SPRMIC- The Native American Bar Association of Arizona (NABA-AZ) held their annual Seven Generations Awards Dinner at Salt River Pima-Maricopa Indian Community’s Talking Stick Resort on Sept. 24, 2011.  It was an evening to recognize three honorees for exemplary service and to raise funds for Native American law students in the state of Arizona through a silent auction.  NABA-AZ is a non-profit organization that was formed in 2007 by a small group of local Native American attorneys seeking to increase opportunities for Native American lawyers, judges and students, and to promote legal issues pertinent to Native American communities. 

Awards were given to DNA People’s Legal Services, William Quinn and Steve Heeley, former GRIC Assistant General Counsel. 

Linda Arnold, President of NABA-AZ, was on hand to highlight some of NABA-AZ’s activities over the past year.  She noted that the organization awarded multiple scholarships, held food and toy drives, raised over $8,000 at an annual golf fundraiser among other accomplishments.  She also thanked all of the sponsors which included the Wild Horse Pass Development Authority. 

SPRMIC President Diane Enos welcomed NABA-AZ by saying, “We’re honored as a tribe to have you here.”  Enos, the first SPRMIC member to become a lawyer, recalled her many long hours of study and years of practice.  Enos was likewise pleased to see the audience dashed with youthful faces.  “I am so honored because a lot of you are young,” she said. 

Other speakers included individuals from the State Bar of Arizona: John Phelps, CEO/Executive Director and Joe Kanefield, President of the State Bar of Arizona. 

Phelps said that if people wanted a clear definition of professionalism in the practice of law, “all they have to do is look at the Native American Bar Association for examples of professional leaders.”

Rod Lewis, former GRIC General Counsel, introduced Steve Heeley who received the NABA-AZ Member of the Year Award.  Heeley was gracious toward his colleagues for the honor and for their charity.  “Each and everyone here tonight—I’d like to thank you for your generosity,” said Heeley. 

Several members of GRIC Law Office were on hand and GRIC General Counsel Linus Everling commented on Heeley’s tireless work ethic.  “It’s just unbelievable how much stuff he does,” said Everling.  Everling also described the relationship among NABA-AZ members.  “This is a very tight knit group of people.  You wouldn’t believe how many people here have known each other for 20, 30 years,” said Everling. 

The Community Service Award, which is to honor individuals that make an impact in Native communities, was bestowed to DNA People’s Legal Services and accepted by the law firm’s President, Karl Gillson.  DNA People’s Legal Services provide direct legal to assistance nearly 4,000 people annually.  Gillson said that DNA secured $4.5 million for their clients last year. 

The Lifetime Achievement Award was given to William Quinn, Jr. for his substantial contribution in the area of Indian Law in Arizona thoughout the course of several years.  “It marks for me one of the most meaningful and treasured awards I’ve ever received,” said Quinn of his honor. 

Quinn stated that the turning points and transitions in his career were affected by, “a touch of the creator’s hand.” 

Sonia Martinez, NABA-AZ Board Secretary and Planning Committee Chairperson, concluded the evening by thanking her committee, sponsors and volunteers.