Community Leadership in Action: Honoring Hanson Bridgett with the 2026 East Bay Leadership Medal
Hanson Bridgett on Service, Collaboration and Community Impact.
At Hanson Bridgett, a full-service California law firm, community service is not simply a responsibility—it’s part of the firm’s identity. Through its engagement with the East Bay Leadership Council, the firm has put that commitment into action by sponsoring events, providing pro bono legal services, and lending its expertise to advance the organization’s work across the region. That investment, alongside its broader commitment to community service, has earned Hanson Bridgett the East Bay Leadership Medal at our 2026 Installation Awards.
"This award recognizes our firm-wide commitment to social responsibility and deep community immersion," said Shayna van Hoften, Partner at Hanson Bridgett and legal counsel to the East Bay Leadership Council Board of Directors. "It honors the genuine dedication of our employees and attorneys, many of whom regularly log over 50 annual pro bono hours to support our neighbors."
Founded in 1958, Hanson Bridgett has spent nearly seven decades proving that legal excellence and community leadership go hand in hand. The firm has built its reputation by looking beyond the traditional role of a law firm, encouraging its attorneys and staff to engage directly with the communities they serve. That approach has earned widespread recognition, including the National Legal Aid & Defender Association’s Beacon of Justice Award, the San Francisco Business Times’ Community Partner in Sustainability Award, and recognition among the Bay Area’s leading corporate philanthropists.
That dedication is reflected in the causes the firm champions. Over the past several years, Hanson Bridgett has provided critical legal and operational advice to the San Francisco Education Fund, volunteered with organizations such as Circle the Schools and Rebuilding Together San Francisco, raised funds through Food from the Bar to support food banks in the communities where it works, and sponsored children through Head Start’s holiday program. Closer to home, members of the firm's Walnut Creek office regularly volunteer with Monument Crisis Center, helping distribute food to families throughout Contra Costa County.
Hanson Bridgett brings that same spirit of service to its partnership with the East Bay Leadership Council. The firm’s engagement with EBLC reflects a shared commitment to bringing leaders together and advancing solutions to the challenges facing the region. Shayna has played a particularly important role as EBLC’s legal counsel and a member of its Executive Committee, offering trusted guidance and legal expertise that have strengthened the organization. Together, the firm and its leaders exemplify the kind of engaged, collaborative partnership that improves the East Bay.
"Active engagement with EBLC connects us with like-minded leaders to engage directly and tackle pressing state, regional, and local issues," said Shayna. "EBLC provides a strong platform that aligns with our mission to be on the frontline of positive change in California."
Looking ahead, Hanson Bridgett remains committed to using its expertise, resources, and relationships to strengthen the communities it serves. As California continues to navigate evolving legal, economic, and civic challenges, the firm will continue working alongside partners like EBLC to bring leaders together, advance meaningful solutions, and help shape a stronger future for the region.
INSTALLATION AWARDS EVENT INFO
Tuesday, August 18th
Cocktail hour | 5:30 PM - 6:30 PM
Dinner & Program | 6:30 PM - 8:00 PM
Pleasant Hill Community Center
320 Civic Drive, Pleasant Hill