On October 21, 2025, hundreds of legal and civic leaders gathered at the historic Crystal Ballroom to celebrate a jurist whose integrity and intellect have shaped the Texas judiciary for more than four decades. The Center for American and International Law (CAIL) honored The Honorable Nathan L. Hecht, retired Chief Justice of the Supreme Court of Texas, with its Great Leaders Award — one of CAIL’s highest honors, recognizing individuals whose vision, judgment, and service have advanced justice and upheld the dignity of the individual.
A Celebration of Service and the Rule of Law
The luncheon began with a warm welcome from Randall M. Ebner, Chair of CAIL’s Board of Trustees, and The Hon. Dale Wainwright, Chair of CAIL’s Executive Committee, who noted that the event was not only a tribute to one leader but also a reaffirmation of the values that define the legal profession.
Daniella D. Landers, president of the Houston Bar Association, delivered a stirring Rule of Law Invocation. Reflecting on her own recent swearing-in at a bar ceremony, she described the lawyer’s oath as “an ongoing commitment we make to preserve integrity, serve the public, and ensure equal access to justice.” She urged her colleagues to “bridge the gap” between principle and practice by volunteering, mentoring, and standing tall in defense of the rule of law, even amid challenges to the judiciary and the legal profession.
CAIL’s Mission and a Lifetime of Impact
CAIL President Thomas (T.L.) Cubbage reflected on the organization’s 78-year mission to strengthen justice through education—training judges, lawyers, and law enforcement leaders from more than 130 countries. “CAIL exists to educate, connect, and inspire those who protect the rule of law,” he said. “Our continued relevance stems from our ability to adapt to a changing world while remaining grounded in justice, ethics, and service.” He concluded by introducing David R. McAtee II, Senior Executive Vice President and General Counsel of AT&T, to present the day’s honoree.
McAtee chronicled Justice Hecht’s remarkable 43-year judicial career—35 years on the Supreme Court of Texas, including more than a decade as Chief Justice—calling him “one of the great legal minds of our time.” He quoted Hecht’s own 2017 testimony before Congress: “If justice were food, too many would be starving; if it were housing, too many would be homeless.” Hecht’s leadership, McAtee added, reflects the grit and humility learned “on a wheat farm in New Mexico, where his parents modeled the words never give up and always go the extra mile.”
A Fireside Conversation on Legacy
Following the award presentation, Justice Hecht joined attorney, historian, and author Talmage Boston for a lively fireside chat. Boston — himself an acclaimed trial lawyer and civic leader who has received presidential commendations from eight U.S. presidents — guided a conversation that blended history, humor, and humanity.
Together, they reflected on the evolution of Texas courts, the future of the judiciary, and the moral compass that guides decision-making in times of uncertainty. Justice Hecht spoke about the importance of judicial modernization, mentorship, and ensuring that technology serves, rather than complicates, the pursuit of justice.
In closing, Ebner thanked event sponsors and emphasized that honoring Justice Hecht was also a call to continue his example of service and ethical leadership. As guests departed The Rice, the mood was one of inspiration and gratitude—a shared reminder that true leadership, grounded in justice and humility, endures far beyond the bench.