The VBA Journal is the official publication of The Virginia Bar Association.
Issue link: http://vba.epubxp.com/i/815343
22 • VBA JOURNAL Make time to see YOUR NEW OFFICE The COMPLEX: Watch for promotions about the grand opening. All mem- bers of Virginia's legal community will have an opportunity to view the new space and see how VBA on Main — and the VBA — works for them. VBA MEMBERS: Stay tuned for announcements this summer about a series of exclusive open houses specifically tailored for special member types, including VBA leaders, young lawyers, Life Members, the judiciary, foundation donors, and section members. VBA on Main also will offer an ongoing series of classes, socials, and other events throughout the year. Contact the VBA if you'd like to reserve space for your events. QUESTIONS: If you have questions about how VBA on Main can serve your needs, please pose it on Ask VBA on Main at www.vba.org/ askvbaonmain. looking back to the future to serve all members of the bench and Bar. e VBA was organized in 1888, before people such as Paul Cravath and Eppa Hunton invented the modern American law firm. Its objectives remain excellence in the practice of law, professionalism, collegiality, advocacy, and access to justice. That mission and the new member center position the association perfectly to bridge, at least in part, the opportunity gap and the support gap created by the partial withdrawal of large firms from the futures of many young lawyers. "at means we can be a partner for the duration of their career — from law students to young lawyers to journeymen lawyers through senior at- torneys and Life Members — whether they are in the private practice of law, in-house, in government, or on the bench," Guy said. "is really is the final chess piece that implements your strategy … to enhance member value and build community," Van Meter said. HuYoung also sees the space as inviting to attorneys from diverse backgrounds and especially for new generations of lawyers. "is is not a 'build it and they will come' effort," he said. "It's a 'build it and promote it' effort." He added that the VBA needs to encourage new admittees — whose VBA membership in their first year in practice is free — to visit the member center and see what the VBA can do to enhance their practice. "It will give solos great impetus to join the VBA. e bar center can provide them some support, not only with office space or a business cen- ter, but perhaps a place to network," HuYoung said. "First, though, we have (Above) Together, the entry, lounge, and largest conference room can accommodate social events with up to 119 people. (Left) Workspace carrels offer solitude while small conference rooms work for taking depositions or having private meetings. Renderings courtesy of SMBW.