This week, we learned the sad news that Class of 2000 alumnus Justin Flippen passed away suddenly at the age of 41. A beloved public servant, Justin was elected mayor of the Broward County town of Wilton Manors in 2018, after serving on the city commission since 2008.

A trailblazer of the LGBT community, Justin’s political career began at FAU when he was elected Student Government president, making him the first openly gay student body president in the state of Florida. He went on to receive a law degree from the University of Florida and served as a legislative assistant in the Florida House of Representatives, commission aide for the Broward County Commission, and executive aide to the Broward County Mayor. Justin served his alma mater as a member of the FAU Alumni Association Board of Directors. He also was inducted into the Parliament of OWLs, the honorary leadership society for alumni who were student leaders while at FAU.

Justin seemed destined for greatness, and I am proud that this pioneering Owl’s path to success began here at FAU. He was seeking re-election in November as “The People’s Mayor” and was engaged to be married. We join the community in mourning his loss. Our thoughts are with Justin’s fiancé, family and friends during this difficult time.