EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR’S PAGE JULY/AUGUST 2022
Celebrating 50-Year Lawyers
Whether it’s the tireless pursuit of justice, ensuring the well-being
of an organization, or advocacy for underserved citizens, a career in
law can be fulfilling but often thankless. Dr. William H. Danforth, 13th
chancellor of Washington University in St. Louis, may have said it best
when he stated, “What we give away always outlasts what we keep.” In
that sentiment, I am proud to recognize those who stayed the course in
various capacities to achieve the milestone of becoming a 50-year
lawyer.
In June, the State Bar honored lawyers who were licensed in Texas in
1972 with a reception and recognition at the 2022 Annual Meeting in
Houston. It was a joy to be in that room, hearing the words of
congratulations from colleagues and classmates—some of whom they hadn’t
seen in years. Their families were so proud of them. An air of
appreciation and greatness filled the room.
I remember in 2008 when my own father reached the 50-year mark in his
career. Never one to take himself seriously, I recall him saying, “You
know, it just means I’m old.” I shook my head and told him, “No, it
means more than that, Dad.” To me, it means there were many sacrifices
made by loved ones, long nights and early mornings, countless hours
researching and strategizing, and an overwhelming sense of
accomplishment knowing that you ensured justice for the guilty and the
innocent. Or, for some, it means that you utilized your intimate
knowledge of the law to hone a skill set and positively impact an
organization.
ABOVE: Sue Mills. Photo courtesy of the State Bar of Texas
Archives.
It’s rare that a class of 50-year lawyers includes a State Bar
staffer, so Susannah “Sue” R. Mills is worthy of recognition. She began
her career at the State Bar of Texas in May 1972 and is best known for
her decades of work as the legal editor for the Texas Family Law
Practice Manual. Starting as a temporary, as-needed, hourly
employee while finishing her law degree, she worked in membership,
reception, and even operated the switchboard. In December 1972, Sue
graduated from the University of Texas School of Law and, on December 7,
received her Texas law license.
On April 1, 1973, Sue became a permanent employee, taking on the role of
legal editor. In 1981, she was named editor in chief of what was then
known as the Books and Systems Department. Sue became director of the
department in June 1985 and served in that capacity until she retired in
June 2000, earning the Gene Cavin Award in 2000 for her contribution to
educating Texas lawyers.
Fortunately for the State Bar, Sue’s retirement was short-lived as she
returned as a publications attorney in February 2001. During her tenure,
Sue has also worked on many of the seminal legal publications including
the Texas Civil Pattern Jury Charges and the Texas Probate
System.
To Sue and the other 904 lawyers licensed in Texas in 1972, cheers to 50
years! Thank you for your commitment to our esteemed profession and may
you continue to serve as an inspiration and example for us all.
Sincerely,
TREY APFFEL
Executive Director,
State Bar of Texas
Editor-in-Chief, Texas Bar Journal
Trey Apffel can be reached at 512-427-1500, trey.apffel@texasbar.com or
@ApffelT on
Twitter.
