Lederer Receives Inaugural George Wythe Society Award

George Wythe Society Award
George Wythe Society Award Dominick Littman J.D. '13 (at left), president of the George Wythe Society for 2012-13, welcomes Professor Fredric Lederer to the podium as the recipient of the inaugural George Wythe Society Award. Photo by David F. Morrill
George Wythe Society Award
George Wythe Society Award Dominick Littman J.D. '13 (at left), president of the George Wythe Society for 2012-13, presents the inaugural George Wythe Society Award to Chancellor Professor of Law Fredric Lederer, while Dean Davison Douglas looks on. Photo by David F. Morrill

Fredric Lederer, the Chancellor Professor of Law at William & Mary Law School, has been named recipient of the inaugural George Wythe Society Award. Lederer received the honor during the Law School’s Awards Ceremony on Saturday, May 11, at the Kimball Theater in Williamsburg.

The George Wythe Society, a civic leadership program that recognizes and encourages students’ community service and civic participation, created the award  to recognize a faculty or staff member who performs outstanding service to the Law School community. In addition, the honoree demonstrates the character, leadership, and selfless service that distinguished the life of George Wythe (1726-1806), William & Mary's--and the nation’s--first professor of law.

According to Wythe Society President Dominick R. Littman J.D. ’13, there were many distinguished candidates, but the list quickly came down to one name.

“This individual has spent his entire life serving other people,” Littman said. “I can tell you from first-hand experience I’ve had with this professor that the dedication to helping others does not end at the classroom door.”

Citing his more than 30 years at the Law School and entire life devoted to service, Littman listed Lederer’s impressive credentials as a JAG officer, retired colonel, prosecutor, defense attorney, and trial judge. An expert in legal technology, Lederer is also director of the Center for Legal and Court Technology at the Law School.

“He is one of the best professors, not only at William & Mary, but anywhere,” Littman added to great applause from the audience.