A Journey of Resilience and Representation

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About the Episode

Chancellor I'Ashea Myles' journey showcases her transition from studying vocal performance at Belmont University to becoming the first African-American female civil trial court judge in Davidson County, Tennessee.

Breaking Ground. Meeting Mentors. Balancing Empathy with Objectivity.

Chancellor I’Ashea Myles’ story is one of perseverance, determination and breaking boundaries. From beginning as a vocal performance major in college to becoming the first African-American female civil trial court judge and chancellor in Davidson County, Tennessee, Chancellor Myles now uses her role to inspire the next generation. 

“My road to the judiciary was not a straight path,” she shares. “I didn't have someone who looked like me in the same space leading and guiding me, but that wasn't a deterrent. So I hope to provide inspiration to young women, young men and people who look like me to say, ‘You can do anything. Just don't get deterred.’”

This episode covers…

• The power of authenticity and representation as a model for future leaders who may not see immediate representation in their chosen fields.
  
  
• The importance of maintaining relationships with mentors as a catalyst for growth.
  
  
• The resilience and perseverance needed in the face of challenges.

The Power of Authenticity and Representation

Chancellor Myles’ election to the bench was groundbreaking. She takes pride in challenging stereotypes and reshaping perceptions for what a judge “looks like.”

“People often tell me, ‘You don't look like a judge,’” she says. “I think as women, we feel like we have to meet every single criteria and have mastered it all before we will even put ourselves out there.”

She recalls an interaction with a voter that exemplifies the issue. “When I was running, someone once told me, ‘You're just not seasoned enough.’ And I remember saying to that gentleman, ‘Please show me where in the qualifications to be a judge ‘seasoning’ is a requirement.”

Though admittedly breaking molds is never easy, Chancellor Myles believes bringing her “authentic and true self” to her role every day demonstrates to others that they don’t have to fit a stereotype to succeed. 

Myles hopes her presence on the bench is inspiring for young women, men and people of color who see someone like them now in positions of authority and influence.

“I never knew any judges. I had no exposure to the law growing up. But in certain communities, they have a lot of exposure to the law in a negative way,” she says. “I want young people to know that they, too, can be a judge.”

“I hope that I inspire grit and tenacity to say ‘you can do it’ even when you've not seen someone do it before,” she says.

Mentorship as a Catalyst for Growth

Throughout her journey, Chancellor Myles found support from mentors who believed in her, and she is quick to highlight the critical role these relationships have played in her success.

One of her most influential mentors, Judge Richard H. Dinkins, became a steadfast guide in her career. She affectionately refers to him as her “law dad,” reflecting the deep respect and trust she places in him.

“He really guided my career in all honesty, as a mentor, as a friend and really as someone who lent me his credit to say, ‘I know her. I vouch for her. Give her a chance.’”

For Myles, mentorship means more than just guidance; it’s about someone being willing to open doors that might otherwise remain closed. She shares how Judge Dinkins provided direction for her in critical moments, which she aims to do for other young professionals.

“I really hope that as I mature in my role as a Chancellor here in Davidson County, that I have the opportunity to mentor young lawyers and do what Judge Dinkins did for me.”

She underscores that mentorship can be transformative, particularly for individuals from underrepresented communities who may not initially have access to professional networks.

“I didn't have a role model to call and say, ‘Hey, how do I become a Chancellor?’” Myles says. “I didn't have someone who looked like me in the same space leading and guiding me, but that wasn't a deterrent.”

Resilience and Perseverance in the Face of Challenges

The journey to the judiciary required tenacity and an unwavering belief in her abilities, traits Myles encourages young legal professionals to develop early on. Her advice to aspiring lawyers is to stay focused on building strong skills, particularly in legal writing, which she sees as crucial to success.

As Judge Dinkins once told her, “You will never, ever, ever be able to beat a well-written motion or memorandum.” In her current role, Myles emphasizes the importance of well-crafted written arguments that enable judges to make “dispassionate” rulings based on law rather than emotion.

“When you step into the role of the judiciary, you are an impartial arbiter of the law. And at the end of the day, my job is to ensure that the laws are followed and upheld,” she shares. “I do think that there is a way to still do that with grace.”

Chancellor Myles’ story is a compelling reminder of the power of resilience, authenticity and mentorship. Her commitment to her goals and her community has made all the difference. Her journey from a music degree to the judiciary is an inspiration for anyone seeking to make a difference and serve as a role model for others.