Annual LA Bar Association Luncheon Celebrates The Hon. Michael Cabonargi '89 and Scott Bentivenga '81, P '14

The afternoon began with a warm welcome from Director of Alumni Relations Mary-Kate Lopez '19, followed by an opening prayer delivered by Loyola Academy President Rev. Gregory J. Ostdiek, SJ, and a reflection rooted in Loyola's Jesuit mission of forming women and men for and with others.

LA Bar Steering Committee Chair Joseph Cook '97 shared updates on the association's continued growth and introduced this year's featured guest, Illinois Supreme Court Justice Sanjay T. Tailor. Justice Tailor addressed attendees with remarks on leadership, integrity, and the profound responsibility of serving the public through the law. He reflected on the challenges to and importance of remaining grounded in purpose and guided by ethical conviction in their respective legal paths – a lesson that the many alumni in attendance learned during their time at the Academy.

Justice Tailor introduced The Honorable Michael Cabonargi '89, and presented him with the Public Service Award in recognition of his distinguished career and steadfast commitment to justice. A longtime supporter of the LA Bar, Cabonargi was honored for exemplifying the values of service and leadership that define Loyola Academy alumni.

Following Cabonargi's remarks, The Honorable Dan Gallagher '84 introduced Scott Bentivenga '81, P '14, and presented him with the Career in the Law Award for his professional achievements and dedication to mentoring the next generation of legal professionals. His career stands as a testament to the impact Rambler attorneys continue to make across the legal landscape.

After remarks from Bentivenga and the conclusion of the program, attendees remained for a lively social hour, reconnecting with classmates and colleagues while strengthening the network of Rambler lawyers across practice areas and generations.

"The LA Bar Association is about more than professional networking—it's about strengthening the lifelong bonds that began at Loyola, said LA Bar Steering Committee Chair Joseph Cook '97. "When Rambler attorneys gather, whether they’re seasoned judges or recent graduates just beginning their careers, there's an immediate sense of shared values and mutual support. This luncheon is a reminder that our Loyola formation continues to shape how we practice law, serve our communities, and show up for one another throughout our careers."

Special thanks to the LA Bar Association Steering Committee for their leadership and dedication: Hon. Michael Cabonargi '89; Thomas Connelly '10; Joseph Cook '97, P’29, Chair; Hon. Daniel Gallagher '84; Michael Gallagher P '28,’29; Michael Kelley '94; Diana (Rdzanek) Larson '02; James Murphy III '90; and Sydney Shugrue '16.

Founded in 2013, the Loyola Academy Bar Association now includes nearly 800 members representing class years dating back to the 1940s. Through professional programming, networking events, and pro bono initiatives, LA Bar continues to cultivate cura personalis within the Loyola alumni community—supporting Ramblers in their vocation as legal professionals and leaders. For more information or to become a member, visit https://www.goramblers.org/la-bar-association.