We write today with great pride to announce that Shareholder Omel Andres Nieves has been honored with a Doctor of Laws by California State University, Los Angeles–and was invited to deliver the Commencement Address to the Class of 2026. In addition, Omel was recently honored with the Golden Eagle Award for his longstanding dedication and efforts.
This is among the highest honors that the California State University, Los Angeles bestows, and it reflects a lifetime of achievement that extends far beyond the practice of law. The University recognized Omel not merely for his professional distinction, but for more than a decade of selfless leadership and fundraising on behalf of its students, its mission, and its future.
“Success is not just about what you achieve-it’s about what you make possible for others”
– Omel Nieves, Cal State LA Commencement Address, 2026
Standing before thousands of graduates and their families, Omel shared this message rooted in his own remarkable journey–from a first-generation kid born in Puerto Rico, to scholarship athlete, to senior partner at one of California’s preeminent law firms. Omel closed his remarks with a charge that lingered in the air long after the ceremony ended: “Walk into this world knowing you belong in every room you enter. And when you rise–and you will–don’t just open doors…leave them open behind you.”
As President of the University’s Foundation Board of Trustees for eleven years, Omel guided the University’s endowment from $25 million to $71 million–nearly tripling it and expanding scholarships for thousands of students. He also served as Co-Chair of Cal State Fresno’s first comprehensive capital campaign, raising an extraordinary $217 million. Beyond higher education, Omel has devoted decades to civic engagement through the Pasadena Chamber of Commerce, local schools, and numerous nonprofit organizations, while consistently providing pro bono legal services and mentorship to those who need them most.
The Firm is proud to have Omel Nieves as our partner, colleague, and friend. His recognition by Cal State LA honors the man, but it also reflects the values at the heart of this Firm: that excellence in our profession and genuine investment in our community are not in tension–they are inseparable.
Please join all of us at Hunt Ortmann in celebrating Dr. Omel Andres Nieves and this richly deserved honor!
Photo: President Berenecea Johnson Eanes and California State University Trustee Larry Adamson, right, confer an honorary Doctor of Laws to Omel Nieves, who has guided Cal State LA’s philanthropic vision and growth for the past 12 years. (Credit: Jordan Renville/Cal State LA)