Thomas, Sidney Runyan Born 1953 in Bozeman, MT Federal Judicial Service: Judge, U.S. Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit Nominated by William J. Clinton on July 19, 1995, to a seat vacated by Dorothy Wright Nelson. Confirmed by the Senate on January 2, 1996, and received commission on January 4, 1996. Served as chief judge, 2014-present. Education: Montana State University, B.A., 1975 University of Montana School of Law, J.D., 1978 Professional Career: Private practice, Billings, Montana, 1978-1995 Adjunct instructor of law, Rocky Mountain College, Billings, Montana, 1982-1995