Carmen Chavez, the executive director of the Casa Cornelia Law Center, has been honored with one of the prestigious 2026 Prebys Leadership Awards. This recognition highlights her dedication to providing legal aid to individuals who have suffered human and civil rights violations. The awards ceremony will take place on February 23, 2026, at The Soap Factory in San Diego, where Chavez will be celebrated alongside four other distinguished leaders.
Casa Cornelia Law Center, a nonprofit organization in San Diego, specializes in offering pro-bono legal services to vulnerable populations. Chavez expressed her gratitude for the award, stating, “I am very surprised and deeply grateful for this recognition. It represents a culmination of a lifelong commitment to the community and to serve others.” She emphasized that the award also acknowledges the hard work of her dedicated staff, who strive to ensure that justice is accessible to everyone.
Chavez elaborated on the mission of Casa Cornelia, explaining that the organization serves individuals facing severe challenges. These include children and youths who have experienced abuse, victims of serious crimes such as human trafficking and domestic violence, and individuals fleeing persecution in their home countries. “We provide direct legal services to those who qualify under current law to find protection,” she noted, emphasizing the importance of guiding clients through complex legal processes.
The award comes with a $100,000 grant, which Chavez plans to reinvest into the organization to enhance its programs. She stated, “Part of that will definitely go straight back into the organization to provide much-needed support for our programs.” This financial support will help sustain Casa Cornelia’s initiatives and continue its vital work in the community.
Chavez’s journey to becoming a leader in legal advocacy has been deeply influenced by her upbringing in San Diego. “My parents were always available to serve the community,” she reflected. Growing up near the U.S.-Mexico border, she developed a keen awareness of the issues faced by individuals seeking justice and protection. Her commitment was further solidified when she attended a women’s leadership conference and was inspired by a Latina judge, which motivated her to pursue a career in law.
The ongoing challenges posed by immigration policies, especially during the Trump administration, have exacerbated the struggles faced by many in the community. “We are right at the border, and these issues continue to be a concern,” Chavez explained. Casa Cornelia has adapted its services to ensure that those who qualify under the law receive legal representation, helping them navigate a complicated and often traumatic process.
In line with the pressing needs of the community, Casa Cornelia collaborates with various organizations. Recently, the Pope Francis Center opened in San Diego to provide additional resources for immigrants affected by deportation policies. Chavez noted, “We will be able to provide legal representation to persons that they refer to us.” This partnership exemplifies a collective effort to ensure that immigrants have access to essential support services.
Chavez advocates for a compassionate approach to addressing the needs of those they serve. “Every single person wants safety, protection, life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness,” she stated. This understanding drives her commitment to providing quality legal services to victims of human and civil rights violations.
The theme of this year’s Prebys Leadership Awards, “All in San Diego,” reflects a collective vision for an inclusive and supportive community. Chavez encourages others to engage with local initiatives, emphasizing that “we are stronger together.” She hopes that her recognition will inspire more individuals to contribute to the mission of justice with compassion.
As the award ceremony approaches, Carmen Chavez looks forward to celebrating the achievements of those dedicated to making San Diego a better place for all. Her work exemplifies the profound impact that legal advocacy can have on individual lives and the broader community.
