Kevin Washburn, Dean at the University of Iowa Law College was the featured program at the Tuesday version of the Marshalltown Rotary luncheon. Mark Osmundson and Tom McCoy introduced guests.

While allowing that lawyers are not always popular, Washburn began by a humorous argument that America loves lawyers. The strong rule of law in this country has helped ensure we have the strongest economy in the world. More than half of the U.S. presidents were attorneys, as is over half of the U.S. Senate.

Paul Harris, founder of Rotary, was a graduate of the University of Iowa Law College. A native of Oklahoma, Washburn had high praise for Iowa and is thankful to be here. He highlighted some of the demographics and diversity of the 151 first-year students currently enrolled.

In response to questions, Washburn noted that two of the changes he has seen during his years of educating future lawyers is the emphasis on writing skills and the practical experience gained while in school.

The 2020-21 Rotary International theme is Rotary Opens Opportunities. Rotary isn’t just a club for people to join, but rather an invitation to endless opportunities.