The Maurice A. Deane School of Law at Hofstra University and Judge Gail Prudenti, dean, hosted the Law School’s fourth annual Outstanding Women in Law awards on April 22 at RXR Plaza in Uniondale, New York. Fifty-two women attorneys, judges and professors were honored at the awards and dinner reception. The event was attended by more than 400 judges, attorneys, business executives, professors and law students.
Over the past four years, Hofstra Law has honored more than 200 women who have made extraordinary contributions to the legal community. “We are proud to recognize such a diverse and accomplished group of outstanding women,” said Judge Prudenti. “They are shining examples of what it means to inspire, to lead and to make an impact. As advocates for the underrepresented, and leaders in the workplace and community, they are also role models and mentors to empower young women aspiring to join the legal profession.”
Judge Judy Sheindlin, former Manhattan Family Court Supervising Judge and star of Judge Judy, received the Lifetime Achievement Award and Hofstra University’s Presidential Medal, presented to her by Dr. Herman Berliner, provost and senior vice president for academic affairs at Hofstra University.
In addition to being a trailblazer, Sheindlin is also a mentor and role model. Along with her daughter Nicole, she founded “Her Honor Mentoring,” an initiative that combines the power of youth and the wisdom of experience to inspire young women to reach their full potential.
“It’s thrilling to be surrounded by accomplished women who have found their stride,” said Sheindlin.
When asked what advice she would offer young lawyers starting out, Sheindlin said, “be bold, be honest and remember your roots.”
In addition to recognizing exceptional women in law, the Outstanding Women in Law event also raises funds for innovative programs at Hofstra Law, including the Center for Children, Families and the Law.
The event sponsors were also recognized and included Liberty Maritime, Event Sponsor; US Pan Asian American Chamber of Commerce Education Foundation, Awards Sponsor; and Lewis Johs Avallone Aviles, LLP, VIP Cocktail Sponsor.
A full list of the honorees and sponsors can be found online at www.law.hofstra.edu/OWL.
—Submitted by Hofstra University
