Senator Stivers also spoke today during the ceremonial swearing in of the Kentucky Supreme Court's new chief justice.

Governor Andy Beshear was also on hand to mark the historic occasion in September of last year.

Chief justice elect Lambert was chosen by her peers to lead this institution, and today we are witness to history as she is to be installed as the first woman to lead our Commonwealth's highest court.

Chief Justice Deborah Henry Lambert was first elected as a justice in 2018.

She was the first chair of the Kentucky Judicial Commission on Mental Health, focused on improving judicial response to cases involving mental health, substance abuse, and intellectual disabilities.

During today's ceremony, she shared a bit about her upbringing upbringing, including her childhood in Bell County.

When you grow up so modestly, you develop a strong sense of a need for a level playing field and for everyone to be heard.

Those concepts are foundational in my worldview, and I hope you will be satisfied with my work performed as Chief Justice.

You are my people.

And, following the rule of law does give me joy and makes me fearless about what lies ahead.

I hope to serve you well.

Thank you for your confidence in my humble service.

Thank you.

Another new face on the court is Justice Pamela Goodwin.

She is the first black woman to serve on the Supreme Court.

Her ceremonial swearing in is later this week.