Rebecca Tinder, President

"There is one spectacle grander than the sea, that is the sky; there is one spectacle grander than the sky, that is the interior of the soul.” – Victor Hugo, Les Misérables

I’ve just returned from the West Virginia Bar Association’s Annual Meeting, and I’m genuinely invigorated. The air was thick with the kind of joy and hope that reminds you why you chose this profession and why this organization is so vital. 

We had the privilege of hearing from an incredible array of speakers – Justices, judges, fellow attorneys, and insightful journalists. Each presentation was not merely a speech but a profound glimpse into the soul of our shared legal profession. The discussions and shared experiences revealed the vibrant spirit of the oldest legal organization in our state, The West Virginia Bar Association, proudly founded in 1886.

From the inspiring speeches introducing our award recipients to the heartfelt acceptance remarks from the recipients themselves, a clear message resonated: The soul of the WVBA is truly alive and thriving. It’s a soul that is strong, deeply supportive, and ever-present to serve the lawyers of West Virginia. 

In every interaction, every shared moment, our mission rang clear: “Lawyers serving lawyers since 1886.” It’s more than a motto; it’s the heartbeat of an organization dedicated to fostering a supportive and thriving legal community. 

Your newly elected officers for the 2025-2026 year, include Mark Hayes (President-Elect), Hampton Rose (Treasurer), and me, Rebecca Tinder (President). Thank you to all who joined, and we hope to see everyone next year at the 139th Annual Meeting on July 16-18 in Charleston, WV. 

Rebecca Tinder