COLLEGE BOWL NEWS
Judge Michael B. Chavies was installed as the Orange Bowl Committee's 78th President and Chair. Judge Chavies has been a member of the Orange Bowl Committee since 2000 and succeeds Immediate Past President & Chair Lee Stapleton.
Judge Chavies will oversee the Committee’s continued commitment to the South Florida community, including a full slate of events, highlighted by the 83rd Capital One Orange Bowl on Dec. 31, 2016. The Orange Bowl invests nearly $1 million in the South Florida community on an annual basis, funding a variety of programs and initiatives, including the Orange Bowl Youth Football Alliance presented by Sports Authority, various scholarship programs and many other youth athletic events.
"It has been my privilege for many years to serve on the Orange Bowl Committee and I am honored that my fellow members have entrusted me to serve in an even greater capacity as president," said Chavies. "I feel fortunate to take part in such a vital organization that is positively shaping our youth and inspires community collaboration and impact. 2016 will be another enriching year for South Florida as we continue to engage in new and meaningful partnerships that promote our mission to youth and sports, as well as initiatives that further drive the direction and future of our local economy.”
A former Miami-Dade Circuit Court Judge and accomplished trial lawyer, Judge Chavies is now a partner in Akerman LLP’s litigation practice. He is involved in complex commercial cases in the courtroom for the firm’s larger public companies. He also chairs the firm’s Diversity & Inclusion Committee and assists in the firm’s recruitment efforts.
Prior to being appointed to the bench by Governor Lawton Chiles in 1992, he practiced law for 18 years, specializing in civil litigation, appellate law, and criminal defense. A two-time Rutgers University alumnus, Judge Chavies received both his B.A. and J.D. from the University. Michael and his wife Pamela live in Miami.
Donald Slesnick moves into Judge Chavies’ role as President-Elect and Chair-Elect and will serve as the 79th President and Chair during the 2017-2018 year. Sean Pittman will serve as the First Vice-Chair and will become President and Chair in 2018-2019. Eric Poms enters his 11th year as the Chief Executive Officer and marks his 23rd year with the Orange Bowl Committee.