Earlier this month, Attorney General Peter F. Kilmartin returned to his alma mater, Roger Williams University, to accept the Roger Williams Alumni Association 2014 Distinguished Alumnus of the Year Award. This award recognizes a graduate for significant long-term success in personal and professional achievements, outstanding contributions to his or her profession and distinguished service to the public welfare, thus honoring Roger Williams University and the Alumni Association.
Attorney General Kilmartin received his bachelor of science in Criminal Justice from Roger Williams University in 1988 and his juris doctorate from Roger Williams University School of Law in 1998.
Attorney General Kilmartin thanked the Alumni Association and praised the University for its commitment to excellence in education and to the community, saying "Roger Williams University and its School of Law have earned reputations as two of the finest institutions of higher education in the country, and I am honored and proud to be an alumnus. The lessons I learned in the classroom and in the Roger Williams community helped shape my professional career and taught me the importance of always striving for excellence, truth and justice."
According to his former mentor, Professor Bruce Kogan, "I remember that Peter was always of good cheer, engaged and animated in discussing the assigned material whether it covered adverse possession of land or depreciation deductions for individuals running a small business. Peter's real world experience and mature perspective enabled him to ask the kind of questions that a teacher always welcomes, such as 'Well that may be what the judge said, but how would it work in real life?'" "As I fully expected, Peter Kilmartin has brought honor and dedication to protecting the citizens of Rhode Island as its chief law enforcement officer. He is widely admired and respected for his passion and his compassion in enforcing the laws of this state," added Professor Kogan.
When asked to recall the names of professors that had a profound influence on his educational experience, Attorney General Kilmartin spoke fondly of Professor Bruce Kogan. "He was an exemplary professor and his style of teaching took on a practicality of the law. After graduation, Dean Kogan became a friend and mentor."