The Queens County Women’s Bar Association honored the judiciary workers within the county during its annual Judiciary Night on Tuesday, Nov. 21. Judges, court attorneys, law secretaries and court staff members who assist the judiciary were all honored at the event.
“We recognize your efforts, your hard work, the heavy court calendars that you handle with professionalism, poise and judicial temperament, the large number of cases that you take on each day and the great effort you take toward making our judicial system work,” Queens County Women’s Bar Association President Elizabeth J. Newton said.
Several judges were honored for their work throughout the evening. Chief Judge of the Court of Appeals Rowan D. Wilson was awarded the “Blue Lady” statue in recognition of his leadership at the highest court in the state of New York. Associate Judge of the Court of Appeals Cailin J. Halligan also received a Blue Lady statue to commend her dedication to legal profession. Additionally, New York State Chief Administrative Judge Joseph A. Zayas was recognized for his long-time commitment to the legal profession and his devotion and leadership in the judiciary.
Another three judges were given special recognition at the event. Associate Justice of the Appellate Division, Second Department and former Queens County Women’s Bar Association President Lourdes M. Ventura, Court of Claims Judge, Acting Justice of the Supreme Court and former Queens County Women’s Bar Association President Nicole McGregor Mundy and Court of Claims Judge, Acting Justice of the Supreme Court and former Queens County Women’s Bar Association Vice President Maureen McHugh Heitner were each granted special recognition.
Three exceptional law students with interest in public interest work upon earning their law degrees were awarded with the $2,500 Faith O’Neal scholarships. The recipients for this year were Elizabeth Mauter, Jennifer Lafond and Noann Akter. To be eligible for this scholarship, students must be enrolled at an American Bar Association accredited law school, completed their first full semester and are domiciled or attend a law school in Queens County. The scholarship committee determines who receives the scholarship based on community service, financial need, academics and a written personal statement.
