Age: 32
Family: Kristin Gonzalez
Pets: Two dogs – Steve, an American Bulldog, and Lucy, Weimaraner.
Education: Tarpon Springs High School, 1999; University of South Florida, 2003; Villanova School of Law, 2007; Villanova School of Business, 2007.
Admitted to the Bar: 2007
Employed by: Marshall Dennehey Warner Coleman & Goggin
Field of practice: Construction law, professional liability: architects & engineers
Professional organizations: Hispanic Bar Association of N.E. Florida, board member 2011-present. It was founded in September 2004 to foster fellowship among Hispanic judges, lawyers, law students and those interested in or doing business with Latin American or Hispanic businesses in the region. The JBA/YLS Sports League co-commissioner, 2011-12. Strived to provide an outlet for attorneys of all ages to unwind through sports and socializing with colleagues.
Community involvement: Pancreatic Cancer Action Network, Jacksonville affiliate event coordinator, 2013. This national organization is leading the way to increase the survival rate for people diagnosed with this devastating disease. The organization creates hope through research, patient support, community outreach and advocacy for a cure. Each year the Jacksonville affiliate hosts PurpleStride Jacksonville, a 5K timed run and awareness walk. PurpleStride events contribute millions of dollars toward the mission of the network to advance research, support patients and create hope. PurpleStride Jacksonville 2013 is moving forward and scheduled for September.
How did you become involved?
My father passed away of pancreatic cancer when I was 22. After witnessing my best friend die of this horrible disease, I promised that I would do what I could to help others that may be in the same situation. Once settled in Jacksonville, I contacted the local network affiliate.
How can someone else become involved?
People can become involved in many ways, from joining in Washington, D.C., for the annual advocacy day, to making a donation to help drive research or volunteering with the Jacksonville affiliate of the pancreatic cancer to raise awareness. The PurpleStride 5K timed run and awareness walk in Jacksonville is scheduled for September. Anyone interested in joining the fight against pancreatic cancer should visit pancan.org to learn more.
What have you learned/achieved through the experience?
In just a few meetings with the members and volunteers within the network, I have gained a greater appreciation of the magnitude of this disease and how fast it takes lives. That being said, I have met a number of strong-willed and courageous people living with this disease. This organization and these people provide hope that a cure is possible.
What was the last book you read or are reading?
Trying to read the classics — I have resolved to complete "Paradise Lost" and "David Copperfield" over the coming months — however, I am currently more enticed by the pictures contained within Thomas Keller's "Ad Hoc at Home" and "The French Laundry."