Getting to Know Kenya Bodden, 2022-2023 RCBA President

How did you get involved with the bar association?

I was encouraged by the managing attorney of my law firm to join RCBA. He knew joining the association would be a great networking and education tool for young lawyers in the firm. He was right. After joining I became a member of the Diversity Committee. After participating in the Families First event at Johnson Elementary school on the East side of Saint Paul I was impressed at how the association not only provided opportunities for its members to meet, network, learn and improve their practice, but we were also able to have a positive impact in our community.

If you couldn’t be a lawyer, what job would you want to try?

If I wasn't a lawyer, I would be a teacher. I guess as a trial lawyer, I am teaching when I present evidence and arguments to the jury.

What led you to a career in law? How did you choose your area of practice?

I wanted to become an attorney after reading To Kill a Mockingbird. I wanted to advocate on behalf of people just like Atticus Finch.

What is one achievement—in your career or somewhere else in your life—that you are proud of?

I am most proud of being a dad and having a family.

What’s a great piece of advice you’ve received?

A very wise friend once told me, "Life is a series of adjustments," and they were right.

How do you unwind and add balance to your week? When you aren’t a lawyer what are you up to?

I spend time with my family and friends.

What books, movies, podcasts or TV shows have you enjoyed recently?
I liked Winning Time. It’s the story of the L.A. Lakers.