2026 Rebuilding Justice Awardees

IAALS' Values Personified

During our 20th anniversary year, IAALS is proud to recognize five individuals with our Rebuilding Justice Award, each of whom embody one of our five core values:

  • Question the status quo
  • Let data guide the way
  • Center the people
  • Find common ground
  • Set our sights on tomorrow

These honorees represent the many forms of leadership needed to rebuild justice, and the values that must guide our system at large. In recognizing these leaders, IAALS celebrates their shared pursuit of a more accessible, innovative justice system and renews our pledge to advance that vision in all we do.

The award will be presented at our Rebuilding Justice Award Dinner on April 23, 2026.

More information about the dinner.

Image of Dave Byers

Dave Byers, Director of the Arizona Supreme Court Administrative Office of the Courts

Question the Status Quo:

Byers has brought visionary leadership and bold innovation to Arizona’s courts, transforming them into a national model for justice reform. Never content with convention, he has consistently challenged norms and inspired others to reimagine what’s possible—and he has strengthened our shared commitment to questioning the status quo.

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Dean William C. Hubbard, University of South Carolina Joseph F. Rice School of Law

Let Data Guide the Way:

Hubbard has long championed evidence-based reform, urging institutions to measure what matters and stay accountable to real-world outcomes. Through his leadership at the World Justice Forum, the American Bar Association, and the University of South Carolina School of Law, he has shown that progress in justice requires data, research, and unwavering integrity.

Image of Stacy Jane

Stacy Rupprecht Jane, Director of Innovation for Justice

Center the People:

Jane’s work puts people at the heart of justice system reform. As Director of i4J, she has expanded access to civil legal services and elevated the voices of those too often unheard. Her advocacy reminds us that meaningful reform begins with listening and centering the people we serve.

Image of Nathan Hecht

Chief Justice Nathan L. Hecht (Ret.), Supreme Court of Texas

Find Common Ground:

Chief Justice Hecht has united diverse voices across Texas and beyond to advance justice through collaboration. His leadership demonstrates that progress is possible when we bridge divides, seek shared values, and work together. His legacy reminds us that common ground is the foundation of lasting reform.

Image of Sateesh Nori

Sateesh Nori, Senior Legal Innovation Strategist at Just Tech LLC

Set Our Sights on Tomorrow:

Nori brings a visionary approach to building the future of justice. From years of fighting for housing rights to his work at JustFix, he blends compassion and innovation to expand access to legal services. He challenges us to think boldly, embrace technology, and set our sights on tomorrow.