Page 16 - Miami Vol 8 No 1

2019 SUPERSTAR
PHOTOS BY CORPORATE HEADSHOT
AALM: When did you rst know you wanted to become an attorney? What drew you to this career?
Gooden: A er playing nationally competitive junior, collegiate, and amateur golf, I was preparing for LPGA Qualifying School. It had always been my dream to play on the LPGA. Right before I was to turn professional, I decided to go to law school. I had never considered the career before that day. My family was shocked. A legal ca- reer seemed more stable than living out of my suitcase and playing for my paycheck. It was the right move and I am exactly where I am supposed to be.
AALM: Do you have any mentors or professors that en- couraged you along the way? What is the best lesson they taught you?
Gooden: I have been very fortunate throughout my ca- reer to have several mentors and sponsors. I could write for hours about their impact on my career. I will focus only on one – Amy Ronner. She was an accomplished appellate attorney before becoming a professor. I took four of her
Kansas Gooden
e Importance of the Dissent
She taught me the importance of the dissent (especially Scalia’s) and understanding different viewpoints and arguments.”
classes in law school. She taught me the importance of the dissent (especially Scalia’s) and understanding di erent viewpoints and arguments. She encouraged me to become an appellate attorney and guided me through the process. She has remained a trusted career adviser and friend.
AALM: What do you nd most rewarding about your practice?
Gooden: I love the challenge of a case of rst impres- sion. I am fortunate that clients trust me to handle these matters on their behalf.
AALM: us far in your career, what are you most proud of accomplishing.
Gooden: I am most proud of earning board certi ca- tion in appellate practice a er only six and a half years of practice. e certi cation requirements for this area are strenuous and being able to meet them in such a short time period is a feat. I now serve on the committee that writes the test and evaluates candidates. It is an honor to serve.
ATTORNEY AT LAW MAGAZINE · MIAMI · VOL. 8 NO. 1 16