A Legacy of Judicial Excellence
JUDGE GARY FLOWER’ 82 work has significantly shaped Florida’ s judiciary.
LEADERSHIP THROUGH JUSTICE
A Legacy of Judicial Excellence
After 25 years on the bench, Jacksonville University alumnus Judge Gary Flower’ 82 received one of Florida’ s highest judicial honors: the 2025 Chief Justice Award for Judicial Excellence. The recognition celebrates his unwavering integrity, professionalism and dedication to advancing the state’ s judicial system.
Presented during the annual Conference of County Court Judges of Florida meeting in July, the award acknowledges Judge Flower’ s multifaceted contributions as a Duval County Court judge. Colleagues praised him as a valued mentor, admired leader and passionate educator whose
JUDGE GARY FLOWER’ 82 work has significantly shaped Florida’ s judiciary.
“ Receiving this award is more than just a professional milestone; it is a deeply personal affirmation of my dedication to fairness, integrity and service,” Judge Flower says.“ It serves as a reminder that the small, often unseen choices we make each day to act with honesty and compassion truly matter.”
Since his 2000 appointment, Judge Flower has served as administrative judge of the county courts four times and held leadership roles including president of the Conference of County Court Judges and faculty member of the Florida Judicial College. His community involvement
ALUMNI SPOTLIGHT
extends to the Mayor’ s Victim Assistance Advisory Council and the Boys and Girls Club of America board.
Judge Flower credits JU with developing his critical thinking and leadership foundation. Faculty members like Dr. Blanton, Dr. Carver, Dr. Sullivan and Dr. Quinton White challenged him to dig deeper than surface-level answers.
“ Jacksonville University provided not only the academic foundation but also the ethical compass and leadership opportunities that shaped me into the husband, father and judge that I am,” he reflects.
“ Gary and I were classmates at Jacksonville University in the late 1970s and early 1980s,” said President Tim Cost.“ He was a terrific student, very engaged. In the 45 years since then, he’ s become an extraordinary judge, a world-class alumnus and a friend to so many. He’ s a remarkable advocate for all things Jacksonville who constantly keeps his family, community and university uppermost in his mind and his heart. This recognition is well deserved and a great point of pride for our University.”
WAV E MAGAZINE | Spring 2026 39