Jackie Lacey Award for Aspiring Women Prosecutors

Each year, the National District Attorneys Association (NDAA) recognizes prosecutors who have distinguished themselves among their peers as they seek justice, hold offenders accountable, and protect the rights of victims. Nominations are accepted year-round, but nominations for 2024 must be submitted by 11:59 pm, Friday, January 12th, 2024. NDAA membership is required for award consideration and nominations are encouraged from all NDAA members.

This award will be given to member of NDAA who embodies the ideals of Jackie Lacey; who has chosen a career in public prosecution; and who represents the tenets of the Women Prosecutors Section and its mission.

Jackie Lacey is a woman who represents the best in all public servants.  Jackie was the first woman and first African-American to serve as District Attorney of Los Angeles (CA) since the office was created in 1850. During her two  terms as District Attorney, Jackie pioneered groundbreaking criminal justice solutions, such as starting the nation’s first  mental health division and a conviction review unit dedicated to pursuing the innocence claims of individuals imprisoned for serious felonies if new evidence was discovered. Diversity and inclusion are her hallmarks.

As a member of NDAA’s Board of Directors, Jackie played the vital roles of founder and first chair  of NDAA’s Women Prosecutors Section, the purpose of which is leadership, mentorship, and friendship by women prosecutors.  WPS provides education and promotes increased opportunities for women seeking leadership positions within prosecution offices and assists NDAA in public engagement and education on issues of particular importance to women prosecutors. 

Please join us for NDAA’s 2024 Summer Summit in Boise, ID where we will honor the 2024 award recipient.