News
Chief Justice of Pennsylvania Reacts to the Death of Former Pa Supreme Court Justice Sandra Schultz Newman
February 04, 2026
Chief Justice of Pennsylvania Debra Todd honored the life and legacy of retired Justice Sandra Schultz Newman following her passing earlier this week.
Justice Newman was elected to the Commonwealth Court of Pennsylvania in 1993 and in 1995, successfully ran for the Pennsylvania Supreme Court, becoming the first woman ever elected to the state's highest court. She retired from the Court in 2006.
“On behalf of the Pennsylvania Supreme Court, we mourn the loss of our former colleague, Justice Sandra Schultz Newman.
“Justice Newman’s tenure on the bench was defined by integrity, compassion, and an unwavering commitment to fairness and the rule of law. She was a remarkable jurist, public servant, and trailblazer for women, whose work and impact will leave a legacy beyond the bench.
“Our recent naming of the Pennsylvania Supreme Court courtroom in Philadelphia in her honor will stand as a powerful and fitting tribute to her lifelong dedication to justice -- a place where the values she embodied will guide future generations of jurists.”
Reflecting on the life and legacy of Justice Newman, Justice P. Kevin Brobson remembered Newman as a distinguished public servant, invaluable mentor and lifelong friend.
“Justice Newman filled every room she entered with her strength, energy, and exuberance for life and for the law. She lived with intention and spent her entire career focused on creating and expanding opportunities for future generations of legal professionals, especially women,” Brobson said.
“People should rightfully remember her as the first woman to serve in the Montgomery County District Attorney’s office and her rise as the first woman elected to the Pennsylvania Supreme Court. Like all Pennsylvanians, I am forever appreciative to her and her family for her service and her commitment to justice. Mostly, I will greatly miss her friendship and her company.”
Chief Justice Todd noted that all the members of the Court will remember Justice Newman fondly and remain grateful for her distinguished service.
“On behalf of the Supreme Court of Pennsylvania, I extend our deepest condolences to Justice Newman’s family and friends.”
# # #
Media contact: Stacey Witalec, 717-877-2997