It is with heavy hearts that Barry University mourns the death of Janet Reno, a member of the Barry community.
With a prolific career in law and politics, which included serving as the first female U.S. Attorney General, the local South Florida native will be remembered for her intellect, honesty and integrity.
Reno served as the Commencement speaker on the heels of her appointment as Attorney General for the 1993 Barry University graduation, the same year that she was given an honorary degree in law from Barry.
In her speech, which still rings true today, Reno said, “The greatness of America lies in its diversity, lies in its difference.”
Saying “let’s take community and let’s take family and rebuild around the children of America an environment, a fabric where they can grow as strong and constructive human beings,” Reno encouraged the graduating students to think about social issues and work towards a greater good.
Her work will continue to inspire integrity and motivate our next generation of leaders. We extend our prayers to her family.