In 2015, the Conference of Chief Justices, the Conference of State Court Administrators, the National Association for Court Management and the National Association for Presiding Judges and Court Executive Officers jointly created the Mary C. McQueen Award for Excellence and Leadership in Justice System Improvement.
The Mary McQueen Leadership Award is to be given biennially (every even-numbered year) commencing in 2016 in recognition of an individual (Citizen, Judge or Justice, Administrator, or Lawyer) who has made extraordinary contributions to improving the administration of justice at the local, state and/or national level for a sustained period of time. Accomplishments worthy of recognition will transcend an individual state, community, or organization. The ideal candidate will meet one or more of the following criteria:
- Will have played a major leadership role in a significant reform or improvement initiative within a state or the nation by coordinating action among state and/or national justice system partners.
- Is recognized by their peers as one who is committed to preserving fair and impartial courts, improving public trust and confidence in the justice system, reducing cost and delay, improving access and securing adequate funding for the judiciary.
- Has consistently displayed vision and passion, has served as a mentor and inspiration to others in the field, and has contributed to court improvement in ways that are noteworthy and enduring.
The Selection Committee consists of the Presidents of the respective organizations or their designees.
The next nomination period will open in the Spring of 2024.