Dear Judges,

This past year has flown by but at the same time has been filled with many challenges. Ethics Opinion 484 and the challenges of replacing the longest tenured Executive Director in Texas Center history has been a full-time job. I have been extremely fortunate this year having many of our fellow colleagues who have served selflessly on various committees that have provided meaningful input into the effectiveness of our organization. I want to especially acknowledge those members who have comprised our Board of Directors. I have witnessed these colleagues giving selflessly of their time and expertise to insure that we adhere to long-standing core principles on which the Texas Center was founded, yet still remain open to innovative change. I value the opportunities to which I have been exposed.

The past year has also taught me the value of having great employees at the Texas Center. It is comforting to know that we have a wonderful staff and we appreciate how hard they work to insure that the needs of our judiciary are met. Please take the time at the next conference you attend to express your gratitude for their work and dedication to our organization.

It’s very sad to be saying goodbye to Mari Kay Bickett but at the same time we know she leaves us in good shape. It was she who helped build the very foundation that has made the Texas Center such a success. Yet with change comes a new beginning and the Board of Directors is excited to welcome Randy Sarosdy as the Texas Center’s newest Executive Director. We are confident that Randy’s extensive trial and management experience combined with his talents and vision will insure that the Texas Center will provide cutting edge education and training to our judiciary. Your Board of Directors has made it possible for the Texas Center to continue to provide the highest quality of educational programs that insure a qualified and knowledgeable judiciary can administer justice with fairness, efficiency, and integrity.

I will also be greatly relieved to turn over the honor and responsibility of being chair of our judicial organization to the most capable Chair-elect, Roger Towery. I know the Texas Center will be well served!

I am looking forward to seeing you all in Corpus Christi at the Annual Judicial Education Conference.

Hon. David D. Garcia