David E. Gutowski Receives 2026 Ray of Hope Award for Dedicated Service to New York’s Legal Community
11.4.2026
David E. Gutowski was honored with the 2026 Ray of Hope Award at the New York State Bar Association’s Lawyer Assistance Program annual Volunteer Recognition Dinner on October 22 at the New York State Bar Association’s Bar Center. Presented by the Capital District Lawyers Helping Lawyers group, the award recognizes individuals whose compassion, commitment, and service make a meaningful difference in the lives of attorneys and other legal professionals facing challenges related to substance use and mental health.
Gutowski has been an integral part of NYSBA’s Lawyer Assistance Program since 2018, providing peer support and assistance to numerous attorneys and legal professionals in need. He served as Chair of the statewide Lawyer Assistance Committee from 2021 to 2025, during which he was particularly active in building relationships with local and affinity bar associations throughout New York. His outreach helped expand awareness of LAP services and strengthen participation in the program across the state.
His commitment to lawyer well-being extends beyond his statewide leadership. From 2017 to 2020, Gutowski chaired the Bar Association of Erie County’s Lawyers Helping Lawyers group, one of the most active lawyer assistance groups in New York State. He has also served as a LAP monitor for attorneys navigating disciplinary matters and has provided ongoing peer support to countless individuals dealing with alcoholism, substance use, and mental health challenges.
Throughout his years of service, Gutowski has consistently made himself available to colleagues in need, generously sharing his time, experience, and compassion while balancing the demands of his own professional and personal life. His willingness to show up for others and his dedication to ensuring that no one in the legal profession has to face difficult challenges alone exemplify the spirit of the Ray of Hope Award.
“His commitment to helping others, his willingness to give of himself, and his longstanding service to the Lawyer Assistance Program exemplify the spirit of the Ray of Hope Award. Dave’s dedication has made a meaningful difference in the lives of many attorneys and legal professionals, and he has been a strong and compassionate advocate for those seeking assistance. We are grateful for his years of service and proud to recognize him with this well-deserved honor,” said past CDLHL chairperson, David Keehn.
The Ray of Hope Award recognizes the extraordinary contributions of individuals who demonstrate a commitment to helping members of the legal community find support, hope, and a path forward.
