KU News Release

KU law student honored posthumously by Kansas Association for Justice

Jana Mackey

LAWRENCE — The Kansas Association for Justice presented the Paul E. Wilson Defender Project Award to Eleven Hundred Torches in posthumous recognition of the contributions of University of Kansas law student Jana Mackey.

Mackey’s parents, Curt and Christie Brungardt, accepted the award on behalf of their daughter and Eleven Hundred Torches at the association’s annual meeting and awards luncheon Dec. 5 in Kansas City, Mo.

The Paul E. Wilson Defender Project Award is presented to a KU law student intern who has demonstrated a sincere commitment to the ideals upon which the project was founded, one who treats all persons with dignity, ensures that the personal protections guaranteed by the Constitution are available to all citizens, and demonstrates compassion and respect for the client as an individual.

Mackey was a second-year law student with an impressive track record as an advocate on behalf of women’s rights, victims of violence and others whose voices go unheard or unrepresented. She believed a law degree was the next important step in her journey to become the most effective advocate for women and other underrepresented groups. Her life was tragically cut short July 3 as a victim of domestic violence. She was enrolled in the Defender Project at the time.

Eleven Hundred Torches (www.1100torches.org) is a national campaign established by Mackey’s parents after her death. The campaign is intended to inspire and encourage people to serve others.

Also recognized at the ceremony were Ottawa attorney Gary L. Jordan, who received the Consumer Advocate Award in recognition of his significant and positive impact on the practice of law; attorneys James R. Howell, Wichita, and Stephen G. Dickerson, Olathe, who received the Distinguished Service Award in recognition of their work to advance the administration of justice and the goals of the legal profession; and Timothy R. Woods, a student at the Washburn University School of Law, who received the Raymond Spring Award, which is given to Washburn law student clinic interns who demonstrate passion and commitment to serving indigent clients.

Margaret Farley of Lawrence, the 2008-09 president of Kansas Association for Justice, and Kala Spigarelli of Pittsburg, awards committee chair, presented the Consumer Advocate and Distinguished Service awards. Pedro L. Irigonegaray, Topeka, presented the student awards. The awards are given annually. Recipients are nominated and selected for their achievements by Kansas Association for Justice members.

The Kansas Association for Justice is a statewide association of attorneys who represent consumers. The organization works to protect the safety and rights of workers and families in Kansas.

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