Larry McDonald, Brownstein Hyatt Farber Schreck’s IT director, received the firm’s 2023 Mark F. Leonard Award. Introduced in 2016, the award annually honors one employee who embodies the firm’s core values—All In, Excellence, Respect and Giving Back—and inspires this behavior in others.
Based in the firm’s Denver office, Larry ensures the firm’s day-to-day operational needs are met and that standards remain high as technology continues to change. Since joining Brownstein in 1996, Larry has been part of the firm’s technological transformation from two offices to today’s 12 offices across the country.
Recognized for his technological expertise, collaborative approach to problem solving, leadership, respect for others and dedication to the firm, Larry was honored with the Mark F. Leonard Award on Dec. 4 at a firmwide town hall. Retired Shareholder Mark F. Leonard, who was honored with the inaugural award and serves as its namesake, and Rich Benenson, managing partner, presented Larry with the award.
“Larry is all in and the best example I can think of was at the beginning of COVID-19 as the world was shutting down and there was a great amount of risk and uncertainty,” said Rich in a video highlighting Larry’s accomplishments. “Larry took the time to come to my house and made sure that my office setup was as functional as it was at the office. Without that technological support, it would have been impossible to have run the firm remotely all through the pandemic.”
Director of Finance Pat Williamson—who nominated Larry for the award—praised him for standing out among a firm of professionals and truly representing Brownstein and the firm’s culture.
“He’s amazingly dedicated to the firm and its success as he knows we cannot live a day without our IT being first rate,” said Shareholder Bruce James.
Watch the video below to learn more about how Larry exemplifies Brownstein’s core values and why he is so deserving of this year’s award.
Congratulations, Larry!