2023 ALL RISE ANNUAL AWARDS CELEBRATION
The Ohio State Bar Foundation's 2023 Annual Awards Celebration embraced the theme, "The Art of Giving: Creating a More Just Ohio." Taking place at the beautiful Columbus Museum of Art, attendees were surrounded by the art that symbolizes the beauty of service and giving back. A special highlight of the evening was the live art performance by local artist Francesca Miller, whose work embodies the spirit of empowerment, social justice, and the pursuit of joy, hope, and comfort.
This year's All Rise Annual Awards honored the outstanding attorneys and organizations that have exemplified an unwavering dedication to building a better justice system, broadening access to justice, and advancing our collective understanding of the law. It was an evening of recognition and appreciation for those who have passionately devoted their expertise to building a stronger, fairer Ohio.
Ritter Award
Merle Wilberding, Dayton
Merle F. Wilberding is a distinguished attorney whose lifetime of service, legal expertise, and commitment to the Dayton region has left an indelible mark on both the legal profession and his community. The OSBF’s Ritter Award recognizes the accomplishments of the honoree in attaining and promoting the highest level of professionalism, integrity, and ethics in the practice of law.
Ramey Award
Richard "Dick" Pogue, Cleveland
Richard W. "Dick" Pogue is an exceptional attorney known for his significant contributions to the legal profession, civic engagement, and community service in Northeast Ohio.
Excellence in Diversity and Inclusion
Joseph Mas, Columbus
Joseph L. Mas is a lifelong advocate for justice, diversity, and inclusion. At the age of 12, Mas came to the United States as a political refugee. For over four decades since, he has been a prominent legal figure and tireless advocate for those in need, especially the Latinx community.
Outstanding Organization or Program
Ohio Legal Help
As a nonprofit organization at the forefront of leveraging technology and innovation to enhance access to justice in Ohio. Through its dedication and innovation, Ohio Legal Help is helping to create a more equitable and just Ohio for all its residents.
Community Service Award for Attorneys 40 and Under
Cindy Cunningham, Mt. Vernon
Cindy Cunningham is an exceptional attorney, civic leader, and dedicated volunteer with strong roots in her community. She contributes substantial time and effort in service.
In Honor Of...
Make a tribute gift to honor an awardee, organization, or individual of your choice. Unless otherwise designated, 100% of your gift will be used for grant making purposes. Your name will be included in the event program. Your gift will be acknowledged, and a notification sent to the individual or organization you honored.
2023 All Rise Annual Awards Program
Additionally, the OSBF honors Distinguished Life Fellows that reach the next level of giving and new Life Fellows:
OSBF Distinguished Life Fellows Reaching New Level of Giving
William K. Weisenberg
Distinguished Life Fellow Advocate
Kristin Burkett
Distinguished Life Fellow Counselor
Barbara G. Watts
Distinguished Life Fellow Associate
Lynne Day
Distinguished Life Fellow Associate
Shirley A. Cool Cochran
Distinguished Life Fellow Associate
Robert Benjamin Franz
Distinguished Life Fellow Associate
New OSBF Life Fellows
Janice Allen Baughman
Jennifer L Bouhall
David Bressman
Melinda K. Burton
Patrick B. Cavanaugh
Randall M. Comer
Susan Durr
Gregory Gantt
Janet Green Marbley
Daniel R. Griffith
Christopher Habel
Hon. Howard Harcha III
Judy A. Koesters
Jeffrey Loeser
Stephen M. McHugh
Robert Miller
Timothy J. Moore
Jennifer Myers
Marc G. Pera
Anthony Petruzzi
Adrienne L. Stemen
Dean Swift
Michael J. Todak
Hon. William H. Wolff
Thanks to Our Sponsors
Presenting Sponsor
Silver Sponsor
Bronze Sponsor
