PHOTOS: Brunswick’s Cleo Powell honored as trailblazer in Virginia judiciary

Oct 1, 2025 - 01:25

0 0

PHOTOS: Brunswick’s Cleo Powell honored as trailblazer in Virginia judiciary

BRUNSWICK COUNTY, Va. (WRIC) -- Brunswick County came together Tuesday night to celebrate one of their own for making history within Virginia's highest court.

The evening of Tuesday, Sept. 30, community members gathered to uplift Cleo E. Powell, a Brunswick native who, in late August, was unanimously elected to become Chief Justice of the Supreme Court of Virginia.

Powell already made history as the first-ever Black woman to serve on the Supreme Court of Virginia when she became one of its Justices in 2011.

However, when she officially assumes her new role on Jan. 1, 2026, she will make history again as the first-ever Black woman to be its Chief Justice.

Sept. 30 reception celebrating Chief Justice Elect Cleo E. Powell. (Photos: The Story Cafe)

It's these amazing accomplishments, among the many others across her career, that brought people to the Brunswick Conference Center on Tuesday to commemorate Powell.

‘Unexpected health-related concerns’ force Caroline treasurer to resign

Brunswick County officials said Powell has "shattered glass ceilings and carved her name into Virginia's judicial legacy," describing her as someone who has "embodied resilience, brilliance and leadership."

"[Her election is] an accomplishment that not only elevates her career but shines a bright light on Brunswick County as the proud birthplace of a trailblazer," officials said.