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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Richard E. Mitchell Receives 2009 Professionalism Award(SEATTLE) — The Washington State Bar Association (WSBA) announces that Richard E. Mitchell will be honored with the 2009 Professionalism Award. This honor is awarded to a member of the WSBA who exemplifies the spirit of professionalism in the practice of law. "Professionalism" is defined as the pursuit of a learned profession in the spirit of service to the public and in the sharing of values with other members of the profession. WSBA President Mark Johnson will present the award at the WSBA Annual Awards Dinner, to be held on September 24, 2009, at the Hyatt at Olive 8 in Seattle. Mitchell received his undergraduate degree in architecture from Cornell University, a master's degree in architecture from the University of Michigan, and his law degree from Syracuse University College of Law. He was the first African-American, and youngest, general counsel to the Washington State Office of the Governor, where he developed a legal extern program that introduced young, diverse lawyers to governance and legal-advice work. Mitchell served as general counsel to the Governor for four years, returning to private practice in December 2008. He has served as an adjunct faculty member for Seattle University College of Law and is currently a partner at Summit Law Group PLLC. Mitchell has been a member of the Loren Miller Bar Association since 1995, and served as its president from 2006-07. He served on the King County Bar Association Legislative Committee, and is currently a board member of the Syracuse University Law School Alumni Association. He served as a member and treasurer of the King County Bar Association from 2007-2009. Mitchell also served for several years on the board of the Washington Low Income Housing Network, an advocacy organization that supports the development of low-income-housing policies, and as a board member of the International Community Health Services Foundation, which provides free or low-cost health care to the Asian community and those in need. "[Mitchell] always shared his daily thoughts and experiences with his interns," said Michael J. Clyburn, a former extern for Mitchell. "He provided us a window into the world of state government, and interpreted what we were seeing through that window. His willingness to share his insights and analysis made my time in his office one of my favorite and most educational experiences in law school." "I can't think of someone more influential in my legal career," said former extern Molly Boyajian. "Richard was the first person to encourage and support my decision to pursue a career in public policy instead of going the traditional firm route. He gave me the confidence to follow my heart and go after my dreams. I only hope to be able to pay it forward and inspire another young lawyer to fulfill his or her potential. He is a tremendous teacher and mentor, and now I am proud to call him my colleague and friend." "Richard's commitment to the development and success of young lawyers is a gift to those he mentors and to the profession," said former extern Leah Harris. "I am lucky to have worked with him in the Governor's Office, where he made sure that I and the other externs were exposed to and involved in as many legal issues as possible." "Richard is the consummate mentor," said former extern David Lance. "What distinguishes him is his willingness to go all in and offer complete access to his externs. Richard recognizes that often the finest teachable moments occur when externs observe decision-makers and fully participate in working through the issues at hand. Externing under Richard was the capstone to my law school experience." "Richard's commitment to public service and dedication to professionalism helped define my values as a young lawyer," said former intern Aaron Bass. "His mentorship made lasting impact on the way I view my role in both my practice and community. I cannot think of a more deserving individual for this honor." "Richard's passion for justice, fairness, and the legal profession, is perhaps only surpassed by his indefatigability, superb legal acumen, and devotion to public service," said former Loren Miller Bar Association Board member Kwame Amoateng. "He epitomizes the spirit of true professionalism. It is fitting that the WSBA has chosen to bestow this esteemed award upon him." "Richard's mentorship and high expectations left a lasting impression on me," said former extern Gaurab Bansal. "He set a high bar for my work product and professional demeanor, taught me to navigate the worlds of law and politics, and always had time to share his experiences. It is Richard's example that I seek to emulate in the coming years, as I hope to mentor and open doors for other young attorneys in the same way he did for me." About the Washington State Bar Association
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