Deanell Tacha, a Lawrence resident serving as a judge on the U.S. Court of Appeals for the 10th Circuit, is being honored for a career of service in both the legal profession and on behalf of society overall.

Tacha, an appeals judge since her appointment in 1985 by President Reagan, is winner of the 26th annual Edward J. Devitt Distinguished Service to Justice Award, administered by the American Judicature Society.

The award honors judges serving by presidential appointment and whose careers are considered exemplary through their contributions to the administration of justice, the advancement of the rule of law, and the improvement of society as a whole.

“Judge Tacha : not only meets but exceeds the standards established by this award,” said Supreme Court Justice Samuel Alito Jr., chairman of the three-member panel that selected Tacha for the honor. “These invaluable contributions have brought, and continue to bring, great honor to our profession. Judge Tacha is a most exceptional woman whose selection brings heightened esteem to this award.”

Tacha will receive the award and a $15,000 honorarium during a ceremony this fall in Lawrence.

“I’m humbled,” Tacha said. “I’m honored. The people who have won this award in the past are really the great minds and great people of the judiciary. I’m deeply touched by this. I’ve worked with so many good people, they’ve made me look good.”