The CFLCW Dolphin Award grew out of an effort of a group of collaborative professionals in California as they sought to develop a symbol for their work. They selected a dolphin that was the centerpiece of a unique wall hanging that contained the challenge of “breath deep, fly high, seek peace.” CFLCW adopted that symbol as the centerpiece of its first dolphin award given in 2005 to those members who through extraordinary and unselfish service to the council exemplify the very best effort in meeting that challenge.
In 2013, the CFLCW Board adopted a proclamation naming the Annual Dolphin Service Award in honor and memory of Kathleen M. Baird, JD, the 5th Chair of CFLCW.
“I am gratified when my clients use the words ‘professional’ and ‘compassionate’ to describe my work. It means I am serving them well. – Kathy Baird, JD
2023
Dan Smith, CFLCW Chair
GRANT ZIELINSKI, CDFA
Daniel K. Smith, CDFA, announcing the 2022 recipient:
During our 23-year history, many past recipients have assumed multiple roles as they served us well.
Some were Board members, some became Council Chair, some devoted themselves to committee leadership, and others became leaders in the national community of collaborative professionals.
The recipient of the 2023 Dolphin Award has also served this Council well.
The service began at an early age, only a year after completing college.
The commitment grew with time, with involvement in the Public Education Committee, the Collaborative Foundation, the Board of Directors, and serving as Council Chair.
One of the more entertaining aspects of the internet is the ability to “Google” people by name.
While this recipient has a significant Google footprint, if you search far enough, you will also find that his college football career includes one carry for minus one yard.
I think it is safe to say he was not a running back.
My guess is he was a lineman – the fellows that defend the line, pay attention to detail, open the path and certainly do not seek the limelight.
He has carried the ball for many yards advancing collaborative principles.
He assumed multiple jobs and responsibilities, such as the Tax Seminar, an annual event started by his father when he was Chair a decade ago.
He served as Chair, as Treasurer and even though stepping down from that role for 2024, he agreed to serve again as a director for another three years.
It is my pleasure to recognize the 2023 Dolphin Award recipient – Grant Zielinski, CDFA