Niagara University alumnus Jeremy A. Colby, ’96, who presently serves as Lancaster town justice, returned to campus April 13 to speak to the Pre-Law Student Association.
Colby explained how his journey took him from Niagara University to one of the nation’s top law schools and leading global law firms. Drawing on lessons learned from nearly 17 years of legal practice, Colby also offered advice to aspiring law students on how to achieve personal and professional success, encouraging students to “find the one thing in life you’re most passionate about and follow it.”
Upon graduating from Niagara University with degrees in political science and English, Colby – who was serving as class president – was selected by his peers to receive the Niagara Medal, which is awarded to recognize achievement and strength of character.
Colby proceeded to the Boston University School of Law, where he served as executive editor of the American Journal of Law and Medicine. He earned his J.D. in 1999.
Colby then worked as an attorney at Skadden, Arps, Slate, Meagher & Flom LLP in Boston, but returned to Western New York in 2002 to serve as a confidential law clerk to U.S. District Judge John Elvfin in Buffalo.
After several years in private practice, Colby was appointed Erie County attorney in 2011. He is currently a partner at Webster Szanyi LLP, where he represents municipalities, school districts, and businesses in federal, commercial, and appellate litigation. In 2015, Colby was elected town justice of Lancaster, N.Y.
Any current or future NU students who are considering law school or legal careers are invited to contact Kevin Hinkley, ’05, pre-law program advisor, at ude.aragain@yelknihk.