The Michigan State Bar Foundation celebrated the 40th anniversary of its fellows program on Wednesday, Sept. 18, bringing together members of the legal community for a reception at the Michigan Hall of Justice in Lansing.
Following opening remarks from Hon. Victoria Roberts, the fellows chair, MSBF President Craig Lubben provided a brief overview of the foundation’s accomplishments during the year, highlighted by increased funding for annual civil legal aid grants. Michigan Supreme Court Chief Justice Elizabeth Clement followed with remarks about the partnership and judiciary’s efforts to improve access to justice.
The foundation also presented its Access to Justice Award to Wendy Richards, head of Miller Canfield’s pro bono program, and honored former American Bar Association and State Bar of Michigan President Reginald Turner, emeritus of Clark Hill in Detroit, with its Founders Award. MSBF also welcomed 39 new members to its fellows program.
The foundation extends sincere gratitude to the attendees and fellows.
Access to Justice Award recipient Wendy Richards and MSBF President Craig Lubben.
MSBF President Craig Lubben and Founders Award winner Reginald Turner.
Fellows Chair Hon. Victoria A. Roberts, Founders Award honoree Reginald Turner, and Hon. Dennis Archer (pictured left to right).
Front row (pictured left to right): Lori Buiteweg, Michigan Supreme Court Justice Elizabeth M. Welch, Hon. Victoria Roberts, Michigan Supreme Court Chief Justice Elizabeth Clement. Back row: Scott Brinkmeyer, Julie Fershtman, Charles Toy, Michigan Supreme Court Justice Megan Cavanaugh, Reginald Turner, Michigan Supreme Court Justice Brian Zahra, Thomas Cranmer, Brian Einhorn, Thomas Ryan.