Gwinnett County came together in a moment of celebration and pride on December 19, 2024, to honor the investiture of its newly elected Superior Court Judge, Tuwanda Rush Williams. This historic occasion highlighted her remarkable journey, the community that supported her, and the legacy she is set to build in her new role.
The day’s event, steeped in dignity and gratitude, opened with an invocation from Pastor Ronald L. Bowens of Friendship Baptist Church in Duluth, reflecting Judge Williams’ deep faith and connection to her church community. The ceremony featured remarks and acknowledgments from esteemed figures, including Chairwoman Nicole Love Hendrickson of the Gwinnett County Board of Commissioners (which we all love!) and Hon. Tadia Whitner, Judge of Gwinnett County Superior Court, who commended Judge Williams’ commitment to justice and fairness.
Hon. Carla Brown, Chief Judge of Gwinnett County State Court, led the acknowledgement of judges and special guests, who gathered to celebrate this significant milestone in Gwinnett County’s history. The musical tribute by Tadric Jermaine and a breathtaking liturgical dance by Nij’ah Johnson further elevated the ceremony, honoring Judge Williams through the arts.
A highlight of the event was the Oath of Office and Conferring of the Robe, led by Hon. Tracie Cason, Judge of Gwinnett County Superior Court, signifying the official start of Judge Williams’ tenure. Hon. Marlene Taylor-Crawford, Mayor Pro Tem and Councilwoman for Lawrenceville, introduced Judge Williams with heartfelt remarks, underscoring her dedication to community service and her trailblazing career.
The program also included a benediction and grace from the Friendship Baptist Church Music Ministry, led by Pastor Bowens, and a reception hosted by prominent law firms and community partners, including Andersen Tate & Carr PC, Chandler Britt & Jay LLC, Gerald Davidson Jr., Attorney at Law PC, Mahaffey Pickens Tucker LLP, and Thompson O’Brien Kappler & Nasuti PC.
Spotlight Attendees and Contributors:
- Lawrenceville Mayor: David Still
- Chief of Police for the Gwinnett County Police Department (GCPD): James D. McClure
- State Representative: Matt Reeves
- Program Design: TAJA Media Group LLC
- Refreshments: Earth Tap Organix and Chef Khaliq Personal Chef Services
- Videography: BKG Media Group LLC
- Music: Tadric Jermaine and Friendship Baptist Church Duluth Music Ministry
- Liturgical Dance: Nij’ah Johnson
- Photography: Gloria Sebastian
The event not only celebrated Judge Williams’ ascension to the bench but also reflected the immense love and support of her community.
What makes Judge Williams truly extraordinary is her humility. Despite her extensive knowledge and over 31 years of legal experience, she remains down-to-earth and approachable, a quality deeply rooted in her upbringing. Coming from humble beginnings, Judge Williams learned from her parents, who instilled in her the values of hard work, perseverance, and the importance of giving back to others.
Her parents, gave her the best they could, pouring into her the wisdom and encouragement that shaped her into the inspiring leader she is today. They emphasized the value of higher education, with her father always reminding her, “Don’t be an educated fool,” meaning that while education is important, common sense is just as vital. This advice has guided her throughout her life, ensuring that she remains both grounded and wise as a leader in her community.
Her love for the Latino community and her focus on ensuring that marginalized voices are heard have been central to her leadership. Judge Williams has worked tirelessly to ensure that individuals from underserved communities feel valued and included, particularly in government spaces where their voices often go unheard. Her compassion and dedication have made her a champion for inclusivity and fairness, values that resonate deeply with all who know her.
This election victory is a deeply personal and collective achievement for Judge Williams and her supporters. Her husband, Dr. Anthony Williams, was a constant pillar of strength throughout her campaign, providing invaluable support and guidance. Her children stood by her side, shielding her from negativity and protecting her focus, allowing her to remain steadfast in her mission. My children also played a role in amplifying her campaign by spreading the word at local schools, while I proudly championed her on social media. Together, we are so proud of her incredible achievement.
Judge Williams is also a proud member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated, a true sisterhood of unconditional love, strength, and support. Through this sisterhood, she has demonstrated a lifelong commitment to public service, leadership, and community empowerment. Her dedication to service and her love for the Gwinnett community are hallmarks of her career and her personal life.
Judge Williams has an unwavering passion for justice and inclusivity, especially for marginalized communities. Her dedication to ensuring that every individual—regardless of background—feels welcome in state and federal spaces is a testament to her commitment to fairness. Her mentorship of young women, lawyers, and judges reflects her deep love for empowering others and building a brighter future for her community.
As she assumes her role on the bench, “we the people” trust Judge Williams to lead with fairness, transparency, and a mild temper. She is the perfect embodiment of justice, blending compassion and brilliance with integrity and wisdom.
Judge Williams once said, “You can achieve whatever you want to do—it doesn’t matter where you come from,” a powerful reminder of her own inspiring journey. And as her father, Jake Josh Rush, taught her, “Don’t be an educated fool,” highlighting the timeless wisdom of balancing education with common sense. These words not only define Judge Williams’ life but also serve as guiding principles for us all.
Congratulations, Judge Tuwanda Rush Williams! Your leadership is a beacon of hope and progress, and Gwinnett County is fortunate to have you as its newest Superior Court Judge.
