IAALS Announces Inaugural Founders Award Recipient: Sam Walker
IAALS, the Institute for the Advancement of the American Legal System, proudly announces Sam Walker, Executive in Residence, Office of the Colorado Attorney General, as the recipient of its inaugural Founders Award. This honor is reserved for individuals who have made significant and sustained contributions to IAALS and its mission to unlock innovations that make our civil justice system more just. The award celebrates transformative leadership, innovation, and inspiration akin to IAALS’ Founders.
“I have had the extraordinary privilege of working with Sam on IAALS’ Executive Committee and Board, in his role as Interim CEO of IAALS, and on the Colorado Access to Justice Commission. Sam brings leadership, purpose, service, and compassion to everything he does, including his commitment to improving our justice system for everyone,” said Brittany Kauffman, CEO of IAALS. “His unwavering dedication and extraordinary contributions have been transformative, and he inspires those around him to be visionary alongside him. We couldn’t imagine a more deserving recipient for our first Founders Award.”
Walker will receive the award at the April Rebuilding Justice Award Dinner, IAALS’ premier annual event celebrating individuals and organizations that significantly advance the cause of justice while showcasing IAALS’ efforts to transform the legal system.
“Being named the first recipient of the IAALS Founders Award is a tremendous honor,” said Walker. “I have always believed in the power of collaboration and innovation to create a more just system for everyone. IAALS’ unique approach to advancing the rule of law in a concrete, nonpartisan way is essential, and I’m humbled to contribute to its mission.”
From his role on IAALS’ Executive Committee and Board of Advisors to his service as IAALS’ Interim CEO, Walker has been deeply involved with the organization for more than a decade. His various roles have been pivotal in shaping IAALS’ mission and success. Beyond IAALS, Walker has held prominent positions in the legal and public policy arenas, consistently advocating for reforms that promote fairness, efficiency, and access to justice.
IAALS was founded in 2006 by University of Denver Chancellor Emeritus Daniel L. Ritchie, Denver attorney and bar leader John E. Moye, business leader and philanthropist Charles C. Gates, and former Colorado Supreme Court Justice Rebecca Love Kourlis. Their legacy continues to inspire IAALS’ mission and the transformative work celebrated by the Founders Award.
“Sam’s work has profoundly impacted IAALS and the broader legal system,” said Kourlis, Founding Executive Director of IAALS. “His innovative thinking and tireless efforts have driven meaningful change and inspired others to join the pursuit of justice. He embodies the very essence of what this award honors.”
To join IAALS in honoring Sam Walker and to support its mission, click here to learn more about the 17th Annual Rebuilding Justice Award Dinner, including ticket purchase and sponsorship information.