U.S. Attorney's Office Commemorates Black History Month

CHARLOTTE, N.C. – Today, the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Western District of North Carolina held its annual program to commemorate Black History Month, announced Dena J. King, U.S. Attorney for the Western District of North Carolina.

U.S. Attorney King opened the program with welcome remarks and an introduction of this year’s keynote speaker, Dean Patricia Timmons-Goodson of North Carolina Central University’s (NCCU) School of Law.

“For over a decade, the U.S. Attorney’s Office has observed Black History Month to celebrate the profound impact of Black heritage on our nation’s history, culture, and identity, and as a means of raising awareness about the notable contributions and achievements of African Americans in all aspects of our society,” said U.S. Attorney King, who is a graduate of NCCU’s School of Law. “As we gather each year to remember those sung and unsung African American heroes throughout history, it is equally important to recognize and honor individuals within our community, such as Dean Timmons-Goodson, who broke barriers and paved the way for others to follow. Dean Timmons-Goodson serves as an inspiration for all of us, and we are grateful for her willingness to share her memories, wisdom, and life’s journey.”

Dean Timmons-Goodson, who was selected to lead NCCU’s School of Law in 2023, has spent the entirety of her professional career in public service. Appointed to the Supreme Court of North Carolina by former Governor Michael Easley in January 2006, Dean Timmons-Goodson was the fourth woman and the first African American woman to sit on the state’s highest court. The citizens of North Carolina overwhelmingly affirmed her appointment by later electing her to the court. Her retirement from the Supreme Court in 2012, marked the conclusion of 28 years of service in the judiciary of North Carolina.