Judge Camille Banks-Prince visits students at Ashley Elementary
Last week Judge Camille Banks-Prince stopped by Ashley Elementary School to talk about her journey to become a Forsyth County District Court Judge.
Last week Ashley Elementary School kicked off their month-long celebration of African-American heritage with a visit from Judge Camille Banks-Prince.
During her visit with the fourth and fifth graders, Banks-Prince talked about her journey to becoming a Tenth District Court Judge in Forsyth County, the importance of education, and several other topics, including the different branches of government and how they work.
The visit was part of Ashley’s annual African-American Heritage Month Celebration. Throughout the month students will learn about African-Americans who have made major contributions to society. Students will also have the opportunity to hear from various individuals right here in Winston-Salem who are making a difference in our community, like Judge Banks-Prince.
A native of Winston-Salem, Judge Banks-Prince was appointed as a Tenth District Court judge in Forsyth County in 2008 by former Governor Michael Easley. A graduate of NC A&T State University and NC Central University School of Law, Banks-Prince worked as an associate attorney in a local law firm for a year before taking a position in the Forsyth County Public Defender’s office. Since her appointment in 2008, Banks-Prince has been re-elected three times.
As a city native, Banks-Prince said she felt it was her duty to come and talk to the students at Ashley. Banks-Prince said she wanted the students to know that they can become a lawyer, judge, or anything else they want to be if they just put in the work.
“For me I never really saw a judge until I was in college and it’s a career opportunity that a lot of children may not even know is available to them.
“I’m a firm believer in giving back to a community where I got the tools necessary to become a successful and productive member of society. I want all these students to know they have the potential to do anything,” said Banks-Prince. “I would not have made it if people would not have shared their experiences or opened their arms to me. So this is my way of giving back to my community.”
African-American Heritage Month at Ashley will continue throughout the month with special guests visiting students on Feb. 21 and Feb. 28. There are also events scheduled throughout the month to engage parents as well.
