Each year, the Hennepin County Bar Association recognizes outstanding volunteerism and pro bono service in the legal profession with its Pro Bono Publico Awards. Three awards focusing on distinguished service and excellence for public and private attorneys are given to honor and encourage contributions to the community.

This year's Pro Bono Publico Award of Excellence for a Public Attorney goes to Tom Walsh, staff attorney with the Volunteer Lawyer's Network (VLN). Details about Walsh's exemplary work and inspirational accomplishments are featured in the current edition of The Hennepin Lawyer. Congratulations to Tom on this well-deserved honor, as well as to James Long, and Don McNeil, who were also recognized for their commitment to pro bono service this year.