CUNY Law hosted Student Awards Night 2026 on Wednesday May 20, the night before Commencement. The celebration brought together graduates, their loved ones, and the Law School community for an evening of recognition and fun that featured student-selected awards.
Student-selected speakers Catherine Murcek and Tyrena Barrow, representing the evening and day programs, respectively, delivered remarks reflecting on the challenges and transformations of law school, the relationships they built at CUNY Law, and the shared sense of purpose that carried the Class of 2026 through their legal education.
Among the evening’s honorees was Professor Sofia Yakren, who received the Outstanding Professor Award in recognition of her commitment to students and the values of the Law School. Denise Rojas, a staff member in the Law School’s clinical program who enrolled as a student in the evening program for part-time study, received the Community Service Award for her dedication to supporting students and strengthening the Law School community.
Their speeches drew laughter, applause, and moments of visible emotion from all gathered. The evening concluded with music from CUNY Law band The Exceptions, photographs, and embraces as graduates lingered together in one of the Law School’s final collective moments before commencement.