The Legal Association for Women Invites Nominations for the Annual Marygold Melli Achievement Award

Award Purpose

The Marygold Melli Achievement Award was established in 1994 by the Legal Association for Women, Madison, Wisconsin. Each year it recognizes and celebrates an outstanding individual in Wisconsin who has made substantial contributions to the interests of women in the law, has achieved professional excellence and has contributed significantly to the eradication of gender bias in the legal system. The award honors Marygold Shire Melli, Professor Emerita at the University of Wisconsin Law School, a distinguished teacher, prolific scholar, parent of four children and contributor to her profession and her community.

Legal Association for Women

The Legal Association for Women is a voluntary association of lawyers and non-lawyers concerned about the law as it affects women and about women in the legal and law-related professions. LAW strives to promote equality and justice for all people, to advance the interests of women members of the legal profession, to improve the administration of justice, to improve relations between the legal profession and the public and to promote the rights of women in society. Organized in 1974, LAW provides continuing education and professional development opportunities for members. Outreach activities include liaisons to other organizations and bar associations, publications, and projects facilitating community access to the legal profession.

Award Criteria

A person of professional excellence who has made significant contributions to women in the law by:

• advancing the interests of women members of the legal profession;
• promoting improvements in the administration of justice;
• promoting equality and social justice for all people;
• promoting the rights of women in society; and
• improving relations between the legal profession and the public.

Past Recipients

• Marsha M. Mansfield
• Betsy Abramson
• Prof. Carin Clauss
• Hon. Angela Bartell
• Hon. Burneatta Bridge
• Eunice Gibson
• Pamela Barker & Susan Steingass
• Prof. Louise Trubek
• Prof. June Weisberger
• Dianne Greenley
• Hon. Barbara Crabb
• Hon. Shirley Abrahamson
• Mary Lou Munts
• Ruth Doyle

Nomination Requirements

Please send the following materials, using the guidelines below, by December 1, 2009.

1. Nomination Form. The cover page of your nomination materials should be this completed form.
2. Nominee's Resume. The second document should be the nominee's resume or biography, describing the nominee's background and contributions.  This document should not exceed two (2) pages.
3. Nominee’s Photo:  A photo of the nominee appropriate for marketing purpose provided in an email format.
4. Award Criteria Narrative and Supporting Material. In no more than two (2) typed pages, provide specific examples demonstrating that the nominee meets the award criteria. In addition, you may also include any other relevant material (up to eight (8) pages), including letters of support from individuals or organizations. However, the total nomination submission may not exceed ten (10) pages.  Documents submitted beyond the ten (10) limit will not be considered.
5. Procedural Guidelines. The nomination form and your attachments form the sole basis for the nomination. All pages must be on 8 ½ by 11 inch paper. Submissions will not be returned and must be received in a readable e-mailed format sent to the Marygold Melli Award Committee, c/o Brittany S. Ogden at: bogden@murphydesmond.com.