by Joe Wilhelm Jr.
Staff Writer
It was a familiar setting for U.S. Court of Appeals Judge Susan Black, but the experience was relatively new for the judiciary.
A University of Florida College of Law graduate and former high school teacher, Black was back at UF in front of students as part of the Levin College of Law’s Peter T. Fay Jurist-in-Residence program Feb. 1-3.
The program brings judges to the law school to provide insights to students and faculty on a broad range of issues related to the judicial process, substantive law, trial and appellate advocacy and the day-to-day practice of law.
“It is always invigorating to be with young bright people who are so enthusiastic about the law,” said Black.
“I felt their energy, and I didn’t realize how tired I was until the end of the day,” she said.
During her visit, Black spoke to several law classes, had breakfast and lunch with students, tea with faculty and participated in informal talks where students could engage in one-on-one conversations with her.
“Being with students renews your energy and optimism for the future,” said Black.
She was appointed to the U.S. Court of Appeals for the 11th Circuit, where she currently presides, by President George H.W. Bush in 1992.
Previously, she served as U.S. District Judge for the Middle District of Florida from 1979-1992 after an appointment to the court by President Jimmy Carter.
“I think the program was wonderfully successful,” said professor Jennifer Zedalis, who is also chair of the Jurist-in-Residence Program and director of the law school’s Trial Practice Program. “My impression was that she couldn’t wait to talk to these students.”
In addition to speaking about judicial process and decision-making, Black also addressed the practical aspects of practicing law during her visit, including the importance of professionalism, how one presents himself or herself and advice on entering the job market in the legal world, said Zedalis.
The University of Florida Peter T. Fay Jurist-in-Residence Program, which began in 2009, was made possible by a donation from U.S. District Judge Paul C. Huck, a 1965 Florida law school graduate who wanted to honor Fay for his dedication to the professional development of young attorneys.
Fay, who has attained senior status in the 11th Circuit U.S. Court of Appeals, served as the inaugural jurist-in-residence in 2009.
“Judge Fay is a colleague and one of my heroes,” said Black.
“So it was an honor to be both invited by the university and to participate in a program named after him,” she said.
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