“I am thrilled that Justice Colvin will speak to the Class of 2023,” said President Woo, “Verda’s achievements are a marvelous example of how Sweet Briar women serve as leaders who make our world a better place for all.”
Born and raised in Atlanta, Justice Colvin double-majored in government and religion at Sweet Briar while holding a variety of leadership positions, including as a resident advisor and a member of several student organizations. She then earned her juris doctorate from the University of Georgia School of Law.
With a career that started in a civil rights law firm, Justice Colvin went on to become the first African-American female appointed by a Republican governor to Georgia’s Court of Appeals in 2020, and then to Georgia’s Supreme Court in 2021. Previously, she served nearly six years as a Superior Court Judge in the Macon Judicial Circuit.
A member of numerous organizations and boards, including Sweet Briar College’s Board of Directors, Justice Colvin said, “I am personally committed to public service beyond my duties as a jurist, so I welcome the opportunity to engage with constituents to encourage, inspire and motivate.”
To read President’s Woo’s 2023 Commencement Speaker Announcement in full, please CLICK HERE.