Two years ago today, the vibrant light of Dr. Judith McCormick Higgins was extinguished, leaving a void in York County that continues to be felt deeply. For me, the loss was even more profound—I lost not only a beloved friend but also an invaluable mentor. To me, she was simply Judy, a woman whose infectious energy, boundless kindness, and passion for empowerment through education touched everyone she met.

As I reflect on her life, my mind often returns to the challenging yet inspiring political journey of 2022, where her determination to challenge the status quo while facing cancer was nothing short of extraordinary. It was a privilege to witness such resilience, a testament to the enduring spirit that continues to illuminate my memories. Judy’s light, I believe, will never truly fade; it lives on in the lessons she imparted, the most fundamental being to actively seek and cherish the moments of light that punctuate our lives.

My first encounter with Judy was in 2018, during my time as President of the York County Young Democrats, when I participated in interviewing the Democratic candidates running in various races relevant to York County. Judy’s focus wasn’t solely on her platform for the 28th Senatorial district but extended to establishing a genuine connection with each of us. Her warmth felt authentic, her interest in our perspectives sincere. She exuded a remarkable quiet confidence, her considerable academic achievements mentioned only when naturally relevant. What truly resonated with me was her poised strength when her experience was diminished during a primary debate—that respectful yet firm reminder, “It’s Dr. Higgins, thank you.” In that moment, I immediately recognized a person whose qualities I deeply admired: a fierce advocate driven by love and an enduring belief in the inherent value of every individual, possessing the rare gift of a true leader: the ability to see the larger picture with insightful clarity.

With the York County Young Democrats’ endorsement secured, I eagerly became an intern for Judy’s campaign, granting me invaluable time with her in the crucial final days before the primary as I helped with primary voter outreach. What struck me was Judy’s deeply caring and almost maternal approach, her extraordinary ability to see the good in everyone, and her steadfast optimism, which felt grounded in a genuine desire to connect with and understand people. Primary voters clearly sensed this authenticity, and it was these very qualities that propelled her to victory in the Democratic primary for PA Senate District 28.

Riding high on the momentum of her primary victory, Judy transitioned into the demanding general election campaign for PA Senate District 28 in 2018. It was during this time, as my role evolved beyond initial intern duties to managing her digital presence—website, social media, and more—that our connection deepened, moving beyond political collaboration into genuine friendship. One afternoon, a seemingly ordinary car ride transformed into a cherished memory. As Katy Perry’s “Firework” played on the radio, we both instinctively began to sing, our voices joining in a moment of pure, unadulterated joy. In that spontaneous burst of shared enthusiasm, I witnessed the essence of Judy’s spirit – her remarkable ability to find lightness and connect with others on a deeply human level, even amidst the intense pressures of a political campaign. That simple act of singing together became a powerful symbol of our burgeoning friendship, built on shared laughter and a mutual appreciation for the small, bright moments that illuminate life, even as my professional involvement with her campaign grew.

Telling her story online allowed me to witness Judy’s true essence—a woman whose inner light shone brightest in the face of adversity. Despite the disappointment of the 2018 election, Judy’s commitment to service remained immediate and resolute; she channeled that energy into running for York County Commissioner the following year. Her ultimate decision to launch a rematch campaign for PA Senate District 28 in 2022, even while battling cancer, spoke volumes about her unwavering commitment. When she saw her former opponent was set to run unchallenged, Judy’s sense of duty kicked in. She stepped up, as she always had, driven by a deep-seated belief in giving the community a choice and ensuring their voices were heard.

Her decision to run again four years later reignited our direct collaboration as she asked me to serve as her Campaign Manager, but Judy’s impact on my life had been constant. It was her unwavering belief in me that propelled my return to college in 2019 to study communication, a field she keenly understood as an educator at heart. Even amidst the relentless demands of campaigning and life, she consistently made time to provide insightful feedback on my studies, nurturing my growth as a student. Her support extended to significant milestones; when I transferred from HACC to UPenn and grappled with imposter syndrome, she was there to challenge my doubts and affirm my belonging.

At her core, Judy was a teacher, and her mentorship extended far beyond the political arena, constantly encouraging me to define my ambitions and envision a bright future, urging me to actively pursue my full potential, a guiding force that continues to inspire me today. And yet, as much as her guidance remains a beacon, navigating life’s complexities without her physical presence has presented its own unique challenges lately. I miss my mentor dearly, and striving to embody the light she shared with the world is how I can best honor her enduring spirit.

These past two years, arguably the most difficult of my life, I’ve often turned to the question: “WWJD (what would Judy do?)”. Because Judy, even as she faced her own trials, possessed incredible fortitude and a deep appreciation for the beauty inherent in each day. She had an uncanny ability to find the positive, to persevere through darkness with grace, strength, and a sense of purpose. While I haven’t always measured up to her example, knowing her has shown me the profound possibility of such inner strength. She proved that it’s possible to channel that strength, to lead with love and light even when shadows loom large. It’s through her example that I hold onto a belief in the good in the world, trusting that purpose can emerge from pain and that life’s essence lies in fully experiencing every moment, in living one’s truest self.