Purpose
Diversity and Inclusion Award
The Diversity and Inclusion Award serves to recognize members of the State Bar of South Dakota who actively promote diversity and inclusion in the legal profession. Recipients of the award contribute to and enhance the environment of inclusions in the legal profession, particularly in South Dakota. Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible to receive the Diversity and Inclusion Award, an individual must be a member in good standing of the State Bar of South Dakota and must demonstrate an exceptional understanding of diversity and inclusion beyond the call of duty as represented by the following criteria: •
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Enhances inclusion through positive communication between persons of different backgrounds Demonstrates a commitment to the values of diversity and inclusion through documented efforts that are above and beyond the routine expectations
Develops innovative methods for increasing and valuing diversity through wideranging activities
Demonstrates outstanding efforts to promote an environment free from bias and discrimination Organizes, creates, and facilitates various professional or community events promoting diversity, respect, and inclusion
Shows efforts to recruit and retain individuals who increase the diversity of the State Bar of South Dakota
Promotes the sponsorship of, or active participation in, programs, initiatives, or projects in the area of diversity and inclusion
Nomination Process and Presentation of Award
Every year in the spring, the Lawyers Committee on Diversity and Inclusion (LCDI) will publish an invitation in the South Dakota State Bar Newsletter soliciting nominations for the Award. To be considered, nominations must be received by LCDI no later than March 1, 2022. Each nomination should include a brief synopsis of the nominee’s commitment to diversity, inclusion, and equal participation in the legal profession. Each nominee’s materials will then be reviewed by a subcommittee of the LCDI. The LCDI will then, by a majority vote, select one or more recipients who best exemplify the eligibility criteria. All recipients of the Award will be notified no later than May. The Award will be presented during the State Bar annual meeting in June. The Awards will be presented by a representative of the LCDI.
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