Lena Bryan-Henderson is our 2025 Woman of the Year. With over three decades of experience, Lena Bryan-Henderson has built a distinguished legal career defined by an unwavering commitment to advocating for indigent and social justice. Lena became the Director of Allegheny County’s Public Defender’s Office in 2024. She graduated Cum Laude with a Bachelor of Arts from Howard University in 1987 and earned her Juris Doctorate from Duquesne University School of Law in 1990. Since 1991, she has served as an Assistant Public Defender at the Allegheny County Office of the Public Defender. Her tireless representation of indigent clients in countless jury and non-jury trials is complemented by her expertise in researching, preparing, and arguing pre-trial and post-trial motions, negotiating plea agreements, and supervising a team of trial attorneys. In addition to her legal practice, she established Lena Bryan-Henderson Law in 1991, a private practice specializing in criminal law, where she represents both children and adults.
Mrs. Bryan-Henderson actively engages in community activism, serving as a board member for Reimagine Reentry and as a member of the Allegheny Lawyers Initiative for Justice. As a Founder and Vice President of the Pittsburgh Black Lawyers Alliance (PBLA), she addresses political and social issues, fosters mentorship, and creates employment opportunities for Black law students. Lena is most proud of her 33-year marriage to her husband, Juan Henderson, and of being the mother to their two adult sons, Julian and Niejel.
Lena is especially proud of her heritage and is extremely cognizant of the suffering and sacrifices that so many people, particularly her parents, grandparents, and Godfather, have made to give her the opportunity to serve the community.
Register today:
For more information, contact us at: Events@onyxwoman.com/(412) 731-5159
DATE: Friday, April 25, 2025
LOCATION: Energy Innovation Center (Former Connelly Learning Center)
1435 Bedford Ave, Pittsburgh, PA 15219
TIME: 6:00 – 9:00 P.M.
Registration: $85.00, plus $3.95 service charge.
$90.00 plus $3.95 service charge/After April 1, 2025
