The Kimberly M. Cahill Award is an award presented periodically that honors a local or affinity bar association, program, or leader for exceptional commitment to the ideals of professionalism, equal justice, and community service. This award recognizes impactful efforts made within the past year or on an ongoing basis. Established in memory of Kimberly M. Cahill, President of the State Bar of Michigan (2006 - 2007), the award reflects her enduring legacy of volunteer leadership, commitment to equal access to justice, and dedication to the highest ideals of the legal profession. Nominees will be evaluated based on the following criteria:

Nominee must be one of the following:

• A local or affinity bar association.
• A program sponsored by or working in partnership with such an association.
• A bar leader (including non-lawyers) affiliated with or supporting a local or affinity bar association or program.
• An individual or organization collaborating with a local or affinity bar association.

Nominees will be evaluated based on one or more of the following:

• Demonstrated excellence in advancing the ideals of professionalism, civility, and ethical leadership within the legal community.
• Significant efforts to promote or ensure equal access to justice for all, especially underserved or marginalized communities.
• Effective response to a pressing legal issue or unmet legal need within the community, either:
  • In the past year, or
  • As part of a sustained, ongoing initiative.
• The nominee’s conduct and contributions should bring honor, esteem, and respect to the legal profession, and should have no publications or past statements to the contrary.

Selection consideration will be given to

• Impact and effectiveness of the nominee’s work in promoting professionalism, equal justice, or community-based legal service.
• Innovation, collaboration, and leadership in addressing legal or social justice challenges.
• The nominee’s alignment with Kimberly M. Cahill’s legacy of bar leadership, volunteerism, and public service.

Application Form: Apply online. If a paper application is required for a nomination, please email sbmawards@michbar.org.

Previous Winners