Indiana Bar Foundation Celebrates a Year of Success & Another President’s Circle Member at the 2025 Annual Meeting & Awards Luncheon

The Indiana Bar Foundation (Foundation) is thrilled to honor three remarkable community leaders and a new addition to the President’s Circle – the Foundation’s highest tier of support – at the Annual Meeting & Awards Luncheon. This distinguished event celebrates the milestones and accomplishments made in the past fiscal year and the exceptional people who contribute to the Foundation’s mission of civic education and civil legal assistance.

Timothy (Tim) J. Abeska is the recipient of the Indiana Bar Foundation’s highest honor, the Legend Award. Tim has consistently championed pro bono work and civic education throughout his career. He’s been a pillar to the Foundation and leads with an unwavering commitment to others. Whether advocating for ALS patients or serving as the first board chair of the newly incorporated Indiana Legal Help, Tim’s journey is defined by resilience, generosity, and heart.

The Honorable David Avery is the recipient of the Foundation’s Champion of Civil Legal Assistance award. Focused on enhancing the lives of Hoosiers, Judge Avery has dedicated over two decades to the Allen County Superior Court, Civil Division. His tenure on the bench concluded in December 2024, marking the end of a distinguished judicial career. Judge Avery has shaped the state’s pro bono community most recently through his work with Pro Bono Indiana as their Board President.

Julie Slaughter is the recipient of the Foundation’s Champion of Civic Education award. Julie is the Deputy Corporation Counsel for the City of Indianapolis and is no stranger to public service. She is a behind-the-scenes force helping to shape the next generation of engaged citizens. Her longtime involvement with the We the People and Mock Trial programs has helped to equip the next generation with civic knowledge and instill in them the desire to be engaged citizens.

President’s Circle members are the Foundation’s highest tier of commitment, pledging a sizable donation to the organization’s mission. The newest addition is Allen Law Group & Kenneth J. Allen, whose years of pro bono services have shaped the community. They now join Timothy J. Abeska, Faegre Drinker Biddle and Reath, and Barnes and Thornburg.

“The Foundation is proud to welcome our newest honorees into our devoted circle of supporters,” said President & CEO Chuck Dunlap. “Their dedication and service are vital in making us the trusted source for legal assistance and civic education across Indiana. We also extend our deepest appreciation to Allen Law Group and Kenneth J. Allen for their steadfast commitment to advancing the Foundation’s mission.”

The Annual Meeting & Awards Luncheon celebrates outstanding individuals in the areas of civil legal assistance and civic education. It reinforces the Foundation’s dedication to being the premier statewide charitable organization and a trusted partner in advancing civic literacy and the legal system.

From left to right: Hon. David Avery, Timothy J. Abeska, Julie Slaughter