Celebrating Excellence: DBA’s 2025 Awards Ceremony & Leadership Transition Recap

On July 17, 2025, the Denver Bar Association community gathered at our offices for an inspiring evening of recognition and celebration. From 5:00 to 8:00 PM, members gathered at 1290 Broadway, #1700, to honor outstanding achievements and witness a historic leadership transition.

2025 Award Recipients Honored

DBA Award of Merit – Kevin E. McReynolds was recognized for his exceptional contributions to the legal profession and community service.

Judicial Excellence – Judge Lino S. Lipinsky de Orlov received recognition for outstanding judicial service and commitment to justice.

DBA Young Lawyer of the Year – Ciara Anderson was celebrated for her remarkable early career achievements and dedication to the profession.

DBA Volunteer of the Year – Casey Frank was honored for extraordinary volunteer service and commitment to the DBA community.

Education in the Legal System – Two exceptional recipients shared this honor:

• CWBA Lawyers Teaching for Change, recognized for their innovative educational initiatives
• Mandy Hostetter from East High School’s Constitutional Law Scholars Program, celebrated for her dedication to legal education

Outstanding Program – MVL’s Estate Planning Program received recognition for excellence in serving the community’s legal needs.

Leadership Transition

The evening’s highlight featured outgoing President Annie Martínez receiving her Presidential pin in recognition of her successful term. In a ceremonial passing of the gavel, Annie officially welcomed Danaé Kinnett as the new DBA President, marking the beginning of an exciting new chapter for our organization.

The celebration showcased the incredible talent, dedication, and community spirit that defines the Denver Bar Association. Congratulations to all our award recipients and thank you to everyone who joined us for this memorable evening!

Our brand-new DBA merchandise collection is officially here!

We’ve got gear that represents our legal community with pride.

What’s in the collection:

• Fleece vests (perfect for Colorado weather!)
• Comfortable joggers 
• Professional t-shirts
• Padfolios
• Insulated tumblers
• PopSockets
• Trifold Chargers to charge your phone, earpods, and watch at the same time

Available at:

• DBA Office (1290 Broadway, Suite 1700)
• Select DBA and CBA-CLE events
• Online for Pick Up at the Office

Show your Denver Bar pride around town! 

Do you know a lawyer who has made outstanding pro bono contributions in the Denver legal community?

The Denver Bar Association and our Access to Justice Committee are on the hunt for this year’s Pro Bono Stars – those incredible lawyers who go above and beyond to serve our community.

Why This Matters

Every year, we shine a spotlight on 4-5 outstanding attorneys who’ve made exceptional pro bono contributions right here in Denver. These legal heroes don’t just practice law – they practice compassion, justice, and community service.

The Recognition They Deserve

Our Pro Bono Stars will be featured on the DBA website, highlighted in The Docket, and celebrated at a DBA Board of Trustees meeting. We’ll announce this year’s stars in October 2025 during Legal Resource Week – giving them the recognition they’ve truly earned.

Who We’re Looking For

• Active DBA members who’ve contributed pro bono services in the past two years
• Lawyers whose work demonstrates both impact and dedication
• Candidates representing diverse backgrounds, practice areas, and geographic regions

Ready to Nominate?

Send your nominations to Virginia McClerkin at Virginia@denbar.org by August 1, 2025. Just include:

• The lawyer’s full name and contact info
• A brief summary of their pro bono work
• Why they deserve this recognition

Motion to Mingle: A DBA Diversity/Affinity Bar Mixer
August 14th | 5:30 P.M.

Camaraderie is in session!

The DBA along with the APABA, CDBA, CLBA, CHBA, CWBA, SABA and Sam Cary invite you to join us for cocktails, connection, and community, no objections allowed. Refreshments (NA included) and food will be provided.

Location: Carla Madison Rec Center Rooftop,  2401 E. Colfax, Denver, CO 80206

Date and Time: August 14th, 5:30-7:30 p.m.

Cost: Tickets are $7 each.

Please register by August 8th.

Sponsored By