Law Center News
Spring 2025 Commencement Marks New Chapter for SULC Graduates
On May 17, the Southern University Law Center (SULC) proudly celebrated its Spring 2025 Commencement Ceremony, where graduates were awarded their Juris Doctor degrees. The ceremony took place at the F.G. Clark Activity Center on the campus of Southern University Baton Rouge.
The event began with a warm welcome from Chancellor Alvin Washington, who addressed the distinguished graduates, their families, friends, and esteemed guests.
The keynote address was delivered by Attorney Ronald Gathe Jr., member of Law Center’s Class of 2000 and 2025 Hall of Fame honoree. Gathe is a senior special prosecutor for the 18th Judicial District Court. Appointed by President Joseph R. Biden and unanimously confirmed by the U.S. Senate in 2021, Gathe made history as the first Black U.S. Attorney to serve the Middle District of Louisiana. In his role, he leads transformative work in federal law enforcement, civil rights investigations, and strategic public safety initiatives that span nine parishes and serve over one million residents.
“To the graduates, your journey here has been one of dedication, perseverance, and intellectual rigor,” said Gathe. “Take this moment to truly enjoy the magnitude of your achievement.”
Gathe began his address by personally recognizing Lila Gomez, a member of the graduating class and his former assistant. “It’s a full-circle moment to now call her a colleague,” he said, expressing his pride and admiration for Gomez’s journey.
Throughout his keynote, Gathe emphasized themes of perseverance, purpose, and service.
“You can’t wait for the perfect moment or perfect resources," Gathe noted. "Sometimes you just must move forward with what you have and that’s where the growth happens, when you learn to be resourceful and resilient.”
He concluded his speech with a powerful reminder of the graduates’ duty to contribute meaningfully to society. He also reminded the class of their broader responsibility to use their legal education to advocate for justice and equity.
“Every single case matters,” said Gathe. “Because it matters deeply to someone else."
"Behind every case are human stories, hopes, and struggles," Gathe stated. " Your role as an attorney is not just to interpret the law, it is to be a voice, an advocate, and a force for positive change in the lives of others."
The ceremony concluded with closing remarks that celebrated the graduates’ accomplishments and officially ushered them into the next chapter of their legal careers as proud members of the SULC alumni network.
The ceremony was live-streamed and recorded on the Law Center's YouTube channel. You can watch the commencement ceremony here.
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