Young Leaders Program

The Dennis I. Belcher (DIB) Young Leaders Program is an initiative developed by the American College of Trust and Estate Counsel (ACTEC)’s Diversity, Equity and Inclusivity Committee. The program began in 2015 and was later named for Dennis I. Belcher, a respected leader in the legal profession and a Past President of ACTEC, who passed away in 2017.

Purpose of the Program

The DIB Young Leaders Program is a collaboration with the American Bar Association Real Property, Trust and Estate Law Section (RPTE) Fellows Program. It provides successful trust and estate graduates of the two-year RPTE Program an opportunity to extend their participation in RPTE leadership activities through the financial support of The ACTEC Foundation. The DIB Young Leaders Program aims to identify, mentor, and support the next generation of leaders in the trust and estate field.

Key Features

1. Professional Development: Participants gain access to mentoring opportunities and educational programs to enhance their skills in trust and estate law.
2. Mentorship: Participants are paired with experienced ACTEC Fellows who provide guidance and support throughout the program.
3. Networking Opportunities: The program allows young professionals to build relationships with leaders in the field and expand their professional networks.
4. Diversity Focus: A key goal of the program is to promote diversity within the trust and estate profession by including participants from underrepresented groups.

Eligibility

Candidates for the ABA RPTE Fellows Program (1) have practiced in the trust and estate or real property area for at least one year, (2) are younger than 36 years of age or have been admitted to the bar less than 10 years, and (3) have demonstrated leadership at the state or local bar level or in the ABA Young Lawyers Division. Selection often considers leadership potential, commitment to the field, and efforts to promote diversity. The program is an excellent opportunity for emerging professionals to grow their expertise and make meaningful contributions to the legal community, honoring Dennis Belcher’s legacy of leadership and service. Trust and estate Fellows who successfully complete ABA RPTE’s Fellows Program are automatically considered for the Dennis I. Belcher Young Leaders Program.