Kate Carruthers is an attorney and a former pro-tem judge in the Bainbridge Island Municipal Court. As a judge, she has been a strong supporter of the Domestic Violence Victims Advocacy program and worked hard to keep a municipal court on Bainbridge Island so that victims of domestic violence would have a resource in the community.

According to Judge Jennifer Forbes, who was one of the people who nominated her for the award, “Kate understand how important it is for DV victims to have a court nearby so they can access protection orders when the window of opportunity presents itself. Kate is known for fair and well-researched decisions in complex cases.”

She also is known for stepping aside from her role as a judge to participate and support community events on the island. She has been active in local theater and served as a judge and advisor to a county-wide competition for young screen writers.

“Kate is a role model in her community,” said Forbes. “She is respected by residents of Bainbridge Island who also are her neighbors. Her award is well deserved.”

Editor’s note: This article originally appeared in Sound Publishing’s Special Section, “Women of Achievement.”