Nominations are now open for the 2027 Alli Gerkman Legal Visionary Award, which aims to recognize individuals who have made considerable strides early in their legal careers to improve the American legal system. Named in memory of Alli Gerkman, the award honors her legacy as a zealous advocate for legal system reform. Gerkman, who passed away in 2019 at the age of 41, was a senior director at the Institute for the Advancement of the American Legal System at the University of Denver. Her work, including initiatives like the Foundations for Practice, laid the groundwork for future advancements by identifying key skills new lawyers need to succeed.
The award is specifically targeted towards emerging leaders in the legal field, defined as those within the first 15 years of their careers, who exhibit a reform-minded approach. The initiative by IAALS seeks to highlight innovators and risk-takers capable of bringing about meaningful change in legal practices across the United States.
Nominations are being accepted until November 1, with both self-nominations and nominations by others being welcomed. Required materials include a résumé or biography, as well as a description of up to 1,000 words detailing the nominee’s pioneering work and its impact. IAALS also suggests, but does not mandate, up to two letters of support.
The recipient of the award will be announced by the end of February and will be honored at the Rebuilding Justice Award Dinner. Full details and nomination forms can be found on the official website.
For further information, you can read the original announcement here.