SEATTLE, Wash. — US Attorney Vanessa R. Waldref was selected by the Washington Women Lawyers (WWL) as the recipient of the 2023 Justice Mary Fairhurst Passing the Torch Award.
The Justice Mary Fairhurst Passing the Torch Award recipient is described as someone who “has gone above and beyond in mentoring women lawyers, making a difference, and ‘passing the torch’ to others in a way that supports” WWL’s Mission — a mission, which is “to further the full integration of women in the legal profession, promote equal rights and opportunities for women, and prevent discrimination against them.”
Waldref was recognized for her commitment to public service as a federal prosecutor and for her work as a professor at Gonzaga University School of Law. She is the first woman to serve as US Attorney in the Eastern District of Washington.
At the ceremony, First Assistant United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Washington, Rich Barker, said “Vanessa is a trailblazer and incredible example of what it means to be a leader and mentor. During her first two years as our United States Attorney, Vanessa has opened a new branch office in the Tri-Cities, led some of the most significant criminal and civil cases in our district, and encouraged new leadership opportunities for women within the office. Vanessa has also worked tirelessly to build an office that is not only diverse in background, skill, and experience, but also promotes equal opportunity, creates an inclusive culture, and promotes a workforce that reflects the diversity of Eastern Washington.”
When accepting the award, Waldref said:
“I am truly honored to receive this award, which recognizes Justice Fairhurst’s legacy of justice and stewardship in our great state. Justice Fairhurst is a mentor to so many women lawyers in Washington and beyond. She is an example of the type of lawyer and leader I strive to be — a person of integrity, who leads with conviction, compassion, and a commitment for doing what is right.” She added, “Trailblazers like Justice Fairhurst inspired me as I took the helm as U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Washington. I am grateful for the unique opportunity to lead such an incredible office and work closely with attorneys, law enforcement, and community stakeholders to build safer and stronger communities for everyone.”
This prestigious award was named in honor of Mary Fairhurst, who retired as a justice on the Washington Supreme Court in Jan. 2020.
