University of Richmond School of Law graduates told not to sacrifice quality time with family; develop network of professional friends
May 13, 2008
Henry E. Hudson, judge of the U.S. District Court of the Eastern District of Virginia, told 162 graduates of the University of Richmond School of Law that building relationships with the people you love is everything—everything else is secondary.
He said the full realization of what counts in life might come late, but graduates should chart their personal goals and keep on track. "Achieve incremental progress."
He advised graduates to set priorities in life, not to sacrifice quality time with their families and develop a network of professional friends. "Who you know can be one of your greatest assets," he said.
He advised the new lawyers to develop reputations for honesty, civility and integrity. "Attack ideas, not fellow lawyers," he cautioned. As lawyers, they should make sure their legal arguments are intellectually honest.
Clinton Davis of Chester, Va., spoke on behalf of the graduating students. He praised the families who sacrificed to help each student reach this day. "Today can be seen as a family achievement," he said.
A number of awards and honors were presented during the ceremony. Evan Miller of Sanger, Calif., received The Charles T. Norman Award, given to the best all-around graduating student. She also won The T.C. Williams Law School Scholarship Award, presented to the student who has made the most significant contributions to overall legal scholarship.
Two students won The Nina R. Kestin Service Award, presented to the student who has contributed most significantly to the school, the community and the legal profession. They are Erin Murphy of Great Falls, Va., and Amanda Reid of Snohomish, Wash.
The Cudlipp Medal, presented to the class member who had the highest cumulative grade point average at the end of the second year, went to Jeff McMahan Jr. of Cadillac, Mich. The winner of The J. Westwood Smithers Medal, presented to the graduating senior who has the highest cumulative grade point average for three years, will be announced in the fall.