2024 All Rise Awards Celebration

2024 All Rise Annual Celebration: Bright Stars of Justice

The Bright Stars of Justice Annual Awards celebrated the attorneys and organizations making a real difference in our legal system. Honoring those with a deep commitment to justice and community service, the evening recognized individuals who go beyond the call of duty to bring positive change. With passion and dedication, these awardees inspire us all, reminding us that every case they handle contributes to a fairer, stronger society.

2024 All Rise Annual Award Recipients

Ritter Award

Judge Jeffery Hopkins, Cincinnati

Judge Jeffrey Hopkins, a United States District Judge for the Southern District of Ohio since December 2022, is the Ohio State Bar Foundation's 2024 Ritter Award recipient. Prior to his current role, he served 26 years as a U.S. Bankruptcy Judge, including a tenure as Chief Judge. A respected figure in both the legal and local community, Judge Hopkins has also contributed as an educator, lecturer, and board member for several cultural institutions. His dedication to public service and legal excellence continues to inspire and shape the legal profession.

Ramey Award

Scott Sandrock, Akron

Scott P. Sandrock, of counsel at Brennan, Manna & Diamond, is the recipient of the 2024 Ramey Award for Distinguished Community Service. With a career focused on business, healthcare, estate planning, and litigation, his legal expertise has been cited by state supreme courts and federal appeals courts. Beyond his practice, Sandrock has led numerous nonprofit organizations and has dedicated over 40 years to the Boy Scouts of America. His unwavering commitment to the legal profession and to serving his community has made a lasting impact in Stark County and beyond.

Excellence in Diversity and Inclusion

Raphael Davis-Williams, Columbus

C. Raphael Davis-Williams, Director of Equity, People, Inclusion, and Culture at the ACLU of Ohio, is the recipient of the 2024 Excellence in Diversity and Inclusion Award. Since 2019, he has championed equity within the organization, drawing on nearly a decade of experience as a plaintiffs' civil rights attorney, where he fought against discrimination in housing and employment. Beyond his legal work, Davis-Williams has led efforts to promote diversity, equity, and inclusion through leadership roles in organizations like Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. and Kaleidoscope Youth Center. His work to advance DE&I has made a transformative impact within the legal field and the broader community.

Community Service Award for Newer Attorneys

Caitlyn Johnson, Columbus

Caitlyn Johnson, an attorney in the Health & Human Services Section of the Ohio Attorney General’s Office, is the recipient of the 2024 Statewide Community Service Award for Attorneys 40 and Under. Since joining the AG’s office in 2011, she has gained extensive experience representing state agencies, including the Ohio Department of Medicaid, in both state and federal courts. Beyond her legal work, Johnson is deeply committed to community service, volunteering for multiple organizations and inspiring the next generation of lawyers. Her dedication to giving back and fostering civic engagement makes her a standout in both her profession and her community.

Outstanding Organization or Program

Summer Work Experience in the Law (SWEL)

The Summer Work Experience in Law (SWEL) program, founded in 1988, is the recipient of the 2024 Outstanding Organization Award. Established by the Black Lawyers Association of Cincinnati and the Cincinnati Bar Association Round Table, SWEL was created to address the underrepresentation of African American attorneys in the local legal community. Since its inception, the program has provided over 300 students with invaluable exposure to the legal profession through internships, mentorship, and networking opportunities. SWEL continues to foster diversity and professional growth in Greater Cincinnati’s legal community, empowering the next generation of legal professionals.

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.

Tribute Gift