I am both honored and thrilled to serve as the President of the New York Women’s Bar Association for the 2026-2027 term. This association has always been more than a professional network; it stands as a beacon of hope and strength—a sanctuary where women in the legal field unite not just to advance their careers, but to inspire and embolden one another. I embrace this role with profound gratitude—for the trailblazing leaders who paved the way before me, the mentors who opened doors, and every member who has propelled us forward.

I would like to extend my heartfelt gratitude to our outgoing President, Lissett Costa Ferriera, for her invaluable leadership and guidance. I also want to acknowledge the dedicated Officers, Board members, Advisory Committee, and chairs whose tireless efforts have made possible the diverse and enriching events, CLEs, and programs that truly benefit our members. I am especially looking forward to our signature events this year and wish to express my appreciation to the committee members who are instrumental in bringing them to life. A special thank you to Virginia LoPreto and Jennifer Brown DiBlasi for their work on the Annual Awards and Installation Dinner, and, with Magnolia Levy, on the Membership Reception and Judiciary Reception, alongside Olivia Lee. No year would be complete without our special program, the Martha (Meg) E. Gifford Summer Program—“What It’s REALLY Like to Practice Law as a Woman.” This impactful event is organized by Martha Gifford, Hon. Lisa A. Sokoloff, Hon. Crystal Villaseñor, Ernestine Mings, and Melissa Glassman, and I look forward to the valuable insights it will provide.

I am excited to work alongside the remarkable members who tirelessly ensure the smooth operation of the NYWBA, including our new Vice Presidents, Meaghan E. Carey, Hon. Crystal R. Villaseñor, and Judith E. White; Treasurer, Melissa Glassman; and Recording Secretary, Olivia Sohmer, along with Corresponding Secretary Fran R. Hoffinger. Thank you all for your dedication and commitment to making our association thrive. I am equally delighted to celebrate our Annual Awards and Induction dinner with the “Lawyers for the Rule of Law,” the recipient of the President’s Special Award, and Kay Marmorek, this year’s honoree for The Doris S. Hoffman Service Award. I appreciate the support of the New York Women’s Bar Association Foundation and our new executive director team at RRR Associations LLC, especially our primary contacts, Feikje Van Rein, CMP, and Amy Nickerson.This year, my goal is to widen our circle and welcome women from every area of practice—including those traditionally underrepresented, yet now breaking new ground. We will not shy away from our public voice; we will remain steadfast champions of diversity, equity, inclusion, women’s rights, LGBTQ dignity, and the rule of law, regardless of the pressures we face. Together, we will forge new partnerships, co-sponsoring events that enhance our reach, elevate our prestige, and shape our future.

I am deeply honored to lead this association forward as we continue to embody both our principled mission and our expansive vision. Thank you for your trust and support.