Members of the Young Lawyers Division (YLD) Executive Council discussed their motivations and expectations for their terms, according to a March 31 article by Lisa Hanson, ISBA Executive Editor. The council includes representatives from various law schools and firms across Iowa, each bringing different perspectives to the group.
The YLD provides opportunities for young attorneys to develop leadership skills, build professional networks, and give back to the legal community. Members say these roles are important for supporting new lawyers as they begin their careers.
Ally Bedwell, District 5B Representative from Reynoldson, Van Werden & McCoy, LLP and a graduate of Drake University Law School, said she is “most looking forward to the connections that I will make and the skills that I will gain from being a part of the YLD.” Bedwell added that participating in YLD offers “an opportunity to be a part of something bigger and hopefully make a difference for the communities that I am a part of.”
Cortni Bowman serves as Law School Liaison to University of South Dakota Knudson School of Law. Bowman said she looks forward “to strengthening connections between law students, young lawyers, and the broader legal community” during her term. She also noted that mentorship is key: “Mentorship, networking, and leadership opportunities play a critical role in the career of a young lawyer. Serving in this role allows me to give back to the legal community that has invested in my own growth.”
Sophia Gustafson represents District 6 as an attorney at Bribriesco Law Firm after graduating from University of Iowa College of Law. Gustafson said she is excited about hosting monthly Eastern Iowa Legal Grounds events open to all members of the legal community: “I encourage anyone in the ‘big bar’ to stop by and join us.” Gustafson also referenced her past writing on retaining legal talent in Iowa.
Geoff Van Deusen is an At Large Council Member working at Linn County Attorney’s Office with experience at Drake University Law School. He said he looks forward “to connecting with other young attorneys across Iowa” while helping create professional growth opportunities: “Organizations like the Young Lawyers Division play an important role in building community, mentorship, and leadership opportunities.” Van Deusen emphasized giving back after benefiting from mentors early in his career.
Jasmine Yant serves as Law School Liaison for Drake University Law School through Whitfield & Eddy Law. She expressed enthusiasm about maintaining relationships with students and faculty: “Although I am happy to be graduated and practicing, it brings me joy to still be connected to the school through my position.”
The council members’ shared focus on connection-building reflects ongoing efforts within Iowa’s legal profession aimed at fostering engagement among newer attorneys.
