November 2026 eBulletin Now Available

Dear Fellows:

I write this as the Annual Meeting in New York City comes to a close. We were privileged to enjoy thought provoking presentations on topics ranging from Plato to Gershwin, from the Court of Chancery to the United Nations, and from the business of Broadway to the Pursuit of Happiness by the founders of the United States. We were also honored to present the Samuel E. Gates Litigation Award to Judge Bernice Donald and the Emil Gumpert Award to the Association for the Public Defender of Maryland Decarceration Initiative. Both award recipients inspired us and reminded us of the important role that trial lawyers and judges play in the administration of justice. We also enjoyed many opportunities for fellowship, including the Inductee Banquet in the stunning Waldorf Astoria Ballroom on Friday night, and the once in a lifetime event on Ellis Island on Saturday night.

John A. Day took the stage for the last time as President on Saturday afternoon, after many years of distinguished service to the College. John led the College through a challenging time that involved significant change and challenges. He did so with excellent judgment, patience, and humor. He worked hard, listened, and forged consensus for the benefit of the College. The College is only better, and our fellowship and collegiality only stronger, after John’s year as President.

As I noted during Friday’s General Session, the College’s role in protecting the rule of law has become increasingly important amid the significant and unprecedented challenges facing both the United States and Canada. This is a diverse fellowship in the broadest sense of the word. Fellows hold different views and we are not always going to agree. But it is important not to lose sight of the fact that it is our differences that make this College stronger and that give the College the power of an influential voice when it does act or speak out. The powerful voice of the College sends a strong message that protection of the rule of law transcends political boundaries.

As Fellows of the College, our strong bonds of collegiality are critical to our successful navigation of these challenges. As the third Canadian in 77 years to lead the College, I look forward to strengthening the long-standing bonds of friendship and respect that have always existed between Canadian and American Fellows. While the political landscape has fractured the historically close relationship between our two countries, I am confident beyond any doubt that the bonds of fellowship of this College are unbreakable, as we stand united on both sides of the border as truly the last line of defence of the rule of law.

My husband Stephen and I are excited for the opportunity to serve the College in the upcoming year. We look forward to our travels across the United States and Canada, to seeing old friends and to meeting new ones. And, to all of the American Fellows, a very Happy Thanksgiving!

Sandra A. Forbes
President

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