Get to know FGCU’s general counsel

October 09, 2025

We caught up with Vice President & General Counsel Kristi Carman, who joined FGCU in May, to learn more about her journey into law, what her typical day looks like on the job and which song she’d choose in a lip-sync battle with Azul! Spoiler Alert: it’s a crowd-pleaser! Keep reading to learn more about Kristi.

What inspired you to pursue a career in law, and what drew you specifically to higher education?

I’ve always been drawn to problem-solving and advocacy. Law gave me a way to use those skills to help people navigate complex issues. As for higher education, I believe deeply in its mission. Working in this field allows me to support an environment where learning, discovery and opportunity flourish.

What’s one book you think everyone should read at least once? I loved “A Prayer for Owen Meany” by John Irving. It is a great book about purpose and meaning behind life.

What’s one misconception people often have about the role of a university’s legal counsel? That we’re the “no” department. In reality, my job is to help the university say “yes” — safely and responsibly. We work to find solutions that align with the law while supporting innovation and growth.

What does a typical day look like for you as general counsel? No two days are the same, which is part of what I love. I might start with a contract review, move into a meeting about campus policy, handle a question about employment law and end the day advising on compliance for a research grant. It’s a constant puzzle, and I enjoy the variety.

What’s one piece of advice you’d give to someone who is considering a career in law? Talk to as many lawyers as you can — get a feel for the different types of work they do. Law is a broad field, and the more you understand its possibilities, the better you can shape your path.

It’s time for an office potluck. What do you bring? Fried chicken from Publix! I am not going to lie, I am not a great cook.

If you could swap jobs with anyone on campus for a day, who would it be and why? Probably a professor teaching a first-year seminar. I’d love the chance to engage directly with students and hear their perspectives. It’s energizing and keeps you grounded in the university’s core mission.

You’re stranded on a deserted island with only three items. What are you bringing? A solar-powered water purifier, a good book and a cell phone to call for help! I would have chosen my dog, Fred, but I wouldn’t want him to be stranded.

Azul challenges you to a lip-sync battle – what’s your winning song? “Don’t Stop Believin’” by Journey. It’s dramatic, nostalgic and always gets the crowd going.

If you could instantly master one new skill (legal or not), what would it be? I’d love to learn to paint. As much as I enjoy being creative in my work, a creative outlet like painting would give me joy.