Remembering Ralph

Abstract

The late Chief Justice of the Massachusetts Supreme Judicial Court, Ralph D. Gants, was many things: a brilliant judge, a devoted criminal justice reformer, and a staunch leader on access to justice issues. But beyond these roles, Ralph was also a great friend to many, including to the three of us, his college and law school classmates. Our shared memories of his friendship remind us of Ralph's qualities, contributions, and legacy as a friend. At the Boston College Law School Symposium in Ralph's honor, we collectively presented our memories, incorporating pictures of those days, which the Law Review has kindly reprinted here and in the supplement to his remembrance. Of special meaning to us is the repeated image of us as a foursome, which we ceremonially took at each important reunion, here in our 20s, 40s, and 60s. Just weeks ago, we gathered again, but as a trio, to lift our glasses to Ralph, wishing so much that he could have been there. This is what we remember.