Submit nominations by May 22, 2026 for Purcell Professionalism, Spurgeon Smithson awards

The Missouri Bar Foundation is seeking nominations for the Purcell Professionalism and Spurgeon Smithson awards. Nominate exceptional lawyers you think should be recognized by May 22.  

Named after 1968-69 Missouri Bar President Martin J. Purcell, the Purcell Professionalism Award recognizes Missouri lawyers who have shown a high standard of competency, integrity, and civility in professional and civic activities. Each year, The Missouri Bar Board of Governors and The Missouri Bar Foundation Board of Trustees select one to two deserving recipients. The award includes a $500 stipend.  

Read about the 2025 awardees, John W. Grimm and Anne Sallee Mason.   

Nominate a deserving lawyer here. 

The Spurgeon Smithson Awards were established in 1976 by bequest of the late Smithson, a Kansas City lawyer. The Missouri Bar Foundation presents the awards annually to Missouri judges, law teachers, and/or lawyers deemed to have rendered outstanding service toward the increase and diffusion of justice. The recognition includes a $2,000 stipend.  

Read about the 2025 awardees, Mary Fox, Barbara Glesner Fines, and Hon. Sherri B. Sullivan.  

Nominate a deserving lawyer here. 

Both awards will be presented at the Annual Meeting of The Missouri Bar in September. 

Click here to learn about the other awards The Missouri Bar Foundation offers.