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Celebrating the Rule of Law at Boston College Law School’s Law Day Awards Dinner

April 30, 2026

On April 30, 2026, Boston College Law School will host its annual Law Day Awards Dinner, a longstanding tradition that brings together alumni and members of the legal community to recognize the core principles of the profession: advancing equality and justice, encouraging observation and enforcement of the law, and fostering a deep respect for the law’s essential place in the life of every citizen. Established by presidential proclamation in 1958, Law Day is a national day set aside to celebrate the rule of law and its importance in society.

A cornerstone of the law school’s spring calendar, the event draws several hundred alumni and friends each year to honor individuals whose contributions have had a meaningful impact on the legal profession.

The firm is a supporter of this year’s event and joins in recognizing the award recipients and their contributions to advancing the rule of law.

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Hemenway & Barnes Boston College Law School Alumni

Stephen W. Kidder

Stephen W. Kidder concentrates his practice in the areas of taxation and professional fiduciary services.

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Michael J. Puzo

Michael J. Puzo concentrates on wealth management, primarily through serving as a trustee of private trusts and charitable foundations. He also advises individuals and families on complex estate planning, charitable giving and a host of personal issues.

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Edward Notis-McConarty

Edward Notis-McConarty concentrates his practice in the areas of probate litigation, civil litigation, dispute resolution, and fiduciary work.

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Ryan P. McManus

Ryan McManus concentrates his practice in the areas of fiduciary and business litigation. He represents clients in state and federal courts, and in alternative dispute resolution.

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Kurt F. Somerville

Kurt F. Somerville has more than 30 years of experience advising families and individuals on trust and estate matters. As a lawyer and trustee, Kurt works with clients to preserve, enhance, and transfer family wealth.

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John M. Stephan

John M. Stephan is counsel and co-chair of the Government & Election Law Group at Hemenway & Barnes. John is a highly accomplished attorney with extensive state government experience in providing effective legal counsel to elected and appointed officials and litigating complex issues on behalf of state officers and agencies in state and federal courts.

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Keirsa K. Johnson

Keirsa K. Johnson is an associate practicing in the Private Client and Nonprofit Practice Groups at Hemenway & Barnes. She advises clients on complex estate and tax planning strategies and assists tax-exempt organizations with formation and governance issues

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Shannon M. Nelson

Shannon Nelson works with individuals and families on implementing trust and estate planning strategies.

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Thomas L. Guidi

Thomas L. Guidi concentrates his practice in real estate and nonprofit law.

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Sara (Sally) A. Walker

Sara (Sally) A. Walker is the Director of Risk Management at Hemenway & Barnes. Sally plays a pivotal role in safeguarding both the firm's and our clients’ interests.

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Community Involvement

Event

Family Nurturing Center Gala: A Night Focused on Families, Community, and Connections

The Family Nurturing Center of Massachusetts (FNC) will host its sixth annual Families, Friends, Future Gala on April 10, 2026, at the John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum.

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Supporting Child Advocacy: Boston CASA’s 14th Annual Transforming Lives Gala

On April 16, 2026, Boston CASA will host its 14th Annual Transforming Lives Gala, bringing together supporters dedicated to advancing the well-being of children and youth who have experienced abuse and neglect.

Event

Celebrating the Rule of Law at Boston College Law School’s Law Day Awards Dinner

On April 30, 2026, Boston College Law School will host its annual Law Day Awards Dinner, a longstanding tradition that brings together alumni and members of the legal community to recognize the core principles of the profession.

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