Mockingbird has influenced generations of college graduat graduates, aspiring to practice law like Atticus Finch to go to law school. Last year on the occasion of the books 50th anniversary we contacted harper lee who graciously authorized this award to honor an author whose work best exemplifies the positive role of warriors in society and their power to effect change. The prize is grounded in the character of a lawyer, lawyer, Atticus Finch, indispensable and courageous representation of tom robinson. On september 21, 2010 u. S. Attorney general eric holder honored our law school when he came to tuscaloosa, alabama to help celebrate half a century of to kill a mockingbird and to help us to establish this award. Our law school has a very special partner in this award and sponsor at the journal which is read by about half of the nations lawyers monthly about half million lawyers but we now call upon jack to make some remarks, jack is the executive director of the ada. [applause] thank