On Monday, October 28, 2024, New Mexico Legal Aid’s Volunteer Attorney Program (VAP) hosted its annual Appreciation Luncheon & Awards Ceremony, celebrating the dedication and passion of pro bono attorneys who have selflessly contributed to ensuring justice for all. Held in Albuquerque, the event brought together volunteer attorneys, community partners, and members of the judiciary to honor their collective impact and highlight the essential role of pro bono work in New Mexico.

NMLA Executive Director Sonya Bellafant delivered an inspiring address, emphasizing NMLA’s mission to provide access to justice for underserved communities across the state. In her remarks, Sonya shared a powerful pro bono story, illustrating how the work of volunteer attorneys has directly impacted the lives of individuals facing overwhelming legal challenges.

Zac Addison, VAP Director, provided an overview of VAP’s achievements over the past year, highlighting the volume of legal services provided through teleclinics, legal fairs, and direct representation. He talked about how VAP has expanded access to justice in both urban and rural areas.

The heart of the event was the presentation of awards to this year’s outstanding volunteers. Each honoree was recognized for their commitment to offering their time and expertise to those in need.

2024 VAP Award Recipients

• Teleclinic Shining Star of the Year: Rita Pincaro
• Teleclinic Attorney of the Year: Michael Rueckhaus
• Legal Fairs Shining Star of the Year: Krista Garcia
• Legal Fairs Attorney of the Year: Stefanie Beninato
• Legal Fair Special Recognition: Chrystian Gonzalez
• Direct Representation Shining Stars of the Year: Lucy Sinkular and Johanna Pickel
• Direct Representation Attorney of the Year: David Lotter
• ECHO CLE Presenter of the Year: Patricia Galindo
• Pro Bono Committee of the Year: Third Judicial District
• Felipe Quintana Memorial Award of Excellence: Pamela Faris

 

In one of the event’s most moving moments, Heather Norfleet presented the Felipe Quintana Memorial Award of Excellence to Pamela Faris. This prestigious award, named in honor of the late Felipe Quintana, recognizes an attorney who embodies excellence in pro bono service. With humility, Pamela expressed how honored she felt and reiterated her commitment to providing legal services to the most vulnerable members of society.

The keynote address by Erin Atkins, a seasoned pro bono attorney, was a highlight of the ceremony. She reflected on the deeper significance of pro bono work, reminding the audience that their commitment to justice is rooted in a higher calling. “You agreed that liberty and justice belonged to them,” she said, referring to the clients they have served.

Erin’s words resonated deeply as she acknowledged the often unheralded nature of pro bono service. “No luncheon or plaque could ever change your position. A greater passion fuels you,” she affirmed.

As the event concluded, Zac Addison offered closing remarks, thanking all attendees and honorees for their continued commitment to pro bono work. He emphasized the ongoing need for attorneys to answer the call to help those in need and highlighted upcoming initiatives designed to increase volunteer engagement and expand services statewide.

The 2024 Volunteer Attorney Program Appreciation Luncheon & Awards Ceremony was not only a moment to recognize extraordinary contributions but also a reminder of the powerful impact that volunteer attorneys have in ensuring justice for New Mexico’s most vulnerable communities. The spirit of service, the unwavering dedication, and the commitment to justice for all were on full display—a testament to the enduring value of pro bono work in New Mexico.