American College of Trust and Estate Counsel Welcomes New Class of 55 Fellows

ACTEC Elects 55 New Fellows to the College

In a significant development for the field of trust and estate law, the Board of Regents of the American College of Trust and Estate Counsel (ACTEC) gathered during the 2026 Fall Meeting in Denver, Colorado, to announce the election of 55 distinguished professionals to join its ranks as new Fellows. This latest group includes individuals from various specializations within the trust and estate sector, indicating a broadening of expertise and perspectives within the College.

Among those elected were two Academic Fellows, two International Fellows from Malta and Germany, three Fiduciary Counsel Fellows, and 48 private practice Fellows. Notably, 12 of the newly inducted Fellows are graduates from the ACTEC Fellows Institute, a program that nurtures emerging leaders in the field. Additionally, one new Fellow is recognized as a Dennis I. Belcher Young Leader, emphasizing the commitment to encouraging young talent in estate law.

ACTEC's President, Margaret G. Lodise, expressed her enthusiasm about the new members, stating, "Welcoming 55 distinguished trust and estate lawyers and professors to the College is an exciting moment for ACTEC. This exceptional class reflects the extraordinary depth of talent, leadership, and commitment to excellence within the trusts and estates profession." Lodise highlighted that the expertise brought in by these new Fellows will not only enrich the conversation within the College but also enhance efforts to advance the practice for both lawyers and the general public.

To qualify for Fellowship, nominees must have a minimum of ten years of active practice in trust and estate law or related fiduciary roles. The rigorous selection is based on an individual's outstanding reputation, exceptional abilities, and significant contributions to the field through activities such as lecturing, writing, teaching, and involvement in bar leadership or legislative efforts. ACTEC aims to continuously improve and reform relevant laws, procedures, and standards within the practice of trust and estates.

The newly elected Fellows represent a diverse group of professionals from various states and backgrounds:

- Kathi L. Ayers of Vienna, VA, a 2023 Southeast Fellows Institute Graduate
- Chad R. Baker from Perrysburg, OH
- Erin E. Behring of Little Rock, AR
- Susan B. Bock from Portland, OR
- Ramona Cassar from Ta'Xbiex, Malta

This trend of diverse backgrounds continues with additional Fellows from all corners of the United States and internationally, showcasing the global nature of the field.

The ACTEC Fellowship is not merely an accolade but a commitment to the advancement of the trust and estate planning profession. The organization supports Fellows in their professional development and encourages active participation in shaping the future of trust and estate laws.

The ACTEC Fellows Institutes play a crucial role in developing talent within the field by providing rigorous training and education focused on trusts and estates law. These intensive, multi-day programs are designed for lawyers at a crucial stage in their careers, typically those with two to seven years of experience in the field. Successful completion of an Institute may serve as a pathway toward achieving Fellowship status within ACTEC.

With the election of these 55 new Fellows, ACTEC continues to uphold its mission since its founding in 1949 as a national, nonprofit association dedicated to excellence in the area of trust and estate counsel. The organization now boasts approximately 2,300 members who are highly regarded for their expertise in estate planning, trust administration, and related legal practices.

As these new Fellows embark on this esteemed journey, their collective expertise will undoubtedly help influence the future of trust and estate law, benefiting both practitioners and the clients they serve in navigating complex legal landscapes.