Stinson Receives Distinguished Service Award from Children’s Law Center of Minnesota

09.22.2025

Stinson LLP was honored by Children’s Law Center of Minnesota (CLC) with the 2025 Distinguished Service Award in recognition of its long-standing commitment to pro bono service and advocacy on behalf of Minnesota’s most vulnerable youth.

Stinson has been involved with the CLC since 1997 and over the past five years Stinson attorneys and staff have devoted more than 550 hours of pro bono representation to CLC clients. This work has been led by Partners Amy Conway, Melinda Dugas, Iain Johnson and Sharon Markowitz, and Senior Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Manager Desiree McDowell.

"Partnering with the Children’s Law Center of Minnesota has been deeply meaningful, both professionally and personally," said Dugas. "The opportunity to advocate for youth and ensure their voices and express wishes are heard in critical life-altering moments is a privilege, and we are proud to support CLC’s mission through our pro bono work and board service."

In addition to their direct client advocacy, Conway and McDowell serve on the CLC Board of Directors, where they provide strategic guidance on and leadership in advancing the organization’s initiatives, all in support of CLC’s mission to promote and protect the legal rights and well-being of children and youth.

"I’m proud to support the Children’s Law Center through my board service and to contribute to its efforts both behind the scenes and directly with the children we represent," said Conway. "Stinson’s partnership with CLC reflects our shared commitment to strengthening organizations that make a lasting difference in our community."

Stinson was recognized at the Children’s Law Center of Minnesota’s 30^th Celebration of Champions on September 18^th.