The Court of Appeals of Maryland held a ceremony on September 22, 2022, to unveil the portrait of retired Chief Judge Mary Ellen Barbera. The artwork was crafted by Diana "Danni" Dawson, an artist known for her portraits of dignitaries and officials.
Chief Judge Fader remarked, "It is truly an honor and a privilege to celebrate Chief Judge Barbera’s illustrious legal and judicial career with the unveiling of her official portrait." He highlighted her achievements, noting she was the first woman appointed as chief judge on the Court of Appeals of Maryland.
Mary Ellen Barbera's career includes serving as an associate judge on the Court of Special Appeals from 2002 to 2008 before being appointed to the Court of Appeals by former Governor Martin O'Malley. She made history as the first female chief judge in Maryland's state supreme court.
Barbera expressed gratitude towards her colleagues and artist Danni Dawson. "I thank my esteemed colleagues on the bench...and I am humbled to be honored in this way," she said.
Dawson's work is displayed internationally, including a sculpture at St. Joseph's Hospital in Towson, Maryland. Her accolades include awards from several prestigious art institutions.
Barbera's background includes graduating from the University of Maryland School of Law in 1984 and working in various legal roles before joining the judiciary. She has received multiple honors such as the First Citizen Award from the Maryland Senate (2018) and others recognizing her contributions to law and civility.
Her professional affiliations have included numerous bar associations and legal organizations until her retirement.