WILLIAM H. HASTIE AWARD : This award is for national leadership in the field of criminal justice and presented to the individual who has affected change in policy, or has excelled in a leadership role nationally in the criminal justice area. The award is named after the first African American appointed to the bench in 1937 by President Franklin Roosevelt.

JONATHAN JASPER WRIGHT AWARD : This award is for leadership at the regional and state level in the area of criminal justice. The award is presented to an individual who has affected change in policy or is serving as a conduit of change. The award is named after the first African American elected to the bench of the Supreme Court of South Carolina.

MARY CHURCH TERRELL AWARD : This award is for activism and positive change in the field of criminal justice at the city and state level. Awarded to the individual who has initiated positive change on a local level though establishing relationships and programs in corporation with courts, assemblies, churches and councils. The award is named after the freedom fighter, community leader, and church reformer whose efforts helped pave the way for full citizenship for African Americans in this country.

MEDGAR EVERS AWARD : This award is given to the individual who has demonstrated unselfish ideals of fair play by developing, policies, enforcing regulations and ensuring that all persons including those who are institutionalize receive equal justice under the law. This award is named after the slain civil rights leader whose struggles for equal justice ended with his making the ultimate and supreme sacrifice.

CHAIRMAN EMERITUS AWARD : This award is given to an individual who has demonstrated sustained commitment and unselfish dedication to the advancement of the goals and objectives of NABCJ by ensuring representation of minorities as policy makers, and developers of Criminal Justice Programs and Research.

CHAIRMAN'S AWARD : This award is given to the individual who has demonstrated leadership, dedication and contributions to NABCJ at the chapter or regional level.

OWENS-BELL AWARD : This award is given to the individual for outstanding chapter development and leadership by organizing a new chapter, increasing the membership of a current chapter or creating mechanisms for the recruitment of members, and the development of chapter programs and activities. The award is named after Dr. Charles Owens and Jimmie Bell, two of NABCJ's Founders.