The YWCA Rhode Island announced that Special Assistant Attorney General Kimberly Ahern was chosen to receive one of its 2016 Women of Achievement awards. Ahern was selected for her professional work and public service, as well as her skills as leader, role model, mentor, and as an agent for positive change, according to the YWCA.
Ahern began her career at the Office of Attorney General in Fall 2010 and has been assigned to the Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault Unit for the past four years. In addition to prosecuting cases of domestic violence and sexual assault, Ahern prosecutes cases of animal abuse. Prior to coming to the Office of Attorney General, Ahern served as a law clerk for Rhode Island Supreme Court Justice Maureen McKenna Goldberg.
Ahern is committed to giving back to her community. She serves on Board of Directors of the East Side YMCA, the Women's Fund of Rhode Island, and the Roger Williams School of Law Alumni Association. In addition, she has served as a volunteer for the Providence Youth services YMCA law-mentoring program for high school students interested in pursuing a career as a lawyer.
"I am proud that the YWCA has recognized Kim for her professional and community leadership; something we recognize in her each day in the Office," said Attorney General Kilmartin. "Her commitment to pursuing justice for victims of abuse is commendable as is her work in the community. On behalf of the entire Office, I extend our sincerest congratulations to Kim, and all the Women of Achievement recipients, on this achievement."
"I'm honored that I was selected by the YWCA for this award and would like to congratulate the other nominees as well. It is also truly an honor each and every day to get to stand up in Courts across our state and represent the State of Rhode Island and seek justice for victims of domestic and sexual violence. In addition to my professional work, I was taught from a young age by my parents the importance of community service and giving back, and that's something I continually strive to do in my community involvement," said Ahern.
Ahern graduated from Providence College and earned her juris doctor degree from Roger Williams University School of Law. She and her wife Jenna reside in Providence with their daughter Quinn.