Judge Leo Glasser celebrates centennial with tributes to his life of service

April 11, 2024 Robert Abruzzese, Courthouse Editor

Judge I. Leo Glasser at his 100th birthday celebration, a distinguished career spanning service as a World War II Bronze Star Medal recipient, professor and dean at Brooklyn Law School, and more than four decades on the federal bench. Photos by Allison Morrissey/Second Circuit Library, courtesy of the EDNY

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The U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of New York hosted an event on Wednesday, April 3, 2024, to celebrate the 100th birthday of the Hon. I. Leo Glasser. The occasion brought together family, friends and colleagues to commemorate a century of Judge Glasser’s life and his contributions to the field of law and public service.

Judge Glasser’s career highlights include serving as a U.S. Army technician during World War II, where he was awarded the Bronze Star Medal, followed by positions as a professor of law and dean at Brooklyn Law School and judge on the New York State Family Court. Appointed to the federal bench by President Ronald Reagan in 1981 and taking senior status in July of 1993, Judge Glasser has presided over numerous noteworthy trials throughout his over four decades of service in the Eastern District.

Chief Judge Brodie, Judge Glasser and U.S. Supreme Court Justice Sonia Sotomayor.

The celebration was presided over by Chief Judge Margo Brodie, who welcomed the attendees, including Judge Glasser’s four generations of family. Chief Judge Brodie shared a letter from Supreme Court Chief Justice John Roberts, praising Judge Glasser’s longstanding service. Supreme Court Justice Sonia Sotomayor and former Chief Judge Raymond Dearie offered personal anecdotes and reflections on Judge Glasser’s impactful career and character.

United States Attorney for the Eastern District of New York Breon Peace conveyed congratulations from United States Attorney General Merrick Garland, alongside his own commendations for Judge Glasser’s service. In his speech, Judge Glasser expressed gratitude for his tenure and the opportunity to serve the Eastern District of New York. The event concluded with a toast by former Chief Judge Carol Amon, celebrating Judge Glasser’s lifelong commitment to the legal profession.

This birthday celebration served as a testament to Judge Glasser’s enduring legacy in the legal community, marked by his decades of judicial service, educational contributions, and military valor.