“Emily is part of the next generation of lawyers who are not just talking about problems with our courts, but who is working to bring about systemic reform.”
2016 Distinguished PILI Fellow Alumni Award: Kristen E. Hudson
“Kristen has a heart of gold and the tenacity of a tiger. A true believer in pro bono, she clearly has a lifetime commitment to it.”
2016 Distinguished Public Service Award: Harold C. Hirshman
“Harold Hirshman is that rare attorney – an extraordinary litigator who also has a deep compassion for the disenfranchised.”
2015 Distinguished PILI Intern Alumni Award: Cynthia Cornelius
“Cynthia is making a significant contribution to developing a new generation of future lawyers who understand their responsibility to extend legal services to some of our most vulnerable members of society and to do so with a generous heart.”
2015 Distinguished PILI Fellow Alumni Award: Jordan Heinz
“Jordan treats each pro bono client as special. He connects with his clients and does his very best for them. Jordan is, without a doubt, the kindest, most sincere, dedicated PILl Alumnus doing pro bono work today.”
2015 Pro Bono Initiative Award: United Airlines
“The needs and rewards from giving back to the community and helping those in need are so great that everyone should be given the opportunity and resources to make it a priority.”
2015 Distinguished Public Service Award: Chief Justice Rita B. Garman
“She has opened doors for other women lawyers, encouraged judges to improve their skills, and led efforts to make the justice system in our state more fair. “
2014 Distinguished Public Service Award: Diana C. White, LAF
Diana is the Executive Director of LAF, the largest and most comprehensive provider of free legal aid to low-income Cook County residents in civil matters. Her commitment to providing high-quality legal services comes during a time of tightening budgets and exploding need.
PILI Announces 2014 Award Recipients
These awardees were selected from among many nominations for their outstanding contributions to public interest law and pro bono in Illinois.