SMBA names new director

Springfield native Crista Hogan Shuler has been named executive director of the Springfield Metropolitan Bar Associa-tion. A graduate of the University of Tulsa's College of Law and Washington, D.C.'s George Washington University, Shuler had been operating a private legal practice specializing in estate planning and probate law.

Shuler replaces Lois Zerrer, who stepped down after 12 years as the association's executive director to pursue her own private law practice.

"I'm excited about it. I think it's a good selection, and Crista will do a good job for the bar association," Zerrer said.

With the appointment to her new position, Shuler will have to change her busy schedule. She is an adjunct faculty member with Webster University, and she also has operated RCT Realty with her husband, Jim. Shuler said he will take over running that company.

More than 45 people applied for the SMBA position, said Richard Owensby, chairman of the bar's selection committee. Owensby said the committee made the choice, but the board of directors made the final decision. The committee was looking for a well-organized candidate with legal skills, Owensby said.

In addition to bar events, such as monthly luncheons and continuing-education seminars, Shuler will be responsible for the SMBA's new foundation for charitable purposes.

Rod Loomer, SMBA president, said the foundation will "give people an opportunity to contribute before and after death" to a fund that will pay for scholarships and pro bono projects. It also will allow for expanded legal services, Loomer added.

Loomer said Shuler is "very highly respected. Lots of people wrote letters urging her consideration."