Be a Mentor with Fernande (Nan) Duffly, First Asian American Judge to Massachusett’s Supreme Court

Do you mentor others?

In this episode of Women of Color Rise, I speak with Fernande (Nan) Duffly, the first Asian American Judge appointed to the Massachusetts Supreme Court.

Nan shares how mentorship played a critical role in her journey. Her mentor, Sam Adams, encouraged her to consider becoming a judge—something she hadn’t envisioned for herself. At the time, there were very few people who looked like her in those roles.

Now, Nan pays it forward. She actively mentors young lawyers and students, especially those from diverse backgrounds. For Nan, mentoring isn’t about formal programs—it’s about real conversations.

•Demystify the role: Nan is intentional about helping others see that judges aren’t untouchable. “I was you once,” she says. “And you could be me.”


•Build belief: She focuses on helping others believe they’re capable and ready. It’s not about who you know—it’s about being prepared, having the right experience, and doing the work.


•Stay grounded: Nan makes space for real connection. She listens, shares her story, and lets people see the person behind the title.

Thank you, Nan, for sharing your story—and for showing how powerful mentoring can be.

Listen here:
Apple - podcasts.apple.com/ph/podcast/boss-mamas-podcast/id1589971670


Spotify - open.spotify.com/show/4m8xR89eSwgOwQT9tiG8m6

Youtube -    / analizawolf  


Website - analizawolf.com/womenofcolorrise

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