Our Leadership

PRESIDENT

Nicole N. Goodson

It is both an honor and a privilege to serve as President of ABJM for the 2026–2027 membership year. For decades, ABJM has been a source of leadership, mentorship, and advocacy within Michigan’s judiciary. Our members have remained steadfast in the mission of advancing the fair administration of justice, promoting judicial excellence, and working toward the eradication of racial and class bias from all aspects of the judicial process.

This year, our work will be guided by the theme: Service, Succession, and Stewardship.

Service reflects our commitment to the rule of law, judicial excellence, and the communities we are privileged to serve. Succession recognizes our responsibility to cultivate future leaders, preserve institutional knowledge, and ensure the continued strength of ABJM for generations to come. Stewardship calls upon us to honor the foundation built by those who came before us while ensuring that ABJM remains strong, relevant, and impactful for those who follow.

As we move forward together, we will continue to support judicial education, mentorship, community outreach, and initiatives that promote fairness, access to justice, and public confidence in our courts. I invite you to join us throughout the year as we build upon the remarkable legacy of those who came before us while preparing ABJM for an even stronger future.

Nicole N. Goodson

The Association of Black Judges of Michigan Officers

Our leadership is a reflection of the power of blended value empowering the African American community.

ABJM President

Hon. Nicole N. Goodson
ABJM President Elect

Judge Marlena Taylor
ABJM Secretary

Judge Adrienne Scruggs

Hon. Adrienne G. Scruggs has served on the Third Circuit Court since 2025. A graduate of Renaissance High School, Judge Scruggs earned her bachelor's degree, summa cum laude, from Tennessee State University in 2001. She subsequently earned her Juris Doctor from Wayne State University Law School.<br />
ABJM Tresurer

Judge Jeremy Bowie

Judge Bowie has served in the 50th District Court in Pontiac since 2022. He is a graduate of Western Michigan University Thomas M. Cooley Law School, and Michigan State University.

EXECUTIVE BOARD MEMBERS

Executive Board Member

Judge Tenisha Yancey -Immediate Past President

Executive Board Member

Judge Ponce D. Clay

Hon. Ponce D. Clay has served in the 36th District Court since 2025. A native of Detroit, Michigan, Judge Clay graduated from Detroit Cass Technical High School in 1988 before enlisting in the United States Navy in July of that year. He earned a Bachelor of Arts in Spanish from Morehouse College and a Master of Public Administration from Troy State University–Japan. He later earned both a Juris Doctor and a Master of Business Administration from the University of Detroit Mercy.<br />

Executive Board Member

Judge Kameshia D. Gant

Judge Kameshia Gant has served the 6th Circuit Court in Oakland County since 2019. She is a graduate of both the University of Michigan and Wayne State University Law School.