Reunion Weekend 2009
Kevin F. Meckus '77

Kevin F. Meckus '77 has worked 23 years at the U.S. Department of Agriculture in Washington, D.C., most recently as a deputy assistant general counsel, not only because he likes the job but because it affords him a quality family life in northern Virginia with his two daughters. "I don't have to take my job home with me and it's 9-to-5 for the most part, " said Meckus, who worked a few years in private practice before realizing he didn't enjoy the pressure of billable hours and business development needed to succeed.

"It's certainly possible to make a lot of money in private practice, but it doesn't buy you time with your kids. In my view, this is an ideal mix between family and professional life for a lawyer, which is a big reason why we've been able to hire a lot of highly qualified attorneys and, in particular, women. "

Meckus said he still draws upon what he learned in his favorite class at Albany Law, administrative law with Professor Sandra Stevenson. His specialty areas are the national nutrition and commodity programs including the school lunch, WIC and food stamp programs. "I've been able to have a life outside of work while working on programs that provide real assistance to those most in need." he said.