CBA Record September-October 2024

Leonard Jay Schrager: A Life Committed to Justice and Service By Editor-in-Chief Justice Michael B. Hyman, CBA President 2005-06

T he life of former CBA (1998-1999) and CBF (2000-2001) President Leonard Jay Schrager, who passed away in July at age 89, reminds us that one person, committed to justice and to serving others, can influence the lives of countless people, stirring within them a resolve to make a difference, a belief in their own potential, and an appreciation for goodness. Through out his long career in law, academia, and public service, Schrager was esteemed for his work and loved for his personal qualities. A humble man, he never lost sight of his humanity and brought it to everything he did, thereby elevating all in his large orbit. One of Schrager’s most notable achievements was establishing the CBA and CBF Pro Bono & Public Service Awards luncheon.

In 2002, the CBA and CBF, along with his former colleagues at Reed Smith LLP, inaugurated the Leonard Jay Schrager Award of Excellence. This award recognizes attorneys employed by law schools who, like Dean Schrager, profoundly contributed to improving access to justice. The announcement of his death prompted an exchange of email tributes by CBA past presidents celebrating his impact and legacy, several of which appear on this page. May the blessed memories of his virtues and greatness guide all those Leonard Schrager touched to uphold the values he cherished.

TRIBUTES TO LEONARD SCHRAGER FROM PAST CBA PRESIDENTS

“Len was a dear friend for over 60 years. We were law school classmates. He was always a voice of reason, not only as a scholar, but just as a down-to-earth, caring person.” — Joseph Stone, CBA President 1986-1987

“What a wonderful, sharp, thoughtful lawyer and a dear human being.” — Laurel G. Bellows, CBA President 1991-1992 “Len had great judgment and common sense, along with a keen mind.” — Roy E. Hofer, CBA President 1988-1989

“Leonard was my professor in law school, and I have great respect and affection for him.” — Justice Joy V. Cunningham, CBA President 2004-2005 “Len was such a giant in the legal community, and this is a big loss to all of us. He will be sorely missed.” — Aurora Austriaco, CBA President 2012-2013

“We lost another legend (and a personal mentor).” — Steven Elrod, CBA President 2018-2019 “Len was such a kind man. This is very sad news.” — Terri Mascherin, CBA President 2010-2011

12 September/October 2024