John W. Reynolds Scholarship

John W. Reynolds, Green Bay, Wisconsin native son, was born on April 4, 1921. He always remained loyal to his Wisconsin roots and after attending Green Bay East High School went on to receive his Ph.B in Economics from the University of Wisconsin. After serving for four years in the U. S. Army he returned to the University of Wisconsin and received his law degree in 1949. This began a long and loyal affinity for the University, which continued throughout his lifetime. After practicing law in Green Bay he served as District Director for the Office of Price Stabilization and United States Commissioner for the Eastern District of Wisconsin. During this time he became involved with a young, idealistic political group, participating in the revival of a dispirited Democratic Party. At the age of 38 he ran successfully for the office of Wisconsin Attorney General and served from 1958 to 1962. After this he went on to be elected Governor and served the state until 1965. In 1967 he was appointed United States District Judge for the Eastern District of Wisconsin by President Lyndon B. Johnson. He was known as being astute, keenly insightful, compassionate and unfailingly kind. He had a strong and steady vision of public service and an even stronger vision of justice and equality. His rulings show the fairness and clarity he brought to the bench. They were accompanied by the wit, warmth and charm he brought to the courtroom. He enjoyed a rewarding life of service, being the only person in Wisconsin history to serve as Attorney General, Governor and United States Federal Judge.