Friday, October 25, 2024 | 6:00PM
The Fives Columbus
Judge Jeffery Hopkins, Cincinnati
Scott Sandrock, Akron
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.
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.
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.
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.
OSBF Distinguished Life Fellows Reaching New Level of Giving
Distinguished Life Fellow Advocate
Keith Ashmus
Kris Burkett
Kraig Noble
Distinguished Life Fellow Counselor
Belinda Barnes
Thomas Guillozet
Velda Hofacker
Ron Kahn
Gary Leppla
Distinguished Life Fellow Associate
David Alexander
William McGraw
Event Sponsorships offer excellent opportunities to support the work of the Foundation and honor the award recipients while also strengthening your organization’s brand awareness among the leaders of Ohio’s legal community. Sponsorships are currently available at levels ranging from $500 to $10,000.
Take a look at the sponsorship packet to see the incredible opportunities to support this year's awardees and be a part of this amazing event.
A Silent Auction will also be conducted during the Annual Awards Celebration. Auction donations are currently being accepted and bidders must be present to win.
Ready to become a sponsor or donate an auction item? Have Questions? Contact Morgan DeBoth, Development Director at mdeboth@osbf.org.