Massachusetts Bar Association President Denise Squillante
presented the first two MBA Centennial Awards at a Sept. 30 Bristol
County Bar Association reception in Swansea, an event at which
Squillante was also honored by her hometown.
"It is quite humbling to be at this podium, in this moment, in
this centennial year of the MBA," said Squillante, who announced
the creation of the MBA Centennial Award after receiving the key to
her native city from Fall River Mayor William A. Flanagan.
Following remarks outlining her focus for the MBA's association
year, Squillante shifted the evening's spotlight to Nancy Stanton
and Robert Marchand, the first recipients of the award, which will
be bestowed across the state in the coming months.
Awardees are recognized for their "extraordinary achievement" in
advancing the rule of law and the integrity of the profession, and
in preserving the democratic principles of the nation.
Squillante noted Stanton's efforts in putting together a volunteer
conciliation proposal to be considered by the Supreme Judicial
Court for use in the small claims session of the District Court,
among many accolades.
Likewise, Squillante pointed to Marchand's dedicated service to
Lawyers Concerned for Lawyers in assisting colleagues who are often
going through their most difficult professional moments. Both were
on hand to receive the honor.
"For their service, we thank them," said Squillante. "They will be
examples for lawyers who follow them in the next centennial as to
what service does mean to the profession and to the community as a
whole."