LANSING — In a historic milestone for the Michigan Supreme Court (MSC), women will take on the two highest positions within the Court for the first time ever. Elizabeth Kingston-Miller has been appointed as the new Clerk of the Court, while Cheryl Nowak steps into the role of Chief Commissioner. Both assume their responsibilities on June 9.
Leadership Announcement
Chief Justice Megan K. Cavanagh expressed enthusiasm about the appointments, stating, “I am pleased to welcome two extremely talented and dedicated women who are making history as they fill critical Court roles that my colleagues and I rely on every single day.”
Role of the MSC Clerk
The responsibilities of the MSC Clerk include:
- Overseeing daily operations and long-term strategic planning of the Clerk’s Office
- Docketing pleadings and supporting documents from parties and amici
- Collaborating with the Chief Justice on scheduling oral arguments and events
- Addressing inquiries regarding Court practices and case statuses
- Preparing and distributing notes of opinions, commissioner, and administrative agendas
Chief Justice Cavanagh praised Kingston-Miller’s extensive experience in Michigan’s appellate system, noting her dedication to justice administration, which will enhance the Court’s efficiency.
Professional Background of Elizabeth Kingston-Miller
Kingston-Miller’s professional journey began as a paralegal before she pursued a law degree, where she gained experience as a private practice law clerk and a research assistant. Notably, she has served as a research attorney in the Michigan Court of Appeals and as a senior judicial law clerk to former Chief Justice Elizabeth T. Clement.
She holds a Juris Doctorate degree, summa cum laude, from Michigan State University College of Law, and a Bachelor of Science degree in Legal Studies and History, cum laude, from Grand Valley State University.
Role of the MSC Chief Commissioner
The Chief Commissioner plays a pivotal role within the MSC, functioning alongside the Chief Justice and other justices. Key responsibilities include:
- Facilitating the review and resolution of pending applications
- Managing the Court’s application docket
- Providing procedural and substantive guidance on cases
- Overseeing commissioner work product and operations
Referencing Nowak’s expertise, Cavanagh stated, “Cheryl Nowak already possesses a thorough understanding of the importance of collaboration and communication in the Commissioners’ Office, as well as the record of excellence to match it.”
Professional Background of Cheryl Nowak
Nowak brings two decades of experience as a senior law clerk for former Chief Justice Stephen J. Markman before transitioning to the Commissioners’ Office. She expressed her enthusiasm for her new role, stating, “I am eager to apply my experience and skills to the role of Chief Commissioner, and I look forward to expanding on the existing relationships I have cultivated in this office as we work to continue the Court’s record of excellence.”
She, too, earned a Juris Doctorate degree, summa cum laude, from Michigan State University College of Law, alongside a Bachelor of Science degree in Political Science, cum laude, from Grand Valley State University.
The appointments of Kingston-Miller and Nowak signify a significant advancement in the representation of women in judicial leadership within Michigan, promoting a new era for the court system.
