11/07/2022
Public service is a vocation. Serving as a family court judge isn’t just another job, it is not something you want for. It is service above all else. In 2021, a seed was planted by a dedicated public servant, who said I should consider putting my name forward for the upcoming vacancy in Family Court. He said I have the right temperament, the intelligence, and most importantly the life experiences that would guide me to be a voice for the most vulnerable and an advocate for our children and families.
After discernment and discussion, I asked to be considered for the vacancy in the 5th division. I was humbled, when I was one of three recommended by the Kenton Judicial Nominating Commission to fill the vacancy.
With the creation of a 3rd Family Court Judge in Kenton County, I felt called again to put my name forward to be considered to serve our community.
I have been recognized by my fellow attorneys as the most qualified candidate in this race and was endorsed by Northern Kentuckians for the Judiciary.
I have been supported by many community leaders - mayors, teachers, school board members, social workers - who recognize my passion for our children and our community, and my dedication to strengthen Our Families and strengthen Our Future.
A few weeks ago, I met a man going door to door and he said when families are in Court, it is one of their most important days in their life, but for the judge it is just another day at the office. I told him, it will never be another day at the office in my courtroom, I know the power of the work we do in family court, I know that when families are in court they will replay and hash out every moment, every statement. I know this because I hash out every moment I was in court for my family. As a Family Court Judge, I will have a picture of my adoption day on bench facing me, as I face the court room - and our families - to remind me everyday that the work that happens in family court is the most important work we do in our community and will be remembered everyday by these families.
A Family Court Judge is not just another rung on the career ladder, it is not just another job. It is a vocation requiring dedication, compassion and empathy.
My parents modeled public service in their careers. My Father dedicated his career to the veterans in our community, working as a health care worker for 45+ years at the VA Hospital caring for our sick and injured veterans. My Mother was teacher for over 40 years, working mostly with students who read below grade level, teaching them skills to master reading - leaving a long and lasting impact on so many students.
My parents instilled in me a profound belief in the value of service and vocation. That vocation is “what you’re doing in life that makes a difference for you, that builds meaning for you, that you can look back on in your later years to see the impact you’ve made in the world.”
I would appreciate your vote on Tuesday for Family Court Judge - 6th Division. I will never treat a day in court as just another day at the office, everyday will be focused on Our Families and Our Future.
