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January 27, 2025 Feature Article

Spirit of Excellence Awards: Honoring Legal Trailblazers

Dominique D. Calhoun

As Chair of Spirit of Excellence 2025, it is my honor and privilege to invite you to join us in celebrating this year’s Spirit of Excellence Awards and our remarkable honorees. The Spirit of Excellence Awards represent the highest recognition of lawyers who have dedicated their careers to advancing diversity, equity, and inclusion in the legal profession.

This prestigious event is more than a celebration of individual accomplishments—it is a testament to the collective efforts of those who have tirelessly championed a legal profession that truly reflects the rich diversity of our society. The Spirit of Excellence Awards acknowledge trailblazers whose efforts inspire change and exemplify what it means to lead with purpose and integrity.

This year, we are proud to recognize four extraordinary individuals:

  • Col. James M. Durant III: A leader whose groundbreaking service and unwavering commitment to justice have left an indelible mark on the legal and military communities.
  • Craig B. Glidden:  A corporate change agent in the automotive industry, and champion for diverse lawyers in the legal profession.
  • Hon. Diane J. Humetewa: A trailblazing judge whose dedication to fairness and representation has elevated the judiciary and inspired countless legal professionals.
  • Comm. Kalpana Kotagal: A pioneer in equity and inclusion, whose innovative strategies have reshaped the legal landscape and strengthened workplace diversity.
  • Karol Corbin Walker: A champion for racial and ethnic diversity in the legal field, whose leadership and advocacy have paved the way for future generations of lawyers.

Each of these honorees embodies the mission of the Spirit of Excellence Awards, demonstrating through their careers a deep commitment to creating a more inclusive and equitable legal profession. Their contributions serve as a powerful reminder of the progress we can achieve when we embrace diversity as a strength and work collectively toward a shared vision of excellence.

I look forward to celebrating the remarkable achievements of Col. Durant, Craig Glidden, Judge Humetewa, Commissioner Kotagal, and Ms. Walker at this year’s ceremony. It is an event that promises not only to honor their accomplishments but also to inspire all of us to continue striving for a legal profession where everyone has an opportunity to thrive.

Please join us in this important celebration of excellence, courage, and leadership. Together, we can continue to advance the principles of diversity, equity, and inclusion that define the very best of our profession.

Sincerely,
Dominique D. Calhoun
Chair, Spirit of Excellence 2025

Dominique D. Calhoun

Spirit of Excellence Chair, 2025

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