Chicago Bar Honors Katten for Lawyers in the Classroom Program

The Chicago Bar Association (CBA) recognized Katten and its attorneys with a Civic Education Appreciation Award for its "outstanding" and ongoing participation in the CBA Lawyers In the Classroom (LIC) Program at Jose de Diego Elementary.

The CBA celebrated a "phenomenal partnership and commitment to the LIC Program" during an awards ceremony on November 2. Last year, the program reached over 5,000 students across 60 schools. Real Estate associate Kristen Froese oversees Katten's involvement in the LIC program at Jose de Diego Elementary, the home of the Katten Legal Clinic.

"I love the opportunity to get into the community, connect with some of the kids and also give teachers a break," Kristen said, adding that the program provides her and other volunteers a welcome dose of context. "Sometimes, when you do pro bono work, it helps you see the big picture, makes you stress out a little less. Getting out of my inbox for one hour can clear my head and see the bigger picture of life."

The LIC Program pairs attorneys with teachers to provide students with interactive learning opportunities that enhance critical thinking, collaboration and civil discourse skills. Attorney volunteers share their knowledge, pathways to the profession and offer students an opportunity to interact with a variety of positive role models.

In addition to the Katten Legal Clinic and LIC Program, Katten supports Jose de Diego Elementary with back-to-school backpack and holiday book drives. This year, the Chicago office delivered 177 Backpacks to Jose de Diego students during the back-to-school picnic.