The Fellows

group photo of board members Carla Palumbo, Bruce Lawrence and David Schraver with Foundation Executive Deborah Auspelmyer

Who are the Fellows?

The Fellows of the New York Bar Foundation are distinguished members of the bench and bar recognized for outstanding professional achievement, dedication to the legal profession, and commitment to the Rule of Law.

View Fellows Directory

Principles and Beliefs

A Fellow:

  • understands that the law is a learned occupation and is inescapably a public calling. 
  • appreciates that the combined professional effort of all lawyers nurtures and sustains the rule of law and American democracy. 
  • embraces independence, ethical behavior, competence, and responsibility.
  • maintains an appreciation for the historical continuity and tradition of the profession, with respect for clients, adversaries and the courts.
  • acknowledges that the practice of law is a helping profession with enhanced obligations of service to the community and the profession.
  • strives to develop, uphold, and maintain these core values.

Committment

Each Fellow makes a commitment to financially support the goals and objectives of The Foundation through charitable contributions. 

They assist the Board in identifying potential grant projects and causes that may benefit from The Foundation’s assistance. 

While participation in events or activities is not mandatory, we welcome the opportunity to interact with you as valued members.

Fellows are instrumental to the growth and success of The New York Bar Foundation.

Bylaws

The Fellows of The New York Bar Foundation were established in 1974. They have separate bylaws and officers from The New York Bar Foundation. The Fellows hold an annual meeting to elect the officers for the ensuing year.

Nominating a Fellow

Individuals are generally nominated by a Director on the Board of The Foundation or by a current member of The Fellows. They are elected by the entire board. It’s an honor to be nominated.

According to the Bylaws under The Foundation, the number of Fellows is limited to one percent of the New York State Bar Association membership in each of the state’s 13 judicial districts plus 100 at-large members.

Circles of Giving

Maryann Saccomando Freedman Circle - $3,000 Pledge

Fellows contribute a minimum annual gift of $300 until the pledge is fulfilled.

Charles Evans Hughes Circle - $5,000 Pledge

Fellows contribute a minimum annual gift of $500 until the pledge is fulfilled.

Benjamin N. Cardozo Circle - $10,000 Pledge

Fellows contribute a minimum annual gift of $1,000 until the pledge is fulfilled.

John Jay Circle - $15,000 Pledge

Fellows contribute a minimum annual gift of $1,500 until the pledge is fulfilled.

Thurgood Marshall Circle - $25,000 Pledge

Fellows contribute a minimum annual gift of $2,500 until the pledge is fulfilled.

Kay Crawford Murray Circle - $40,000 Pledge

Fellows contribute a minimum annual gift of $4,000 until the pledge is fulfilled.

Learned Hand Circle - $50,000 Pledge

Fellows contribute a minimum annual gift of $5,000 until the pledge is fulfilled.

President Circle - $75,000 Pledge

Fellows contribute a minimum annual gift of $7,500 until the pledge is fulfilled.

Judicial Disctrict Chairs of the Fellows

View the Judicial District Chairs of the Fellows.

Judicial District Chairs

Welcome New Fellows

The fellows of the new york bar foundation
2023 New Fellows

Fellows News

Fellows Dinner Goes Virtual, Celebrates the 20s and All That Jazz

Congratulations Evan J. Spelfogel, Lifetime Achievement Award Recipient