Casey Rodgers

UWF Degree/Grad. Yr.:
BA Political Science, 1989

Why did you choose to attend UWF?
I knew that the political science program at UWF was very strong and, since law school was my ultimate goal, attending UWF was a great choice. Also, as a native of Gulf Breeze, this enabled me to stay in an area of the country that I love.

What were your goals as a student?
My number one goal was to prepare myself for law school. Also, I wanted to get involved in student government at UWF, and was able to serve as the university’s student lobbyist. This was a great experience as I was able to lobby against tuition hikes, attend Board of Regents meetings, and work with other students from around the state. Also, I recall that Linda Dye was a wonderful SGA advisor.

What is your best memory from your days at UWF?
I have great memories of simply driving on to the campusIt was always so beautiful and welcoming. I felt like I belonged and was part of something special. I also have wonderful memories of interacting with Bob Anderson, my academic advisor, attending his constitutional law class, and discussing cases in his office.

Who was your favorite professor and why?
Bob Anderson. He was a great mentor and his classes were as challenging as any I had in law school. Alfred Cuzan would also be very high on this listhe was a great philosophy teacher and seemed to know everything!

What do you do now and how did UWF help you progress to this point?
I serve as United States District Judge, Northern District of Florida. UWF gave me a strong foundation for law school and for my work as a judge.

Please describe any other areas that you are involved in, such as volunteer work, mentoring, serving on various Boards, etc.?
I currently serve on the UWF Foundation Board of Directors. I have previously served as General Counsel, Chair & Vice-Chair for the Better Business Bureau of Northwest Florida,- 1996-2002; Director for ARC-Gateway f/k/a Association for Retarded Citizens-Escambia - 2000 to 2004; and Secretary for Pensacola Museum of Art - 1999-2001. Additionally, prior to becoming a judge, I worked as volunteer in weekend clinics at Legal Services of Northwest Florida and presented training seminar regarding employment discrimination and harassment for Pensacola Habitat for Humanity.

How do you stay connected to UWF?
In addition to serving on the UWF Foundation Board of Directors, I follow the UWF Women’s soccer program and often visit with the UWF Women’s Soccer coach, Joe Bartlinski. I also run the trails at UWF so I can continue to enjoy the beautiful campus.

What advice do you have for current and future UWF students?
Make the most out of your college experience by getting involved and becoming part of the university. And later, give back in some meaningful way.

What quality makes UWF special or unique?
The professors. The personal attention and mentoring relationships they provide make UWF special. They really do care about the students.

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