Alumni News: Barbara D’Aquila ‘80 Awarded the University of Minnesota Alumni Association’s 2024 Alumni Service Award

Minnesota Law alum Barbara D’Aquila ‘80 has been awarded the University of Minnesota Alumni Association’s 2024 Alumni Service Award. D’Aquila, a partner at Fisher Phillips, has been a passionate volunteer for the University of Minnesota Law School since her graduation in 1980. In addition to an accomplished career as a litigator with a demanding schedule, she remains one of the Law School’s most dedicated ambassadors and generous supporters. D’Aquila has served two full terms on the Board of Advisors for the Law School from 1991-1998 and 2018-2024, where she held leadership positions, including development chair and board chair. She used her leadership positions and professional network to increase engagement among alumni for Law School activities, volunteerism, and philanthropy.

“The Law School could not have a more loyal or enthusiastic ambassador. Barb is the first to volunteer for a new project, willing to take her time to do outreach through calls or emails, and attends as many Law School events as she is able,” says Dean William McGeveran, William S. Pattee Professor of Law. “She routinely speaks of her deep appreciation for her Minnesota Law education and the benefits her degree has afforded her. Her enthusiasm as the "Law School's #1 booster," is infectious — and clearly effective — in her efforts to recruit her fellow alumni to join her in helping advance the mission of Minnesota Law. Barb's warm, welcoming, and inclusive nature draws alumni together and into deeper relationships with each other and the University,” says McGeveran.

While leading the Board of Advisors, D’Aquila worked tirelessly to help launch the AluMNae Network, a group dedicated to advancing and supporting women in the legal profession. D’Aquila currently serves as co-chair of the AluMNae Network and as a mentor for current students, connecting them to employment opportunities and serving as a resource as they develop their careers.

D’Aquila’s leadership and service have left a decades-long legacy that continues to have a positive impact. She made an indelible mark on Minnesota Law, its students, its alumni, and the legal community.