Environmental law reveals our collective conscience. A matter of intergenerational ethics, it reflects our attempt to stop harming ourselves, and our grandchildren, by polluting or abusing natural resources. I am a law professor now, but I gained my insights into government, ethics and the legal profession in practice. I litigated endangered species disputes for the U.S. Department of Justice. I worked on the Everglades restoration as a lawyer for the South Florida Water Management District. In addition, in leadership volunteer roles, I advised the National Marine Fisheries Service as Chair of the U.S. Marine Fisheries Advisory Committee, I helped military servicemembers mediate disputes with their civilian employers as an Ombudsman for the U.S. Department of Defense, and I twice chaired the Government Lawyer Section of the Florida Bar. In private practice, I served as special counsel to the West Palm Beach law firm of Jones Foster Johnston & Stubbs, P.A. Over time, I earned recognition as a Board Certified Specialist in State & Federal Administrative Law, and as a Certified Compliance & Ethics Professional. I have taught law in the Netherlands and in Beijing, China (yes, my son came, too.) Yet despite my cases, articles, accomplishments and travels, I am perhaps most proud of my time as Coach Keith, helping children learn the value of effort, teamwork and sportsmanship on the playing fields of Boynton Beach. I cannot stop climate change by myself, but I can find ways to equip the next generation to lead.
