Articles - Sharon L. Kennedy

Ohio Supreme Court Justice Sharon L. Kennedy swore in the newly elected 2014 Buckeye Boys State officers at the annual ceremony held at Bowling Green State University on Wednesday, June 11, 2014.

The American Legion Buckeye Boys State is a leadership program designed to educate high school students about the rights and responsibilities of citizens within the city and state government structure.

Justice Kennedy commended the participants for engaging in what she called "the fundamental freedom of the democratic process."

"All of your lives will be richer as a result of this experience," Justice Kennedy said. "You will become learned in our form of government and gain an understanding of the intricacies of government systems and how those systems interact within the larger system of government."

Justice Kennedy administered the oath of office to the new Buckeye Boys State lieutenant governor, treasurer of state, secretary of state, state auditor, state attorney general, chief justice, associate justices, judges of the court of appeals, and judges of the court of claims.

"Elected leaders are answerable to the people. As elected representatives, remember that your power is limited to the role and duties of your specific office and to the established law. Work within that limitation and hear the voice of the people," she told them.

Justice Kennedy also thanked the American Legionaries for their commitment to mentoring young people, advancing patriotism, and serving their country.

Justice Kennedy is serving her first term on the Supreme Court of Ohio. Prior to joining the Supreme Court, Justice Kennedy served on the Butler County Court of Common Pleas, Domestic Relations Division from 1999 to 2012. Justice Kennedy served as the administrative judge there from 2005 until December 2012. Justice Kennedy began her career in the justice system as a police officer in Hamilton, Ohio. She received her law degree from the University of Cincinnati College of Law.