By: Tracey L. Schroeder
The Women’s Bar Association of Illinois was proud to support and attend the Illinois Judges Foundation’s Annual Reception, held on Tuesday, September 30, 2025, in downtown Chicago. The evening brought together members of the judiciary, bar leaders, and supporters to celebrate distinguished service and leadership within Illinois’ courts while supporting the Foundation’s important charitable and educational mission.
At the reception, the Illinois Judges Foundation presented its Distinguished Service Award to:
The Honorable Sharon Johnson Coleman, United States District Court for the Northern District of Illinois
The Honorable Mary Kay O’Brien, Illinois Supreme Court, Third District
The Honorable Thomas V. Lyons II, Acting Presiding Judge, Law Division, Cook County
The Foundation also honored The Honorable Athanasios (Tom) Sianis, Supervising Judge, Traffic Division, Cook County, with the Presidential Recognition Award.
Proceeds from the event support law student scholarships and other charitable and educational initiatives, furthering the Foundation’s commitment to strengthening the legal profession and the administration of justice. WBAI was honored to stand alongside colleagues and friends in recognizing these outstanding jurists and supporting the Illinois Judges Foundation’s vital work.
This article was originally published in the WBAI Winter 2026 Newsletter on page 32.