This month, the Illinois Judges Association Pro Bono Committee spotlights Associate Judge Alicia N. Washington for her dedication to serving others, whether inside or outside the courtroom.
Judge Washington’s kind and infectious energy is evident the moment you meet her. And while she would never admit it herself, she devotes that energy to tirelessly helping those around her. Judge Washington currently chairs the Committee on Judicial Education for the Supreme Court of Illinois, leading the state’s efforts to keep a well-informed and educated judiciary. Judge Washington has steadily pursued efforts to support Access to Justice for all individuals, whether that be by small acts in a particular case or sweeping efforts to benefit all. Judge Washington served on the Commission for Access to Justice that ultimately led to the adoption of Rule 45 relating to remote proceedings, which memorialized her belief that court should be available to all litigants despite challenges to in-person appearances. Throughout her career she has been involved in numerous capacities throughout the local and state bar associations, as well as serving as a Commissioner of the Illinois Supreme Court Commission on Professionalism. As one might guess, the additional ways and means in which she has served others is lengthy.
Prior to joining the bench in 2016, Judge Washington earned distinction as a recipient of Peoria’s 40 Under 40, Peoria Magazine’s Women of Influence, and award on leadership from Bradley University, among other accolades for her service to Peoria’s legal community and community at large.
Judge Washington received her Bachelor’s of Science from the University of Illinois in Business Administration and completed her Master’s in leadership in human service administration from Bradley University. She went on to receive her law degree from Michigan State University. She remains a proud member of the Alpha Kappa Alpha sorority.
The IJA Pro Bono Committee applauds Judge Alicia Washington for her tireless contributions to all members of our community and her dedication to lifelong learning – you are an inspiration!