Local magistrate judge to pursue PhD

May 14, 2020

Photo courtesy of Debra O'Gara

Debra O'Gara helped prepare breakfast at the annual Juneau Arts and Cultural Center Fourth of July pancake breakfast last year.

Petersburg Magistrate Judge Debra O'Gara is retiring from her position with the state court system to pursue a PhD in indigenous studies at the University of Alaska Fairbanks. Her last day on the job is Friday, May 15.

O'Gara, who moved to town last summer from Juneau for the magistrate judge position, said her decision to retire isn't a reflection on how she feels about Petersburg. In fact, she will continue to live in town while attending UAF, since her studies will be done remotely.

"This is a great community," said O'Gara. "I'm really enjoying myself. It's a great place to sit and rela...

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