In June 2025, Becker professionals from around the world gathered at the renowned Boca Raton Resort for the Firm Retreat that is held every two years. This highly anticipated event combined professional development, meaningful connection, and insight from some of the most accomplished voices in law, mental health advocacy, and military leadership.
Retired Judge Steve Leifman, who served as Associate Administrative Judge of the Miami-Dade County Court – Criminal Division until 2024, delivered a powerful keynote address focusing on mental health in both the justice system and the legal profession. A national leader in criminal justice and mental health reform, Judge Leifman has chaired the Florida Supreme Court’s Task Force on Substance Abuse and Mental Health Issues and led the Mental Health Subcommittee that authored the widely acclaimed report Transforming Florida’s Mental Health System.
His trailblazing work has been recognized with numerous honors, including the William H. Rehnquist Award for Judicial Excellence, the Florida Supreme Court Chief Justice Award, the 2018 Pardes Humanitarian Prize, and the 2024 Alvah H. Chapman, Jr. Award of Excellence. In 2023, he was bestowed the Papal Medal Benemerenti from Pope Francis by Archbishop Thomas Wenski for his efforts to improve outcomes for people with mental illnesses. His story was also featured in the PBS documentary The Definition of Insanity.
Master Chief (SEAL) Rick Kaiser, USN (Ret.), CEO of the National Navy SEAL Museum and the Navy SEAL Museum San Diego, also addressed the group. Drawing from over three decades of military service, including his role as a lead sniper and breacher with SEAL Team SIX, Kaiser shared leadership and resilience lessons forged in combat. He was awarded the Silver Star for Valor for his actions during the 1993 Battle of Mogadishu, famously known as Black Hawk Down.
With thought-provoking presentations and opportunities to reconnect, the 2025 Firm Retreat underscored the values that define Becker—collaboration, purpose, and excellence.
