Former Jackson County Circuit Judge Edith Messina, who joined the Jackson County Prosecutor’s Office earlier this year, was honored Friday by the Kansas City Metropolitan Bar Association, Jackson County Prosecutor Jean Peters Baker announced today.

At its annual meeting, KCMBA presented Messina with the 2015 Hon. Joseph E. Stevens Jr. Aspire to Excellence Award. The award recognizes individuals who have improved the quality of the administration of justice in the Kansas City area.

Messina retired from the bench in January after a long, distinguished career. When named by former Missouri Gov. Christoper S. Bond to a judgeship in 1984, Messina was the first female circuit judge in Jackson County. She later became the first female judge to serve as presiding judge in Jackson County.

Since joining the prosecutor’s office soon after stepping down from the bench, Messina has worked on new diversion projects and on attorney training.

“Having someone of the caliber of Judge Messina, with her standing and character, has been invaluable to our office” Prosecutor Baker stated. “Her dedication to justice continues today. I’m so pleased to see her recognized with this award.”