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New AO Deputy Director Named

Supreme Court Chief Justice John G. Roberts, Jr., today announced the appointment of Lee Ann Bennett, the clerk of the Bankruptcy Court of the Middle District of Florida, as the new deputy director of the Administrative Office of the U.S. Courts. Bennett will serve as deputy to AO Director James C. Duff. She succeeds Jill C. Sayenga, who is retiring after a nearly 30-year career with the federal Judiciary.

Bennett will provide management and oversight of the AO’s day-to-day operations and implement short- and long-term goals, objectives, and policies.  In announcing his selection, the Chief Justice noted, “Lee Ann has received high praise for her work as a bankruptcy court clerk and for her contributions to the Administrative Office.  She has provided expert advice and assistance to Judicial Conference committees and advisory groups.”

Bennett has served as the clerk of the bankruptcy court for the past 10 years and was the deputy clerk for three years.  She has held various positions in the Middle District of Florida clerk’s divisions since 1991.  She received the Director’s Award for Outstanding Leadership from the AO in 2015.

Director Duff said of her appointment, “Lee Ann is well known in the federal court system for her organizational skills and collegial approach to management.  She will provide well-informed and practical leadership within the AO and strengthen its services to the courts.”