Ruth Lowenkron ’86, Director of Disability Justice at New York Lawyers for the Public Interest, told The City, “We see variations on the theme of people complaining about having to go far or having to wait. Neither is desirable.” She was also featured in an overview of Non-Police Mental Health Crisis Teams.
Fred Rooney ’86 shared his work setting up a first Legal Incubator in the Middle East, where he is working with women at the incubator in Gaza. Rooney shares, “As the word on INSAF’s success spreads, other countries in the Middle East are already looking to replicate incubator programs for young lawyers with a deep commitment to social justice.”
The Hon. Edwina Richardson-Mendelson ’88 was honored as a keynote speaker at “Celebrating Women Who Tell Our Stories,” a Women’s History Month event at the Kings County Supreme Court in Brooklyn.
Cynthia Knox ’89, CEO of Caring for the Hungry and Homeless of Peekskill (CHHOP), was honored as a 2023 Notable LGBTQIA+ Leader by Crain’s New York Business. To qualify, candidates needed to work in a senior role in the New York metropolitan area and identify as LGBTQIA+. Cynthia was recognized for her demonstrated positive impact on the LGBTQ+ community through her work at CHHOP and her civic engagement.
Toshia McKnight ’94 was appointed to the position of Chief Assistant Corporation Counsel for Criminal Justice, where she will oversee the Law Department’s Family Court Division and serve as Liaison to Public Law Enforcement Agencies, as featured in the New York Law Journal and the Brooklyn Daily Eagle.
Two CUNY Law grads have been elected as officers of the Association of the Bar of the City of NY: Paula Edgar ’06 appointed Secretary of the Association for the term 2023-2024; and Devika Kewalramani ’95 appointed as one of three Vice Presidents for the term 2023-2024. Devika is also the immediate past Chair of Citibar’s Board.
Mercedes Cano ’99 published her book “American Dream” in Spanish, which tells of her journey as an immigrant.
Joshua Edwards ’02 has achieved partner status at Fox Rothschild LLP. His success highlights the importance of representation and diversity in the legal profession. With the hashtag #BlackPartnersatBigLaw, Joshua emphasizes the significance of having a seat at the table and its positive impact on fostering inclusivity and equality.
Nicole Benjamin ’05 is the new Assistant Executive Director for Quality and Corporate Compliance at the Arc Westchester, where she will be responsible for managing all aspects of quality improvement, corporate compliance, and staff development across the organization. Nicole will also assume the nonprofit’s Corporate Compliance Officer role.
Paula Edgar ’06 has been appointed as one of 12 Commissioners to the American Bar Association’s Commission on Women in the Profession. Edgar states, “This appointment resonates profoundly with my personal and professional commitment to DEI and championing the advancement of all women in the legal profession.
IN MEMORIAM
We are sad to share the news of the death of Richard Bryan ’04 who passed away on August 19, 2023. His obituary remembers him as a compassionate, helpful attorney. Richard was very active in asking and answering questions on the Law School’s Community Legal Resource Network listserv, where he is missed.
“In June 2005, Richard W. Bryan obtained his license to practice law in the State of NY, where he began operating as a sole practitioner. He was driven to be the best advocate for his clients. Richard was regarded as the consummate professional, always punctual and never missing a court hearing in the 18 years that he practiced law. His benevolence, trustworthiness, and dedication endeared him to his clients. Not only was he an excellent advocate for his clients, but he genuinely enjoyed helping people and was passionate about delivering the best outcome for them and their families.”
“Richard extended his legal expertise to all in the family. No matter where they lived, they could call upon him at any time for advice, often on a pro bono basis. His primary goal was to extend himself to helping others in any way he could. With genuine sincerity, he would often ask, ‘How can I help?’”
“Richard will be fondly remembered for his humble, generous, and compassionate spirit. He loved people and showed respect for the feelings and opinions of others. He lived and led with honesty and integrity. He was playful and enjoyed making people laugh. Yet, he had a keen sense of responsibility and commitment to those whose lives depended on him. He was truly an inspiration to all the lives he touched. He will be truly missed. He leaves to mourn his mother, sister, aunts, uncles, cousins, and friends.”
Dasia H. Monge ’17 passed away unexpectedly on September 17, 2023. Her arrangements at Funeraria Borinquen are full of comments about a woman who was very dear to her community. Her CUNY Law community also shared the tragic loss of Dasia, stating: “She was a beautiful, powerful lady;” “Dasia was always such a kind ray of sunshine;” and “She was/is pure joy and always had a smile and a kind word.”