Pine Bluff, Arkansas – Pine Bluff native and nationally recognized legal professional Jerry M. Hunter has been honored with The Richard S. Arnold Award for Distinguished Service by the Eighth Circuit Bar Association, a distinction given to only one individual from each judicial district within the Circuit. This prestigious recognition highlights his decades of professional excellence, leadership, mentorship, and public service—qualities exemplified by the late Judge Richard S. Arnold.
Since 2010, the Eighth Circuit Bar Association has presented this award to exceptional legal figures, with nominees selected by the chief judges of each district. Attorney Hunter’s selection reflects not only his extraordinary legal career but also his lasting impact on both the legal community and the public sector.
“Attorney Hunter’s journey from Pine Bluff to the national stage is an inspiring example of the excellence our community produces,” said Jefferson County Sheriff Lafayette Woods, Jr. “His achievements remind us that our roots do not limit our reach, and that dedication, skill, and integrity can make a lasting impact far beyond where we begin.”
A Lifelong Commitment to the Law
Attorney Hunter’s path to national prominence began at the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff, where he earned a bachelor’s degree in history and government. He continued his education at Washington University School of Law, graduating with his Juris Doctor in 1977. In 1987, he further expanded his expertise by completing the Senior Executive Program at Harvard University’s John F. Kennedy School of Government.
From 1989 to 1993, Hunter served as General Counsel of the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB), after being nominated by President George H. W. Bush and confirmed by the U.S. Senate. In this high-profile role, he oversaw operations in 33 regional offices, supervised 1,800 employees, prosecuted unfair labor practice cases, and represented the agency in federal courts across the country.
In 1995, his bipartisan reputation led to his appointment to the Board of Directors of the Office of Compliance, where he worked to ensure civil rights and labor laws were upheld within the legislative branch. Hunter’s earlier public service included leading the Missouri Department of Labor and Industrial Relations under Governor John D. Ashcroft, as well as serving as labor counsel for Kellwood Company, a field attorney for the NLRB, and a senior trial attorney for the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission.
Continuing to Influence the Legal Field
Today, Attorney Hunter serves as Senior Counsel at Bryan Cave Leighton Paisner LLP, a role in which his experience in labor and employment law continues to shape the legal landscape. His career has been marked by a dedication to mentoring future legal professionals and advocating for fair labor practices, earning him both peer respect and national recognition.
The Richard S. Arnold Award for Distinguished Service honors those who achieve professional excellence, lead within the legal community, volunteer to provide legal aid to underserved populations, earn peer recognition, and mentor upcoming generations of lawyers. Attorney Hunter’s career is a clear embodiment of these ideals.
This honor not only celebrates his personal achievements but also brings pride to Pine Bluff and Jefferson County, serving as a powerful reminder to young people that dedication, education, and integrity can pave the way from a local community to national influence.
