The Award of Merit is the most prestigious honor the Advocates Society bestows on outstanding citizens in recognition of their efforts to support the Polish community. The Advocates Society cited Topinka for her service to and participation with the Polish community over the years. She will be presented with the award at a Feb. 17 dinner at the InterContinental hotel in Chicago.
“Topinka is a friend to Polonia and she has proven that in Springfield time and time again,” said Robert Groszek, Advocates Society 2011-2012 President. “Clearly, she understands the important role that Polonia plays in Chicago and in our communities. We are lucky to have Topinka in Springfield once again.”
Established in 1931, the Advocates Society is comprised of lawyers of Polish descent which engage and actively participate in an extensive program of professional, social and ethnic activities. The Award of Merit has been presented almost every year since 1983. Previous honorees include Hon. Roman Pucinski, Hon. Mary Ann McMorrow, Rev. Thomas Paprocki, Sen. Paul Simon and Hon. Aurelia Pucinski.
“The Polish community is an important part of the foundation of Chicago and on a larger scale, Illinois,” said Topinka. “I am very honored to receive this award and will continue to do all I can for Polonia.”