We are in a challenging and unprecedented time right now, a time where the lives we all once knew have now been changed in the mist of COVID-19. It has impacted our families, friends, communities, clients, businesses, services, the legal profession, the world and many more than I am able to list in this article. As I wrestle with all that is going on, I take solace in reflecting on inspiring quotes such as this one from Former First Lady Michelle Obama:

You should never view your challenges as a disadvantage. Instead, it’s important for you to understand that your experience facing and overcoming adversity is actually one of your biggest advantages.

Our advantage as we are all adjusting to the times we are in is that we have this unique opportunity to honor exceptional individuals and groups who have positively lead and influenced our community, who have chosen to serve the public and who have chosen to serve our legal profession. I believe I can speak for more than just myself when I say that the time we are in right now heightens our appreciation for those who choose to lead and serve more than we ever have before.

In closing, I invite you to join the OBA Awards Committee in its efforts to find deserving individuals and groups. Please share with your colleagues and friends how important it is to submit a nomination and that this organization appreciates their time and effort.

NOMINATION RULES AND TIPS

The deadline is 5 p.m. Wednesday, July 1, but get your nomination in EARLY! Nominations, complete with all supporting materials, MUST be received by the deadline. Submissions or supporting material received after the deadline will not be considered.

Make sure the name of the person being nominated and the person (or organization) making the nomination is on the nomination.

If you think someone qualified for awards in several categories, pick one award and only do one nomination. The OBA Awards Committee may consider the nominee for an award in a category other than one in which you nominate that person. 

Submission options (pick one):

• Email awards@okbar.org ( you will receive a confirmation reply)
• Fax: 405-416-7089
• Mail: OBA Awards Committee, P.O. Box 53036, Oklahoma City, OK 73152

Visit the OBA Awards page for the nomination form if you want to use one (not required), history of previous winners, tips for writing nominations and for more information. 

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Kara Smith is the chief assistant attorney general in the Civil Rights Enforcement Unit of the Office of the Oklahoma Attorney General. She serves as Awards Committee chairperson.

 

Originally published in the Oklahoma Bar Journal -- OBJ 91 No. 5 (May 2020)