The N.C. Justice Center bestows Champion of Justice awards on individuals who have made a generational difference in the lives of North Carolinians. These awardees exemplify the mission of the organization, as they work to eliminate poverty in North Carolina and create an equal playing field for all.

Hipps, who resided in Waynesille, spent her career working in public education as a counselor, psychologist, and teacher, later starting her own business as a national science and math consultant, working with schools in more than 35 states. Upon her retirement, Hipps earned a master’s degree in nursing from Vanderbilt University and became a certified pediatric nurse practitioner.

In addition to serving on the board of the NC Justice Center, Hipps was an active member of the Haywood County Democratic Party, serving as President of the Haywood County Democratic Women, Region One Director and as a member of the State Executive Committee of the NC Democratic Women.

The NC Justice Center honored Hipps at the home of Julia Buckner in Waynesville on Sunday, Aug. 18. A native of North Carolina, Hipps lived in Waynesville from 1968 until she passed away in February 2019.

“We are pleased to recognize Jane Hipps for her tremendous community advocacy work on behalf of Western North Carolina and the entire state,” said Rick Glazier, Executive Director of the NC Justice Center. “When Jane ran for state Senate she was described as a ‘leader from the West, for the West.’ She put the needs of her community first, always. She represents the very core of the N.C. Justice Center’s values and it was an honor to work with her.”