The North Carolina Supreme Court celebrated a historic moment on Nov. 18, unveiling the portrait of retired Associate Justice Patricia Timmons-Goodson, the first African American woman to serve on the state’s highest court and the current dean of North Carolina Central University School of Law.

Timmons-Goodson’s journey began when she made history in 2006, following her appointment by Governor Mike Easley, L‘76, to the state Supreme Court, where she served until 2012. Throughout her distinguished career, she has been a staunch advocate for justice, equality, and the rights of underserved communities.

“It’s an incredible honor to see my portrait in the Supreme Court of North Carolina, a place that holds so much of our state’s history,” Timmons-Goodson remarked during the ceremony. “This moment reminds me of my father, Sergeant First Class Edward Timmons, who fought for freedom and justice during the Vietnam War. He inspired me to pursue law and service, and this portrait symbolizes the progress made by so many who came before me. I hope it inspires others to continue the fight for justice and equality.”

The unveiling ceremony drew a gathering of family, friends, and esteemed members of the legal and academic communities, including former U.S. Congressman G.K. Butterfield Jr., ’71, L’74, and Resident Superior Court Judge Keith Gregory ’94.

A Leader in Law

Beyond her groundbreaking role on the state Supreme Court, Timmons-Goodson has held significant positions, including her tenure on the U.S. Commission on Civil Rights, to which she was appointed by President Barack Obama in 2014. She eventually rose to the role of vice chair. In 2016, President Obama nominated her for a federal judgeship, and she received the highest rating from the American Bar Association.

As the dean of the NCCU School of Law since 2023, Timmons-Goodson has dedicated herself to preparing future lawyers to effect real change in society. Her educational background includes degrees from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, where she earned her bachelor’s and law degrees, and a Master of Judicial Studies from Duke University. Additionally, she has been awarded honorary degrees from Johnson C. Smith University, Saint Augustine’s University, and UNC-Chapel Hill.