Beyond the Bench: Flowers ‘05 Returns Home to Serve Through Justice

When Gov. Josh Stein appointed North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University alumna Alicia Marks Flowers to Superior Court for Judicial District 14B in Cumberland County, North Carolina, it brought her back to the community that shaped her earliest understanding of justice.

“This moment represents coming full circle,” she said. “I am returning home to serve the people and the court system that helped shape who I am. It is both humbling and deeply meaningful.”

Flowers ‘05 began her legal career nearly two decades ago as an assistant district attorney in Cumberland County, where she prosecuted misdemeanor and felony cases, worked closely with law enforcement and stood before juries in proceedings that often carried lasting consequences. Those early courtroom experiences instilled in her a sense of accountability, empathy and balance.

“Every case affects real people,” said Flowers. “You learn very quickly that justice requires fairness, preparation, consistency, and compassion. The law must be applied with integrity, but also with an understanding of the human impact behind every decision.”

Over time, Flowers expanded her commitment to public service through leadership roles in higher education administration at North Carolina Central University School of Law. There, she developed a broader perspective on equity, access, and institutional responsibility, particularly within historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs). Through that work, she came to view public institutions as essential drivers of opportunity and trust.

“Whether in education or the courts, our role is to ensure that systems are accessible, fair, and grounded in respect,” said Flowers. “Public service is about creating pathways, not barriers.”

At the foundation of Flowers’ professional path stands her academic journey as a proud graduate of two HBCUs. She earned her undergraduate degree in English from N.C. A&T before completing her law degree at N.C. Central in 2008.

Flowers said her time at A&T prepared her for the intellectual rigor of law school through intensive reading, writing, and critical analysis. More importantly, it developed confidence, discipline and a commitment to excellence.

“A&T shaped how I think, how I lead, and how I serve,” she said. “It gave me the tools and the confidence to navigate demanding environments with purpose.”

Two experiences from Flowers’ undergraduate years continue to influence her leadership. While working as a research assistant for retired N.C. Supreme Court Chief Justice Henry Frye ‘53, she studied the history of African American legislators during Reconstruction. The research deepened her understanding of resilience, civic responsibility and leadership.

In another defining moment, a linguistics professor challenged Flowers to never diminish her academic excellence, a lesson that remains central to her personal philosophy.

“He reminded me never to dim my light,” she said. “That message has stayed with me throughout my career.”

Service, Flowers added, extends beyond professional obligation. It is a family tradition. Her father served 32 years in the Army, while her mother dedicated her career to the Cumberland County school system. They set an example of discipline, humility and a lasting commitment to community engagement.

“I come from a family where service is simply what we do,” Flowers said. “Giving back is how we honor those who paved the way for us.”

As she steps into her new role, Flowers views judicial leadership as central to strengthening public trust. She believes judges serve not only as legal arbiters but also as stewards of fairness and accountability.

“Trust is built one case at a time,” she said. “Even when people disagree with the outcome, they should leave the courtroom knowing they were heard, respected and treated with dignity.”

Looking ahead, Flowers hopes her journey will inspire students and young professionals who aspire to careers in law, public service or higher education. She encourages them to seek mentorship, gain hands-on experience and remain persistent through challenges.

“Preparation, discipline and perseverance are essential,” she said. “The path may not always be direct, but purpose and commitment will carry you forward.

“My journey began with community, education, and mentorship. Every day, I strive to honor that foundation through fairness, compassion and leadership.”