Central New York Women’s Bar Association
About Central New York Women’s Bar Association
Since its founding in 1980, the Central New York Women's Bar Association has been a cornerstone of the Syracuse, NY legal community, championing justice and equality for all regardless of sex. Established when Karen DeCrow, then President of the National Organization for Women, answered a challenge to bring women attorneys together in Syracuse, the organization has grown into a powerful force for change. The association's mission is rooted in advancing the social, economic, and legal status of women through the law while expanding professional opportunities and elevating integrity within the legal field. The Central New York Women's Bar Association has left an indelible mark on the region, from challenging gender discrimination at the Onondaga County Bar Association to supporting the election of the first female OCBA president. The organization maintains deep community ties, having mentored countless law students, assisted in establishing sister chapters in Rochester and Buffalo, and raising funds for important causes like breast cancer research. The association honors its legacy through the Beatrice Krupkin Endowed Scholarship Fund, which supports law students who exemplify academic excellence and demonstrate commitment to advancing women's status in society. Today, the Central New York Women's Bar Association continues to provide a welcoming forum for addressing gender bias in law, fostering meaningful relationships among legal professionals, and working collaboratively to build a more equitable legal profession in Central New York.