Home Law School News Drake Law alumna retires from bench

Drake Law alumna retires from bench

Rosemary Sackett, LW’63, the longest serving judge in the history of the Iowa Court of Appeals, retired from her position as Chief Judge at the age of 72 in January.

Sackett, appointed to the court in 1982 and appointed chief judge in 1999, was born in Fort Dodge and graduated from Drake Law School after earning her undergraduate degree from Buena Vista University.

A public ceremony was held in October to acknowledge her long tenure and celebrate her contributions to the court.

“Judge Sackett’s distinguished service on the bench is what every jurist hopes to achieve,” said Drake Law School Dean Allan Vestal. “We appreciate her long and selfless commitment to public service and wish her well in retirement.”

The State Judicial Nominating Commission nominated three individuals as possible replacements for Sackett “” two of whom are also alumni of Drake Law School.

Larry J. Eishenhaur, LW’74, was chosen to replace Sackett in February 2012.