In keeping with RPA's primary goals of continuing education and recognition in the legal field, the 2008 Outstanding Paralegal of the Year award will be presented for significant contributions during the time period of July 1, 2007 through June 30, 2008.

Member of RPA in good standing for the past 12 months;

During the period from July 1, 2007 through June 30, 2008: (a) performed a minimum of 12 hours of service (i.e., committee meetings, pro bono service, seminar preparation, etc.) on behalf of RPA; or (b) attended at least one event (i.e., Brown Bag lunches, dinner meetings, Annual Seminar) per month; or (c) a combination of service and attendance that equals 12 hours.

Demonstrated dedication to the development of the paralegal profession in the metropolitan Richmond area;

Contributed significant work toward the development of RPA through committees or special projects participation and/or as a current or past officer or director of RPA;

Recognized by his or her employer as an outstanding employee who makes a significant contribution to the work of the sole practitioner, law firm, corporation or government agency;

Willingly lends assistance to fellow paralegals; and

Has high ethical standards.

To nominate an individual for the Richmond Paralegal Association Outstanding Paralegal of the Year award, submit his or her name, address and telephone number to a member of the OPY committee (listed below). Include the name of the nominee's employer and a short statement why you believe this nominee should be RPA's Outstanding Paralegal of the Year.

The committee will contact each nominee to determine whether he or she accepts the nomination and to obtain a statement from the nominee confirming current employment as a legal assistant and intention to remain so employed.

After each nomination is accepted, the committee will contact each nominee's employer to obtain a recommendation from the employer.

Each nominee will also be invited to submit a resume describing his or her background, education, employment, public service, and other relevant activities. Letters of support, articles, or other documentation may also be submitted.

The deadline for submission of nominees is August 1, 2008. The list of nominees will be published in RPA On the Record. Letters of support may be sent to the Committee by September 15, 2008. The recipient of this award will be announced at the Paralegal Week Reception on October 7, 2008.

Prior winners: Bridgette Whitney, CLA (1994), Linda Binns Liles (1995), Mary Pat Hanson, CLA (1996), Anita McGuire (1997), Janet B. Kouten, CLA (1998), Frances C. Smith (1999), Ann Knobbe (2000), Patricia C. Anderson, CLAS (2001), no award in 2002, Lee Ann Wilson, CLAS (2003); Virginia Butler (2004); Dana Bruce, CLA (2005; Michele Rundstrom (2006); Anita Shaia (2007).