Vratil, Kathryn Hoefer Born 1949 in Manhattan, KS Federal Judicial Service: Judge, U.S. District Court, District of Kansas Nominated by George H.W. Bush on July 28, 1992, to a seat vacated by Earl E. O`Connor. Confirmed by the Senate on October 8, 1992, and received commission on October 9, 1992. Served as chief judge, 2008-present. Education: University of Kansas, B.A., 1971 University of Kansas School of Law, J.D., 1975 Professional Career: Law clerk, Hon. Earl E. O'Connor, U.S. District Court, District of Kansas, 1975-1978 Private practice, Kansas City, Kansas, 1978-1992 Judge, Municipal Court, City of Prairie Village, Kansas, 1990-1992