Pamela Goodwine Makes History as First Black Woman on Kentucky Supreme Court
Justice Pamela Goodwine has made history as the first Black woman elected to the Kentucky Supreme Court. She was officially sworn in on April 18, 2025, during a ceremony in Frankfort attended by a large audience, including her family and fellow justices, according to reports.
In her address, Justice Goodwine reflected on her journey, emphasizing the values of faith, education, and perseverance.
She shared her philosophy: "I don’t give up on my dreams when life gets hard; I simply work harder to make my dreams come true."
Significant personal challenges marked Justice Goodwine's path to the bench. Born in Youngstown, Ohio, she spent time in foster care before being adopted. She was a high school valedictorian who deferred a college scholarship to care for her adoptive father during his illness. Tragically, after her father's death, her mother was killed. At 24, she was diagnosed with Crohn’s disease, leading to a prolonged hospitalization and rehabilitation.
RELATED: Ketanji Brown Jackson Pens Rare Post-Execution Dissent After Missouri Executes Kevin Johnson
“I always say I don’t give up on my dreams when life gets hard, I simply work harder to make my dreams come true,” she said. “If there is one philosophy and action I would like to be known for and for you all to recognize and live by as well, that is it. No matter what life brings your way, keep dreaming, keep working for your goals.”
Her legal career began as a legal secretary and court stenographer. She earned both her undergraduate and law degrees from the University of Kentucky. Justice Goodwine served as a district judge in 1999, a circuit judge in 2003, and was elected to the Kentucky Court of Appeals in 2018. Her election to the Supreme Court marks her as the first woman in Kentucky to serve at every level of the judiciary.
During the investiture, fellow justices praised her resilience and dedication. Justice Angela McCormick Bisig highlighted the importance of diverse experiences on the bench, stating that such diversity enhances the court's understanding and compassion. Governor Andy Beshear acknowledged the significance of her achievement, noting that while it's a cause for celebration, it also underscores the ongoing journey toward equality in the nation's history.
Justice Goodwine's investiture not only marks a personal milestone but also represents a broader step toward inclusivity and representation within Kentucky's highest court.
