DA Summer Stephan Elected National District Attorney Association President

On Monday, July 15, San Diego County District Attorney Summer Stephan was elected president of The National District Attorneys Association (NDAA) for the 2024-2025 term.

Stephan was sworn in at NDAA’s annual Summer Summit in Boise, Idaho, where she discussed the goals of her platform: elevating the role of prosecutors in safeguarding the rights of crime victims and enhancing public safety across the United States.

“It is a tremendous honor to lead the NDAA and work alongside dedicated prosecutors nationwide,” said Stephan. “Together, we will continue to implement forward-thinking strategies that ensure justice, promote public trust, and protect our communities.”

Serving as the District Attorney for San Diego County in 2018 and People’s prosecutor for over 3.3 million people, Stephan has launched numerous impactful justice initiatives over her career, including protocol to prevent mass shootings, a Juvenile Diversion Initiative to decrease the school to prison pipeline, mental reform initiatives, de-escelation training for the San Diego County Police department, prosecution of hate and drug crimes, and protection of the elderly.

Before she was elected District Attorney, Stephan served as a Deputy District Attorney in San Diego County for 28 years, trying over 100 jury trials, including complex homicides, sex crimes against children, and human trafficking cases. Stephan graduated from the University of California, Davis with a bachelor’s degree in psychology, and earned her Juris Doctor from the University of the Pacific, McGeorge School of Law.

Additionally, Summer Stephan has been recognized for her work combatting human trafficking and sexual exploitation and has been named Angel of Anti Human Trafficking. She pioneered San Diego’s Sex Crimes and Human Trafficking Division and co-chairs the National Association of Women Judges Human Trafficking committee.

Stephan has won U.S. Attorney General’s Award for Meritorious Public Service in 2023, the highest public service award from the U.S. Department of Justice. In 2022, she was named one of The Best Five Prosecutors in America.

“Summer Stephan’s leadership and vision will undoubtedly guide NDAA to new heights,” said outgoing president Charlie Smith. “Her dedication to justice and innovative approach to prosecution make her an outstanding choice to lead our association.”

See the full 2024 – 2025 Slate of Officers list at ndaa.org.