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Meyers Receives Excellence In CJAB Leadership Award

Courts

April 29, 2026

Pictured (from left): Kristen Kenyon, Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency executive director, President Judge Shawn Meyers and Jim Turner, Criminal Justice Advisory committee chair

CHAMBERSBURG, Pa. ─ On April 22, the Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency (PCCD) concluded its 2026 Criminal Justice Advisory Board (CJAB) Conference in State College. The two-day event brought together more than 500 criminal justice and behavioral health professionals from across the commonwealth to share strategies, strengthen partnerships and highlight innovative local approaches to improving public safety.

This year’s conference was themed “Driving Change Together” and focused on strengthening partnerships across justice and behavioral health systems to address long-standing and emerging public safety issues. Plenary and breakout sessions covered behavioral health and the justice system, gun violence reduction and reentry ─ three core areas of PCCD’s work ─ and featured a diverse lineup of presenters, practitioners and subject-matter experts.

At the conclusion of the event, PCCD Executive Director Kristen Kenyon and Criminal Justice Advisory Committee Chair Jim Turner presented the Honorable Linda K.M. Ludgate Excellence in CJAB Leadership Award to Shawn D. Meyers, President Judge of the 39th Judicial District, which includes Franklin and Fulton counties.

The award named in honor of the late Judge Ludgate, a trailblazer in CJAB development, celebrates leadership that drives systemic improvement. Meyers was recognized for his role as chair of the Franklin County CJAB, where he has advanced strategic planning and behavioral health initiatives within his county.

Meyers expressed gratitude for receiving the award and recognized the many judges and justice partners across Pennsylvania who contribute to CJAB efforts. He reflected on the influence of past leaders, particularly Judge Richard Walsh, noting that early examples of strong CJAB leadership in Franklin County helped shape his own approach to collaboration and system improvement. Meyers said he was humbled to be included among prior award recipients and credited PCCD for its continued support of CJAB work statewide.

Meyers also offered a personal note of appreciation to his wife, Nancy, a fellow attorney, describing her as a steady source of support throughout his career and a true partner in public service. He emphasized that much of his ability to lead and stay engaged in justice initiatives is rooted in her encouragement and partnership. He also highlighted that effective CJAB work depends on teamwork across all system partners and the sustained commitment of judges, attorneys, law enforcement, corrections and behavioral health professionals. Meyers remarked that successful reform requires balancing diversion and reentry efforts with public safety, and to make sure that all stakeholders remain engaged in developing practical, coordinated solutions for their communities.