American Indian: A woman from Vijayawada has been appointed as a judge in the Sacramento County Superior Court in California. Jaya Badiga, daughter of industrialist and former Machilipatnam MP Badiga Ramakrishna, is the first Telugu woman to hold this prestigious post. Before being appointed as a judge, she has served as a commissioner for the Sacramento County Superior Court.
Ramakrishna is survived by three daughters and a son, Jaya being the third daughter. Her educational journey began in Hyderabad, where she completed her primary education. She earned a BA degree in Psychology and Political Science from Osmania University before moving to the United States.
Jaya studied at Boston University and
Masters in International Relations and International Communication from Boston University in the US. After this, she received her Juris Doctor degree (a professional degree required to practice law) from Santa Clara University.
In 2009, Jaya began a legal career by passing the California state bar exam, which led to more than a decade of private practice
. She also contributed to legal education as a faculty member at the National Institute of Trial Advocacy and the McGeorge School of Law.
The appointments announced by Governor Gavin Newsom included 18 new judges, including another Indian-origin judge, Raj Singh Badesha.
Jaya Badiga has been appointed as Judge in the Sacramento Superior Court.