I am thrilled to share that Children’s Law Center CEO, Judith Sandalow, has been named a Washingtonian of the Year by Washingtonian magazine.

She is one of 10 leaders who are receiving this prestigious honor – one that recognizes Judith’s unwavering commitment to improving the lives of children across the District.

For 26 years, Judith has led Children’s Law Center with vision and determination, ensuring that every child has what they need to thrive: a strong foundation of family, health and education.

Judith Sandalow receives 2025 Washingtonian

of the Year award.

Under her leadership, the 100-plus Children’s Law Center team has fought tirelessly to do just that. Whether it is making sure a baby has a warm crib to sleep in during the winter, securing stronger educational services for a student with disabilities or providing stability for a child in foster care, Children’s Law Center’s staff are tenacious problem-solvers. But they don’t stop there. They learn from their work with thousands of individuals each year and turn it into systemic changes that improve the lives of hundreds of thousands of children.

These examples are just a snapshot of the many reasons why I nominated Judith for this honor, and why I am thrilled to join Children’s Law Center’s Board this year.

Washingtonian CEO Catherine Merrill shared this when introducing the winners:

"The stories of our 54th class of Washingtonians of the Year are proof that one person's commitment can create ripples of positive change throughout our region."

Judith Sandalow joins fellow Washingtonians of the Year.

As Children’s Law Center enters its 30th anniversary year, this award is a powerful reminder of the impact it has made under Judith’s leadership.

In her interview with the Washingtonian, Judith explained how Children’s Law Center is continually listening and learning to meet the needs of children sooner: “If you’re on a lifeboat in 20-foot waves, teaching a child or a family to swim—they’re not going to be able to swim out of the storm. We have to calm the waters.”

Judith: Thank you for calming the waters for so many children. Your visionary leadership will have an impact for generations to come.

Watch Judith's remarks at the Washingtonian of the Year awards event.

Join me in congratulating Judith, and help us share this great news with others in our community.

Sincerely,

Jane M. Adams

Board Member, Children’s Law Center

SVP, Global Government Affairs, Head of Office

Worldwide Government Affairs & Policy

Johnson & Johnson