John Edward Sexton
Born in New York City on September 29, 1942, John Edward Sexton, a prominent educational and legal pioneer is known for his charisma and competitive edge. He was able to achieve many professional successes despite the tragedies he had faced in his life. His father, John Edward Sexton Sr., had died during his teenage years. Although he died early, John Sexton Sr. was able to influence his son with passionate dreams of becoming a successful lawyer.
During his years in high school, John Edward Sexton Jr. was a national debate champion. Later on, his academic excellence served as his ticket to the Fordham College’s honors program. He served as an excellent coach for the girls’ debate team at the Brooklyn Parochial school, St. Brendan. Part of his routine as a coach was to spend long hours each week with the team. Under his guide, the team was able to win two national championships and remain on the top of the rankings in the male-dominated world of debate. His efficiency and prowess earned him the recognition of Emory University. He was hailed as the “Outstanding High School Debate Coach of the Last Fifty Years.”
During his early thirties, John Sexton was able to obtain an MA in religion from the Fordham University. In 1978, he was able to supplement his academic achievement with a PH.D. During the same year, He was appointed as chairman of the religion department at the St. Francis College in Brooklyn.
With the encouragement of his friends, John Sexton decided to give law school a try. Finally in 1979, John Sexton graduated from Harvard Law School. Following graduation, Sexton found himself working as a clerk for the Court of Appeals and then for the notable Chief Justice Warren Burger. The years that followed after saw John Sexton’s rise in the ranks of NYU. His rarity among the college presidents had made him one of the most unforgettable leaders of the University.