"Service to others with respect, compassion and humility" — these words might not immediately call to mind a member of the legal profession.

But these and other valuable qualities, including "honesty, integrity and a wonderful sense of humor" are among the expressions of admiration and praise stated in Santa Fe-based attorney Tracy Hughes' nomination as 2011 Public Lawyer of the Year.

The award was presented by the State Bar of New Mexico, which annually confers the honor on a "lawyer who has had a distinguished career in public service and who is not likely to be otherwise recognized for his or her contributions."

Hughes, who works for the New Mexico Legislative Finance Committee, previously served as general counsel for the New Mexico Environment Department and the Public Employees Retirement Association. She began her career with the state as a New Mexico Supreme Court clerk, and has also worked for the state Attorney General's Office. She holds a law degree from the University of Tulsa College of Law.

Among the traits highlighted by Hughes'
nominators was her dedication to mentoring
and supporting incoming attorneys, in particular
during her years as general counsel for the Environment Department. She was known for partnering them with more seasoned attorneys, providing them valuable experience on significant cases early in their careers. As their careers progressed, Hughes encouraged them to offer the same kind of mentorships to others.

"As a role model, Ms. Hughes leads by example," her nominators said. "Her professionalism, knowledge of the law and work ethic have inspired countless other lawyers in their professional development."

Hughes' high level of legal expertise is cited in connection with legal proceedings and negotiations that have "significantly advanced government policy," her nominators said. In 2005, for example, she led the Environment Department's legal division in litigation to address air pollution violations by natural gas processing plants around the state. The case resulted in $60 million worth of new pollution control projects at three gas plants, and $4 million in penalties, sending a strong warning message to the industry.


The State of New Mexico Bar Prosecutors Section recently presented its annual awards for "excellence in service and performance" in prosecution. Among those honored was Donna Bevacqua-Young, an assistant attorney general in special prosecutions with the New Mexico Attorney General's Office.

Bevacqua-Young received the DWI prosecution award for her years of commitment to helping keep New Mexico's citizens safe from alcohol- and drug-impaired drivers. Along with prosecuting high-profile DWI cases around the state, she has "worked tirelessly" to educate and train police officers and other attorneys in the field of DWI prosecutions, State Bar officials said.

If you have news about a public employee, contact Fauntleroy at gussie7@fairpoint.net.