On May 17, 2025, more than 4,000 runners, walkers and supporters – among them survivors, fitness leaders, members of the legal community and public health leaders – convened for the 35th Lawyers Have Heart at the scenic West Potomac Park. After completing the 5k, 10k and fun walk course, runners, walkers and families enjoyed a post-race party with prizes, games, a kids zone, pet party and a special mission moment from a participating survivor.
The event was co-chaired by Laura Smith, partner at HKA and Tim Brightbill, partner at Wiley, who collectively raised more than $40,000 from their law firm teams. “Since 1991, Lawyers Have Heart has united the legal community and people across backgrounds in an event that advances health and hope,” said Smith. “I’m so inspired to see that in its 35th year, this event continues to grow, attracting thousands of people across the region.”
“It’s an honor to help usher in the American Heart Association’s second century with this event, added Brightbill. “Heart health, wellbeing and physical activity are connected. With each step we take, we are saving and improving lives.”
Over 35 years, Lawyers Has Heart has raised more than $22 million to support the American Heart Association’s (AHA) mission to save and improve lives.
New this year was a special survivor lane, honoring those personally affected by heart disease as they crossed the finish line, along with the inaugural Lawyers Cup, celebrating the top fundraising law firm. The first ever Lawyers Cup was awarded to the team at HKA Global. The closing awards ceremony also honored top men’s and women’s 5k and 10k runners and closed with a special mission moment featuring recent survivor, personal trainer and legal professional, Andres Virgen.
The National Anthem was delivered by Miss Susquehanna Valley, Abby Traxler and interpreted in American Sign Language by Miss Capitol Hill DC, Kisa Motiwala – both of whom participated in the race. Marc Goldman was the event emcee.
The event’s focus on physical activity to improve mental health and well-being is especially important for those in high-stress jobs, like the legal profession. Though started by lawyers, this race and fun walk is for everyone interested in getting out in the community, getting active and supporting an important cause.
The AHA thanks the executive leadership team for its support and leadership: race co-founder, Alan Raul, partner at Sidley Austin LLP; Andrew Dillon, director at HKA; Andrew Prior, head of sales & services – law firms and law schools at Bloomberg Law; Bobby Williams, director/DEI committee chair at iDiscovery Solutions; David Horniak, partner at DLA Piper LLP; David Jaffe, associate dean of student affairs at American University Washington College of Law; Deborah Godes, senior director at McDermott + Consulting; Eric Reicin, president and CEO at BBB National Programs, Inc.; Gene Elder, senior counsel at Akin Gump Strauss Hauer & Feld LLP; Jeff Green, CEO at Lupl, John Harrity, founding partner at Harrity & Harrity LLP; Ridge Blanchard, partner at Kirkland & Ellis; Stacey VanBelleghem, partner at Latham & Watkins LLP; and Stephen Conley, associate at Wiley.
There is still time to donate and support Lawyers Have Heart until June 30!