Judge Patti Saris: On Returning for a 25th Reunion

Class Marshal Patti B. Saris '73, JD '76, who now serves as a U.S. district judge in Massachusetts, spoke to the Gazette as she anticipated her 25th reunion this week.

Q: As you reflect on your years at the College, what memories stand out?

Judge Saris: The period of time from 1969 to 1973 was unique in Harvard's history. Of course, the war and student unrest colored our experience. As editor of the Crimson, covering the strikes and the 1972 political campaign, I was in the thick of it all. We were idealistic, feeling that we could, and would, make a difference.

The women's movement was another important influence. When I began, I was at Radcliffe--I lived in the all-women Cabot Hall, where we had teas and parietals. By the second semester, men moved in; for our third year, women were allowed to move down to the River Houses. The changes in housing really represented a sea change--by the end of my four years, I was at Harvard.

Q: Do you tell people that you graduated from Harvard or Radcliffe?

Judge Saris: I say a little of each, and sometimes it depends on whom I'm talking to!

Q: Given that it is still relatively unusual for women to serve on the federal judiciary -- in Boston, only 2 of the 13 present active federal trial judges are women -- do you think people regard you as a judge or as a woman judge?

Judge Saris: I hope people view me as a judge. But I'm frequently asked for advice on combining a career and family. Since I have four children, people know I've had to deal with the demands of a job and finding enough quality time for family. It can be hard.

Q: Your career has been full, including service as an assistant U.S. attorney, U.S. magistrate judge, and associate justice on the Massachusetts Superior Court. Also, you've written about Congress and courtrooms, and you've taught courses on trial practice and federal litigation. What is most satisfying about being on the bench?

Judge Saris: As a judge, you do the best you can to ensure justice is done given the facts of each case. I don't think many people have an opportunity to contribute to justice in the same way. When I come in to work every day, I know that's what I'm going to do. And I love a good trial!