Gov. Rick Snyder today appointed Donna Howard of St. Joseph to the 2nd Circuit Court in Berrien County.
“Judge Howard has served her community with distinction throughout her career,” Snyder said. “I am confident that she will continue to serve the citizens of Berrien County well.”
Howard was elected as district judge to the Berrien County Trial Court in 2014. She has been assigned to both the Criminal and Civil Division and oversees the problem-solving courts. Howard also presides over the Business Court. Prior to serving as a judge, Howard served as Corporate Counsel to Berrien County.
Howard is a member of the Michigan District Judges Association, the Michigan Association of Treatment Court Professionals, the Berrien County Bar Association, and the St. Joseph – Benton Harbor Rotary. She serves as a United Way volunteer and was previously a member of the American Bar Association, the Michigan Defense Trial Counsel, and the Cornerstone Chamber of Commerce.
Howard earned a bachelor’s degree from the University of Michigan in 1990 and a law degree from Wayne State University Law School in 1997.
Howard fills the vacancy created by the resignation of Judge John Donahue. She must seek election in November 2020 for the remainder of the term.
