John F. Martin became the new president of the Akron Bar Association on June 24, providing attorneys with essential connections and professional support.
The swearing-in ceremony took place at the Akron Zoo and was led by retired Ohio 9th District Court of Appeals Judge Thomas Teodosio. Martin, a member of Brennan, Manna & Diamond, started his term on July 1.
A career built on relationships
Martin focuses on business, corporate, and real estate matters. He explained that working in these areas limited his interactions with other lawyers outside his firm. His involvement with the bar association helped bridge that gap.
The group offers continuing legal education programs, legal updates, and practice guidance—resources he now plans to emphasize. A native of Akron, Martin earned his political science degree from Miami University and his Juris Doctor from The Ohio State University Moritz College of Law in 1984.
After clerking for retired Ohio 9th District Court of Appeals Judge Edward Mahoney, he joined Amer Cunningham Brennan Co. before moving to his current firm in 2001. His work centers on transactions that produce visible outcomes. “I enjoy making an impact and seeing the direct results, whether it’s a new building or a product that helps a business expand,” he said.
Priorities for the Akron Bar Association
Martin aims to grow membership and strengthen ties with law schools. Many new members come from these institutions, so he wants to demonstrate the value of joining. He also intends to reach out to other northeast Ohio law schools to promote mentorship opportunities.
Financial stability and increased engagement are also key goals. Membership has remained steady, but he hopes to see growth. The association hosts numerous events and provides CLE sessions both in person and online.
One of his immediate tasks is raising awareness of the Lawyer Referral and Information Service, which connects the public with attorneys.
Colleagues have praised his leadership. Immediate past president Brian J. Moore called him a strong addition to the bar’s leadership. “John is smart, pleasant, and works well with everyone,” said Moore, a shareholder at Roetzel & Andress.
The two attorneys, who practice in similar fields, have known each other for years. Their families live in the same neighborhood, and their wives often walk together for exercise.
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Akron Bar Association President-elect Alisa N. Benedict O’Brien, assistant dean at The University of Akron School of Law, shared similar sentiments. “I’m personally excited to work with John and grateful the legal community will benefit from his leadership,” she said. “He’s the right person to advance the association and focus on membership growth.”
Martin’s past service includes a role on the association’s Board of Directors.
Shifting the bar’s culture
The organization has already begun updating its approach. The annual meeting, once a formal event, is now a family-friendly gathering at the Akron Zoo—a change introduced by former president Judge Teodosio. “Our annual meeting used to feel stuffy, but now it’s a great event for families,” Martin said. “I want to keep offering social gatherings that members look forward to attending.”
For him, the presidency is both an honor and a way to contribute. “I gained a lot from my bar membership, and this role lets me give back by helping the organization move forward for future generations.”
The Akron Bar Association, established in 1875, represents over 1,400 attorneys in Summit County. Its programs include legal education, public service initiatives, and professional development opportunities.