Judge Shawn Ellen LaGrua (J.D. ’87) speaks at the 2016 Swearing-In Ceremony. Linda K. DiSantis (J.D. '88) and Cathy Henson (J.D. '89) at the groundbreaking ceremony for 85 Park Place in 2013.
Linda K. DiSantis (J.D. ’88), Cathy Henson (J.D. ’89), Shawn Ellen LaGrua (J.D. ’87)
Lawyers must have good leadership qualities, says Roy M. Sobelson, professor of law and former associate dean for academic affairs. “People in leadership positions accomplish things and empower others to accomplish.”
To this end, Georgia State Law students hear about professional identity from orientation until graduation. “The point is to get the students to think consciously about the kind of person they want to be as a lawyer,” he said.
And there is an abundance of excellent leaders among Georgia State Law alumni to serve as examples to students. He cites three who are actively involved in the college through giving back, mentoring students and participating in college events and programs.
Linda K. DiSantis (J.D. ’88), chair of the College of Law’s Board of Visitors, has worked for a major law firm, been general counsel for UPS and CARE, was counsel to Atlanta’s former Mayor Shirley Franklin and is an adjunct professor at Georgia State. “She knows her strengths and uses them in different situations where she expects people to work hard, take chances and be creative as long as they take responsibility,” Sobelson said.
Cathy Henson (J.D. ’89), has been successful in a law firm and private enterprise and now devotes her talents to her passion — education. “Cathy’s involvement in education grew from the local PTA to state, university and law school education, where she has become a hard-working actor,” Sobelson said. “Through her volunteering, generous scholarship donations and leadership on countless boards and task forces, Cathy goes to great lengths to ensure others have opportunities. She leads by example.”
Likewise, Fulton County Superior Court Judge Shawn Ellen LaGrua (J.D. ’87) has set an impressive example.
While a prosecutor, she demonstrated “hutzpah and drive” when prosecuting criminals for high-profile, violent crimes, Sobelson said. As a judge, she works consistently to improve the judicial system.
“Shawn is innovative and a risk taker,” Sobelson said. “She’s always setting up new programs to help juvenile offenders succeed and to reduce the recidivism of women offenders.”
Through her “My Journey Matters” program, which offers alternative sentencing for young offenders, LaGrua began awarding scholarships to graduates pursuing higher education. She is also a mentor to many past, current and prospective law students, helping them navigate the process and offering encouragement.
Sobelson’s goal is to ensure students join the ranks of such esteemed alumni. “We teach leadership in the finest sense of the word,” Sobelson said. “Our alums are proof.”