Section:
companions
Our Franciscan Companion in Mission, Joyce McCown, recently received the Myra Bradwell Award from the Gonzaga Woman’s Law Caucus. The award is named for the first female attorney in the U.S. and is presented yearly to honor a Gonzaga Law School Alumni who has furthered women’s and children’s issues through the law.
In nominating Joyce for this award, the Honorable Judge Linda Tompkins summarized Joyce’s contributions, especially her work in eastern Washington and for her untiring service to the Sisters of St. Francis. She currently serves on the Washington State Minority and Justice Commission and has also served on the state bar Diversity Committee and on the Court of Appeals Division II Domestic Violence Resource Team. Joyce became a staff attorney on the Court of Appeals in 1980 and today serves as Court Commissioner.
Joyce also shares her many talents with the Sisters of St. Francis. A member of the Franciscan Companions in Mission program, Joyce is a Companion in Faith and meets regularly with the companion group in Spokane for prayer and faithsharing. For the past 10 years, she has also served on the congregation’s Committee for Responsible Investment, sharing her expertise in reviewing and awarding grants and loans nonprofit organizations that work with women and children.
Megan Gnagy, chair of the Myra Bradwell Committee, described the difficulty in choosing among the many high caliber nominations. “In the end, we chose Commissioner McCown because she has broken ground as a woman and a lawyer in Eastern Washington, Megan explained. “She has dedicated her career to public service. She is also very involved in her community and has taken on numerous roles advocating for women and children. As a group we felt that she truly exemplifies what the Myra Bradwell Award stands for.”
"When I was notified that I was to receive this award, I was humbled and felt rather unworthy, particularly when comparing my life to that of Myra Bradwell. On reflection, receiving this award has inspired me to commit myself to give and do more for others, particularly women, children and marginalized people." Joyce commented in her acceptance speech.
