[Congressional Record Volume 149, Number 32 (Thursday, February 27, 2003)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E313]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                    TRIBUTE TO JAMES E. GRAVES, JR.

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                        HON. BENNIE G. THOMPSON

                             of mississippi

                    in the house of representatives

                      Thursday, February 27, 2003

  Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Mr. Speaker, in commemoration of Black 
History Month, I would like to take this opportunity to recognize the 
many accomplishments of distinguished African-Americans in 
Mississippi's Second Congressional District.
  Justice Graves began his distinguished career as the valedictorian of 
his high school graduating class. He then went on to earn a Bachelor's 
Degree in Sociology from Millsaps College. Justice Graves then decided 
to enroll at Syracuse University where he earned his law degree. He 
also received a Master's of Public Administration from Syracuse 
University.
  Upon finishing law school Justice Graves worked as a staff attorney 
at Central Mississippi Legal Services. Just prior to being appointed 
Circuit Justice Judge he was director of the Division of Child Support 
Enforcement for the Mississippi Department of Human Services. Justice 
Graves then engaged in private practice of law for more than three 
years.
  His teaching experience includes serving as an instructor at Harvard 
Law School where he taught for four years. Justice Graves has also 
served as adjunct professor at Jackson State University where he taught 
both media law and civil rights law.
  Justice Graves is also active in public school activities. He teaches 
the youth about the legal system as well as coaches mock trial teams 
which have reached state mock trial finals every year since 1991.
  Justice Graves has been the recipient of numerous awards. Some of his 
recognitions include Humanized Education Award, Parent of the Year, 
Parent of the entire State of Mississippi, Innovation Award, 
Distinguished Jurist Award, and the Judge of the Year Award.

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