2026 Recipient
Ashley Ward
Ashley Ward, attorney at Ohio Justice & Policy Center, received the Rising Star Award for helping to transform how the legal system addresses housing rights for Ohioans with criminal histories.
Rising Star Award
The Rising Star Award recognizes an attorney in civil legal services whose career reflects exceptional growth.
2026 Recipient
Greg Reichenbach
Greg Reichenbach received the Elam Award for taking on complicated consumer rights cases pro bono, for consulting with legal aid attorneys on consumer-related questions, and for regularly conducting training for legal aid attorneys.
Elam Award
The John and Ginny Elam Pro Bono Award is given annually to one attorney who selflessly donates their time and talent to pro bono causes.
2026 Recipient
Ohio Legal Help
Ohio Legal Help received the inaugural Dick Pogue Access to Justice Award for leveraging technology and innovation to improve justice and fairness for all Ohioans.
Dick Pogue Access to Justice Award
The Dick Pogue Access to Justice Award is given annually to programs and projects that develop systemic solutions and push for justice innovation.
2026 Recipient
Sen. Paula Hicks-Hudson
Sen. Paula Hicks-Hudson received the Voice of Justice Award for her dedication and ongoing commitment to addressing the challenges that people, especially young people, face with the legal system.
Voice of Justice Award
The Voice of Justice Award recognizes outstanding leadership and advocacy on behalf of low-income Ohioans who may need legal assistance.
2025 Recipient
Maria Smith
Maria Smith, attorney at The Legal Aid Society of Cleveland, received the Denis J. Murphy Award for her leadership and advocacy to help ensure that Ohioans can access and maintain safe, affordable housing.