The Atlanta Lawyer May 2016 | Page 22

NEWS & NOTES had his day in court more than six years after submitting his Throughout his life, Judge Ward quietly and with great modesty application. Federal Judge Frank Hooper dismissed his case. and humility changed the modern day legal community and our society as a whole. I am so proud to be a native Atlantan, a Even though he did not gain admission to UGA, Judge Ward’s southern woman and a member of this diverse Bar of attorneys. courage, strength and tenacity set the stage for the ultimate We would not be who we are today, without the selfless sacri- desegregation of the institution in 1961. After completing law fices of Judge Ward. In 2014, UGA’s President Jere Morehead school at Northwestern University, Judge Ward joined the law- presented Judge Ward with an Honorary Law Degree from yers who had assisted him in his case, Donald Lee Hollowell the UGA School of Law. Later this month, the Georgia State and Constance Baker Motley, to represent Hamilton Holmes Bar was planning to honor him with the Randolph Thrower and Charlayne Hunter in their quest to gain admissions to Lifetime Achievement Award. I have no doubt that he would UGA. After 175 years of segregation, UGA was desegregated. have accepted the award graciously, but perhaps the greatest Judge Ward’s continued efforts toward civil rights would include gift we can all give him is to live our lives with purpose and to numerous landmark civil rights cases such as representing utilize the law to make the world an inclusive accepting place in young Martin Luther King, Jr. the night that he was arrested which all people are afforded equal opportunities and access. ■ in DeKalb County, GA and transported to Reidsville Prison. ATLanta BAR association MEMBERSHIP BENEFITS The Atlanta Bar Association is the largest voluntary bar in the southeast. Part of what makes our Bar so special is our expanse offerings of high quality, unique opportunities. We help you find your place, or even multiple destinations, with a robust community of Sections, committees, service and pro bono groups. 22 Sections sponsoring a variety of independent & joint activities. Join one or many! Receive a $75 coupon towards CLE courses & discounts at local retailers & industry service providers Find out more at www.atlantabar.org 22 May 2016