Achievements and Media

Recognition

• • Presidential Award of Excellence, The Chicago Bar Association (2025)

  • Trailblazer Award, Black Law Students Association of UIC School of Law (2025)

  • Vanguard Award, The Chicago Bar Association (2023)

  • Board Member of the Month, Illinois Philharmonic Orchestra (2022)

  • Outstanding Government Partner Award, Pi Alpha Alpha National Honor Society of Public Affairs and Administration, Governors State University Chapter (2021)

  • Certificate of Appreciation, Chair, Mental Health and Disabilities Law Committee, The Chicago Bar Association (2017)

  • Certificate of Merit, Lambda Mu Omega Chapter, Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated (2010)

  • Soror of the Year Award, Lambda Mu Omega Chapter, Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated (2009)

  • Mother of the Year Award, South Suburban Chicago Chapter, Jack and Jill of America, Incorporated (2009)

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Publications

• • Judge Nichole C. Patton and Judge Beatriz Santiago, “The Need for Pro Bono Attorneys in the Courtroom: A Judicial Perspective,” The Chicago Bar Association Record, Vol. 33, No. 5 (September | October 2019)

  • Michelle Garcia and Nichole C. Patton, “Experts and Opinions: The Pitfalls and Possibilities of Expert Witness Testimony’” Pass It On, American Bar Association, Government and Public Sector Lawyers Division, Vol. 24, No. 1 (Fall 2014)

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Nichole In The News

• • "Bringing a 'unique perspective': New CBA President Nichole Patton prioritizes AI, engagement," Chicago Daily Law Bulletin, July 1, 2025

  • "Judge Plays Range Of Life Roles," Chicago Daily Law Bulletin, August 15, 2023

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Board Appointments

• • Chicago Bar Foundation (2020 – Present)

  • Illinois Philharmonic Orchestra (2021 – 2024)

  • Respond Now (2019 – 2024)

  • The Lawyers Club of Chicago (2019 – 2025)