Dear Members of the Bar, 

As many of you know, earlier this year, I advised Chief District Judge Marcia Morales Howard that I intend to step down as Chief Bankruptcy Judge on September 30, 2025, the sixth anniversary of my appointment as Chief Judge. 

I have been honored to serve the Middle District of Florida as its Chief Bankruptcy Judge. Over the past six years, I have especially enjoyed meeting and spending time with the attorneys in each of our Divisions. And I have greatly appreciated the support I have received from the District Court, my fellow bankruptcy judges, our court staff, and members of the bar.  

Under 28 U.S.C. § 154(b), the district court designates the bankruptcy judge to serve as the chief judge of the bankruptcy court. I am pleased to announce that the District Court has selected Judge Jacob Brown to a four-year term as Chief Judge, commencing October 1, 2025. Please join me in congratulating Judge Brown on his selection. I am sure he will enjoy your support as much as I have. 

Caryl E. Delano
Chief Bankruptcy Judge
Middle District of Florida

Thank you 2025 Annual Sponsors

Elite 2025 Lunches

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CFBLA 2025 Board of Directors  

With the arrival of a new year comes the transition to a new Board. The 2025 CFBLA Board of Directors would like to extend heartfelt gratitude to Paul Mascia (President), Jonathan Sykes (Past President and Director), Robert Branson (Director), Ben Taylor (Director), and Lauren Reynolds (Director) for their exceptional service and dedication over the past three years. 

We are thrilled to welcome K. Hunter Goff, Todd Budgen, Keenan Smith, and Melissa Sydow to the 2025 Board of Directors, along with re-elected Lauren Reynolds for another three-year term. Additionally, we welcome Lauren Stricker, who will be completing the remaining term of a departing board member.

Our new officers for 2025 are: 

• Jennifer Morando, President

• Lori Patton, Vice-President

• Esther McKean, Treasurer

• Lauren Reynolds, Secretary 

We look forward to an exciting and productive year ahead under their leadership!