Joseph LeDonne B.S. IN AEROSPACE STUDIES
Joseph LeDonne’s journey from an Aerospace Studies major to a newly appointed Volusia County Court Judge is a testament to the unexpected paths life can take. Raised in Florida, LeDonne graduated from Embry-Riddle in 2002 with a degree in Aerospace Studies (now called Interdisciplinary Studies) and minored in International Relations, Aviation Safety, Humanities and Social Sciences. Post-graduation, LeDonne pursued a law degree at Stetson University, completing his legal studies in December 2005. While most expected him to stay in Florida and begin his law career there, he did just the opposite and took the bar in Colorado, passed and practiced as a prosecutor in district court 2006 to 2013, and then briefly in private practice from 2013 to 2014. While there, his experience in criminal law deepened his understanding of justice, advocacy and the complexities of legal proceedings. In 2014, he returned to his home state of Florida, marking a significant shift in his legal career. He first served as an attorney for the Department of Children & Families for a year, before being hired by the 7th Judicial Circuit State Attorney’s Office where he was able to return to his passion, prosecuting felony cases for the State of Florida. However, as he advanced in his career, a desire for an even greater challenge compelled him to apply to be appointed as a County Court Judge. In December 2023, LeDonne received a life-changing call. The Governor’s office informed him of his appointment as a Volusia County Court Judge. “I was just at work doing what I normally do. I got the call from the governor’s office congratulating me on my appointment as a County Court Judge. It didn’t even register for a while that my life had just drastically changed in an instant,” he said.
The appointment of Joseph LeDonne to be a judge in Volusia County is well-earned. He is an incredible leader, and his professional achievements, hard work, and commitment to civic service set an example for our students. We are proud to have contributed to his academic development, and I have no doubt that he will have a shining career on the bench. P. Barry Butler, Ph.D. | Embry-Riddle President His legal acumen, combined with his commitment to justice, made him an ideal candidate for the bench. Currently presiding over criminal cases in DeLand, Judge LeDonne reflects on the impact of his role: “As a judge, I can make an impact on so many lives as I interact with a high volume of people on an almost daily basis. “ Looking back on his time at Embry-Riddle, he appreciates the well-rounded education he received, acknowledging the balance between STEM areas and philosophical studies, a combination that proved valuable in law school. “Embry-Riddle attracts lifelong learners. I think highly of Embry-Riddle; that’s why I had my investiture there. It gave me an incredible start to a fulfilling career.”
From Left to Right: LeDonne, his wife Lauren and Judge Chris Miller
16 | College of Arts & Sciences
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