Southern University Law Center (SULC) is proud to announce that the Honorable Ronald C. Gathe, Jr., United States Attorney for the Middle District of Louisiana, will serve as the keynote speaker for its 2025 Commencement Ceremony.
A distinguished prosecutor and a proud SULC alumnus, Mr. Gathe brings more than two decades of legal experience and public service to the podium. Nominated by President Joseph R. Biden and unanimously confirmed by the U.S. Senate in 2021, Mr. Gathe made history as the first Black U.S. Attorney for the Middle District of Louisiana. In this role, he has led groundbreaking efforts in federal law enforcement, civil rights investigations, and strategic public safety partnerships across nine parishes serving over one million people.
Mr. Gathe’s professional journey reflects a steadfast commitment to justice, integrity, and community impact. Under his leadership, the office achieved a 92% conviction rate, while also saving taxpayers over $7.7 million through strategic settlements in civil litigation. He has served on advisory committees under Attorney General Merrick Garland, tackling national issues such as civil rights, voting rights, human trafficking, and domestic terrorism.
Mr. Gathe’s leadership extends beyond the courtroom. He was the founding president of the Louisiana Chapter of the National Black Prosecutors Association, which was recognized as Chapter of the Year under his direction. His accolades include the NBPA President’s Special Recognition Award and the 2016 SULC Distinguished Alumni Award and a 2025 Hall of Fame honoree.
A native of Baton Rouge, Mr. Gathe is an alumnus of Xavier University of Louisiana and a 2000 graduate of Southern University Law Center. His career began as a Judicial Law Clerk and progressed through several key prosecutorial roles, including Chief of Trials for the 18th Judicial District and Section Chief for the 19th Judicial District. He has also contributed to legal education as an adjunct professor at SULC, mentoring future legal professionals and advocating for greater diversity in the field.
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