Dedication: "hard Work Betrays None"

• Publication year: 2023

Dedication: "Hard Work Betrays None"

Katie Powers

Dedication: "Hard Work Betrays None"

Katie Powers^{* **}

"Hard work betrays none." While to some this may appear to simply be a quote, to those of us who have had the privilege to observe John Flowers, it epitomizes his time here at Mercer Law.¹ As Director of Advocacy, it has been my distinct pleasure to teach and coach the most decorated and successful advocate in Mercer Law's distinguished one hundred and fifty (150) years. I knew John was someone special when I met him during the final round of Mercer Law's first year closing argument competition,² not simply because John was a finalist, but because his dedication and drive were visible from that small interaction.

John began his advocacy career by winning top advocate awards in both mock trial and moot court.³ Following his second year, John was elected by his peers to serve as President of the Mercer Advocacy Council. In addition to his numerous leadership roles, John brought home Mercer Law's first ever National Moot Court National Championship in February 2023.⁴ During that competition, John was named outstanding oralist. John also delivered a Mock Trial National Championship, the first since 2009.⁵ By the time this book is published, John may have brought home another National Championship.⁶

It is easy to count the wins, but to truly know the behind-the-scenes work, one only needs to observe John Flowers. Whether it is the hanging direct examination in his kitchen, the recitation of a statement in the lobby of the school, or the work on an airplane to his latest National Finals: John's work ethic, drive, and determination are unlike anything I have ever observed in my two decades of coaching. It is an understatement to say I have been truly honored to be a part of his Mercer Law journey.

I am so incredibly proud of John as a future lawyer, scholar, dedicated advocate, leader, and a friend. It is fitting that he is the Book Editor for the Seventy-Fourth Articles Edition of the Mercer Law Review. Hard work truly betrays none, congratulations John!

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Notes:

*. Note from the Editor-in-Chief: This dedication was written without the knowledge of this year's Book Editor: John Flowers. To John's surprise, the Editorial Board worked with Director Powers to include this piece and celebrate John's success and contributions to Mercer Law. John is unaware of its inclusion as of the publication of this Book. It has been an honor serving alongside John...