Judge Sam A. Crow Discusses Federal Judicial Appointment Process
Phi Delta Phi Legal Fraternity and the Career Services Office hosted The Honorable Sam A. Crow, Senior District Judge for the United States District Court for the District of Kansas, Wednesday, April 14, 2004. The luncheon event provided students a glimpse into the Federal judicial appointment process.
Judge Crow, Class of 1952, opened his presentation by reminiscing about his years spent at Washburn Law from 1949-1952. He shared a picture of the law school when it was in Boswell Hall, a photo of his graduating class that included Robert Dole, and photos of other classmates. The judge pointed out that it was easy to get into law school in the late-1940s; an undergraduate education was not even required. He also complimented the superior, practical education provided by Washburn Law to current students and contrasted it with the education he received and the education provided at some Ivy League schools.
Judge Crow recalled the process resulting in his appointment as a Federal District Judge. The judge received a personal phone call from President Ronald Reagan in 1981. Initially, the judge's secretary thought the call was a prank. Once the call was finally transferred to the judge, the President conveyed to the judge his interest in nominating him to the Federal District Court. Following confirmation by the United States Senate, Judge Crow was appointed to serve in Wichita. He served in Wichita for a number of years before being relocated to Topeka.
Judge Crow also shared some of his experiences with the Judge Advocate General Core ("JAG"). He holds the rank of Colonel with JAG and has previously served as a military judge.
Students asked the judge a number of questions, ranging from "What is a typical day in the life of a Federal Judge?" to the legal practice of bankruptcy and what it was like to practice with JAG.
In his introduction of Judge Crow, third-year law student and former Phi Delta Phi officer Steve Henry noted "Many people receive respect and honor based on the office they hold. It has been my observation and experience that in addition to receiving the due respect and honor because of his office, Judge Crow receives respect and honor because of the person he is."
Judge Crow's presentation offered a valuable piece of history and perspective to attendees. The judge's warm personality and wit interlaced his presentation, revealing the human side of one Federal judge.
Steve Henry contributed this article. (Posted April 21, 2004)
