Jane M. Alexander, Esq., was an active member of the York County Bar Association for 65 years and for the first 20 years she was the sole female attorney member. From 1955 until her passing on May 6, 2020, Jane managed a general practice law office and was the Owner and President of J&J Agri Products and Services, Inc., in Dillsburg, PA. Among her many accomplishments, Attorney Alexander was the mother of four children. In 1955, she was elected and became the first woman member Dillsburg Borough Council and later the first woman President of Borough Councils in PA. From 1965-69, Jane was a member of the Pennsylvania House of Representatives. Jane was named and served as the Deputy Secretary for the Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture from 1972-77. She was the first woman in the United States to hold a Deputy position. She was also the first female member of the PA State Farm Show Commission. Jane’s civic and charitable activities are too numerous to mention – she focused on eradicating diseases and health planning, nutrition and food safety, and women’s political and social organizations and pro bono legal services for the indigent. She brought her brilliant mind, diligence, and political skills to every endeavor.

In 2001, the York County Bar Association established the Jane M. Alexander Award to honor an outstanding female resident of York County or who is employed in York County who has advanced the legal rights of women through example, education, activism, or the legal system. Nominees do not have to be an attorney. Although nominations are sought annually, due to the prestigious nature of this honor, the award will not be issued if submissions fail to meet or exceed the criteria. Nominations are reviewed and the winner is selected by members of the YCBA’s Women in Law Committee.

Submit your nomination form by February 28, 2023.