Covington Awards
Each year, Volunteer Legal Services (VLS) proudly hosts the Covington Awards Ceremony, a special event dedicated to recognizing the outstanding contributions of our most committed individual volunteers and law firms from the previous year. These prestigious awards are named in honor of the Honorable Judge Suzanne Covington, whose legacy of service and advocacy continues to inspire our mission.
Judge Suzanne
Covington
Judge Suzanne Covington served with distinction on the 201st District Court for 15 years, earning a reputation for fairness, compassion, and dedication to justice. Before her judicial career, she worked with leading legal aid organizations—including DNA-People’s Legal Services, Greater Boston Legal Services, and the Legal Aid Society of Central Texas—advocating for underserved communities.
She also directed the Children’s Rights Clinic at UT School of Law, mentoring future public interest lawyers, and served on the VLS Board of Directors, helping guide the organization’s mission.
Through the Covington Awards, we are honored to celebrate Judge Covington’s enduring legacy and to recognize those who, like her, exemplify the spirit of pro bono service. These awards serve as a tribute to her lifelong commitment to justice, equity, and community empowerment.
“For the health of our justice system nothing is more essential than the perception, backed by reality, of a level playing field, a fair chance for all. That’s why I strongly believe that the work you do on your pro-bono cases is the most important work you will do in your career as a lawyer, for your clients, for your community and for yourself.”
– Judge Suzanne Covington
