The Indiana State Bar Association was "born" on June 23, 1896, in the hall of the Indiana House of Representatives with more than 100 lawyers present. Benjamin Harrison served as the Association's first president and remains the only two-term president in its history. Three years earlier he had concluded his service as the nation's 23rd president and returned to his law practice in Indiana. Today, the ISBA is the largest legal organization in the state. With more than 12,000 members, the Association continues to serve and advocate on behalf of its members (lawyers, judges, paralegals, law librarians, law students and legal and court administrators), their clients and the public as the independent voice of the legal profession. It strives to advance the profession of law and secure a more effective administration of justice; promote reforms in the law; and encourage excellence in legal education for both the law student and the practicing lawyer. MISSION To improve the administration of justice and promote public understanding of the legal system. VISION To serve and advocate on behalf of its members, their clients and the public interest as the independent voice of the legal profession.