Daniel Vigil, associate dean of the University of Colorado at Boulder School of Law, has been elected chairman of the board of directors of the Legal Aid Society of Metropolitan Denver.
The non-profit corporation was founded in 1925 to provide free legal representation in civil matters to low-income residents in the Denver metropolitan area. Since the early 1980s, the organization also has served clients in 11 rural mountain counties in northwestern Colorado.
Vigil, who will serve at least a two-year term as chair, has been a member of the board of directors since 1988. He was elected chair by the 27-member board in February.
Vigil said he is honored to chair this board. This organization is close to my heart. This is a board that really helps people and impacts their lives."
A professor of legal ethics at CU, Vigil was named associate dean for student affairs and professional development in 1989. He recently completed eight years as a Colorado Lottery Commissioner, a post he was appointed to by Gov. Roy Romer.
Vigil was recognized for "Outstanding Leadership in the Hispanic American Community and in the Legal Profession" by the Hispanic National Bar Association in 1993. He also received the Minority Law Students Award of Appreciation in 1990, and the university's Equity and Excellence Award in 1987.