06/30/2026
Last week, at the annual NC Conference of District Attorneys summer conference, Chief Justice Paul Newby awarded Assistant District Attorney Ellie Coludro the 2026 Chief Justice’s Professionalism Award and a cash award of $250. The award is presented annually to an individual whose contributions have demonstrated the highest commitment to genuine professionalism and the highest standards of legal ethics.
Chief Justice Newby said, “In addition to prosecuting neighborhood violence, Ellie has helped her office effectively confront changes in the law related to bond and led the development of collaborative and practical solutions among criminal justice partners. With over two decades of prosecutorial experience, Ellie is a problem-solver at heart. She is known for her ability to identify inefficiencies in workflows and implement practical solutions to make systems work better for prosecutors and the communities they serve.
“She continues to play a central role in the rollout of new case management technologies in the Mecklenburg County District Attorney’s Office, streamlining operations and enhancing case-handling efficiency. Her efforts reflect her commitment to equip prosecutors with the tools they need to fulfill their mission. And yet, her impact extends well beyond the boundaries of her prosecutorial district, as many of her innovations have been helpful models for colleagues across the state.
“Ever dedicated to the prosecutor’s constitutional role of advising officers of the law, Ellie is known as a steadfast partner and resource for law enforcement officers, and, while she demonstrates a mastery of court process, she always centers the interests and needs of crime victims. In every facet of her work, she exemplifies a passion for connecting procedure with practice to build a justice system that is both fair and functional for our communities.”
