Campaign Value #3: Integrity

When I think of integrity, I think of second-grade Danalyn.

Eight-year-old me I didn’t want to do her math work. So, my friend next to me let me copy her answers. The boy in front of us told our teacher, Mrs. Green. She came over to me and asked if I did my work. My stomach sank. I looked down, and said “No.” She took my sheet and gave me a new one to complete on my own. I was terrified she would tell my parents (she was my Sunday School teacher at church), but surprisingly, she never said a word to my parents. All she did was put in my report card that she appreciated my honesty. Eight-year-old me was MAD at the boy for telling on me, but 44-year-old me is grateful.

Fast forward to 2014, and I’m working for the Maricopa County Attorney’s Office. Kurt Mills, my supervisor in the Charging and Grand Jury Bureau, had a quote on his whiteboard. “Always tell the truth. Always do the right thing, no matter what.” This was how we conducted our work in the Charging and Grand Jury unit.

On more than one occasion, I made unpopular reports to maintain the integrity of the Grand Juries that were hearing cases to determine probable cause. I took my role very seriously then and my commitment to integrity has been a part of every role I’ve had as an attorney and now as a judge. After my appointment, I swore my oath to 1) follow the Constitution and the laws of the State of Arizona, and 2) maintain the integrity and independence of the bench.

Many people talk about integrity. But, it’s far easier to talk about than it is to embody. Ever since Mrs. Green caught me cheating in second grade, I’ve remained committed to doing the right thing no matter what.