The Indiana Bar Foundation Board of Directors established the Fellows in 1979 as a membership group of attorneys throughout Indiana recognized for their dedication to the legal profession, support of access to justice for all Hoosiers, involvement in and contributions to the legal community and the community at large and demonstrated integrity and character.  The Fellows bylaws state that potential Fellows must be:

Members of the Indiana State Bar Association in good standing who are recognized for professional, public and private careers which have demonstrated outstanding legal ability and devotion to the welfare of their community, state and nation, as well as to the advancement of the legal profession.

More than 400 Indiana lawyers became charter members in 1979 and pledged in excess of $400,000 to support the grant making efforts of the Indiana Bar Foundation.  Since then, the financial support of the Fellows has helped grant more than $1.5 million to support many worthwhile programs throughout the state.

Membership constitutes an honor and evidence of professional distinction.  The Fellows Nominating Committee, appointed by the IBF Board President, represents each of the 11 ISBA districts and submits nominations to the Board of Directors.  Nominated individuals can join at three different membership levels – Fellow, Master Fellow or Patron Fellow.  New members make a financial commitment that can be paid in one, five or ten annual payments.  Upon fulfillment of a pledge in any level, an individual is designated a Life Fellow.  The Fellows are governed by a chair, vice chair and secretary nominated by the Fellows Nominating Committee and elected by the membership at the annual Fellows Dinner.  Two Fellows, one from the northern part of Indiana and one from the southern portion, are nominated to the IBF Board of Directors and serve staggered two-year terms.