Denver Law Tribute to Professor Emeritus and Former Assistant Secretary of the U.S. Department of Interior John A. Carver Jr.

One of Denver Law's most esteemed former professors John A. Carver Jr. was recognized last week at a luncheon hosted by Dean Martin J. Katz and attended by many well wishers.

Professor Carver, who taught environmental and natural resources-related courses at Denver Law from 1972 through 2004, has been a pillar in the American environmental and natural resources communities for six decades. During that time he has served in many capacities including Administrative Assistant to former U.S. Senator Frank Church, as Assistant Secretary and Undersecretary of the U.S. Department of Interior, and as a member of the Federal Power Commission.

Dean Katz praised Professor Carver's commitment to public service as well as his many contributions while a member of the law faculty.

Among those attending the festive event were members of Professor Carver's family, including his wife Ruth Carver and children Craig Carver and Candace Kramer, several grandchildren, former Colorado Gov. Richard Lamm, former Justice of the Colorado Supreme Court Gregory Scott, Associate Dean of Academic Affairs Fred Cheever, Assistant Dean for Student Affairs Dan Vigil, Executive Director of the Rocky Mountain Mineral Law Foundation David Phillips, many former teaching colleagues, current members of the faculty and staff, and members of the Denver legal community.

Don C. Smith, Director of the Environmental and Natural Resources Law Program, which Professor Carver headed at one time, said, "John A. Carver Jr. is one of the most respected and loved individuals ever to be associated with Denver Law. There are very few people in the American West who better understand the relationship of development, environmental protection, and natural resources than Professor Carver. Over the years he has shared his experiences and his insights with several generations of DU students as well as the community more generally.

"I can tell you from firsthand experience that he is a man of integrity, who is committed to public service and the pursuit of learning. May we all aspire to be as great and selfless as our friend Professor Carver."

The tribute to Professor Carver was organized by Professor Lucy Marsh, Alumni Relations Director Laura Dean, Caryl Shipley, and Jeff Rideout.

To learn more about the life and career of John A. Carver Jr., visit the "John A. Carver Jr. Oral History" website by clicking here.

Editor's Note: Top photo is Dean Katz and Professor Carver. Bottom photo is Professor Carver and former Colorado Gov. Richard Lamm.