Join us as

President Joseph P. McGill

passes the gavel to

Lisa J. Hamameh,

the 91st president of the State Bar of Michigan;

welcomes the incoming leadership of the Board of Commissioners;
and honors the distinguished service and commitment
by members of Michigan's legal community

Noon Friday, September 19, 2025
at the Detroit Marriott Troy,
200 W. Big Beaver Road
Troy, Michigan

2025 AWARD WINNERS

Roberts P. Hudson Award: Valerie Newman

The State Bar of Michigan's highest honor, presented periodically to commend one or more lawyers for their unselfish rendering of outstanding and unique service to and on behalf of the State Bar of Michigan, the legal profession, and public.

Frank J. Kelley Distinguished Public Service Award: Elizabeth Pollard

Recognizes extraordinary governmental service by a member of the State Bar of Michigan.

Champion of Justice Award: Keeley D. Blanchard, Zenell B. Brown, Roshundra Graham-Simmons, and Marla Linderman Richelew

Given to practicing lawyers and judges of integrity and adherence to the highest principles and traditions of the legal profession, superior professional competence, and an extraordinary professional accomplishment that benefits the nation, the state, or the local community in which the lawyer or judge lives.

John W. Cummiskey Pro Bono Award: Kathaleen M. Smith

Recognizes a Michigan lawyer who has made a significant pro bono contribution.

Kimberly M. Cahill Bar Leadership Award: Tanisha M. Davis

Recognizes a local or affinity bar association, program, or leader for excellence in promoting the ideal of professionalism or equal justice for all, or in responding to a compelling legal need within the community.

Winners of the John W. Reed Michigan Lawyer Legacy Award and Liberty Bell Award will be announced in June following the Great Lakes Legal Conference.

For additional information, please contact Amy Castner at acastner@michbar.org, Talise Wesley at twesley@michbar.org, or call (888) 726-3678.