Linda K. Estes Giraffe Award
The Linda K. Estes Giraffe Award, established in 2004, honors an individual who takes personal or professional risks to stand up for his or her beliefs and make a difference. A cash award is given to each recipient.
The Giraffe Award Endowment Fund honors Linda Estes, former Associate Director of Athletics at University of New Mexico and a champion of women's equality at the University of New Mexico and across the state.
The 2011 award:
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Grace Watson Williams
Grace was the Executive Director of the American Civil Liberties Union of New Mexico from 1975 to 1993, and was also a founding member of the organization. She valued civil liberties and helped the ACLU grow in size and make an impression in New Mexico. She wasn't afraid to fight for what she believed in and won many legal victories. In June of this year, Grace was notified of her selection as the 2011 Giraffe Award recipient. She was delighted and looking forward to the September reception then died, unexpectedly, on July 4th. Per her family's wishes, the award-- with its traditional giraffe sculpture-- was acknowledged at Grace's memorial service. No other reception will be held in 2011.
Past recipients of this award:
2010- Hon. Gene E. Franchini (1935-2009) New Mexico Supreme Court Justice. His generosity to NM youth is legendary both as a mentor to young lawyers and as the major force behind the NM Mock Trail competition.
2009 - Michael L. "Mikey" Weinstein founder of the Military Religous Freedom Foundation working to ensure religious freedom to all members of the U.S. Armed Forces.
2008 - Valerie Plame & Joe Wilson stuck their necks out to seek justice and to provide truth to the American people.
2007 - Emily (Cheromiah) Hunt-Dailey took a stand for women's equality in the Laguna tribe by securing a place for women in tribal government.
2006 - Laura Berg battled for the right of a government employee to express their personal opinions of the government.
2005 - Captain Marie Miranda, of the Albuquerque Police Department for her work to improve conditions in the APD evidence room
2004- Judy Bierbaum, a longtime activist and children’s sexual abuse counselor.
