Greek Americans Lead Top Bar Associations

Chicago is home to many prominent attorneys, a good portion of them Greek American. Two top bar associations in the state of Illinois have recently elected new leaders. Both are the first Greek Americans to lead their organizations.

Mark D. Hassakis, an attorney from downstate Mount Vernon, Ill. was recently installed as the 134^th president of the Illinois State Bar Association. (ISBA). ISBA, a 33,000-member group, provides professional services to Illinois lawyers, plus education and services to the public. Hassakis’ law practice focuses on injury and wrongful death. He is a partner at Hassakis & Hassakis PC, a firm established by his father Demetri in 1950.

Last month, The Women’s Bar Association of Illinois (WBAI) also installed a new leader. Kathryn Gallanis Matern is the new president. The organization was established in 1914 by nine Chicago area women, “to promote the interests and welfare of women lawyers and to aid in the enactment of legislation for the common good and the administration of justice.” Today, the group continues to work to ensure the professional development and advancement of its members. The group is one of the oldest and largest bar associations in the state. WBAI “continues to take positions on numerous social and political issues, work towards the passage of legislation as well as provide an untiring support for women’s rights.” Matern is employed by the Chicago firm Bruce Farrel Dorn and Associates. She specializes in personal injury defense and has extensive trial experience.

Hassakis, an active volunteer in his local community, will be recognized this fall by the Hellenic Bar Association of Illinois. They will honor him with their annual “Professional Achievement Award.”

In 2001 Matern was selected by Today’s Chicago Woman magazine as one of “100 Women Making a Difference.” She also is active in many civic organizations, and as an Associate Professor, teaches courses in criminal justice at Lewis University.