Name: Rhonda Peoples-Waters
Age: 36
Family: 8-year old daughter (Jasmine), wonderful parents, brother, and awesome friends.
Pets: none
Education: Selma High School, Selma, Ala., Fisk University, Nashville, Tenn., B.S. in business administration/financial economics, University of Florida College of Law
Admitted to the bar: Florida Bar since 1999 and U.S. Middle District since 2001.
Employed by: Rhonda Peoples-Waters, P.A.
Field of practice: personal injury and criminal defense
Professional organizations: D.W. Perkins Bar Association, Jacksonville Bar Association, Chester Bedell Inn of Courts, Jacksonville Area Legal Aid Board of Directors, Florida Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers, Jacksonville Ethics Commission, NAACP Executive Board, Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority and many others.
Community involvement:
I am involved with several organizations which are all very important to me. However, the Jacksonville Ethics Commission is at a very pivotal point right now. Our Ethics Commission should be strengthened and empowered so that we have more transparency and oversight into our local government. Public trust in our government is crucial and will be promoted by the educational efforts of the commission. I am greatly involved in this effort because I understand that strong ethical values will not only enhance our government but also our personal lives. We have to set a good example for everyone in our community.
How did you get involved?
My love for service and dedication to the community has always driven me to participate in various activities. I began to accept the sacrifice it required. I attended meetings and communicated to others how I wanted to be involved. I have found that providing pro bono service is always appreciated.
How can someone else get involved?
Call me at 377-2109. Attend meetings. Have a sincere desire to serve and sacrifice.
What have you learned/achieved through the experience?
I have learned how significant ethical values are to many in our community. Additionally, I have met numerous fellow citizens who share the same sense of urgency to promote public trust in our local government.
What was the last book you read or are reading?
“How to Run Your Business by The Book: A Biblical Blueprint to Bless Your Business,” by Dave Anderson and John C. Maxwell