She was an accomplished attorney who made history as the 30th Chief Justice of the Supreme Court of Georgia, serving from 2005 to 2009. Notably, she became the first African-American woman in U.S. history to hold such a prestigious role, marking a significant milestone in American legal history. Her journey to the top was shaped by dedication and academic excellence. Before rising to national prominence, she completed her undergraduate studies at Cornell University and then pursued her law degree at Emory University School of Law. Never one to stop learning, she further expanded her expertise by earning a Master of Laws from the University of Virginia.

Born in Germany to an American military family, she spent much of her early life moving around before settling primarily in Georgia, where she developed deep roots. Throughout her personal journey, she balanced her professional ambitions with family life. She shared two children with her first husband, Love Collins III, and later found companionship again when she married Haskell Ward. Her story—marked by perseverance, intellect, and groundbreaking achievements—continues to inspire many, especially those who see in her a trailblazer who redefined what was possible.