leaders. We will build upon the foundation laid by those who came before us while embracing innovative ideas that prepare our Association for the future.

The strength of the National Bar Association has always been its members. Your dedication, expertise, and willingness to serve are what make this organization exceptional. Whether you are a longtime member or joining us for the first time, your voice matters, your leadership is valued, and your participation is essential to our continued success.

I encourage you to become actively involved this year—through our sections, divisions, committees, regional activities, advocacy initiatives, and national programs. By working together, we can create meaningful opportunities for our members, strengthen our communities, and continue to influence the legal profession for generations to come.

As we move forward, let us remain united by our shared commitment to excellence, integrity, and service. Together, we will honor our proud history while writing the next chapter of the National Bar Association’s enduring legacy.

Thank you for your continued dedication to our mission and for the privilege of serving alongside you. I look forward to all that we will accomplish together.

With gratitude and respect,

James Carter
President
National Bar Association