By Haley Bohlmann, Communications Director, Chief Editor
In a ceremony steeped in tradition and reflection, Iowa’s legal community welcomed its newest members during the 146th Bar Admission Ceremony on Sept. 11 at the Scottish Rite Consistory in Des Moines.
Of the 181 who passed the bar, an estimated 150 newly licensed attorneys stood before family, friends, and distinguished guests as they took the Iowa Lawyers Oath, marking their official entry into the profession. The event, led by Thomas Mayes, chair of the Iowa Board of Law Examiners, featured remarks from Iowa Supreme Court Justice Dana Oxley, Iowa State Bar Association (ISBA) President Kathy Law, ISBA Young Lawyers Division (YLD) President Manuel Cornell, and Ericka Petersen of Iowa Legal Aid.
Justice Oxley encouraged admittees to take pride in their achievement while reflecting on the responsibility that comes with a law license. “We are part of something bigger than ourselves,” she said, reminding new attorneys that their role as officers of the court, advocates for clients, and members of the legal community demands integrity, honesty, civility, and service. “Iowa is a great place to practice,” she added, underscoring the state’s strong legal tradition.
ISBA President Kathy Law emphasized the personal and community-oriented nature of law practice in Iowa. “Here it is personal—your neighbors, small business owners, or judges may know your struggles and your story,” she said. “You are joining a story bigger than your own, strengthening the profession and improving life for all Iowans.”
Speaking on behalf of the Young Lawyers Division, YLD President Manuel Cornell acknowledged the resilience it took to reach this moment. “Passing the bar requires sacrifice,” he said. “But today you officially join the ranks of the legal profession, and know that you are not walking alone. Our profession thrives on the diversity of your experiences and perspectives. You have earned your place, and your voice matters.”
The theme of service carried through with remarks from Ericka Petersen of Iowa Legal Aid, who encouraged new attorneys to engage in pro bono opportunities. “This is a special place to practice law,” she said. She outlined the many ways to contribute, from limited scope representation and legal hotlines to the Iowa Legal Aid Veterans Project and services for older Iowans. “You don’t have to do it alone.”
After reciting the oath, the admittees were welcomed into the profession with applause and celebration.
Meet some of Iowa’s newest attorneys
Among those admitted were individuals beginning their careers in diverse areas of practice:
- James Rettenmeier, a Drake University Law School graduate, has joined Dubuque-based firm Reynolds & Kenline.
- Taylor Kropp, who earned her degree through the University of New Hampshire Franklin Pierce School of Law, is working as in-house counsel and is considering service with the Air Force or Reserve as a JAG officer.
- Aaron Baker, a graduate of Drake University Law School, will begin practicing real estate and estate planning with Katz, Nowinski, P.C. in Moline.
A community welcome
Following the ceremony, the ISBA Young Lawyers Division hosted a reception for the new attorneys, their families, and guests at the ISBA Building in Des Moines. Attendees mingled with ISBA leaders, prominent members of the Iowa legal community, and colleagues from across the state, celebrating the milestone with food, drinks, and a strong sense of community.
The 146th Bar Admission Ceremony not only marked a professional accomplishment for Iowa’s newest attorneys but also served as a reminder of the values of service, integrity, and community that define the practice of law in Iowa.
Iowa's 146th Bar Admission Ceremony took place at the Scottish Rite Consistory in Des Moines on Sept. 11
Iowa Supreme Court Justice Dana Oxley addresses the newly admitted lawyers before administering the Iowa Lawyers Oath
ISBA President Kathy Law welcomes new lawyers to The Iowa State Bar Association
Of the 181 who passed the bar, an estimated 150 new licensed attorneys stood to take the Iowa Lawyers Oath
New admittees were greeted in a receiving line of dignitaries, including ISBA President Kathy Law and YLD President Manuel Cornell
Newly admitted lawyer James Rettenmeier (left) with ISBA YLD President Manuel Cornell (right) at the ISBA welcome reception
New attorneys, their families and guests, and members of the legal community at the ISBA Building
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Conrad Baker (left) and son Aaron Baker (right) at the ISBA welcome reception on Sept. 11
Food display at the ISBA Building for the newly admitted welcome reception
The ISBA YLD sponsored a booth with complimentary swag for the newly admitted
Iowa Organization of Women Attorneys (I.O.W.A.) representatives Emily Gould-Chafa (left) and Miki McGovern (right) welcomed attendees
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