2024 Annual Meeting & Installation Luncheon Recap
The Federal Bar Association (FBA) Chicago Chapter hosted its 2024 Annual Meeting and Installation Luncheon on Thursday, October 10, 2024, at the Union League Club in Chicago. The event drew a large crowd of federal judges and hundreds of legal practitioners from Chicago and surrounding areas, underscoring the chapter's prominent role in the legal community.
Welcome Remarks by Chief Judge Virginia M. Kendall
Hon. Virginia M. Kendall of the Northern District of Illinois opened the event with warm welcome remarks. Chief Judge Kendall, who was sworn in as Chief Judge on August 1, 2024, highlighted the significance of the FBA Chicago Chapter and its impact on the legal profession. She praised the chapter for fostering connections between the bench and the bar and for serving as a "beacon" to other FBA chapters nationwide. Judge Kendall’s distinguished career includes her nomination to the bench by President George W. Bush and her extensive work in promoting ethics and the rule of law both domestically and internationally.
Keynote Address by White House Counsel Ed Siskel
The luncheon featured a keynote address by Ed Siskel, current White House Counsel under the Biden-Harris Administration. Siskel shared experiences from his multifaceted legal career, which includes serving in the Obama-Biden White House Counsel’s Office, acting as Corporation Counsel for the City of Chicago under Mayor Rahm Emanuel, and working as a federal prosecutor. Siskel captivated the audience with stories about his role in high-profile events, including his involvement in a historic prisoner exchange between the United States and Russia in August. He described the emotional impact of witnessing the reactions of families reunited with their loved ones and humorously recounted a “pinch-me moment” when he encountered Mariah Carey.
Installation of 2024-2025 Chicago Chapter Leadership Team
The meeting also featured the election and installation of the chapter’s new officers for the 2024-2025 term. Erin McAdams Franzblau, of Croke Fairchild Duarte & Beres LLC, was elected as the new president. In her address, Franzblau expressed her commitment to continuing the chapter's robust programming, including the popular chambers lunches and educational seminars. She commended her predecessor, Timothy A. Hudson of Tabet DiVito & Rothstein LLC, for his leadership and dedication, especially in guiding the chapter’s full return to in-person events post-pandemic.
U.S. District Judge Sunil R. Harjani was installed as president-elect, Kristine Rinella Argentine of Seyfarth Shaw LLP as vice president, Elizabeth A. Ekl of Burns Noland LLP as secretary, and Francis A. Citera of Greenberg Traurig as treasurer. Chief Judge Kendall swore in the new officers and directors, reinforcing the chapter’s reputation for fostering strong relationships between judges and attorneys.
Recognition of Milton Gordon Award Recipients
The luncheon also included the presentation of the Milton Gordon Award, which honors attorneys under 40 or those with less than 10 years of practice for outstanding federal government service. This year’s recipients included Assistant U.S. Attorney Julia K. Schwartz, former federal prosecutor Kalia M. Coleman, and Sean J.B. Franzblau, who recently joined Venable LLP. The award presentation highlighted the recipients' significant contributions to public service and the legal profession.
Engaging Discussion and Networking Opportunities
Judge Sunil R. Harjani conducted an engaging interview with keynote speaker Ed Siskel, fielding questions submitted by attendees. The interactive discussion provided unique insights into the challenges and rewards of working in high-stakes legal roles, as well as Siskel's experiences in both the public and private sectors.
The event provided ample networking opportunities, allowing attendees to connect with peers and members of the judiciary. The FBA Chicago Chapter’s annual luncheon once again proved to be a cornerstone event, reflecting the chapter's ongoing commitment to serving the legal community and promoting professional excellence.
President Erin McAdams Franzblau outlined plans for the upcoming year, including continuing the chapter's well-received programs and introducing new initiatives. Future events include a discussion with former U.S. District Judge Gary Feinerman on October 30 and a webinar in November examining the impact of the U.S. Supreme Court’s ruling in Chevron U.S.A. Inc. v. Natural Resources Defense Council Inc. on litigation and regulatory practices. The chapter will also host an annual seminar on employment law in January, as well as additional seminars on diversity, equity, and inclusion and the distinctions between state and federal court practice.
The luncheon concluded with a sense of excitement and optimism for the year ahead, with the FBA Chicago Chapter poised to continue its tradition of excellence and meaningful engagement with the legal community. To stay connected with the Federal Bar Association Chicago Chapter, please explore our upcoming events!
Additional Reading
Manson, P. (2024, October 14). Federal Bar Association’s Chicago Chapter elects new officers, highlights future events. Chicago Law Bulletin. https://www.chicagolawbulletin.com/federal-bar-association-chicago-chapter-franzblau-siskel-kendall-20241014 (Updated October 15, 2024, 12:13 PM).
