Nancy J. Diehl, B.A. '75, retired this year after serving for 28 years in the Wayne County, Mich. Prosecutor's Office.
A political science major at WMU, Diehl went on to earn a Juris Doctorate from Wayne State University in 1975. She began her career as a staff attorney for the Misdemeanor Defender's Office in 1978 and two years later, was named assistant corporation counsel for the City of Detroit.
Diehl joined the Prosecutor's Office in 1981 as a trial prosecutor in Recorder's Court. She worked in several capacities, including director of the Child Abuse Unit and chief of the Projects and Training Division. In 2004, she was named chief of the Felony Trial Division, overseeing general trials, child and family abuse, homicide, auto theft and major drugs.
A sought after speaker and trainer, Diehl lectures on domestic violence and child abuse investigation, prosecution and related issues. She is recognized as a leader on issues concerning child abuse and family violence. She is also the author of several booklets focusing on children dealing with abuse and the legal system.
Diehl was the 70th president of the State Bar of Michigan and the third woman in a decade to lead that organization of more than 36,000. She serves on the Executive Committee of the Governor's Task Force on Children's Justice.
Diehl has been honored with many awards including the 2004 Detroit Metropolitan Bar Association Champion of Justice Award, the 2003 Women’s Justice Center Outstanding Advocate Award and the 2000 Governor's Award.