2026 Excellence Awards
The Excellence Awards recognize the exceptional efforts of our network, private bar partners, and community leaders. Each year, we gather to honor these trailblazers whose dedication to their clients and incredible civil legal work helps improve the lives of low-income Pennsylvanians. It is also a cherished time for our community, as it provides us with an opportunity to reflect on the collective impact of our efforts, celebrate our successes, and show our appreciation for those who support our mission.
We are now accepting nominations! Do you know an individual or organization creating real impact in our communities? We want to recognize them and invite you to help us spotlight their work.
In-Network Nomination Categories
Eligibility is limited to employees of programs in the Pennsylvania Legal Aid Network.
Emerging Excellence in Advocacy Award
This award honors legal professionals from our network who, within their first 10 years of practice, have demonstrated client-centered representation and meaningful contributions to their program’s work.
Champion for Justice Award
Attorney Advocates
This award is for attorneys within our network who embody the highest standards of ethics, commitment, and compassion. Their work results in meaningful case outcomes that create lasting, positive change for the clients and communities they serve.
Non-Attorney Advocates
This award honors professionals working in administration, communications, development, fiscal, intake, outreach, technology, and other non-attorney support roles. Their skill, dedication, and behind-the-scenes work make it possible for families to receive the guidance and resources they need to resolve civil legal issues and move forward with stability.
Excellence in Advancing Justice Award
This award recognizes projects or initiatives that deliver measurable improvements in the provision of civil legal services. Emphasis should be placed on legal reforms, coordinated service models, or structural updates that reduce barriers to legal help, increase efficiency in service delivery, or produce significant results for large groups of Pennsylvanians.
Samuel W. Milkes Distinguished Leadership Award
The Samuel W. Milkes Distinguished Leadership Award is a special honor that is not presented annually. It will not be offered as part of the 2026 Excellence Awards cycle.
Out-of-Network Nomination Categories
For those not currently employed by a Pennsylvania Legal Aid Network program.
Excellence in Community Advocacy Award
This award spotlights clients, client board members, community leaders, legislators, and non-attorney volunteers who actively support civil legal services in their communities. Through outreach, advocacy, partnership, or public leadership, they help raise awareness of civil legal needs and strengthen support for accessible legal assistance.
Excellence in Pro Bono Advocacy Award
This award recognizes private bar partners—including associations, attorneys, law firms, and judges—who contribute their time, expertise, or financial support to civil legal aid in Pennsylvania. Eligible candidates must be licensed to practice in Pennsylvania and not employed by free or low-cost legal service providers.
You’re welcome to submit supporting materials with your nomination, such as biographical information, endorsements, testimonials, or other relevant documentation.
Nominations will be accepted until 11:59 PM on Monday, March 16, 2026.
Award recipients will be announced this spring. We hope you’ll join us in celebrating their contributions on Thursday, September 17, 2026, at the Hilton Harrisburg.
Questions about nominations, event details, or sponsorship opportunities may be directed to Natalie Bogerman at nbogerman@palegalaid.net.