This week, the Minnesota State Bar Association (MSBA) will honor the recipients of its 2023 Bernard P. Becker Awards. The Becker Awards are given every year to a law student and legal services staff who provide outstanding leadership or service to clients from low-income and marginalized communities. The annual presentation in recognition of legal services staff will be held on June 29th at the MSBA Assembly meeting.

Lynn Mickelson and Gregg Trautwein will be honored with the Legacy of Excellence Award for their remarkable contributions to legal services in Minnesota. Lynn has spent over 25 years assisting individuals impacted by HIV at Rainbow Health, providing legal help to those with low incomes and advocating for the community. Gregg, with over 42 years of service at Legal Services of Northwest Minnesota (LSNM), ensured financial stability for his organization and other programs, and exhibited leadership at the national level. Both retirees leave behind lasting legacies in their respective fields.

Taryn Trujillo Risom, of Mid-Minnesota Legal Aid (MMLA), and recipient of the Emerging Leader Award, has dedicated her legal career to improving the well-being of families with low incomes through Healthcare Legal Partnerships. Rachel Albertson of Legal Aid Service of Northeastern Minnesota (LASNEM), and recipient of the Advocate Award, has spent nearly two decades ensuring access to legal services and enhancing the justice system. Her work on the Legal Kiosk Project, Justice Buses, and other innovative projects has improved justice access well beyond LASNEM’s borders.

Lexie Robinson, Law Student Award recipient, has made significant contributions to public service during her time at the University of Minnesota Law School. Posthumously honored with the Advocate Award, Cindy Jarvi devoted her career to advocating for the rights of children with disabilities in education at the Minnesota Disability Law Center. Cindy passed away in November of 2022 and was beloved by her colleagues and clients.