Elena Kagan On Monday, President Barack Obama nominated Elena Kagan to replace Justice John Paul Stevens on the nation’s high court.

“Elena is respected and admired not just for her intellect and record of achievement, but also for her temperament -- her openness to a broad array of viewpoints; her habit, to borrow a phrase from Justice Stevens, “of understanding before disagreeing”; her fair-mindedness and skill as a consensus-builder,” Obama said.

Widely-regarded as one of the nation’s leading legal minds, Kagan has forged a path-breaking career in the law and in government service, distinguishing herself throughout by her penetrating intellect, unwavering integrity, sound judgment and prodigious work ethic.

With an unparalleled ability to bring together people of different backgrounds and beliefs, she has earned praise across the political spectrum for her fair-mindedness, her insistence that all views deserve a respectful hearing, and her lifelong commitment to public service. She is also widely admired and liked for her warmth, humility, and signature sense of humor.

Left to right: Robert E. James, II, a native of Savannah, and his wife, Angela P. James are pictured with Elena Kagan during a reception for Harvard Law School graduates during the inauguration of President Barack Obama. All are Harvard Law graduates. She has been a beloved teacher, a transformative dean of a leading law school, and the nation’s top lawyer, currently serving as Solicitor General.