By Elizabeth Metcalf, University Communications and Marketing
University of South Florida President Rhea Law was recognized last weekend with an honorary Doctor of Laws degree during Stetson University’s College of Law Commencement.
In addition to receiving this distinguished honor, Law served as the keynote speaker, delivering an address to nearly 300 law school graduates at Stetson’s Gulfport campus.
“President Law is a tireless leader whose impact you can see throughout the Tampa Bay region and the state of Florida,” said Benjamin Barros, dean of Stetson University’s College of Law. “I couldn’t think of a better person to inspire our spring 2024 graduating class to do great things.”
Law, a Stetson alumna whose legal career spans several decades, opened her address by thanking the faculty, staff and students at Stetson Law for presenting her with an honorary degree — an honor she will cherish for years to come.
“My Stetson education has served me well,” Law said. “During my years leading my law firm, I could attest to the fact that the lawyers coming from this remarkable institution were always well-prepared for the rigors of law firm practice. You have chosen well by attending Stetson University, and I am confident your future is bright.”
Law with members of the Commencement platform party before the ceremony
Stetson University President Christopher Roellke presents Law with an honorary doctor of laws and introduces her before her keynote address
Law with Stetson College of Law Dean Ben Barros
Law’s advice to the graduating class centered on three main themes: the importance of believing in oneself, remaining open to new opportunities and maintaining one’s credibility in practicing law.
A first-generation college student who earned her bachelor’s degree while working full-time at USF, Law emphasized the importance of “betting on yourself,” while recounting her law school journey and her decision to cash out her retirement fund to finance her studies.
Concerned about entering law school later in life than many of her peers, she sought advice from the dean of the college, who introduced her to a woman in her 70s who was also enrolled at Stetson Law and about to earn her degree.
“I thought that if she could do this, I could, too,” said Law, who also uses her role at USF to emphasize the importance of providing lifelong learning opportunities. “It was that mindset, that desire to embrace the unknown, that led me toward many other opportunities throughout my career.”
Law, who led Buchanan Ingersoll & Rooney’s Florida offices before becoming USF’s eighth president, shared personal stories from her years as an attorney in several areas of practice to illustrate the importance of remaining open to new opportunities.
“As lawyers, you will have unlimited opportunities to impact lives and create meaningful change,” Law said. “Whether locally or globally — the possibilities are endless. To be effective, you must be open to opportunities and search out pathways to enhanced purpose. This will add meaning and joy to your practice.”
The final theme of Law’s speech centered around the importance of protecting one's credibility and professionalism while practicing law.
“Be mindful of your responsibilities — both to your clients and the profession you represent,” Law said. “To practice law is a great honor, and it is an equally great responsibility. By letting your character be your compass, you can accomplish incredible feats, and change the world for the better.”