1930 - 2023

Sandra Day O'Connor

Former Associate Justice of the Supreme Court of the United States and beloved namesake of ASU Law

Honoring O’Connor’s legacy at ASU Law

ASU Law is dedicated to educating the next generation of legal professionals. Embodying O’Connor’s legacy, ASU Law commits itself to values of public service and the advancement of justice in the communities it serves.

The first woman appointed to the United States Supreme Court, O’Connor lived a life dedicated to public service and helped shape our nation’s legal history. O’Connor’s commitment to justice manifests through our students, community and the O’Connor Justice Prize, which honors extraordinary people who promote the rule of law and judicial independence around the world. Throughout a career that spanned decades, and continued in her advocacy work after she retired, O’Connor’s work centered on upholding the rule of law and ensuring justice for all.

ASU named its law school after O’Connor in 2006, the first law school in the nation to be named after a contemporary female. After a truly incredible life and career, O’Connor passed away on December 1, 2023, at the age of 93.

Read O'Connor's eulogy

O'Connor in her offices at the United States Supreme Court in Washington, D.C.

A life dedicated to public service

In 1981, Sandra Day O’Connor made history as the first woman to serve on the United States Supreme Court in its 191-year existence. Appointed by President Ronald Reagan, the Republican justice was renowned for her sharp intellect, unwavering grit and pragmatic approach to the law. Throughout her life, she remained a steadfast advocate for the rule of law, leaving an enduring impact on the nation’s highest court.