2026 Wade M. Smith Award Recipient, Cynthia P. Black, Retired Cumberland County Chief Public Defender

Stacey, a woman with black hair and black glasses, wears a blue button-down shirt and black blazer.

By Stacey Rubain

The Criminal Justice Section of the North Carolina Bar Association is pleased to announce that retired Cumberland County Chief Public Defender Cynthia Black has been selected to receive the 2026 Wade M. Smith Award (“Smith Award”). The Smith Award is presented annually by the Criminal Justice Section to a defense attorney who exemplifies the highest ideals of the profession.

A native of Cumberland County, Cindy graduated from South View High School before serving honorably in the United States Army and the Army Reserves. She earned her law degree from Campbell University and began her legal career in private practice, and then worked as a prosecutor with the Cumberland County District Attorney’s Office for five years. In 2001, Cindy joined the Cumberland County Public Defender’s Office, and she was appointed Chief Public Defender in 2020.

Cindy, a white woman with grey hair, wears a white blouse and black jacket.

Cynthia P. Black

Cindy recently retired after 24 years of distinguished public service with the Cumberland County Public Defender’s Office. She leaves behind a legacy as a tireless advocate for indigent clients and as a trusted mentor and leader. Her compassion, integrity, and professionalism have had a profound and enduring impact on her office and on the broader Cumberland County legal community.

Cindy’s service to the citizens of Cumberland County extends well beyond her work in the Public Defender’s Office. She currently serves as Chair of the Fayetteville Cumberland County Reentry Council, a civic organization dedicated to empowering, supporting, and encouraging individuals with criminal records who are reentering the community following incarceration. Cindy’s unwavering commitment to public service, both professionally and personally, has made her one of the most respected and admired members of the Cumberland County Bar.

The Criminal Justice Section invites you to join us in honoring Connie at the 18th Annual Gilchrist & Smith Awards Dinner on January 29, 2026, at the Embassy Suites in Cary (201 Harrison Oaks Boulevard). Cocktail Hour begins at 6:30 p.m. Tickets can be purchased on the Event Page.

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