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June
2023
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09:55 AM
America/Chicago

Meet #MOLawyers: Scott Robbins

Vol. 79, No. 3 / May-June 2023

Scott Robbins 2023Scott Robbins is a lawyer at Kennedy, Kennedy, Robbins & Yarbro, LC in Poplar Bluff. Robbins currently serves on The Missouri Bar Board of Governors and is chair of the Editorial Board of the Journal of The Missouri Bar. He is a graduate of the 2001-02 Leadership Academy class and served as a Leadership Academy advisor. He was on The Missouri Bar Young Lawyers’ Section Council and Client Security Fund Committee. A graduate of the University of Missouri School of Law, Robbins credits his time with Leadership Academy for the 20-plus years of Missouri Bar involvement.

Why do you think Leadership Academy is a valuable opportunity for lawyers? 

During my time with Leadership Academy, I learned about the rich heritage of Missouri lawyers and their example of leadership, not just with the bar, but in their local communities and around the world. I was inspired to give back to the profession that was giving me the opportunity to make a difference for my family and my community.

What are some lessons you learned from being part of Leadership Academy? 

The importance of generosity in terms of time, talent, and finances. So many fabulous lawyers – like Dana Tippin Cutler, Doreen Dodson, and Maurice Graham – were generous with their talent, showing us how to handle difficult situations with grace and understanding. I was reminded that differences of opinion were a good thing, so long as the discussion was focused upon solving a problem and not putting down another.

How do you think the lessons and skills you learned from Leadership Academy have translated to your leadership roles and career since? 

Leadership Academy taught me to be more inclusive as a leader, making sure that everyone on the team felt valuable and that their opinion mattered. I’ve used this skill at work, with Missouri Bar committees, and with committee work at church. There is great value in a simple phone call, text, or handwritten note of encouragement and gratitude.

What would you say to encourage lawyers to apply for Leadership Academy? 

Give it a try. There are very few opportunities in life as rewarding as the Leadership Academy. The skills learned transfer to every part of the legal profession and of life. Who doesn’t want to be a better lawyer and person?

Why do you think it’s important for lawyers to get involved in their state and/or local bars? 

The legal profession is stronger when there are more involved. Geographical diversity is as important as racial and gender diversity. There are fantastic lawyers in rural Missouri who have a lot to contribute, both locally and statewide. The local bars and The Missouri Bar provide a great opportunity to become a bigger part of the profession.

Editor’s note: These responses have been edited for clarity and brevity. Do you know someone who should be featured in Meet #MOLawyers? Let us know by emailing nhillen@mobar.org.