Michigan Gov. Rick Snyder announced yesterday the appointment of SVSU alum Manvel Trice III to the 70-2 District Court in Saginaw County as the county’s newest district judge.
Trice graduated from SVSU with a bachelor’s degree in behavioral science, before earning a law degree from Michigan State University-Detroit College of Law. He played basketball for the Cardinals from 1994-1998 under coach Robert Pratt. Currently, he serves on the SVSU Alumni Association Board of Directors.
“What a great appointment,” Executive Director of Alumni Relations Jim Dwyer said. “As an alumni board member he’s brought a real sense of maturity. He’s caring and concerning.”
Trice previously worked in Saginaw in the county prosecutor’s office for over four years before beginning his most recent job as an assistant U.S. attorney.
“For people who don’t know his background even to get that federal prosecuting job was huge,” Dwyer said. “The most important thing with him though is that he’s incredibly humble and he’s very engaged in the community. His commitment and willingness to get involved in things like the Alumni Relations Board as well as other organizations speaks highly of him as an individual.”
Gov. Snyder shared similar feelings.
“Throughout his career, Manvel has demonstrated a commitment to public service and to the entire Saginaw area community,” Snyder said in a statement. “I am confident his knowledge and experience will serve county residents well.”
Trice was unavailable for comment, citing U.S. Department of Justice policy that prohibits him from speaking directly with media.
Trice, a Bridgeport Township native and graduate of Bridgeport High School, was one of at least eight individuals who applied to replace Judge M.T. Thompson, who retired after 20 years. He will have to seek election in November 2018 in order to serve the remaining two years of the term.
