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Emil Ovbiagele

OVB Law & Consulting SC, Milwaukee
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Platform Statement

Vote Emil Ovbiagele for Treasurer

Why I am Running:​ I’m running for Treasurer because the State Bar is more than dues and budgets – it’s about empowering Wisconsin lawyers to thrive. The State Bar is where we unite to grow, innovate, and advance our profession. It is the glue that binds. My goal as Treasurer is to protect and strengthen its fiscal foundation to support members, foster innovation, and drive progress.

A Record of Service and Results

As immediate past President of the Milwaukee Bar Association and former President of the State Bar’s Young Lawyer Division, I have worked tirelessly to represent attorneys statewide. ​I co-host the Bottom-Up podcast, addressing critical legal issues, and mentor future lawyers as an adjunct professor at Marquette University Law School.

My MBA and experience managing real estate and business ventures give me the financial acumen needed to handle complex budgets, make strategic decisions, and ensure long-term sustainability. While I’ll ensure every dollar is well-managed, don’t be surprised if I hum “The Room Where It Happens” during budget discussions – my love for Hamilton runs deep.

Action Over Words

Facing challenges like closing budget gaps and managing reserves, I will lead with transparency, accountability, and member-focused results:

• Close Budget Gaps: Proactive planning and diversified revenue streams, like sponsorships and grants, to minimize dues increases.
• Transparent Resource Management: Regular updates on financial health and a clear reserve fund policy.
• Strategic Use of Trust Funds: Align funding requests with the State Bar’s mission and future needs.

Your Voice. Your Bar. Your Future.

Leadership is about results. I’m ready to roll up my sleeves for this important work, and I humbly ask for your vote.

Biography

Professional Leadership

• President, Milwaukee Bar Association (2023-2024)
• President, State Bar of Wisconsin Young Lawyers Division (2021-2022)
• Adjunct Assistant Professor, Marquette University Law School
• Member, Milwaukee County Personnel Review Board (2023-Present)
• Former Member, State Bar of Wisconsin Board of Governors
• Co-host, Bottom-Up Podcast, State Bar of Wisconsin
• Member, Wisconsin Association of African American Lawyers
• Fellow, Wisconsin Law Foundation
• Fellow, American Bar Foundation

Honors & Awards

• Milwaukee Business Journal 40 Under 40 (2024)
• Wisconsin Law Journal Power 30 Personal Injury Attorney (2023)
• Wisconsin Law Journal Power 30 Employment Attorney (2024)
• Recipient, Wisconsin State Bar John Lederer Distinguished Service Award (2023)
• Recipient, Wisconsin Law Journal Diversity in the Law Legal All-Star (2023)
• Recipient, American Bar Association On the Rise – Top 40 Young Lawyers Award (2022)
• Recognized in Best Lawyers in America for Employment Law (2023-2024)
• Named to Wisconsin Super Lawyers® Rising Star List (2017-2024)
• Wisconsin Law Journal Up and Coming Lawyer (2017)

Education

• J.D., Marquette University Law School
• M.B.A., Marquette University Graduate School of Management
• B.A., International Affairs, Marquette University