Supreme Court Justice Pos 7

Legal/Judicial Experience

Current Chief Justice and Justice since 2008. Court of Appeals Judge, Eastern Washington (2007). Appellate Attorney & adjunct professor, Gonzaga University (1993-2007).

Other Professional Experience

Board for Judicial Administration Co-Chair, National Association of Women Judges, Judicial Independence Committee Co-Chair, Chief Justices Conference Executive Committee, National Courts & Sciences Institute Director, National Judicial College Instructor, WA Civic Learning Council, former Spokane Community College instructor.

Education

Gonzaga University, J.D., B.A. West Valley High, Spokane.

Community Service

Former school board chair, Upward Bound mentor, Minority & Justice Commission, YMCA Youth & Government, Sacred Heart Children’s Hospital, Habitat for Humanity, Past Rotary President, Washington Center for Performing Arts board member.

Statement

As Washington’s Chief Justice, I am dedicated to upholding the rule of law and delivering fair and impartial justice. Courts are a critical branch of government, where every person must be treated fairly and with dignity, and decisions must be based on the law and the facts.  In an era of growing attempts to politicize the judiciary, I work every day to maintain the integrity and independence of our courts and safeguard access to justice for every person.  

As a former constitutional law professor, I respect legal traditions and constitutional principles. As a parent and former school board chair, I understand how court decisions impact the lives of Washington families. As the first woman from Eastern Washington on the Court, I know that lived experience and diverse perspectives matter in making sound decisions.

I have a proven record of expanding access to justice, improving efficiency and transparency, addressing the evolving challenges facing our legal system, and protecting individual rights. I have always enjoyed broad support and am endorsed by my current and former colleagues, judges statewide, WA State Labor Council, elected officials, and education and community leaders. I ask for your vote to continue serving you on our Supreme Court.

Legal/Judicial Experience

Over two decades of providing legal and professional services to private and publicly-held companies, executives, business owners and Washington families; served as an Arbitrator for FINRA from 1999 to 2020.

Other Professional Experience

Over a decade as tax attorney and senior manager in major accounting firms. Active-duty Navy officer from 2002 to 2013. Additional professional designations: CPA, CFA and CFP.

Education

LL.M. - University of Washington; J.D., M.B.A. - Tulane University; M.A. - Naval War College; B.A. - Simpson College; College of Naval Command & Staff; Warfare Qualified.

Community Service

WSBA - Board of Governors; Nonprofit Finance Council; Adjunct faculty (UW, Tulane); Gallon+ Blood Donor

Statement

Throughout my career, I've worked to solve complex problems thoughtfully, collaboratively, and fairly. And my background has given me a deep appreciation for hard work, sacrifice, and the experiences of everyday people. To pay for school, I worked farm, grocery and restaurant jobs and later earned my commission from the enlisted ranks.

Following 9/11, I was called from the Naval Reserve to active duty, where I served for more than a decade. I placed my civilian career on hold and left my wife and children to deploy to the Persian Gulf. That experience had a big impact on my understanding of duty, accountability, and leadership under pressure. Since returning to civilian life, I've continued my public service through the WSBA Board of Governors. It was there, I was encouraged to seek election to the Supreme Court.

This year's election is a choice--whether to retain the current justices or to give someone new your vote. I believe I represent meaningful new perspective, experience, and common sense which will bring balance to the court.

If elected, I promise to uphold and apply the law impartially and fairly. I respectfully ask for your vote for Supreme Court Justice, Position #7.