In his remarks at an award ceremony, Chief Justice John G. Roberts Jr. hailed his colleague as a groundbreaking figure and a champion of civic engagement on the Supreme Court. Chief Justice Roberts delivered a heartfelt tribute to former Justice Sandra Day O’Connor during an event at Duke University, lauding her as a pioneer as the first woman to serve on the Supreme Court and for her dedication to advancing civics education even after retiring.
Recognized for her exceptional contributions to civics education, Justice O’Connor was honored with the Bolch Prize for the Rule of Law, a prestigious award previously bestowed upon esteemed judges like former Justice Anthony M. Kennedy. Her son, Scott O’Connor, accepted the award on her behalf.
Chief Justice Roberts shared anecdotes of his interactions with Justice O’Connor throughout their intertwined careers. From assisting her during her confirmation hearings in 1981 to appearing before her as a lawyer in over three dozen cases, their professional paths were closely connected.
Reflecting on her legacy, Chief Justice Roberts underscored Justice O’Connor’s pivotal role as a swing vote and a voice of moderation on the court, particularly on contentious issues such as abortion and affirmative action. He emphasized her pioneering efforts in paving the way for women in the legal profession, highlighting her resilience and determination in a male-dominated field.
Despite retiring from the bench in 2006 to care for her ailing husband, Justice O’Connor remained active in public life, continuing to hear cases on appeals courts and championing civics education initiatives. Her enduring commitment to promoting democratic values and fostering civic engagement serves as a testament to her lasting impact on American jurisprudence and society as a whole
