The Houston Bar Association presented its second annual Diversity Awards to recognize outstanding law firms and individuals for their diversity, equity, and inclusion efforts within the legal profession and greater Houston community. The recipients of the 2022 HBA Diversity Awards are: Frost Brown Todd LLC; Greenberg Traurig, LLP; Roland Garcia, shareholder with Greenberg Traurig, LLP; and Marcus Esther, The Law Office of Marcus Esther, PLLC.
“We are truly honored to be recognized by the HBA for Frost Brown Todd’s commitment and actions to advance diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI),” said Chris Johnson, Chief Diversity Officer of Frost Brown Todd. “This award helps to affirm our progress on this long journey and serves as a reminder that there is always more work to do. Clear accountability will continue to guide our efforts every step of the way.”
“Since opening in Houston a few years back, we’ve been intentional about recruiting talent that reflects the vibrancy of our Houston community, which is among the most demographically diverse cities in the U.S.,” said Ken Bullock, Frost Brown Todd Houston Member-in-Charge.
Greenberg Traurig received two awards – both an organization award as well as an individual award for shareholder Roland Garcia, who promoted inclusion and diversity projects as president of the Houston Bar Association (2001-2002) and has continued to champion similar efforts through other organizations.
As a firm, Greenberg Traurig said it’s implemented several DEI initiatives, including its Diverse Law Student Recruitment Pilot Initiative in 2018 to develop meaningful and long-term relationships with diverse talent.
“From its inception, Greenberg Traurig has been at the forefront of implementing diversity, equity and inclusion, and our Houston office stands steadfast to these initiatives. Our strong commitment to a diverse profession and a more just society means we can make a true difference in the local and legal community,” said Shari L. Heyen, managing shareholder of Greenberg Traurig Houston. “It’s a great honor for our office to be recognized by the Houston Bar Association and we are immensely proud of Roland Garcia for his individual recognition. Roland’s work to advance diversity in all aspects of his life is both admirable and inspirational.”
Criminal defense attorney Marcus Esther’s DEI efforts include his work and leadership with several Houston organizations, including his service as vice president for the Houston Area Urban Young Professionals.
"I am honored to receive this award! Diversity, equity, and inclusion efforts are extremely important in the movement towards true justice. Passionate attorneys are needed to advocate for the underrepresented and underprivileged. By receiving this award, I hope to serve as an example to attorneys on how we can push for diversity and become more inclusive in our work."
The HBA Diversity Awards were created in 2019 by HBA President Benny Agosto, Jr. (2019-2020) to recognize outstanding achievements and dedication by law offices, legal departments, and individuals in the areas of diversity, equity, and inclusion in the legal profession. Recipients are chosen by a committee made up of representatives from the HBA’s Gender Fairness Committee; Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Committee; and LGBTQ+ Committee. The awards were presented during the HBA’s 24th Annual Summer Associate Luncheon held July 21 in downtown Houston.
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The Houston Bar Association is a nonprofit professional organization for attorneys that provides education and service programs for the legal profession and the community. With over 10,000 members, the HBA is one of the largest metropolitan bar associations in the nation.
