User talk:SicSemperTyrannis

J. Edward Houston graduated from Stetson University in 1956 and graduated from Stetson College of Law in 1959 and began his career as an attorney. He practiced privately until 1964 when he was appointed to the bench of the U.S. Bankruptcy Court. He served there until 1970 when he returned to his private law practice.

In 1977 Mr. Houston entered commercial banking when he was elected President and Chief Executive Office of Barnett Bank of South Florida, N.A. He held that position until 1983 when he formed JEHouston Financial Group.

Mr. Houston returned to law practice in 1986 and began acquiring interest in several companies that required new management structures.

In addition, Mr. Houston served as Director and Chairman of the Audit Committee of Avatar Holdings, Inc.

Throughout his career, Mr. Houston has been active in local, regional and national public service activities. The following represents a partial listing of his activities:

Trustee, Florida International University Foundation Trustee, Stetson University Member and former Chairman, Committee of 100 of the Broward Economic Development Board Director, Broward Public Library Foundation Member, Governor’s Advisory Council on Movies and Television Advisory Council Member, Florida Fine Arts Council Member, Downtown Development Authority of Fort Lauderdale Member, Downtown Development Authority of Miami Director, Broward County Tourist Development Authority Director, Philharmonic Orchestra of Florida Member, Reserve City Bankers

Because of his public service, Mr. Houston has been honored with numerous awards including: The National Conference of Christians and Jews Silver Medallion Award; Fort Lauderdale News Business Leader of the Year – 1983; Stetson Lawyers Association Ben C. Willard Memorial Award; and the 1988 South Broward High School Outstanding Alumni Achievement Award.

J. Edward Houston was born August 18, 1933 and “met his Maker” on August 25, 2014.