Board of Governors Elections
Governor At-Large
The WSBA Board of Governors is the governing body of the Washington State Bar Association. The Board of Governors focuses on policy, leadership, strategy, and oversight of the organization. Governors and Officers of the Board of Governors exhibit a commitment to service, vision, leadership, diplomacy, and dedication to the mission to serve the public and the members of the WSBA, to ensure the integrity of the legal profession and to champion justice.
Important: Learn more about serving on the WSBA Board of Governors.
The WSBA seeks applications for Governor At-large
This position is currently held by Governor Tom Ahearne, who is eligible to serve a second term.
Applicants for this position will be interviewed by the Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Council, who shall forward at least three candidates 'who have a lived experience and knowledge of the needs of those members who membership is or may be historically underrepresented in governance to the end that the Board of Governors will be a more diverse and representatives body than the results of the election of governors based solely on congressional districts may allow. Diversity refers to meaningful representation of, and equal opportunities for, individuals who have lived experience as a member from one or more historically underrepresented communities in the legal profession. Underrepresentation encompasses and is not limited to, race, disability, age, ethnicity, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, and gender expression.
The term for this position is three-years beginning at the conclusion of the Sept. 24–25, 2026 Board meeting and ending September 2029.
Eligibility
Any active member of the Bar, except a person who has previously served as a governor for more than 48 consecutive months, may be nominated or apply.
Application Process
Applications are due to barleaders@wsba.org no later than 5 p.m. PST on April 15, 2026. Late materials will not be accepted. Materials will be published online. The application includes:
- Application Form*
- Candidate Statement (200 words maximum)
- Candidate Profile Form. Profile forms may be edits to align with WSBA branding guidelines.
- Photo. Photo should be of good quality and will be posted on wsba.org. The ideal photo size for web publishing is 150px (width) by 200px (height) at 72 dpi. Photo may be cropped to fit sizing requirements.
- Letters of Support. Can be sent individually and must be received by the deadline.
*The application form is required. All other information is optional but recommended.
Interview Process
The DEI Council invites all applicants for an interview scheduled for noon–2 p.m. April 22, 2026. More details will be provided soon.
Election Information
If contested, all active WSBA members are eligible to vote in this election. The election will be administered by a third party. Voting in this election is May 15–June 1. Election results are certified by an Election Board appointed by the WSBA president.
New Governor Orientation
All governor-elects are required to participate in an orientation, which includes:
- July 22. New Governor Orientation in Marysville. Attendance is required.
- July 23–24. Board of Governors Meeting in Marysville. Governors-elect are expected to attend as part of their orientation. In-person and remote participation available.
- July 25. Board of Governors Meeting Planning Retreat. Governors-elect are expected to attend as part of their orientation. In-person and remote participation available.
- Sept. 24–25. Board of Governors Meeting in Spokane. Swearing-in ceremony for all new Governors. Governors-elect are expected to attend. In-person and remote participation available.
A Look Back at Governor At-Large (B) (2002–Present)
- Tom Ahearne (2023–present)
- Alec Stephens (2017–2020) and (2021–2023)
- Mario Cava (2014–2017)
- James Armstrong (2011–2024)
- Anthony David Gipe (2008–2011)
- Eric de los Santos (2005–2008)
- Fawn Sharp (2002–2005)
One Governor At-large (A) position was added to the Board in 2001. Two positions were created beginning in 2002.
Other Open Positions on the Board
Early Election Results
Accommodations
The WSBA is committed to full access and participation by persons with disabilities. If you have any questions about accessibility or require accommodation, please contact accomodations@wsba.org and visit our Accommodations page for more information.
Questions?
Please contact Paris Eriksen, WSBA Manager of Volunteer Engagement, at parise@wsba.org or barleaders@wsba.org.
The WSBA values diversity and inclusion, and encourages Black, indigenous, and people of color, women, people from the LBGTQ+ communities, people with disabilities, and members of other groups who have been systemically oppressed to apply for our committees, boards, and panels.
