Awards

Bicentennial Medal - 2020

About Jerry E. Abramson

Jerry E. Abramson received a bachelor’s degree in business economics and public policy at Indiana University, where he also chaired the state’s College Students for Robert F. Kennedy’s 1968 Presidential campaign. He then earned a J.D. from Georgetown University Law Center where he was a member of the Center’s Law Journal.

Abramson serves as executive in residence at Spalding University and plays a significant role in the development of academic programs focused on juvenile criminal justice reform and restorative practices. Previously, Abramson served as deputy assistant to the President and director of Intergovernmental Affairs. In that role, Abramson oversaw the Obama administration’s domestic agenda with state, city, county, and tribal elected officials across the country. Abramson has served in state, city, and county governments in Kentucky. He is the former Lieutenant Governor of Kentucky having served alongside Governor Steve Beshear from 2011-2014. Prior to entering state government, Abramson held the role of longest-serving mayor of Louisville with over two decades of service. He served three terms as mayor of the old city of Louisville (1986-1999) and two terms as the first mayor of the consolidated city-county of Louisville Metro (2003-2010). During his time as mayor, he was president of the United States Conference of Mayors. Abramson has taught classes at the University of Louisville’s School of Law and at Bellarmine University. In 2011, Jerry held the position of executive in residence at Bellarmine University and taught several undergraduate courses.

In 2021, Abramson was awarded Indiana University’s Bicentennial Medal, in recognition of his distinguished services and continued contributions to education and state and national government work.