Janice M. Holder Award: Access to Justice Award
PURPOSE
The Janice M. Holder Award seeks to recognize a professional whose work in private practice, corporate practice, public service or other social service has made significant contributions in advancing the quality of justice statewide by ensuring the legal system is open and available to all. This award is intended for professionals not focused on daily legal aid advocacy.
HISTORY
This Access to Justice Award is named in honor of retired Tennesessee Supreme Court Justice Janice M. Holder who personifies the qualities that this Award recognizes. She served as the first female chief justice of the Tennessee Supreme Court, is a passionate leader in Tennessee’s Access to Justice initiative, a courageous champion of the rights of the historically marginalized, and a dedicated servant to the people of this state. In 2008, the Tennessee Supreme Court launched its Access to Justice Initiative. Under her leadership, the court hired a full time access to justice coordinator, created the website - www.justiceforalltn.com, and created the Access to Justice Commission. She is the 2014 of the William M. Leech Jr. Public Service Award and continues to support access to justice causes in her retirement.
HOW TO NOMINATE SOMEONE
To nominate someone click here to complete the form and answer the narrative What contributions has the nominee made to expanding Access to Justice in Tennessee? Up to three additional supporting nominations or letters can be submitted by individuals or programs for each nominee. Email your supporting documentation to Joy Reed.
Submission Deadline
The 2021 nomination period is closed.
PAST AWARD WINNERS
2020 Justice Cornelia A. Clark
2019 Deborah Taylor Tate
2018 Former Justice Frank F. Drowota, III & Amber Floyd
2017 Larry Bridgesmith & Cat Moon
2016 Jim Barry & Sharon Ryan
2015 David R. Yoder
2014 George T. “Buck” Lewis (inaugural winner)
Return to the Access to Justice Awards page.
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