Nominations are now open for the 2026 Arabella Mansfield Award and Gertrude Rush Award, recognizing outstanding contributions to the legal profession and community. Members of the Iowa legal community are encouraged to submit nominations for these annual awards, which honor trailblazing figures in Iowa’s legal history. The Arabella Mansfield Award, established in 2002 by I.O.W.A., honors the first woman admitted to practice law in the U.S., right here in Iowa, in 1869. The Gertrude Rush Award, established in 2003 by the Iowa Chapter of the National Bar Association (INBA) and I.O.W.A., recognizes the legacy of the first Black woman lawyer in Iowa and a co-founder of the National Bar Association.
Eligible nominees include attorneys and judges whose work reflects the spirit, leadership, and impact embodied by these historic figures. Nominators are encouraged to carefully review the criteria and provide detailed information on how their nominee meets the qualifications. New this year, both awards feature online fillable nomination forms, making it easier than ever to submit nominations.
Submit a nomination:
Nominations are due by June 1. The awards will be presented on Saturday, Aug. 8, at the ISBA Building, 625 E. Court Ave., Des Moines. Members are encouraged to submit nominations, including updated nominations from prior years, and help recognize the outstanding talent across Iowa’s legal community.
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