(AUSTIN) — Austin attorney Joe R. Anderson was honored this month by the State Bar of Texas for his exceptional contributions in 2018 to the Bar’s continuing legal education efforts. Mr. Anderson was one of four volunteer lawyers receiving an award from the staff of TexasBarCLE, the Bar’s division for providing continuing legal education and one of the premier providers in the nation.

The award, an attractive clear obelisk, is inscribed with “A Standing Ovation — Staff Appreciation for an Outstanding Volunteer of 2018.” It bears Mr. Anderson’s name, the logo for TexasBarCLE, and the seal of the State Bar of Texas.

Hedy Bower, Director of TexasBarCLE, explained the significance of the award. “All of our volunteers deserve our gratitude for contributing to the continuing education of their peers. Nevertheless, some stand out each year for extraordinary dedication and commitment. The staff looks forward to singling out individuals that not only gave enormously to our efforts, but also were gracious, easy to work with, and — oftentimes — helped us out in a real pinch.”

“Without volunteers,” Bower continued, “CLE from the State Bar couldn’t be nearly as high quality, as abundant, or as affordable. Attorney volunteers are the reason TexasBarCLE can claim the slogan, ‘Education by the Bar, for the Bar.’ ”

Lawyers must earn 15 hours of continuing legal education each year in order to maintain a license to practice law in Texas.