The Catholic University of America is mourning the tragic loss of an esteemed alumnus, Michael “Mike” Gill, who was shot during a deadly string of carjackings in Washington, DC. Mike graduated from the Columbus School of Law’s evening division in 2010.

A devoted husband and father of three, Mike is remembered by members of the Catholic Law community as an outstanding lawyer and public servant who cared deeply about his family, his community, and protecting democratic ideals. Law school classmate Joseph “Joe” Murray ’10 recalls Mike as someone who showed tremendous grace under pressure, balancing his family life with professional full-time responsibilities as a senior Congressional staffer - all while earning his law degree at night. “Though his life was tragically cut way too short, he will be remembered by his Catholic Law classmates as a shining light of a human being,” said Murray.

His distinguished legal career included early success in private practice, later leading him to the Commodity Futures Trading Commission as Chief of Staff to former chair Chris Giancarlo and, most recently, as a top executive with the Housing Policy Council. Mike was also generous with his time beyond family and work commitments, volunteering to serve three terms as an appointee to the DC Board of Elections, providing pro bono representation to undocumented minors in the court system through the Archdiocesan Legal Network, and returning to Catholic Law over the years since he graduated to help support future generations of alumni.

“Our heartfelt sympathies go out to Mike's family, friends, and classmates," said Catholic Law Dean and Knights of Columbus Professor of Law Stephen C. Payne. “We are especially proud of Mike as an exemplary alumnus who upheld the highest professional standards and lived our school’s mission by giving of himself to his family, our law school community, and the common good.”

Law School Board of Visitors Chair J.C. Boggs ’87 first met Mike during their time in private practice and later with the Board of Elections, becoming good friends over the years, describing him as “one of the finest people I have known.” J.C. added, “Mike was blessed by a beautiful and loving family, and many, many friends who shared in that love. He was already closer to heaven than most of us can ever hope to be on earth, and our lives are forever enhanced by his enduring goodness and friendship.”

More about Mike’s life can be read here. May God rest Mike’s soul, as well as bless his immediate family and the extended family of friends who knew and admired him.