Second Judicial District Administrator Heather Kendall and Senior Judge Kathryn Messerich have been recognized with the Chief Justice Award. This award is a prestigious honor that is not often bestowed. Kendall and Messerich earned this accolade for their leadership as co-chairs of the oneCourtMN Hearing Initiative Steering Committee.

Their efforts on the steering committee led to a significant development: a permanent method for conducting remote court hearings within the Minnesota Judicial Branch. This approach has set a standard, serving as a model across the nation.

The award highlights their contribution to advancing judicial processes through innovative solutions.