About the Spirit of Excellence Award
Award Motto: "Ad Astra Per Aspera"
The motto of the Spirit of Excellence Awards is "Ad Astra Per Aspera": To the Stars Through Difficulty. The Spirit of Excellence Award symbolizes the struggle of racially and ethnically diverse lawyers as they travel the road to personal and professional success. Special indeed is the person who can navigate his or her own way, while paving the way and assisting those who follow.
Award Purpose
The Spirit of Excellence Awards celebrate the efforts and accomplishments of lawyers who work to promote a more racially and ethnically diverse legal profession. Awards are presented to the lawyers who excel in their professional settings; who personify excellence on the national and international level; and who have demonstrated a commitment to racial and ethnic diversity in the legal professional.
Award Design
The Spirit of Excellence Award, designed by Mario Fernandez, symbolizes the dreams and aspirations that are unique to every individual. The three arms of gold, silver, and bronze reaching up and joining to hold a perfect star – reflects the common goals of equality, diversity, and justice that the Spirit of Excellence Award represents.