A Shelby County Judge is receiving a prestigious award. Judge Amanda S. Ade-Harlow, a prominent figure in Illinois’ judicial system, has been recognized with the Presidential Leadership Award from the Illinois Judges Association (IJA). The honor was presented during the IJA Mid-Year Meeting on December 13, 2024, in Chicago.

Serving as co-chair of the IJA’s Judicial Selection and Retention Committee, Judge Ade-Harlow earned the award for her leadership in updating essential handbooks that guide judges through the judicial selection and retention process. Additionally, she spearheaded two live video education sessions to support Cook County judges through the initial and interview phases of retention. The prestigious award was one of only six presented by the IJA.

Judge Ade-Harlow has been serving the Fourth Judicial Circuit since 2016 and is currently the Resident Circuit Judge for Shelby County. She is actively involved in various Illinois Supreme Court and IJA committees and contributes as faculty for the Illinois Judicial College.

The Fourth Judicial Circuit encompasses nine counties: Christian, Clay, Clinton, Effingham, Fayette, Jasper, Marion, Montgomery, and Shelby. Judge Ade-Harlow’s commitment to judicial excellence continues to make a significant impact across the region and the state.