March 15, 2007
March 22, 2007 – The 26th Annual University of Colorado Law School Alumni Awards Banquet, the Law Alumni’s signature event, was held on the evening of Wednesday, March 14th, at the Hyatt Regency Denver. In addition to being the largest awards banquet ever—more than 400 people from the community attended—the banquet showcased four exceptional award recipients, inspiring speakers, and a wonderful new venue. Thanks to a record $77,000 in sponsorships from the law school’s many friends and supporters, the Loan Repayment Assistance Program (LRAP) will receive more than $33,000.
Following a hors d'oeuvre and happy hour in the hotel’s Capital Foyer, guests were welcomed into the dining hall. Peter Dietze, the Law Alumni Board Chair, opened the banquet and Kara Veitch, the Banquet Chair and Master-of-Ceremonies, thanked the 40 sponsors, advertisers, and in-kind donations. In addition, Ms. Veitch recognized past alumni board members, past award winners, and the members of the Class of ‘57 who had reserved two tables for a small a reunion.
Following a fabulously presented three-course dinner, Dean David Getches welcomed guests and presented a video of the Dedication Ceremony of the new Wolf Law Building that took place in September 2006. Dean Getches reviewed Colorado Law’s accomplishments over the past year and then introduced Governor Bill Ritter (Class of ’81). Governor Ritter spoke about each of the deserving award recipients and all that they have contributed to the legal profession. Jami Vigil (Class of ’02), a two-year LRAP recipient, spoke about her work as Executive Director and Managing Attorney at Socorro, a firm providing legal services for immigrant women and children, and how LRAP has helped with her loan burden.
CU President Hank Brown (Class of ’69) spoke about each nominee and their notable contributions to the legal community and to Colorado Law and presented them their Award for Distinguished Achievement.
Justice Nathan B. Coats (Class of ’77) received the Judiciary Award for his long and dedicated career in the Supreme Court. Justice Coats remembered his time at the law school, his relationships with other alumni, and serving on the bench.
The Law Alumni Board chose Norman Brownstein (Class of ’68) for the Private Practice Award because of the impact that Brownstein Hyatt Farber Schreck has had in the law community, in addition to his active involvement with CU and numerous centers and committees. Mr. Brownstein spoke to his long partnership with classmate and partner Mr. Farber and vision they had for their law firm and early cases.
Steven W. Farber (Class of ’68) was presented the Private Practice Award because of his firm’s legal contributions and his leadership roles in countless community causes, including co-chair of the 2008 Denver Host Committee for the Democratic Convention. Mr. Farber reminded the members of the audience to give back to the community they came from.
Gail H. Klapper (Class of ’68) received the Executive in Industry Award for her work as the Member/Director of the Colorado Forum, founder of the Klapper Firm, and her contributions to numerous Colorado boards. Ms. Klapper spoke about the difficulties of being a woman lawyer early in her career, the woman who gave her a chance, and how she pays it forward.
All recipients were accompanied by their adoring families, which they each thanked for their support. The banquet was a huge success because of the dedication of our great alumni!
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| The 26th Banquet Awardees |
