Monday, February 9, 2026
R. Steve Bowden’s life and career reflect an unwavering commitment to justice, service, and leadership. Born and raised in Liberty, North Carolina, Bowden grew up in a single-parent household and learned the value of hard work early, helping in his grandfather’s pool hall as a child. His determination and talent earned him an athletic scholarship to Wake Forest University, where he majored in speech communications and played football on the school’s first ACC Championship team. After graduation, Bowden taught and coached before moving into sales, becoming the first African American agent for Horace Mann Insurance in North Carolina. His passion for advocacy led him to law school, and in 1979 he graduated from Campbell University’s Norman A. Wiggins School of Law as a member of its charter class.
Bowden began his legal career in Greensboro, where he founded R. Steve Bowden & Associates, a firm that has served clients for more than 40 years. Known for his skill in personal injury law, Bowden has built a reputation for treating every client with dignity and respect. His professionalism and civility extend to opposing counsel and insurance adjusters, many of whom have referred clients to his firm—a testament to the trust he inspires across the legal community.
Beyond his practice, Bowden has devoted countless hours to civic and professional service. He has served on the University of North Carolina Board of Governors, the Campbell University Board of Trustees, and the Advisory Board for Elon University School of Law, where he helped guide the school from its inception. His leadership roles span organizations such as the Greensboro Chamber of Commerce, Action Greensboro, and the George Simkins Jr. Citizens Political Action Committee, where he works to ensure fair and principled judicial endorsements. A life member of the NAACP and Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Bowden has provided uncompensated legal counsel to the fraternity and currently serves as legal counsel for the Omega Life Membership Foundation.
Bowden’s commitment to education and mentorship is evident in his efforts to support law students and young attorneys. He hires diverse interns each summer, fostering inclusion and providing hands-on experience in personal injury law. His influence has inspired many to embrace service as a cornerstone of their careers. He also dedicates time to pro bono work, assisting clients with wills, powers of attorney, and other matters for those unable to afford legal representation.
His contributions have earned him numerous honors, including the Order of the Long Leaf Pine, the Campbell University Presidential Medallion, and community service awards from the NAACP and the North Carolina Association of Black Lawyers. Yet, those who know him best speak of his humility, generosity, and steadfast dedication to improving the lives of others. As one colleague observed, Bowden’s journey from humble beginnings to a distinguished legal career is “the best example of the adage ‘only in America.’”
The North Carolina State Bar is proud to recognize R. Steve Bowden with the John B. McMillan Distinguished Service Award—a fitting tribute to a lawyer whose life’s work exemplifies integrity, leadership, and a profound commitment to both the profession and his community.
Filed Under: General News
