Community Built on Service

In February, members of the LA Bar Association gathered to honor Matthew R. "Matt" Devine '85, executive partner at White & Case LLP, and James V. "Jim" Murphy '90, former assistant state's attorney, at the annual LA Bar Association Luncheon.

The luncheon began with a warm welcome by Director of Alumni Relations Ashley Sanks '10. After an opening prayer from Loyola Academy Rev. President Gregory J. Ostdiek, SJ, LA Bar Steering Committee Chair Joseph D. "Joe" Cook '97 took to the stage to speak on the direction, goals, and objectives of the LA Bar Association. He then welcomed Jim Murphy '90, former Assistant State's Attorney and the afternoon's first honoree, to discuss how Loyola Academy's Jesuit mission made him a man for others and how that has shaped him and his legal career.

"My time at Loyola Academy didn't just prepare me for college, it prepared me for life; for a life of action for the greater glory of God, as the Jesuits taught us," said Murphy "It fostered a true sense of community and stoked my desire to go out and be a man for others. "

After this, Cook welcomed Matt Devine '85, the afternoon's second honoree and former chairman of the LA Bar Association He spoke about his family's long history at the Academy and how the lifelong friendships he forged during his four years as a student continue to enrich his life both personally and professionally.

Attendees enjoyed lively conversation and a chance to connect with fellow Ramblers as they networked during a social hour after lunch.

Special thanks to event planning committee Joe Cook '97, Tom Connelly '10, and Diana Rdzanek Larson '02. We would also like to express our gratitude to our event sponsors Don Engels '81 with Ringler Associates and Matt Devine '85 with White & Case LLC.

The Loyola Academy Bar Association was founded in 2013 and has nearly 800 members, representing class years back to the 1940s. For more information, please contact Director of Alumni Relations Ashley Sanks '10 at asanks@loy org or 847 920 2439.