When Brian Coughlin was sworn in as president of the Jacksonville Bar Association for the 2025–26 term, he set the tone with clarity and conviction. His theme for the year, “Elevating Our Profession,” is more than a slogan—it’s a blueprint for action.
Paired with the motto inherited from his father, legendary football coach Tom Coughlin—“Deeds, not words”—our president’s vision urges each of us to define our commitment to the profession not by what we say, but by what we do.
As a member of the board of governors, I’ve taken this message to heart. The charge to elevate our profession demands more than exceptional advocacy in the courtroom or diligent work at our desks.
It demands engagement with our colleagues, with the community and with the future of the legal profession. President Cou