Message from the President, September 2024

Dear Members of the Greensboro Bar Association,

It is with profound gratitude and a deep sense of responsibility that I step into the role of President of the Greensboro Bar Association for the 2024-2025 bar year. I am honored by the trust you have placed in me, and I am excited to lead our association in a year that I believe will be transformative for us all.

On May 23, 2024, I had the honor to welcome new lawyers to the Greensboro Bar Association during the Swearing-In Ceremony hosted by our Young Lawyers Section.  During that ceremony, I told our newly licensed attorneys that the oath of office as an attorney of law in North Carolina is a profound commitment to uphold the principles of justice, integrity, and service and this was their opportunity to make a meaningful impact on our community and beyond.  

This year, I have chosen the theme Service to the Community to guide our efforts. Our profession is rooted in these principles, and it is these values that must drive us as we navigate the challenges and opportunities ahead. In a time when many in our community are facing unprecedented difficulties—be it due to economic hardship, social injustice, or the lingering effects of the pandemic—our role as advocates has never been more crucial.

Pro bono work is not only an ethical obligation; it is a powerful tool for change. By offering our time and expertise to those who cannot afford legal representation, we can help bridge the justice gap and ensure that the rights and dignity of all individuals are upheld. This year, I am calling on each of you to recommit to this vital aspect of our profession. Whether you choose to take on a case, volunteer at a legal clinic or a legal services organization like Legal Aid of NC, or provide mentorship to those entering our field, your contributions will make a significant impact. In addition to our pro bono efforts, we will also focus on broader community service initiatives. The Greensboro Bar Association has long been a cornerstone of our local community, and I believe it is essential that we continue to strengthen these ties. Through raising funds for the Greensboro Bar Association Foundation (GBAF) and the creation of the GBAF Fellows program, we will be able to support local nonprofits, engage with youth and educational institutions, and promote diversity and inclusion within our profession.

I firmly believe that when we come together with a shared purpose, we can achieve extraordinary things. Let this be a year where we not only fulfill our professional duties but also embrace our role as community leaders and advocates for justice. I look forward to working alongside each of you to make a lasting difference in the lives of those we serve.

Thank you for your commitment, passion, and dedication to our association and the community we call home.

Most sincerely,

Manisha P. Patel, Esq.
President, Greensboro Bar Association and the 24th Judicial District