Philadelphia Bar Foundation Celebrates Leaders in Justice at Sold-Out 2026 Philly Justice Ball
More than 250 guests gathered to honor outstanding advocates, celebrate Philadelphia's legal community, and advance equitable access to justice.
PHILADELPHIA, PA – November 11, 2026 – The Philadelphia Bar Foundation welcomed more than 250 guests to the sold-out 2026 Philly Justice Ball on Saturday, November 7, at the Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts (PAFA). Under the theme A Legacy of Liberty, A Promise of Justice, the evening brought together leaders from Philadelphia's legal, business, and nonprofit communities to celebrate individuals whose dedication and leadership are advancing equitable access to justice throughout the region.
Emceed by Sharrie Williams, co-anchor of 6abc Action News, the evening featured an inspiring keynote address by Michael Coard, Esq., founder of Avenging The Ancestors Coalition. His impassioned remarks reflected on Philadelphia's history, the ongoing pursuit of justice, and the collective responsibility to ensure that the promise of liberty extends to all.
The Foundation recognized four distinguished honorees for their exceptional contributions to the legal community and their commitment to justice:
Deborah R. Gross – Recipient of the Judge Louis H. Pollak Award, recognizing extraordinary contributions to the public interest and the advancement of justice.
The Honorable Frederica Massiah-Jackson (posthumously) – Recipient of the Trailblazers for Justice Award, honoring her groundbreaking judicial career and enduring legacy of leadership and service.
Jonathan Grode, Esq. – Recipient of the Pro Bono Award, recognizing his outstanding commitment to pro bono service and immigration advocacy.
Sue Wasserkrug – Recipient of the Philadelphia Bar Foundation Award, recognizing her leadership and contributions to expanding access to justice, particularly through eviction diversion efforts.
A particularly meaningful moment of the evening was the tribute to Judge Massiah-Jackson, whose family joined the celebration to honor her remarkable life and legacy.
"The Philly Justice Ball is an opportunity to recognize extraordinary individuals while bringing our community together around a shared purpose," said Jessica Hilburn-Holmes, Executive Director of the Philadelphia Bar Foundation. "As we look toward the nation's 250th anniversary, we are reminded that the promise of justice requires continued commitment, collaboration, and investment. The generosity and engagement demonstrated throughout the evening will help us carry that work forward."
The celebration was made possible through the leadership of event co-chairs Jason Leckerman and Kristine Calalang, the Host Committee, sponsors, donors, volunteers, and community partners. Guests also enjoyed live entertainment by Class Action, a band featuring members of the legal community.
As the Philadelphia Bar Foundation looks ahead, it remains focused on strengthening the capacity, leadership, and sustainability of the organizations and individuals working to ensure that justice is within reach for all Philadelphians.
About the Philadelphia Bar Foundation
Founded in 1964, the Philadelphia Bar Foundation is Philadelphia's legal community foundation, advancing equitable access to justice by strengthening the capacity, leadership, and sustainability of the region's legal community. Through grantmaking, charitable funds, partnerships, and strategic initiatives, the Foundation brings together the legal community and philanthropic partners to address systemic challenges and build a stronger, more accessible justice system.
Learn more: www.philabarfoundation.org
