Chief Justice Natalie Hudson delivered the keynote address at Lincoln University of Missouri’s 2026 Honors Convocation.
The event, part of the university’s 160th anniversary, recognized top academic students while highlighting Hudson’s own deep ties to the institution. Born in Jefferson City to two Lincoln alumni, Hudson delivered a message focused on leadership, collaboration and public service.
Speaking to students, Hudson pointed to the role of education in preparing the next generation to tackle complex challenges.
“What you've learned here at Lincoln has more than prepared you to engage with others in this manner to have healthy debates where you listen to one another respectfully and work collaboratively to solve problems and enrich your communities,” she said. “This is your time on the world stage. This is your time to lead our country on the next leg of this journey towards a more perfect union.”
A graduate of the University of Minnesota Law School, Hudson has built a trailblazing career. She became the first Black woman appointed to a Minnesota appellate court in 2002, joined the state’s highest court in 2015 and, in 2023, became the first person of color to serve as chief justice.
