Latest News

Press Release

Contact:
Maggie Martin
Director, Marketing and Communications
O: 346-471-3428
maggiem@hba.org
 

Houston Bar Association Welcomes Gregory C. Ulmer as 2026-2027 Bar President

Veteran litigator and HBA leader to strengthen member engagement and expand legal services supporting Houston youth

(HOUSTON – May 8, 2026) – Gregory C. Ulmer, a partner with BakerHostetler, took office as the 2026-2027 President of the Houston Bar Association at the HBA’s Annual Dinner on May 7. Ulmer succeeds Houston attorney Daniella Landers, Attorney at Law. 

Ulmer is a practicing trial lawyer with more than 25 years of experience representing clients in complex litigation. Throughout his legal career, Ulmer has been recognized for his commitment to professionalism, service, and leadership within the legal community. A graduate of the University of Houston Law Center, his service to the HBA spans decades and includes terms as first vice president, second vice president, and secretary, as well as leadership roles on numerous HBA committees addressing access to justice, community outreach, public education, and professional development. In addition, Ulmer has served as president of the Houston Lawyer Referral Service and chair of the Dispute Resolution Center.

During his term, Ulmer will focus on three key initiatives. First, the HBA will launch a Managing Partners Forum for HBA 100 Club member firms with 25 or more attorneys, providing a dedicated space for firm leaders to connect and discuss issues affecting the practice of law. Second, Ulmer will lead efforts to strengthen the HBA’s partnership with The HAY Center, expanding collaborative programs to support current and former foster youth transitioning to adulthood. Finally, the HBA will host an expungement and record sealing clinic in partnership with My Brother's Keeper Houston, a citywide community initiative supporting young men of color across Houston.

“It is an honor to serve as president of the Houston Bar Association and to continue its longstanding tradition of service to both the legal profession and the greater Houston community,” said Ulmer. “This year, my focus is on service that matters inside our profession and beyond it by strengthening engagement with our HBA 100 Club firms and expanding the Bar’s efforts to provide meaningful legal services to Houston’s youth. I am grateful to Daniella Landers for her exemplary leadership as president and for her dedication to advancing the mission of the HBA.”

Ulmer will lead the 2026–2027 HBA Board of Directors, including President‑Elect Kaylan Dunn of Hunton Andrews Kurth LLP; First Vice President Richard Whiteley of Bracewell LLP; Second Vice President Carter Dugan of Norton Rose Fulbright US LLP; Treasurer Collin Cox of Gibson, Dunn & Crutcher LLP; Secretary Robert Painter of Painter Law Firm PLLC; and Immediate Past President Daniella Landers, Attorney at Law. Serving alongside the officers are 2025-2027 directors Greg Moore of Blank Rome LLP; Colin Pogge of Daly & Black, P.C.; Mia Lorick of Troutman Pepper Locke LLP; and Todd Frankfort of O’Neil Wysocki P.C.; and 2026-2028 directors Stephanie Noble of Vinson & Elkins LLP; Samantha Torres of Camillo Companies; Keri Brown of Baker Botts L.L.P.; and Seepan V. Parseghian Beck Redden LLP, along with the HBA’s ex officio board members. 

The HBA presented its President’s Awards to outstanding HBA members who led exceptional committee and section work during the Bar year. 

The HBA also awarded two HBA members with prestigious awards for women in the law, as well as professionalism. 

This year’s Justice Ruby Kless Sondock Award, which recognizes outstanding achievement and leadership for women in the law, was presented to: The Honorable Sofia Adrogué, judge of Texas’ Eleventh Business Court Division. 

The Justice Eugene A. Cook Professionalism Award, the association’s highest award for professionalism, was presented to: Dick Schwartz, shareholder of Munsch Hardt Kopf & Harr, P.C. and executive director of The Garland R. Walker Inn of Court.

###

The Houston Bar Association is a nonprofit professional organization for attorneys that provides education and service programs for the legal profession and the community. With over 10,000 members, the HBA is one of the largest metropolitan bar associations in the nation.

The HBA office will be closed on Monday, May 25, in observance of Memorial Day.

Make plans for Wednesday, June 17 and join us at Ciro's for a night out with the Houston legal community. Sip and socialize over a four-course wine dinner designed to bring great food and even better company together. It’s the perfect midweek reset! Space is limited, so secure your spot early.

RESERVE YOUR SPOT

Looking to get more out of your membership? Join a Section or Committee and meet other members who share your interests, practice areas, and even your path!

The HBA is bringing even more to the table this year, including 3 new Sections you’ll want to check out. It’s a great way to tap into new opportunities, stay connected, and build meaningful relationships along the way.

Get involved, stay engaged, and make it count!

Thank you to everyone who joined us for the 2026 Bench Bar Conference and post-event happy hour, sponsored by Troutman Pepper Locke LLP, on Friday, April 10!

Houston’s Bench and Bar came together for a full day of CLE, connecting, valuable networking, and a lively happy hour with colleagues. It was truly a memorable day!

We want to extend our heartfelt thanks to the HBA Bench Bar Conference Committee for your leadership producing this year’s successful conference. 

A big thank you to our 2026 Bench Bar Conference Sponsors! See you in April 2027!

Thank you to all the amazing participants who made our 78th Annual Golf Tournament, presented by Thomas J. Henry Law, an absolute hole-in-one success on May 4! And a special thank you to our generous sponsors and dedicated volunteers. 

The day was filled with friendly competition, camaraderie, and support for two fantastic causes: the Houston Bar Foundation and HBA Habitat for Humanity home builds. Every swing and every putt contributed to making a difference in our community. 

PHOTOS, WINNERS, AND MORE COMING SOON

On February 21, hundreds of runners from across Houston hit the pavement for a great cause! All net proceeds benefited Pursuit Center, which provides housing, education, job opportunities, resources, and more for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities and autism. We look forward to sharing the total amount raised in the coming months—stay tuned!

All 8K and 1 mile participants received finisher medals, and awards for first, second, and third place were given to individuals in their age divisions, as well as to teams. Thank you to our sponsors, volunteers, and participants for your help making this year’s event a success! 

Thank you to Constable Alan Rosen and the entire Precinct One Constable's Office for donating your resources and for your long-time support!

VIEW RESULTS, PHOTOS, AND EVENT SURVEY

The HBA was excited to participate in South Texas College of Law Houston’s Career Connections: Legal Organization Showcase on February 24. Our Associate Director of Community Engagement & Initiatives, Georgina Peña, and CE&I Coordinator Juliana Escobedo spent the afternoon visiting with students, sharing the many ways the HBA can support them as they begin their legal careers.

Georgina and Juliana encouraged attendees to take advantage of free HBA membership for law students and highlighted opportunities to get involved, from networking events and pro bono programs to mentorship and leadership development. We enjoyed meeting so many enthusiastic future lawyers and look forward to welcoming them into the HBA community!

Learn more about membership benefits for law students here.
 

On February 19, we had the privilege of attending South Texas College of Law Houston's 3rd Annual Law Suits Fashion Show! Law students hit the runway, showing how to dress for success in style, all while highlighting the Law Suits program, which provides gently used professional clothing to law students at no cost. Programs like these help students step confidently into their professional futures. 

Have items to give? Learn more or donate gently used men’s or women’s suits or workplace accessories by contacting studentsupport@stcl.edu.

Explore the latest issue of The Houston Lawyer, featuring updates in juvenile law, an attorney’s inspiring journey from land to sea, insights from two Marines who’ve transitioned into the legal field, and more! 

READ HERE

LISTEN TO THE PODCAST EPISODE HERE