The Honorable Gerald Bruce Lee has lived a life marked by purpose, leadership, and service. A proud triple Eagle, Lee graduated from American University’s School of Communication in 1973 and the Washington College of Law (AUWCL) in 1976, later receiving an honorary SJD in 2003. His remarkable journey from student journalist to federal judge is deeply intertwined with the values he learned at AU and the mentors and moments that inspired his career path.

As a high school student, Lee participated in the Price Inc./American University program, which introduced him to the world of higher education and public affairs. The first in his family to attend college, he initially pursued a career in journalism, working as a producer for the NPR affiliate WAMU-FM during his undergraduate years. But it was a pivotal encounter during that time that would shift the trajectory of his life.

“I met a guy named Marion Barry. His personal lawyer was Herb Reed, who represented Adam Clayton Powell in a case where the congressman had been excluded from Congress,” Lee recalled. “Herb Reed assembled a team of lawyers to challenge that... and he won. Any pearls he dropped in those meetings with Marion Barry, I was listening and thought one day maybe I should be a lawyer because lawyers could be the champion for their clients.”

That inspiration led Lee to AUWCL, where he found not just a rigorous legal education but a strong ethical foundation.

“I can remember vividly sitting in the classrooms and Professor Elliot Milstein telling us about social responsibility and responsibility as lawyers we have to seek justice,” he said. “I had other professors like Anthony Morella who taught us constitutional law... and he gave in life the way he taught.”

After earning his JD, Lee went on to build a distinguished legal career. He served as a Circuit Court Judge in Fairfax County, Virginia, and later as a U.S. District Judge for the Eastern District of Virginia. In these roles, he presided over complex civil and criminal cases with the same sense of purpose that first drew him to law: to make a difference.

His commitment to service extended beyond the courtroom. In 2009, Lee joined the American University Board of Trustees, viewing it as a way to give back to the institution that had shaped him—and to support future generations of students.

“It’s like being a trustee of a big higher education enterprise. It’s a microcosm of America,” he said, reflecting on the scope of responsibility and impact the board holds.

During his tenure, Lee chaired the Board’s Campus Life Committee and helped oversee transformative AUWCL campus expansions, including the creation of the 9-acre Tenley campus. He prioritized elevating student voices, ensuring that student leaders had a seat at the table during board meetings.

Throughout his life, Lee has lived by the belief that service and generosity are obligations for those who have benefited from opportunity.

“I believe to whom much is given, much is required,” he said. “When I attended American University undergraduate and law school, I was a recipient of scholarships and aid. And I know how much difference that made for me.”

Together with his wife, Edna Ruth Vincent WCL ’89, Lee has continued to mentor young lawyers, support scholarships, and champion access to education.

“We know from where we came,” Vicent said. “American University and Washington College of Law gave to us both, and we want to, in turn, do that for others. It’s life transformative.”

Lee remains deeply connected to the university’s mission of civic engagement, social justice, and academic excellence. His story is more than a personal success, it's a testament to how education, mentorship, and a commitment to giving back can shape not only a career, but a legacy.