Chair – Hon. Connie Mallafré Mélendez
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Bronx School for Law, Government & Justice, Bronx NY
Partners:
Julissa Gomez-McGhie, Assistant Principal & Basil Manolakos, J.D., Civil & Criminal Law Dept.
Hon. Nichelle Johnson
Reflections: “This program is so essential and even though our contact with the youth is for a short time, it is impactful because we show that we understand that they are important and are deserving of attention. The student’s reactions to our personal stories – finding out that we are just like them – is so rewarding and you can see their eyes brighten when they discover we are all the same.. This is one of the highlights of my career and provides the basis upon which I can say to myself I am trying to do the work of inspiring our youth to understand they are enough! God’s work. Thank you Latino Judges for keeping us on our “Judicial Social Responsibility (JSR)!!!!”
November 2023
Hon. Jeanette Rodriguez-Morick
Reflections: This is such a wonderful and uplifting program. Judge Mallafre’s program format (brief bio as introduction followed by rapid fire Q&A moderated by the teacher) makes “giving back” an easy and enjoyable experience. It was a real pleasure interacting with such bright and engaging students. I look forward to doing this again.
November 2023
Hon. Lourdes Ventura Queens Civil Court
Reflections: “I am thankful for this organization and its High School Speaker Series. Speaking with students at Brooklyn High School of Arts and Humanities allowed me give what was given to me – planting the seed for a possible career in the law, providing tools and the necessary knowledge, and helping our younger generation believe that they can succeed no matter what life throws their way.”
May 2023
Hon. Cynthia Isales
Reflections: “I had the honor and privilege of speaking with the students at The Bronx High School for Law Government and Justice. The students were incredibly enthusiastic and asked a ton of great questions! They were thoughtful and attentive and the participation was great! I learned just as much from them as I think they did from me. After speaking with them I was very encouraged and hopeful by our youth and what the future holds. I highly encourage and recommend you to participate in this program. Please do take the opportunity to speak this amazing group young people, it will amaze and inspire you!”
November 2023
Hon. Connie Gonzalez Queens Family Court
Reflections: “Despite the technical difficulties, we were able to have a meaningful conversation. The questions showed real interest in the field of law. This is a valuable program that I wish was available when I was in HS. I hope the students enjoyed it as much as I did.”
April 2023
Hon. Rhonda Tomlinson New York State Court of Claims
Reflections: It was a pleasure to meet with the students at The School for Law Government and Justice. As a child of an immigrant family in this country, I wish that I had someone to speak with me at that age about careers in and the law, including the judiciary. These wonderful young people have their lives before them, and it is important that that they have exposure to the range of legal careers that are available. This is an opportunity to remind them that with hard work and encouragement, they can pursue their interests, develop their talents, and fulfill their dreams.
March 2023
Hon. Yvette Rosario Associate Village Justice
I had a very rewarding and humbling experience with the program. Seeing the students, reminded me of myself at their age – interested in the law. Being curious about the law, was my first step in becoming a lawyer and then eventually, a judge. I hope that their curiosity will allow them the possibility to keep exploring and see what is out there for them to achieve their dreams.
March 27, 2023
Hon. Valentina Morales New York City, Criminal Court
Reflections: This is a wonderful program which allows us the opportunity to exchange ideas with our community’s young thinkers. It reminded me that our presence on the bench can mean so very much to those who will craft our collective future. It was a great honor and a lot of fun!
March 27, 2023
Hon. Alicia Gerez
Reflections: “My virtual presentation with students from the Bronx High School for Law Government and Justice was a wonderful, engaging experience that I hope to repeat in the near future. The students did their research prior to our meeting, and presented well-thought out questions and responses regarding our justice system. We also spoke of my path to the bench, and how we can achieve anything we set our minds to so long as we are willing to do the work that it entails to reach our goals. This group was motivated, intelligent and thoughtful, and it was a great pleasure to speak with them.”
