Honorable Adrienne C. Nelson is an Oregon Life Fellow of the American Bar Foundation. She is an Oregon Supreme Court Associate Justice. Within the ABA, she serves in the House of Delegates as the Oregon Delegate, chairs the Steering Committee of the Nominating Committee, is Secretary of the Minority Caucus and chairs the Western “Small States” Caucus. Justice Nelson also serves on the Standing Committee on Public Education. She joined the Fellows of the American Bar Foundation in August 2009.
What does being a Fellow mean to you?
It is a privilege to participate in the ABF with so many lawyers and judges and to know that our involvement improves the profession and secures the research on which our legal profession and rule of law are based.
Where were you born and raised?
I was born in Kansas City, Missouri and raised in Arkansas. After graduating from the University of Arkansas with my Bachelor of Arts degree and then receiving my law degree from the University of Texas Law School, I moved to Oregon. Although Oregon has become my home, my southern roots run deep and are ever present.
Why did you decide to pursue a career in law?
I was drawn to a life in public service from my childhood. I was named the first African American valedictorian of my high school since integration after my mother retained John W. Walker, a civil rights lawyer, in order for me to receive my earned academic rank. This exposure to the law protecting my rights and giving me a voice inspired me to become a lawyer because the law is a tool to help people.
If you hadn’t pursued a career in law, what would you have done?
I would have become involved in philanthropy because I love to help people live their best lives and address inequities. I have always been drawn to the helping professions and enjoy interacting with people, so other career paths would include anthropology and psychology.
What do you do in your free time?
I love supporting creativity and connecting with others. I enjoy attending theater performances, lectures, musical events, reading, cooking and nature walks. Many of my community volunteer boards and activities have provided me opportunities and allowed me to meet incredible people which enhance my life beyond my imagination.
Anything else you’d like to share with us?
I would encourage us to continue to stay engaged and make sure that we do our part to make this world better than when we were born.