Jackson Walker is proud to congratulate Mary Emma (Ackels) Karam as this year’s Louise B. Raggio Award recipient. Presented by the Dallas Women Lawyers Association, the award honors an individual who exhibits the utmost professionalism while aiding the advancement of women attorneys – much like the eponymous Louise B. Raggio, the first female prosecutor in Dallas County history who helped pioneer the Texas Family Code.

“Louise Raggio was not only a leader among women and a trailblazer of her time, but also a close friend of my father. I am touched to receive an award that bears her name, and I know my father would be so proud,” Mary Emma said. “Accepting this award is a humbling experience, as it comes from the many DWLA women I have met and some of whom I have mentored over the years.”

Throughout her career at Jackson Walker, Mary Emma has elevated those around her, including clients, colleagues, family, and the community. In 1985, Mary Emma was the first woman associate promoted to partner at the Firm. Since then, she co-founded the Healthcare section and served as Chair of Business Development and Marketing. In recent years, Mary Emma contributed to growing Jackson Walker’s diversity efforts and creating opportunities for women to achieve work/life balance.

“Mary Emma is a one-of-a-kind leader in our firm, the community, and the legal profession as a whole,” Dallas Managing Partner David T. Moran said. “She has helped me – and countless others – to be a better attorney, parent, and servant to my clients, to Jackson Walker, and to the community. I can think of no one more deserving than Mary Emma to receive the Louise B. Raggio Award.”

“Mary Emma is a one-of-a-kind leader in our firm, the community, and the legal profession as a whole.”

Founded in 1969, the Dallas Women Lawyers Association strives to elevate the standing of women in the legal profession. Founding members include acclaimed Dallas lawyers Louise B. Raggio, Judge Sarah T. Hughes, and Joann Peters. Along with the Louise B. Raggio Award, DWLA presents awards for Outstanding Corporate Counsel, Outstanding Female Lawyer (Small and Large Firm), Rising Raggio, and Her Champion, which recognizes a man who supports, mentors, and promotes the advancement and development of women in the legal profession.

Dallas Women Lawyers Association presented Jackson Walker partner Mary Emma (Ackels) Karam with the Louise B. Raggio Award at the 2018 Awards Reception on Oct. 18, 2018.