Lauren Baugh is passionate about connecting people with the resources they need. As the new executive director of the Lee County Bar Association, she’ll seek innovative ways to improve access to justice, encourage communication and promote a better understanding of the law.
“At the end of the day, the bar is about people — bar members and community members alike,” Baugh said. “The legal profession plays such an important role in our society, and the bar should reflect that. Let’s bring people together and exchange ideas.”
Baugh wants to capitalize on social media and technology as a means to enhance existing connections and build new ones. She plans on continuing to enhance and promote the bar’s Lawyer Referral Service, which recently received a tech-savvy upgrade, and she’s envisioning ways to adapt traditional bar communication to emerging platforms.
“The future of the bar association and the future of technology are one and the same,” she said.
A Lee County resident since the age of 3, Baugh has deep roots in the community. She graduated from Edison Community College and Bishop Verot High School, and she has worked in management, administration, bookkeeping and philanthropy. She has an 8-year-old daughter and is an active volunteer in her school.
As well-connected as she is, Baugh’s community focus extends well beyond her own circle. She founded a nonprofit organization called Shoes, Socks, Shirts & Smiles that collects clothing for the “houseless,” a term she prefers instead of homeless.
“Home is where the heart is. Many people in need will always have a home in a certain regard. What they lack is a house,” Baugh said. “If we’re specific in the way we identify the problem, we’re more likely to uncover the right solution.”
Bar leaders were drawn to Baugh’s ability to zero in on an issue and take swift action. She impressed with her proactive approach to finding answers.
“Lauren has shown a lot of enthusiasm for this position and has expressed a lot of new, innovative ideas for implementation in her role as executive director,” said John Webb, president of the Lee County Bar Association. “We are excited to welcome Lauren and look forward to seeing the progress she will make in furtherance of the bar’s mission.”
Speak with Baugh at 239-334-0047 or LBaugh@leebar.org.