Portrait of a Leader: NARUC President Judy Jagdmann

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NARUC

Fortnightly Magazine - February 2022
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When giving a portrait of Judith Williams Jagdmann, it's difficult to decide on the best moniker. She's been General, Judge, Commissioner, and now, President. Before diving into her most recent role, look back at how she's come to where she is today.

A small town girl. Jagdmann grew up in the little town of Jonesville, the County Seat of Lee County, Virginia. It is a beautiful spot in the Appalachian Mountains farther west than Detroit, Michigan. It is closer to six other state capitols than to Richmond.

She always tells people it was a lot like Mayberry, with the Courthouse and Sheriff's Office, a drug store with a soda fountain and a small hardware store. If she did anything wrong, her mother knew about it before she got home. But she explains that small-town life wasn't confining. Rather, she and her friends took advantage of many opportunities.

For example, you could be in the choir even if you could sing only seven or eight notes — you just stopped at the end of your range. As a young person, you found rewards for potential and effort in so many areas. Jagdmann was on the varsity basketball, tennis, and track teams, played the saxophone in the marching and jazz bands, and participated in many clubs.

Her upbringing taught her that there are advantages and disadvantages to every situation. Her advice? "Take advantage of your opportunities and move on. You'll have time to build up your skills as you move along."

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