The University of Maryland Francis King Carey School of Law has recognized Kenneth Thompson with its 2025 Distinguished Graduate Award, presented to an alum who has achieved prominence through professional excellence and service to the community.
Thompson is a partner in the Baltimore office of Venable LLP. His practice focuses on commercial and product liability litigation.
“I am deeply honored to be recognized by Maryland Carey School of Law and to join such a distinguished group of alumni,” said Thompson. “My time at Maryland Carey Law was instrumental in shaping my career, and I remain committed to giving back to the legal community and mentoring future leaders in the profession.”
A 1976 graduate of Maryland Carey Law, Thompson is an active member of the Baltimore community. He served as chair and co-chair of several transition committees for two Baltimore mayors and was appointed by the chief judge of the U.S. District Court of Maryland to serve as the lead monitor for the Baltimore City Police Department Consent Decree.
He is a fellow of the American College of Trial Lawyers and the American Board of Trial Advocates, and a member of the Maryland Appellate Judicial Nomination Commission. From 1999 to 2007, Thompson was chairman of the Judicial Nominating Commission for Baltimore City. In addition, he served as a member of the Board of Trustees for the Baltimore Community Foundation from June 2012 to March 2024.
During his high-profile career, Thompson has been recognized by various publications, including The American Lawyer, The Best Lawyers in America, Benchmark Litigation, Local Litigation Star, Chambers USA, and Super Lawyers. In 2018, he received The Daily Record’s Influential Marylander’s Award and its Icon Success and Leadership Award.
The Alumni Honors Society celebrates Carey Law graduates who exemplify the highest standards of excellence in their professional and personal endeavors. Awards will be presented during Alumni Weekend on Thursday, April 24. For more information about the University of Maryland Francis King Carey School of Law, visit www.law.umaryland.edu.
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Venable LLP is an Am Law Global 100 law firm headquartered in Washington, DC, with more than 900 professionals across the United States. Known for its innovative solutions and client-focused approach, Venable serves as trusted counsel to corporations, nonprofits, and high-net-worth individuals worldwide. The firm’s robust capabilities span business law, regulatory compliance, litigation, and intellectual property. For more information, visit Venable.com.