Firecracker Jack

I first met Jack when I worked at the Stanford Criminal Justice Center, evaluating Fresno's Juvenile Behavioral Health Court. I traveled from the Bay Area to Fresno on a regular basis to observe the court, interview youth and their guardians, and chat with all the doctors, lawyers, probation officers, and counselors involved. I always looked forward to seeing Jack. While we waited for others to arrive, we'd shoot the shit and trade Texas stories. I loved it when he wore his silly Texas tie. What a way to dress up for court!

Jack made an immediate impression on me, even in the short time I knew him there. Everyone was quick to point out that Jack worked for the court for free when the court couldn't afford to pay for an education advocate. He talked to me about the importance of knowing a system from all sides and not getting too stuck in one role. He also talked a lot about resources in rural counties and the ways that youth were not always served well. I knew he'd done a lot, but I still hear about more and more ways that he pushed the system.

I also immediately idolized Jack, as I'm sure many young attorneys do. In my next job interview after the evaluation (for a rural outreach position), I mentioned Jack and what he'd shared about the importance of trying different jobs and different roles. Little did I know how well Jack is known--the Executive Director interviewing me said, "Oh, I love Jack! He's awesome!"

For that job and my current job, I also have traveled to Fresno, and I looked forward to stopping by Jack's office to bug him. Jack returned the favor by harassing my group of Bay Area law student volunteers back in March. I would expect nothing less from him.

I'll really miss him.

Salena