The Austin Bar Association took home a Luminary Award for Excellence in Electronic Publications for its e-newsletter Bar Code at the National Association for Bar Executives Communications Section Workshop, held last week in Indianapolis.
“My favorite part of the Luminary Awards is that the entries are judged by our peers—other bar communicators who understand the benefits as well as the challenges of communicating within a bar association,” said Kat Hinson, communications director for the Austin Bar. “It’s a huge compliment when other communications professionals think your work is outstanding.”
Created about a decade ago, Bar Code underwent a redesign in January 2014 to introduce a refreshed design featuring more photos and logos. It was this new look and vision that earned the publication its first Luminary Award. Bar Code provides a listing of about 10 to 12 volunteer opportunities, section-sponsored CLEs, and local law-related news and court announcements. Because it is sent weekly, readers have more timely access to information and news and are better able to schedule for these occasions that can assist with professional development and networking.
“We prioritize events or volunteer opportunities hosted by the Austin Bar, the Austin Young Lawyers Association, and other law-related organizations,” said Hinson. “We only include items for the two weeks prior to the event so that content stays fresh. We’ve had great feedback from members. They like that it’s more engaging and that, visually, it’s much more interesting.”