Stetson University College of Law

March 24, 2003:  Gulfport, Fla. - Stetson University College of Law Professor W. McKinley "Mickey" Smiley Jr. was recognized by the Academy of Florida Trial Lawyers (AFTL) with its Perry Nichols Award, awarded annually to "individuals who have fought valiantly for justice throughout their lives." Professor Smiley is the first law professor ever to receive the award.

The award is the highest honor bestowed by the AFTL, and is given to Floridians for a lifetime of service to advancing the cause of justice in Florida. The award is named after Perry Nichols, founder and first president of the Academy.

"Mickey has been a great teacher to not only those fortunate enough to be in his classes, but to all of us who have known him," said retired U.S. Senator Sam Nunn, who was Professor Smiley's roommate during their law school years at Emory University, Atlanta, Ga. "I have been very proud of his trial practice, his teaching, his writing, and his devotion to his family and to his students."

Professor Smiley has taught trial skills and related subjects at Stetson for 36 years. He has served on the Association of Trial Lawyers of America and is frequently asked to lecture on trial advocacy.

"Mickey Smiley helped establish a tradition of excellence at Stetson," said College of Law Dean Gary Vause. "He is a nationally recognized educator whose teachings have helped shape the careers of numerous outstanding lawyers."

Stetson University College of Law is Florida's first law school. It has educated lawyers for more than 100 years, and offers continuing legal education programs for regional, state, national and international audiences. Stetson University College of Law tied for first place in Trial Advocacy in the 2003 U.S. News & World Report rankings of law schools. It is also the future headquarters for the National Conference of Law Reviews.