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The William H. Gates Public Service Law Program
2006-2007 Speaker Series

Sandra Day O'Connor
Retired Supreme Court Justice

Saturday, November 4, 2006

SEATTLE - A standing-room crowd filled Kane Hall to capacity November 4, 2006 to see retired Supreme Court Justice Sandra Day O’Connor give the inaugural keynote lecture as part of the Gates Public Service Law Program. O’Connor was the first woman appointed to the U.S. Supreme Court. She spoke about the need for an independent judiciary and the importance of education in civics and history in providing an understanding of the role of the judiciary. She also took several questions from members of the audience, who gave her an enthusiastic standing ovation when she concluded.

After a private lunch with the five Gates scholars, President Emmert, Dean Knight, and Bill Gates Sr., she was off to meet with members of the federal district court. She concluded her visit at a Gates PSL dinner in Seattle where she spoke to more than 200 faculty, alumni, students, judges, and friends of the law school about the need to encourage the best and brightest to pursue a career in public service.

Last updated 10/31/2012