Diane Seltzer's Election as D.C. Bar President-Elect
Diane A. Seltzer, the principal of the Seltzer Law Firm, has been elected as the president-elect of the D.C. Bar for the upcoming term. This significant role will see her serving and representing the interests of legal professionals for the 2025–2026 term.
Background and Expertise
Seltzer is well-regarded in her field, specializing in employment law. Her contributions to the D.C. Bar have been extensive; she has served in various roles, including as the secretary on the Board of Governors and chairing the Continuing Legal Education Committee three times. She also played a strategic role in planning for the Bar through her involvement on the Strategic Planning Committee, which covered the years from 2020 to 2025, and participated in several other committees focused on screening and nominations.
Commitment to Legal Values
Upon hearing the news of her election, Seltzer expressed her excitement and readiness for the responsibilities ahead. She emphasized the need for leadership that genuinely reflects the members' values, focusing on maintaining the rule of law, ensuring a harassment-free environment for legal practice, and possessing the necessary expertise for effective governance.
Career Highlights and Contributions
After earning her law degree in 1991 from American University Washington College of Law, Seltzer began her career by clerking for judges in the Circuit Court for Maryland. In 1997, she founded her own practice, where she has since nurtured a commitment to employment law issues. Her experience includes providing training in employment discrimination law to federal judicial law clerks, illustrating her dedication to education and advocacy in the legal profession.
Academic Involvement and Recognition
Alongside her practice, Seltzer also served as an adjunct professor at American University from 2003 to 2023, where she developed a course on Human Resources Compliance for the Master of Legal Studies program. Recognition for her exceptional service came in 2016, when the U.S. District Court for the District of Maryland awarded her the Exceptional Service Award.
Other Election Results
In addition to Seltzer, the elections saw Amanda C. Molina, corporate counsel at Microsoft Corporation, elected as treasurer-elect. Current treasurer-elect Joshua L. Mogil is set to take over as treasurer soon.
A new board of governors was also elected, revealing members from various legal backgrounds and organizations. Newly elected board members include Karen Newton Cole, Louis Lopez, Andrea Mangones, Bennett Rushkoff, and Stephen A. Saltzburg. Rebecca F. Cady will replace Seltzer's seat on the Board of Governors.
Historic Voter Participation
The recent elections showcased historic engagement, with 38,636 members participating — a remarkable turnout that represents nearly half of the eligible voters within the D.C. Bar community. This active participation underscores the members' eagerness to shape their leadership and future.
About the D.C. Bar
The D.C. Bar has a longstanding tradition of enhancing access to justice and empowering lawyers since its establishment in 1972. With membership exceeding 120,000 across the globe, it aims to support its members while improving the legal system, ensuring the rule of law remains a top priority.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Diane Seltzer?
Diane Seltzer is the principal of the Seltzer Law Firm and has been elected as the president-elect of the D.C. Bar.
What role does the president-elect of the D.C. Bar play?
The president-elect represents the interests of the Bar’s members and helps lead initiatives to improve the legal profession.
What is the significance of the recent elections?
This year's elections marked historic participation, engaging nearly half of the D.C. Bar's eligible members.
When does Seltzer begin her term?
Diane Seltzer will start her term as president on July 1, 2026.
What impact has Seltzer made in her career?
Seltzer has had a profound influence in employment law, education, and legal practice, recognized for her exceptional service and commitment.
