Many members of our section are deserving of awards. We are proud of these members that have been recognized for their outstanding contributions to our section.
Banco RottoThis award is presented to a Texas bankruptcy legend who has had a lasting impact on the development of the Texas bankruptcy practice. It is the Section’s highest and most distinguished award. “Banco Rotto” is Italian for “broken bench” and is the earliest phrase that is associated with the concept of bankruptcy, and is the phrase from which our English term “bankruptcy” is derived. Just as we can trace the origins of bankruptcy to this phrase, the Bankruptcy Law Section honors the recipients of the Banco Rotto award for their contributions to, and their lasting impact on, the bankruptcy profession. 2017 - Robin Phelan | Robert B. Wilson Distinguished ServiceThis prestigious award, named in honor of Robert B. Wilson, the first chair of the State Bar of Texas Bankruptcy Law Section, is presented “in deep gratitude for tireless efforts and unceasing dedication and service to the Bankruptcy Law Section of the State Bar of Texas.” 2017 - Charlie Beckham | Michelle A. Mendez Award of ExcellenceThe Michelle A. Mendez Award of Excellence was started in 2015 – Deborah B. Langehennig was the first recipient. Prior to 2015, it was called the Outstanding Service Award, and was awarded annually “to a member of the bankruptcy bar who is selected for his or her outstanding service to the Bankruptcy Law Section.” 2017 - Judith Ross |
Outstanding service
This award is presented annually to a member of the bankruptcy bar who is selected for his or her outstanding service to the Bankruptcy Law Section.
2014 - Julianne Parker | John C. Akard Community ServiceIn 2009, the Bankruptcy Law Section established an award in the name of the Honorable John C. Akard (retired – Lubbock) to honor current/former practitioners for outstanding achievement and service in the field of bankruptcy. 2017 - Russell Munsch | Pro Bono ServiceThis award is presented to an attorney for promoting pro bono bankruptcy law practice in Texas. 2017 - Debbie Langehennig |
This award is given to an outstanding young bankruptcy attorney who has made contributions to community service, pro bono activities, and/or furthering efforts to encourage and support other young bankruptcy attorneys in their community and at large.
2017 - David Eastlake
2016 - Katherine Hopkins
2015 - Katie D. Grissel
2014 - Joshua P. Searcy
2013 - Sara Keith
2012 - Layla D. Milligan
2011 - Frances Smith
2010 - Omar Alaniz
2015 - Kay Walker
2014 - Michael Baumer