Roots and Inspiration

Nan Waller's journey to becoming a respected judge is deeply intertwined with her rich family history and a profound sense of community. Nan was born in Chicago, where her father was attending graduate school, but her connection to Oregon runs deep. Her family moved to Oregon via the Oregon Trail and by sailing ship in the mid-19th century, settling in a farmhouse on Oleson Road, where her great-great-grandfather settled and farmed. Nan grew up just a mile from this farmhouse, in a community steeped in history and tradition.

After completing her high school education at Lincoln High School, Nan embarked on her undergraduate journey at Smith College. However, her longing for the West Coast prompted a transfer to Stanford University, where she completed her BA degree. The pull of her home state was strong, and she returned to Oregon to pursue a law degree at University of Oregon—the place where her grandparents and parents met and where her mother was elected the first female president of the University of Oregon student body.

A Calling to Serve

Nan’s interest in law was sparked by her early experiences helping her mother, a kindergarten teacher, in the classroom. This affinity for working with children and her desire to impact juvenile law and policy drove her decision to attend Oregon Law. At law school, Nan was a serious student, balancing the rigorous demands of her studies with long bike rides and yoga by the river, memories that she cherishes to this day. One of her most influential mentors was Professor Dave Frohnmayer, whose challenging yet fair teaching style left a lasting impression on her.

From Legal Services to the Bench

Following law school, Nan and her husband Paul Bovarnick, JD ’79, whom she met at Oregon Law, started their legal careers in Montana. They moved there after Paul secured a job first, and Nan began working in Legal Services, gaining invaluable experience by trying cases right out of law school. Her early experiences in Montana, including a memorable first case representing a Native American client, reinforced her commitment to public service.

Nan eventually returned to Oregon, where she shifted her focus to juvenile and family law. She was appointed to the bench in 2001 by Governor John Kitzhaber, first working in the juvenile and family courts. She now serves as the presiding judge of the Multnomah County Mental Health Court and manages a consolidated competency docket. Her work has often involved identifying gaps between practice and policy, a task she approaches with a collaborative spirit, striving each day to affect change that improves the justice system.

Recognized Excellence and Ongoing Impact

Throughout her career, Nan has been recognized for her dedication and impact. In 2022, Chief Justice John Roberts presented her with the prestigious William H. Rehnquist Award for Judicial Excellence, one of the nation’s highest judicial honors. The award honors judges who demonstrate the outstanding qualities of judicial excellence—including integrity, fairness, open-mindedness, knowledge of the law, professional ethics, creativity, sound judgment, intellectual courage and decisiveness—and are taking bold steps to address a variety of issues affecting their communities. 

One of the most poignant examples of Nan’s commitment to justice and community occurred in light of declining public confidence in the justice system. Understanding the deep-rooted concerns about the justice system, Nan and her colleagues went into the community to listen to residents and hear their perspectives. These listening sessions were aimed at understanding the changes needed in the justice system to better serve and protect all members of the community. The dialogues were impactful, fostering a sense of understanding and laying the groundwork for public education and steps necessary to increasing public confidence in the justice system. Although the COVID-19 pandemic interrupted these sessions, Nan remains dedicated to continuing this critical work, underscoring her belief in the importance of community engagement in restoring public trust in the courts.

A Balancing Act

Balancing a demanding career with personal life is no easy feat, and Nan describes it as more of a "juggle" than a balance. She managed to volunteer in her children’s classrooms and worked part-time during the early years of her children’s lives. When her duties on the bench required her full attention, her husband Paul stepped up to take on more of the responsibility for their children.

Nan has always found immense satisfaction in her role as a judge. She values most the ability to help people and witness positive changes in their lives. Her dedication to serving the community remains a driving force in her career.

“I have loved most as a judge the ability help people solve disputes and have had the great privilege of seeing people change the course of their lives or come to terms with a resolution of their case and still maintain their respect. I am grateful every day for the privilege of serving the community.” – Judge Nan Waller

A Continuing Legacy

Nan’s story is one of commitment, resilience, and a deep connection to her roots. Her journey from a young girl helping in her mother’s classroom to receiving one of the nation’s highest judicial honors is a testament to her dedication to service, justice, and community. As she continues to lead and inspire, Nan Waller embodies the spirit of collaboration, innovation, and excellence that defines Oregon Law.