DRI Election Hub

Filling out ballot election

Welcome to the DRI Election Hub: Where Your Impact Takes Shape!

At DRI, we believe that active participation is at the heart of a thriving organization. Our election process is a vital cornerstone of our democratic structure, allowing members like you to shape the future direction of DRI. Whether you're a long-time member looking to deepen your involvement or a newcomer eager to make your mark, this hub will empower you with all the information and resources you need to engage meaningfully in our election process.

Explore the DRI Election Hub to:

  • Understand the Process: Get a comprehensive overview of how our elections work. From nomination procedures to voting protocols, we'll demystify every step, ensuring you're well-informed.
  • Meet the Candidates: Learn about the dedicated individuals running for various positions within DRI. Discover their backgrounds, visions, and the expertise they bring to the table. New officers are announced each year during the DRI Annual Meeting.
  • Get Involved: Find out how you can actively participate in the election process. Whether you're interested in running for a position or volunteering to support a candidate, there are numerous ways to contribute.
  • Stay Informed: Stay updated with election announcements, important dates, and news related to the election cycle. We'll keep you informed every step of the way.
"I've always challenged the notion that a leadership title or a lengthy legal career automatically equates to solid leadership skills. The true leaders I know see leadership as a continuous journey of growth and learning that is never complete . . . My tenure as DRI president was one of the best professional experiences of my life. It was a privilege to serve as president of such a fabulous organization that provides much-needed resources for today's civil defense lawyers. The past year was an enriching experience that provided many opportunities for personal growth and learning."

—Lana A. Olson, DRI Past President

Your voice matters, and your involvement is essential to shaping the future of DRI. Together, we can work towards our shared vision and make a meaningful impact within our organization. Join us in fostering a vibrant and engaged community, where every member has the opportunity to influence the direction of DRI.


Send In Your Declarations for the 2026 DRI Elections

DRI 2026 Elections Declarations Due July 1, 2026

Ready to Shape the Future of the Defense Bar? DRI, the Association of Lawyers Defending Business, is seeking dynamic leaders to champion the interests of our members and all defense attorneys. If you’re passionate about making an impact and elevating your career, now is your opportunity to step forward.

Four National Director seats on the DRI Board of Directors, plus the offices of Second Vice President and Secretary–Treasurer, will be filled at the DRI 2026 Annual Meeting in Washington, D.C. on October 21-23.

To be considered for one of these positions, a DRI member must first file a Declaration of Candidacy form. If you have any issues or questions concerning the Declaration of Candidacy, please contact elections@dri.org.

Declarations are due July 1, 2026, at 5:00 p.m. CDT.

DRI Recognizes Second Vice President, Secretary/Treasurer, National and Regional Directors, and State Representatives at 2025 Annual Meeting

At the 2025 DRI Annual Meeting in Chicago, Illinois, on October 15–17, the DRI Board of Directors elected four individuals to join them as national directors (each serving three-year terms), as well as the next DRI second vice president and secretary/treasurer. Four new regional directors were also recognized, who will serve three-year terms, and fourteen new state representatives.

Thank you to the Nominating Committee, chaired this year by DRI Past President Emily G. Coughlin, for its work during the 2025 DRI Elections.

Congratulations to the individuals below for their appointments.

Second Vice President

  • Ricardo A. Woods, Burr & Forman, Mobile, Alabama

Secretary-Treasurer

  • Michael D. Carter, Hall Booth Smith, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma

New National Directors

  • Imoh E. Akpan, Goldberg Segalla, Baltimore, Maryland
  • Fred E. (Trey) Bourn III, Bradley Arant Boult Cummings, Jackson, Mississippi
  • J. Richard Moore, Bleeke Dillon Crandall, Indianapolis, Indiana
  • James E. Weatherholtz, Womble Bond Dickinson (US), Charleston, South Carolina

New Regional Directors

  • Mid-Atlantic RegionDavid A. Anderson
  • Northeast RegionStephen P. Cooney
  • Mid RegionBrandon P. Hull
  • Pacific RegionHeather L. Mills

New State Representatives

  • ArizonaBrian Rubin
  • CaliforniaEd Tugade
  • ColoradoHillary Patterson
  • District of ColumbiaBen Peoples
  • IowaBrenda Wallrichs
  • KansasRyan Meyer
  • LouisianaAmber Barlow Garcia
  • MissouriBrian Kuhlmann
  • NevadaMichael Lowry
  • North DakotaCourtney Presthus
  • OhioDavid Orlandini
  • South CarolinaJennifer Nutter
  • South DakotaTyler Haigh
  • UtahDennis Flynn