Childers, Schlueter & Smith is proud to announce that our own Jacqueline McCray has been named the 2026 Milestone Administrator of the Year — a national recognition honoring one exceptional individual who embodies empathy, dedication, and exceptional service to their firm and the firm’s clients.
This annual award celebrates the “hidden heroes” of the legal profession — the professionals whose leadership, operational excellence, and dedication make extraordinary client advocacy possible. It recognizes individuals who go above and beyond in supporting trial lawyers, strengthening firm culture, and ensuring that the work of justice moves forward efficiently and compassionately for the people the firm represents.
Jacqueline embodies that standard every single day.
With more than two decades of experience in the legal field, Jacqueline has become the operational backbone of Childers, Schlueter & Smith. Her ability to anticipate needs, solve problems before they escalate, and maintain a steady, positive presence creates stability for our attorneys and staff and benefits every client we represent. She combines professionalism with empathy, discipline with warmth, and strategy with execution.
Jacqueline’s leadership lifts every facet of our firm.
Milestone recognized Jacqueline for her exceptional support, positive attitude, and problem-solving skills — qualities that have long defined her contributions to Childers, Schlueter & Smith. In a fast-paced plaintiffs’ practice, where precision and responsiveness matter, Jacqueline ensures our operations run with clarity and purpose.
The 2026 award also included very distinguished honorable mentions:
- Katy Lawrimore (Motley Rice)
- Kiara Genous (Wallace Miller)
- Raechel Hutto (AWKO)
- Tina Misal (Andreozzi + Foote)
To be recognized among such respected professionals nationwide speaks volumes about Jacqueline’s impact within the broader plaintiffs’ legal community.
What This Honor Represents
The Milestone Administrator of the Year Award emphasizes dedication, empathy, and the ability to maintain efficient and supportive work environments. It highlights professionals who often
operate outside the spotlight, but whose leadership directly influences a firm’s success.
At Childers, Schlueter & Smith, we know that great trial work begins long before a courtroom appearance. It begins with strong internal systems, thoughtful leadership, and a culture rooted in accountability and care. Jacqueline plays a central role in everything our firm does.
From the Partners
Richard Schlueter shared:
“Jacqueline truly is the voice of Childers, Schlueter & Smith — not just in how she represents our firm, but in how she supports every person who walks through our doors and every member of our team. Her leadership is steady, thoughtful, and deeply impactful. This recognition reflects the excellence she brings to our firm every day.”
Andy Childers added:
“Great firms are built on more than strong courtroom advocacy — they’re built on strong leadership behind the scenes. Jacqueline has elevated our operational standards and strengthened our culture in lasting ways. She is the staple that holds our firm together. This award is well deserved, and we are incredibly proud of her.”
Brandon Smith stated:
“Jacqueline has helped us grow intentionally while preserving the culture that defines our firm. She brings strategic thinking, execution, and genuine care for people into everything she does. The Milestone 2026 Administrator of the Year reflects the measurable impact she has on our clients, our team, and our future.”
We are grateful for Jacqueline’s leadership and incredibly proud to see her recognized on a national stage. Her work strengthens our firm and ultimately serves the individuals and families who trust us to advocate for them.
Please join us in congratulating Jacqueline McCray on being named the 2026 Milestone Administrator of the Year — an honor that could not be more deserved.
And a special thank you to Milestone for bestowing this honor on Jacqueline. Your efforts and guidance in the mass tort world are top notch. For more information on the great work Milestone does: https://milestoneseventh.com/
