Submit nominations by May 23 for Purcell Professionalism and Spurgeon Smithson awards

The Missouri Bar Foundation is seeking nominations for the Purcell Professionalism and Spurgeon Smithson awards. Nominate individuals you think should be recognized by May 23. 

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 2023 awardees, Lisa A. Weixelman and Raymond E. Williams.  

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.  

Nominations are solicited from the Board of Trustees of The Missouri Bar Foundation, with the final selections being made at the Foundation Trustees meeting in June. The awards are then presented at the Annual Meeting of The Missouri Bar. The recognition includes a $2,000 stipend.  

For more information, visit the Spurgeon Smithson Award nomination form or read about the 2023 awardees, Hon. Patricia Breckenridge, Hon. George W. Draper III, and Paul N. Venker.  

Nominations for the Purcell Professionalism and Spurgeon Smithson awards are taken from members of The Missouri Bar starting March 1, with a deadline of May 23. Click here to learn what other awards The Missouri Bar Foundation offers.