MINNEAPOLIS, MN (October 8, 2009) – CornerHouse, a nonprofit agency that provides forensic interviews and medical examinations for children and vulnerable adults suspected of being physically or sexually abused, has honored Thomas L. Johnson, a principal with the Minneapolis-based law firm of Gray Plant Mooty, with its Sweetheart for Kids Award.

Presented annually since 1995, the Sweetheart for Kids Award is a special recognition given to individuals for their dedication, service, and vision on behalf of children. CornerHouse honored Johnson and fellow 2009 award-winner Mary Ellison, both of whom were instrumental in founding the nonprofit agency, at its 20th anniversary gala on Saturday, September 19. 

Johnson served as president of the Council on Crime and Justice from 1999 to 2008, as Hennepin County Attorney from 1979 to 1991, and on the Minneapolis City Council from 1973 to 1977. He resumed his full-time practice at Gray Plant Mooty in 2008, focusing primarily in the areas of environmental and land use law, government relations, public law, and finance.

In addition to his work with CornerHouse, Johnson has served on the board of directors for numerous state and national organizations and he is the recipient of countless awards, including the Environmental Protection Agency’s Environmental Quality Award, the President’s Award from the National District Attorney’s Association, the Minnesota State Bar Association’s Professional Excellence Award, the Council on Crime and Justice’s 2008 Equal Justice Award, and the Minnesota Association of Black Lawyers’ 2008 Profiles in Courage Award.