This summer, CUNY Law’s First Impressions Youth Legal Collaborative, part of the Law School’s access program pipeline, brought together 31 high school students, CUNY Law alumni and faculty, community partners and elected officials, and six CUNY Law students who served as teaching staff and mentors.
The annual Youth Summer Institute, led by Director Hon. Tracey A. Bing ’96 (ret.), is a four-week program designed to change how young people and the justice system interact by focusing on how advocacy and civic engagement can shape a more just and representative future.
A young person’s early experiences with the justice system should be grounded in knowledge, voice, and a sense of belonging. First Impressions is built on the belief that young people’s experiences should affirm that they have a place not only in their community but within the systems that shape it.
First Impressions: First Day
July 8, 2025: Interim Dean Natalie Gomez-Velez; Dr. Joanne Hyppolite, Associate Dean for Student Affairs & Enrollment Management; and Professor Kara S. Wallis ’15 greeted the students and provided an introductory lesson on civic engagement, with each student received a personal copy of the United States Constitution, marking the start of their legal education journey.
Connecting With CUNY Alumni
July 13, 2025: Several distinguished CUNY alumni visited the First Impressions students to share what you can do with a CUNY Law degree within your community and beyond. With the support of the alumni, students gave presentations on civil service and policy. The day culminated in a practical exercise where students identified needs in New York City and created the required budget to address those needs.
Queens Borough President Visit
August 8, 2025: Queens Borough President Donovan Richards, accompanied by the Borough Budget Director and Education Director, joined the First Impressions students. During the visit, Richards shared his journey into politics and offered valuable insights into the collaboration among city and state government officials aimed at enhancing conditions in New York City and the Borough of Queens. The discussion included engaging dialogue and debate about pressing issues facing Queens, such as immigration and housing challenges, fostering a deeper understanding among the students.
Visiting Sky Farm LIC
August 6, 2025: The First Impressions students had the opportunity to visit Sky Farm LIC, a division of the Variety Boys & Girls Club of Queens. This unique facility is a 1-acre rooftop educational farm located in Long Island City. During the visit, the students gained insights into urban agriculture and its critical role in promoting sustainable living in cities. The experience underscored the significance of innovative strategies in tackling urban challenges and addressing climate change. Variety Boys & Girls Club of Queens CEO and former City Council Member, Costa Constantinides, led a discussion with the students about environmental legislation and its implications for New York City.