As we celebrate 70 years of impact, we are proud to recognize individuals and organizations that exemplify excellence, service, and commitment to justice. Our gala awards honor trailblazers in the legal profession, champions of equity, and allies who have made a lasting impact on our community. We invite our members to submit nominations for these prestigious awards. Submit your nominations today and help us celebrate the extraordinary leaders shaping the future!
DEADLINE - MARCH 13, 2026
FOUNDERS AWARDS
Weldon Berry Judicial Service Award:
The recipient of this award demonstrates unwavering dedication to the legal profession through judicious integrity and a commitment to preserving equality in the legal system.
2025 Winner: Judge Katrina Griffith
Roberson L. King Excellence in Education Award:
The recipient of this award empowers the community through education and service to today’s legal scholars and tomorrow’s legal icons.
2025 Winner: Hon. Njeri Mathis Rutledge
Robert W. Hainsworth Outstanding Service Award:
The recipient of this award demonstrates invaluable service through their contributions to the Houston Lawyers Association, Legal Profession & the Community-At-Large.
2025 Winner: Teresa Hudson
Matthew W. Plummer, Sr. Justice Award:
The recipient of this award demonstrates commitment to securing equality for all people.
2025 Winner: Councilwoman Letitia Plummer
Francis Williams Advocacy Award:
The recipient of this award demonstrates unrelenting and vigorous defense of significant issues of concern for the African American community that vastly impact social change.
2025 Winner: Kofi Taharka/NBUF
Aloysius M. Wickliff, Sr. Community Service Award:
The recipient of this award exemplifies dedication to the community through tireless service reinforcing every member of the community’s right to belong to make it a better place for generations to come.
2025 Winner: Earl Carl Institute
JUSTICE AWARDS
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Justice Shelvin L. M. Hall Exceptional Leadership Award:
The recipient of this award manifests the resolute spirit exemplified by Justice Hall, demonstrates leadership in their profession and community, has a demonstrated interest in equality for all, and is a visionary in his or her own right.
2025 Winner: Martye Kendrick
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Judge Kenneth M. Hoyt Distinguished Public Service Award:
The recipient of this award embodies a passion for selfless service and displays their dedication to improving the community through courageous advocacy in the government or nonprofit sectors.
2025 Winner: Dr. Carla Wyatt
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Judge Alice Amelia Wilkerson Bonner Trailblazer Award:
The recipient of this award serves as a pioneer in his or her profession and demonstrates a bold and ambitious approach towards the betterment of the community.
2025 Winner: Daniella Landers
Recipients of this honor do not have to be attorneys, but must embody the manifestation of HLA's mission by being an example to the community of what it means to either:
address injustice by ensuring equal employment and business opportunities for Black lawyers;
educate the community by supporting community programs that benefit the Black community;
serve as a redress conduit for the community;
provide a voice for the community through advocacy, mentoring, professionalism, and coalition; or
improve access to and the quality of legal services.
2025 Winners: 8 Million Stories, Emerging 100, and We Will
MISSION ALLY AWARDS:
Nominations are CLOSED!
FEBRUARY 23, 2026 - NOMINATIONS OPEN
MARCH 13, 2026 - NOMINATIONS CLOSE
MARCH 23, 2026 - WINNERS ANNOUNCED!