The text of the award certificate presented to Ms. Sampson reads:

The American Judicature Society is pleased to bestow upon Kathleen M. Sampson its first Access to Justice Award, which is named in her honor.  This award recognizes extraordinary contributions to ensuring access to justice for all.

Since 1979, Kate's whole-hearted and tireless work as a leader of the AJS staff has reinforced and strengthened the Society's commitment to lending a strong public perspective to improvement of the administration of justice.

Kate's direction of projects to enhance access to the courts, improve court services to the public, and educate the public about the justice system, among many others, have brought distinction to AJS and earned her well-deserved accolades from colleagues nationwide.

Her leadership and vision on issues relating to pro se litigation deserve special recognition.  Beginning in the mid 1990s, Kate was among the first national justice system experts to identify the need for expanded court-based assistance programs to meet the needs of a burgeoning population of self-represented litigants.  By convening national and regional conferences, designing model programs, and publishing manuals for judges and court administrators, Kate has played a leading role in making the courts more accessible, understandable, and efficient.

The American Judicature Society is proud to pay tribute to Kathleen M. Sampson's extra ordinary legacy by creating this award in her honor and making her its inaugural recipient.