April 2, 2025 – Join the State Bar of Wisconsin in celebrating those who make a difference in the legal profession and in their communities. Recognized by their peers and colleagues, these jurists, lawyers, law students, and legal workers are celebrated for their leadership.

Since 1993, State Bar members have gathered to honor the contributions of those in Wisconsin’s legal community. These award recipients will be honored in person at the Member Recognition Celebration during the State Bar Annual Meeting & Conference, June 18-20, in Madison.

Join us in celebrating these leaders who are dedicated to improving the practice of law and the administration of justice in Wisconsin and serving their communities:

Judge Barbara Key: Lifetime Jurist

Retired Winnebago County Judge Barbara Key is the 2025 Lifetime Jurist. Photo courtesy Thompson Photo Imagery.​

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Judge Barbara Key of Winnebago County Circuit Court (retired) is the 2025 recipient of the Bench and Bar Committee's Lifetime Jurist Award. The award recognizes jurists who, during their tenure on the bench, were fair and impartial, and demonstrated high ideals and personal character along with outstanding, long-term judicial service.

Bench and Bar Committee members say that Judge Key was chosen for this award based on both her substantial contribution to her judicial colleagues and to her community. "She spent a significant part of her judicial career enhancing the education and professionalism of her colleagues on the bench serving on numerous Supreme Court committees for conduct, jury instructions, the bench book, and translations."

Judge Key has also served as an Associate Dean of the Wisconsin Judicial College, among other leadership positions. In addition to her longtime service to the legal community and the judiciary, Judge Key devoted countless hours to improving the Oshkosh and Winnebago County communities through her service to Big Brothers/Big Sisters, the Exchange Club Center for the Prevention of Child Abuse, Nova Counseling Services, Confront Addictions Now, and Regional Domestic Abuse Services.

Judge Chad Hendee: Judge of the Year

Judge Chad Hendee of Marquette County Circuit Court is the recipient of the Bench and Bar Committee’s Judge of the Year Award. The award recognizes an outstanding circuit court judge who has improved the judicial system during the past year through leadership in advancing the quality of justice, judicial education, or innovative programs.

The Bench and Bar Committee honors judges who have taken extraordinary steps to implement and improve Wisconsin’s treatment courts. Judge Hendee has taken that one step further in implementing a supportive community around treatment court graduates. This includes supportive activities such as bowling nights and securing housing at a reduced rent – plus engaging local law enforcement in the future success of treatment court graduates.

Judge Hendee’s work has been recognized throughout Wisconsin as a model for ensuring success of treatment court graduates and engaging communities in this important effort.

T.R. Williams: Diversity & Inclusion Trailblazer Award

T.R. Williams is this year’s recipient of the Diversity & Inclusion Trailblazer Award. The award, from the Diversity & Inclusion Oversight Committee, celebrates an individual who contributes to and enhances diversity and inclusion within the Wisconsin legal profession.

"T.R. is a passionate and relentless advocate for women in leadership, racial equity, and has improved health benefits in Black and Brown communities. Her extensive leadership experience – including roles as Assistant Deputy Secretary for the Wisconsin Department of Health Services, Campaign Fundraising Specialist for United Way of Dane County, and Executive Director for a health policy organization on the East Coast – has had a profound impact on our community," said Judge Kori Ashley, committee chair.

Beyond her professional roles, T.R. has shared her expertise with the State Bar, the Wisconsin Public Health Association, Wisconsin Network Policy Institute, United Way, The Foundation for Black Women's Wellness, Greater Milwaukee Urban League, and numerous other influential platforms. Her unwavering commitment to creating positive change has inspired many, and her passion, intelligence, and wit set her apart.

"If you have ever had the opportunity to hear T.R. speak, you know how profoundly she challenges perspectives. Every conversation with her is thought-provoking, leaving you to ask yourself: 'What more can I do to challenge the system’s status quo?'" said Judge Ashley.

Timothy D. Edwards and Hayley Rich-Noble: Charles Dunn Wisconsin Lawyer Author Award

Presented by the State Bar Communications Committee, which serves as the editorial board for Wisconsin Lawyer magazine, the Hon. Charles Dunn Author Award recognizes writing excellence in the publication. The award was named in honor of the Wisconsin Supreme Court’s first chief justice.

The 2024 Charles Dunn Award goes to Timothy D. Edwards and Hayley Rich-Noble, who co-wrote a two-part article, “Discovering & Admitting AI Data in State & Federal Courts,” parts 1 and 2, 97 Wis. Law. 10-16 (November 2024)and 97 Wis. Law. 8-12 (December 2024).

Committee members said this about the articles: Artificial intelligence (AI) currently is the most innovative and impactful technology change for lawyers to navigate, and probably the most intriguing in many years. In addition, most lawyers likely don't understand its impact, how to use it, and how it may affect their practice and their clients. The articles were useful, had broad appeal among our readers, and included discussion about practical innovation. The articles did a nice job pointing out to readers the numerous risks of AI and a reminder to use caution when using the technology. Lawyers have a duty to stay well-informed about AI and how to use it as a tool. Many people in our profession do not have the time to dive deep, so it is important to highlight articles, especially articles that are credible, well-written, well-sourced, and keep our readers more up-to-date on important advances in technology.

Sarah A. Johnson: Pro Bono Attorney of the Year

Sarah A. Johnson is the recipient of this year’s Pro Bono Attorney of the Year Award. The award, presented by the State Bar’s Legal Assistance Committee, recognizes dedication to the development and delivery of legal services to low-income individuals or lawyers who develop innovative ways to deliver volunteer legal services.

Sarah's commitment to pro bono service, innovative approach to integrating technology, and tireless advocacy for underserved communities exemplify the values of this prestigious recognition. Sarah's contributions extend beyond her direct client work.

She has led efforts to integrate technology into LAW's clinic operations, revolutionizing how we deliver legal services. Her automated workflows for the Consumer Debt Defense Clinic, Eviction Defense Clinics, Recording Clearing Clinics, and general grant management and reporting operations allow LAW to spend less time on administrative tasks, better utilize volunteer attorneys, and more quickly and efficiently deliver legal services to clients.

WisLawHelp.org: Pro Bono Firm/Organization of the Year

WisLawHelp.org is the recipient of the Pro Bono Firm/Organization of the Year Award from the State Bar’s Legal Assistance Committee. The award recognizes outstanding pro bono service.

Spearheaded by Judicare Legal Aid, WisLawHelp.org has transformed the way people connect with legal assistance. This innovative platform functions as a statewide triage and referral system, making it easier and more efficient for individuals to access the legal help they need. It simplifies the process of finding legal aid by providing clear, user-friendly access to resources and referrals for a variety of legal issues, including housing, family law, consumer rights, and more. It bridges a critical gap by centralizing information and tailoring it to meet the needs of individuals across Wisconsin, especially in underserved areas.

Ellen Pimentel: Dan Tuchscherer Outstanding Public Interest Law Attorney

The 2025 Dan Tuchscherer Outstanding Public Interest Law Attorney is Ellen Pimentel, a staff attorney with the Indian Law Office, Judicare Legal Aid, in Wausau. The award, presented by the State Bar Public Interest Law Section, recognizes a lawyer who embodies the elements of the award: demonstrating a lifetime commitment to working in the public interest, a commitment to volunteerism beyond employment responsibilities, and a selfless commitment to helping their community.

Through her current work at Judicare Legal Aid as a staff attorney, and her past work, among others, as an attorney with Disability Rights Wisconsin, as a paralegal at Legal Action of Wisconsin, and as a bilingual social worker at the 16th Street Clinic, Ellen has dedicated her entire career to ensuring that those in need can access resources to improve their circumstances, and obtain life-sustaining public benefits.

As a staff attorney, Ellen worked tirelessly in traveling great distances, in all seasons, to regularly visit, attend, and conduct elder and health events sponsored by all 11 Sovereign Tribes in Wisconsin. In addition to being a formidable lawyer, Ellen has also dedicated personal time to improving her community. She has volunteered with The Arc Wisconsin, Repairers of the Breach Legal Clinic, and the Dane County Bar Association, as well as serving on the board of directors for UNIDOS Against Domestic Violence.

Rhonda Van Pembrook: Ryan Klesh Outstanding Public Interest Legal Worker

Rhonda Van Pembrook is the recipient of this year’s Public Interest Law Section’s Ryan Klesh Outstanding Public Interest Legal Worker Award. The award recognizes an individual who captures the essence of the late Ryan Klesh: selflessness, work ethic, kindness, intellect, authenticity, and humor in working to seek justice for low-income neighbors, family, or friends.

In her 30-plus year career at Legal Action of Wisconsin, Rhonda used her intellect, determination, and warmth to help people obtain and retain public benefits to meet their basic needs for food, shelter, child care, and health care. Rhonda’s lifelong, selfless commitment to her clients and the community went beyond her professional work. In her personal life, Rhonda volunteered through her church and various community outreach programs such as the Food, Faith and Farming Network and the MICAH (Milwaukee Inner-City Churches Allied for Hope).

Tragically, Rhonda passed away on Nov. 6, 2024, after a battle with ovarian cancer. Rhonda’s legendary work ethic and genuine appreciation of others made her not just an indispensable employee, but a good friend and colleague to all who knew her.

Kene O. Okocha: Nonresident Lawyers Division Founder’s Award

Kene O. Okocha is the recipient of the Nonresident Lawyers Division Founder’s Award for his many years of service to the Nonresident Lawyers Division (NRLD). This award recognizes a nonresident member who has brought positive change to the division and has actively participated in State Bar activities for many years.

Kene is recipient of this award in recognition of his outstanding contributions to the field of law, his unwavering commitment to justice, and his profound impact on both his community and colleagues through the State Bar Nonresident Lawyers Division. He has served as both president and a board member of the NRLD, and is very active in the division's Washington, D.C., chapter.

Kene is a senior assistant U.S. attorney (AUSA) who served for 12 years at the U.S. Attorney’s Office in the District of Columbia. As the deputy chief of the Sex Offense and Domestic Violence (SODV) Section, he oversees and trains attorneys prosecuting critical cases involving sexual abuse and domestic violence.

Kene has demonstrated exceptional leadership in the legal community. He is a founding member of the D.C. Chapter of the National Black Prosecutors Association and has served on its executive board for two years. His passion for equitable prosecution is further evidenced through his role as chair of SODV’s Equitable Prosecution Working Group, where his efforts have led to innovative restorative justice initiatives and significant improvements in language access for crime victims.

Kene's dedication to making a difference truly sets him apart.

James 'Griff' Griffin: Government Lawyers Division Grant F. Langley Service Award

Jim Griffin is the recipient of the 2025 Grant F. Langley Service Award from the Government Lawyers Division (GLD). The Langley Service Award is presented to an attorney with accomplishments in the legal profession who serves not only the government and citizens, but also other government attorneys. This attorney is someone involved in activities that increase the public’s respect for government lawyers while promoting government legal work as a rewarding career choice.

Jim recently retired from the Milwaukee County District Attorney’s Office after a long and successful career as a prosecutor. He was widely regarded as an exceptional litigator and for his integrity, respect, and candor. He was also known for his unrivaled quick wit, humor, and ability to engage with anyone at any point on a very human level.

"Jim Griffin is deserving of this award for his impact as a mentor. His impact on countless careers cannot be understated, for he has made an intentional and significant impact on the trajectory of many careers. Those lawyers that learned from his guidance have taken those lessons and passed them on to others, and so on down the line for a string of 30 continuous years," say his nominators.

He has exemplified kindness, respect, experience, and integrity outward beyond his own personal reach and through the lawyers he has guided.

Dean Dietrich: Senior Lawyers Division Leonard L. Loeb Award

Dean Dietrich is the recipient of the 2025 Leonard L. Loeb Award from the Senior Lawyers Division (SLD) for his exceptional achievements and dedication to the legal field. In addition to his extensive community involvement, Dean has been an impressive advocate for the expansion of legal services to residents across the state.

This award is given to a senior lawyer who has made significant contributions to the legal community, shown respect for the legal system, demonstrated a love for the law, demonstrated high ideals and personal character, participated in organizations to improve communities, and participated in state and local bar activities.

Dean has participated in numerous State Bar activities, serving not only on various committees and division boards, but also as State Bar president, 2023-24. Dean has contributed to the advancement of the legal profession and supported fellow lawyers in their professional development by prioritizing civility and professionalism, promoting the importance of lawyer well-being, and developing an abundance of educational programming.

Dean has consistently demonstrated admirable principles and integrity, earning the respect of colleagues and clients alike.

Mary Ferwerda: Young Lawyers Division Outstanding Mentor Award

Mary Ferwerda is the recipient of the 2025 Young Lawyers Division’s Outstanding Mentor Award. The award pays tribute to a Wisconsin attorney with six or more years of practice who has made an exceptional contribution to the life and career of a young attorney.

Mary is former executive director of the Milwaukee Justice Center and current chief deputy clerk of Milwaukee Circuit Court.

What makes Mary a fantastic mentor is her ability to connect with people. Whether you are a law student, volunteer attorney, Milwaukee Justice Center client, or administrator, Mary makes people feel heard.

It is because of Mary's vision, dedication, and mentorship of countless law students and attorneys that pro bono in Milwaukee flourishes.

Jason 'JJ' Moore: Young Lawyers Division Outstanding Young Lawyer Award

JJ Moore is the 2025 Young Lawyers Division’s Outstanding Young Lawyer of the Year. This award is given to young lawyers who make an impact in their practice areas and in service to the State Bar and to their community.

Since graduating in 2018, JJ has focused on public interest law culminating serving as staff attorney for Legal Action of Wisconsin. His role focuses on running the bankruptcy advice and petition clinic, where he supervises volunteers and law students in advising clients on Chapter 7 bankruptcy. In 2024, law students worked on 55 bankruptcy petitions and obtained nearly $4 million, which assisted in improving housing stability and reinstating driver’s licenses.

Outside of his job at Legal Action, JJ continuously volunteers on a weekly basis at the Marquette Volunteer Legal Clinic and ABA Free Legal Answers to provide brief legal advice on a variety of topics. He previously served as a director of​ the Young Lawyers Division serving the division and the State Bar.

Judith Cusack and Diego Romero: Outstanding Public Interest Law Students

The Public Interest Law Section honors law students who demonstrate a commitment to public interest work, to volunteer work or activism in their community, and to helping others in their communities. This year, the section honors Judith Cusack, U.W. Law School, and Diego Romero, Marquette University Law School.

Judy Cusack’s volunteer work at LIFT’s (Legal Interventions Transforming Wisconsin) Driver's License Reinstatement Clinics and Legal Action of Wisconsin’s Barriers to Employment Clinics, reflected her eagerness, compassion, and dedication to serving the community. In those clinics, she explained the legal process to people who are unfamiliar and overwhelmed on how to resolve their driver’s license suspensions or revocations and background check issues. Judy also finds time to serve as historian and mentor for UW’s Black Law Student Association. Upon graduation, Judy will continue her public interest track and has plans to start full-time employment with the Brooklyn District Attorney’s Office.

As a law student, Diego Romero displayed an unwavering dedication to serving and uplifting underserved communities. He participated in the Rural Summer Legal Corps (RSLC) Fellowship program where he interned with Legal Action of Wisconsin’s Farmworker Project. He also volunteered at the Marquette Volunteer Legal Clinic (MVLC) and at the United Community Center (UCC). In these programs, Diego’s bilingual abilities, professionalism, leadership, and compassion had an invaluable impact in providing effective legal assistance. Diego will graduate from Marquette in May 2026 with honors for performing more than 120 hours of pro bono work.