Submit nominations by May 22 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 or two deserving recipients. The award includes a $500 stipend.  

For more information, visit the Purcell Professionalism Award nomination form or learn about the 2024 awardees, Debbie S. Champion and Dorothy L. White-Coleman.  

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.  

For more information, visit the Spurgeon Smithson Award nomination form or read about the 2024 awardees, Hon. Gayle L. Crane, Louis C. DeFeo Jr., and Mary Kathryn O’Malley. 

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

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