State supreme court chief justices, state court administrators, past and present NCSC leaders and staff and other honored guests and friends celebrated the center’s 50th anniversary at our Williamsburg headquarters on July 25.
Speakers reflected on the impact realized through U.S. Supreme Court Chief Justice Warren E. Burger’s vision for “a national clearinghouse for state courts,” outlined during a March 1971 address to the First National Conference of the Judiciary in Williamsburg.
Texas Supreme Court Chief Justice Nathan Hecht, who serves as president of the Conference of Chief Justices and chair of NCSC’s Board of Directors, spoke of the center’s wide-reaching accomplishments – including those related to crisis response - that help state courts stay afloat.
U.S. Congresswoman Elaine Luria, who represents Williamsburg and Virginia’s 2nd District, presented an American flag that was flown at the U.S. Capitol and spoke of the impact of the center on both the state and nation in its work to improve the administration of justice. Also speaking to NCSC’s rich history was Virginia Supreme Court Chief Justice Donald W. Lemons, who delivered an official recognition on behalf of Virginia Governor Ralph Northam. NCSC President Mary C. McQueen celebrated the center’s accomplishments while looking ahead to how they will shape the courts system’s future.
McQueen and other court leaders ended the ceremony with a flag raising and dedication of NCSC’s Legacy Circle. Located in front of the center’s Newport Avenue entrance, the paved circle features commemorative pavers that recognize each state’s court system and supporters.