Katherine McNally Memorial Award

Project Steno and the Family of Katherine McNally Proudly Present
The Katherine McNally Memorial Award


Project Steno is honored to partner with Katherine McNally’s family to celebrate the life, legacy, and enduring influence of a remarkable educator who inspired generations of court reporters.

The Katherine McNally Memorial Award recognizes the profound impact Katherine had on her students, both professionally and personally. Funding for these awards was made possible through the generous support of friends, colleagues, former students, and members of the court reporting community who contributed to Project Steno’s memorial campaign established in Katherine’s honor.

In keeping with Katherine’s belief that every student deserved encouragement and opportunity, recipients will be selected through a random drawing from all eligible submissions.  Three recipients will each receive a $400 memorial award. Winners will be announced on July 13, 2026, in honor of Katherine’s birthday.

Eligibility and Submission Requirements
The Katherine McNally Memorial Award is open to any currently working court reporter who studied under Katherine McNally

Essay Requirements
Applicants must submit an original essay of no more than 400 words describing how Katherine influenced their life, career, or professional development. Essays may include personal memories, lessons learned, or reflections on the impact she had as a teacher, mentor, and advocate for excellence. 

In recognition of Katherine’s commitment to professionalism and the written word, essays should be thoughtfully prepared and demonstrate appropriate grammar, punctuation, and spelling.

Submission Instructions
Essays must be submitted by July 6, 2026, to Awards@ProjectSteno.org.  Limit one entry per person.

Please include the following information with your submission:

  • Full name
  • Mailing address
  • Email address and telephone number
  • When and where you studied under Katherine McNally
  • Where you are currently working as a court reporter

Award Selection
All submissions that meet the eligibility and submission requirements will be entered into a random drawing to ensure that every qualified applicant has an equal opportunity to receive an award.

Three recipients will each receive a $400 memorial award. Winners will be announced on July 13, 2026, in honor of Katherine’s birthday.

Publication Authorization

By submitting an essay and accepting an award from Project Steno, recipients grant Project Steno permission to publish their name in connection with the Katherine McNally Memorial Award. Project Steno may also publish excerpts from winning essays unless otherwise requested by the author.

Project Steno reserves the right to verify eligibility and make final determinations regarding compliance with these requirements.