Age: Senior attorney
Family: Wife of 41 years, three daughters, eight wonderful grandchildren.
Education: Duke University, B.A.; Vanderbilt School of Law, J.D.
Admitted to the Bar: 1971
Employed by: GrayRobinson
Field of practice: Board certified in labor and employment law.
Professional organizations: The Jacksonville Bar Association, Inns of Court, Academy of Florida Management Attorneys.
Community involvement: Goodwill Industries of North Florida Inc., the City Rescue Mission.
How did you get involved?
Both Goodwill Industries and the City Rescue Mission are dedicated to serving the needy in our community, training them and finding them jobs. I became familiar with these organizations while providing legal services to them. Having become familiar with the organizations and their causes, I joined the Goodwill board of directors, eventually becoming its board chairman. When my term ended, I went on the City Rescue Mission’s board and recently completed a two-year term as its board chairman.
What have you learned/achieved through the experience?
I have learned that not everyone is afforded the same opportunities early in life, but everyone deserves a chance to better themselves. It has been greatly rewarding to have some small role in providing people that chance.
How can someone else get involved?
Anyone interested in serving with Goodwill Industries should contact Bob Thayer or Patti Baumeister at 384-1361. People wishing to serve at the City Rescue Mission should contact Kathi Crothers at 421-5157.
What was the last book you read or are reading?
“Mere Christianity,” by C.S. Lewis. I try to read it every five-six years because it stresses what we all have in common rather than what divides us.