TALK OF GREENWOOD
Dr. Jerry Goodwin
Featured Image. Sarah Hill (third from right) was named as a federal judge for the U. S. District Court for the Northern District of Oklahoma by President Joe Biden. Photo Provided
Sarah Hill has been appointed to serve as a judge for the U. S. District Court for the Northern District of Oklahoma. A program was held at the University of Tulsa College of Law to recognize her appointment.
Nominated by President Joe Biden, Hill is the first Native American woman to serve as a federal judge in Oklahoma. She is a tribal citizen of the Cherokee Nation.
“This sends a powerful message to young people, inspiring them to dream big and reminding them that regardless of their background or community, they can reach incredible heights and accomplish great things in their careers,” said Oren Griffin, dean of the University of Tulsa College of Law.
A graduate of the TU College of Law, Hill is a former attorney general, deputy attorney general, and assistant attorney general of the Cherokee Nation. As assistant attorney general, she concurrently served as a special assistant U. S. attorney for the Northern District of Oklahoma. In her position as special assistant, Hill was authorized to prosecute federal criminal cases occurring in Indian country.
Cherokee Nation Principal Chief Chuck Hoskin Jr. said, “…Hill…is a brilliant attorney with a commitment to public service, fairness, justice and the rule of law… Today is a historic day for the country for which we should all pause to celebrate.”
A press release announcing the program to celebrate her selection said Hill “has invaluable experience in advocating for crucial legal issues affecting Native peoples’ rights.”
Hill was confirmed by the Senate in December.
Sen. James Lankford said, “…I believe Hill…will protect and defend the Constitution of the United States and administer justice fairly and impartially.”
Joining Judge Sara Hill (third from right) during a recognition program at the University of Tulsa College of Law are (l-r) Cherokee Nation Principal Chief Chuck Hoskin Jr., former Cherokee Nation Judicial Appeals Tribunal Chief Justice Philip H. Viles, University of Tulsa College of Law Dean Oren Griffin, University of Arizona Sandra Day O’Connor College of Law Dean Stacy Leeds, and Cherokee Nation CEO Chuck Garrett.
