In a significant career shift, a senior Florida Supreme Court justice has declared he will leave the bench to spearhead a centre for classical education at a major state university.
From the Bench to the Academy
Justice Charles Canady confirmed he will step down from the Florida Supreme Court to become the director of the University of Florida’s Hamilton School for Classical and Civic Education. The move, announced in an official court statement, will take effect in 2026.
The Hamilton School was established in 2022 with ongoing financial backing from the Florida state legislature. Its mission is focused on teaching and researching the core principles of Western and American civilisation.
A Prominent Legal and Political Figure
Justice Canady is no stranger to Florida's political and legal spheres. Before his judicial appointment in 2008, his career included roles as:
- A Republican state lawmaker
- A member of the US Congress
- General counsel to former Governor Jeb Bush
As a legislator, he was known for his anti-abortion views. His influence continued on the court, where he served three terms as the state's Chief Justice. Notably, he was part of the judicial opinion that enabled Florida to implement a ban on most abortions after six weeks of pregnancy. This legislation was co-sponsored in the state house by his wife, Republican state Representative Jennifer Canady.
Consequences for the Florida Supreme Court
Justice Canady's departure creates a crucial vacancy on the state's highest court. This provides Republican Governor Ron DeSantis with an opportunity to appoint a new justice, continuing his shaping of the judiciary. Governor DeSantis has already appointed five of the court's seven current members.
This transition marks a notable moment where high-level judicial experience is being channelled directly into the realm of higher education and classical curriculum development.
