Albany Law School Podcast

In this powerful episode, we sit down with Vincent O'Neil, a 2L at Albany Law School, to hear his remarkable story of resilience and transformation. Growing up in Wisconsin, Vincent had what he calls a "typical middle-class upbringing" but struggled with addiction and legal troubles starting at age 13. After years of battling substance abuse, multiple stints in jail, and trying to find his footing, Vincent reached a turning point. Now, four years sober, Vincent reflects on the pivotal moments that led him to turn his life around, including the decision to move to Nevada with his parents and ultimately pursue a law degree. He shares how his past shaped his passion for justice and how he plans to use his experiences to make a difference in the world. Tune in to hear how Vincent's journey from addiction to law school is not just a story of overcoming obstacles, but of finding hope and purpose in the most unexpected places. Click here to read more about Vincent's story: https://www.albanylaw.edu/spotlight/student/vincent-oneil-26-finding-community-albany

In this episode, Jacob Skoda '25 shares his journey from serving in the Air Force to pursuing a law degree, driven by a passion for advocating on behalf of veterans. He explains why it's so important to fight for veterans' rights and secure the benefits they deserve. With Veterans Day approaching, Jacob also highlights the upcoming Veterans Law Day at Albany Law School, a free event presented by the Edward P. Swyer Justice Center at Albany Law School's Veterans' Pro Bono Project. The event offers one-on-one legal consultations for veterans, active service members, and their families, with expanded resources from the McNulty Veteran Business Center and The Legal Project. Tune in to hear how Jacob and the Veterans' Pro Bono Project are making a real difference for those who have served our country. More info on Veterans Law Day here: https://alumni.albanylaw.edu/s/977/21/1col.aspx?sid=977&gid=1&pgid=4537&crid=0&calpgid=2100&calcid=7315

Episode Overview: In this episode, we dive into Mental Health Awareness Week at Albany Law School, organized by the Colby Fellowship and the Albany Law Student Wellness Society. Our guests discuss the importance of prioritizing mental health in law school, strategies for fostering supportive conversations, and the resources available to students. Featured Groups: 1. Colby Fellowship Established in 2019 with the assistance of a donation by Andrea Colby, an Albany Law graduate and member of the Board of Trustees, as part of Albany Law School's Health and Wellness program. Colby Fellows are selected each year to assist the Office of Student Affairs in achieving the following goals: Learn more about the Colby Fellowship: Colby Fellows Page 2. Albany Law Student Wellness Society Committed to promoting mental health awareness and wellness among students. Follow them on Instagram: Albany Law Student Wellness Society Instagram Resources Mentioned: Mental Health Resources on Campus: Mental Health Resources Albany Law School's Health & Wellness Support Network: Health & Wellness Support Network

Meet Yuna Midani (Oh), a recent graduate of the Albany Law School Class of 2024. While at Albany Law, Midani made significant strides, demonstrating a commitment to excellence and a passion for the legal field. In this interview, she shares insights from her summer legal clerk internship at Bryan Cave Leighton Paisner (BCLP) in Belgium, reflecting on her experiences and the skills she developed. Join us as we delve into her story and learn about her time at BCLP and the impact this opportunity had on her legal journey.

In this episode, we share President and Dean Cinnamon Carlarne's recent State of the School address. Addressing alumni, students, faculty, and staff, Dean Carlarne reflects on our achievements and future. Be sure to subscribe and like so you don't miss any updates!

Today's episode is especially exciting as we reflect on two unique events illustrating the incredible opportunities Albany Law School offers its students. Recently, Albany Law School held two events a week apart, with the Chief Judge of the New York State Court of Appeals as the headliner, hence the name Chief Week. Part one of Chief Week was the final round of the prestigious Domenick L. Gabrielli Appellate Advocacy Moot Court Competition, which was held in front of a panel of esteemed judges, including Chief Judge Rowan Wilson. Just days later Albany Law School welcomed back Chief Judge Wilson to speak to students alongside former Chief Judge Jonathan Lippman for the Chief Judge Lawrence H. Cooke State Constitutional Commentary Symposium as part two of Chief Week. The leaders of two Albany Law School groups that played a key role in making these incredible opportunities happen—Marie-Therese Witte, editor-in-chief of the Albany Law Review vol. 87, and Abraham V. Frangie, executive director of the Anthony V. Cardona ‘70 Moot Court Program—are here to discuss how those events unfolded.

APALSA president Isuri Poththewela and member Ambreen Aslam (rising 2L) join the Albany Law School podcast during Asian & Pacific American Heritage Month to discuss the importance of creating a welcoming and diverse campus environment while encouraging involvement with issues touching the legal profession, the law school, and the Asian and Pacific communities.  The Asian Pacific American Law Student's Association is a student-run affinity group at Albany Law School that coordinates a range of activities, from academic, professional, and cultural events to school support.

Anthony Sokolowski '19 enrolled at Albany Law School as a father; balancing fatherhood and law school was anything but easy. Sokolowski is forever grateful that the Albany Law School community embraced him and his situation with open minds and arms. He credits much of his success as an attorney and a father to his time at Albany Law School and recounts one of the most memorable moments he has had with his son by his side.

The DEI office is crucial to Albany Law School as we look to welcome and support students of all races, cultures, gender identities, sexual orientations, and abilities. The work this team has done and continues to do is inspiring as we commit to providing a supportive and inclusive environment for our ever growing student population. We welcome two members of The Albany Law School Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion team as we discuss DEI initiatives on campus like our 3rd annual Diversity Week! Assistant Director of Diversity and Inclusion Bria Barnes and the Coordinator of Student Programs, Owen Collier. Instagram: albanylaw_dei Email: bbarn@albanylaw.edu

On March 27, Albany Law School celebrated the 30th Anniversary of Kate Stoneman Day! This tradition celebrates women in the law in honor of the law school's first female graduate, Kate Stoneman, Class of 1898. Albany Law School's prestigious Stoneman Awards are presented to individuals who have demonstrated a commitment to seeking change and expanding opportunities for women within the legal profession. Albany Law School's Kate Stoneman Honorary Committee is proud to honor Verna L. Williams the CEO of Equal Justice Works, with this year's Miriam M. Netter '72 Kate Stoneman Award. Additionally, The Honorable Llinét Beltré Rosado '97—NYS Supreme Court, Appellate Division, First Department, and advocate for women and girls to pursue legal careers as well as Prof. Laurie Shanks, emeriti professor at Albany Law School and luminary in the field of criminal defense. Prof. Laurie Shanks - 14:11 The Honorable Llinét Beltré Rosado '97 - 32:17 Verna L. Williams the CEO of Equal Justice Works - 50:15

The Government Law Center at Albany Law School hosted the third and final program in the series, Transcending Gender, Sex, and the Law, on December 7, 2023. In this program, panelist discussed the future of legal rights and protections for transgender, gender non-conforming, and intersex (TGNCI) people in New York State, including potential statutory reforms, regulatory reforms, and litigation that may impact rights and protections. Panelists also discussed lessons learned from other states and the role of New York State government and the broader legal community in upholding legal for TGNCI people. Participants: Prof. Ava Ayers (moderator) – Albany Law School Allie Bohm – New York Civil Liberties Union Shain Filcher – LGBT Bar Association of Greater NY Faris Ilyas – The NEW Pride Agenda Melissa Sklarz – Equality New York Hon. Seth M. Marnin (closing remarks) – New York State Court of Claims This series was presented with support from the Office of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion at Albany Law School.

Legal experts and government officials discussed the possibilities and challenges of implementing statewide sustainable development initiatives at the municipal level during the annual Edwin L. Crawford Program on Municipal Law at Albany Law School on Friday, November 17, 2023. The program, hosted by the Government Law Center at Albany Law School, examined how state initiatives impact local governments, the role of local governments in implementing them, existing sustainability initiatives in municipalities across the state, and the future of local action around sustainable development.   The program included a keynote address by Doreen M. Harris, President and CEO of the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA). Two panel discussions addressed the role of local government in building decarbonization and investing in renewable energy, respectively.   Panelists included:   • Elizabeth Bough Martin — Mayor of the Village of Chittenango, New York • Susanne DesRoches — Vice President, Clean and Resilient Buildings, NYSERDA • Malak Nassereddine — Senior Manager, New York Utility and Regulatory Policy, Building Decarbonization Coalition • Niki Armacost — Mayor of the Village of Hastings-on-Hudson, New York • Anthony Fiore — Chief Program Officer, NYSERDA • Madison Hertzog — New York City Mayor's Office of Climate and Environmental Justice   Panel moderators included: • Prof. Keith Hirokawa — Distinguished Professor of Law, Albany Law School • Javid Afzali '12 — Partner, Harris Beach, PLLC

The Government Law Center at Albany Law School hosted the second of three programs in the series, Transcending Gender, Sex, and the Law, on November 9, 2023. In this program, panelists discussed some of the many challenges that transgender, gender non-conforming, and intersex youth and families encounter in New York State, the myriad ways in which the legal community, advocacy groups, and state government have worked to address these challenges, and remaining needs of TGNCI youth and families. Topics discussed include health care decision making and informed consent for minors, access to education free from discrimination and harassment, name and gender-marker changes on identity documents, custody issues involving parents of transgender youth, and more.   Participants: Bria Brown-King – interACT Advocates for Youth Lisa Campo-Engelstein – Institute for Bioethics & Health Humanities, University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston Julius Faulkner – In Our Own Voices Bobby Hodgson – New York Civil Liberties Union Joe Williams '15 – Copps DiPaola Silverman Mary Ann Krisa, II, '19 (moderator) – New York State Unified Court System, Appellate Division, Fourth Department

Judges, journalists, attorneys, and law enforcement officials discussed the rights, responsibilities, and liability of the media, courts, and law enforcement in a fictional criminal trial during the Fair Trial/Free Press Conference: Gag Orders, Anonymous Juries, and the Media, on Friday, November 3, 2023, at Albany Law School.   The program explored the legal, political, and ethical issues that could arise in a hypothetical scenario in which a fictional gubernatorial candidate was indicted on federal financial fraud charges and a turbulent trial ensued. Panelists discussed the interplay of the Sixth Amendment right to a fair trial and First Amendment rights to attend and report on trials, including social media, gag orders, anonymous juries, police conduct, and protection of the press and its sources. The full scenario is here: https://www.albanylaw.edu/media/20391/download   Panelists included: •    Rosemary Armao — Investigative reporter, news editor, and Adjunct Professor at the SUNY University at Albany •    Martin Bell, Esq. — Partner at Simpson Thacher & Bartlett LLP and former Assistant U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of New York •    Natalie Brocklebank, Esq. — Deputy Director of the New York State Defenders Association •    John M. Czajka, Esq. '04 — Division Counsel for the New York State Police •    Hon. Mae D'Agostino — United States District Judge for the Northern District of New York •    Carla DiRienzo  — New York State Police Bureau of Criminal Investigation, Field Command Office •    John J. Flynn, Esq. — Erie County District Attorney and President of the District Attorneys' Association of the State of New York •    Prof. Roy Gutterman — Director of the Tully Center for Free Speech and Professor of Communications, Magazine, News, and Digital Journalism at the Syracuse University Newhouse School of Public Communications •    Mark Mahoney —Journalist and Editorial Page Editor at the Schenectady Gazette The discussion was moderated by: •    Hon. Albert Rosenblatt – Retired Judge on the New York Court of Appeals •    Rex Smith – Former Editor of the Albany Times-Union   The program was presented by the Government Law Center at Albany Law School and the New York Fair Trial/Free Press Conference.

Jane M. Spinak, the Edward Ross Aranow Clinical Professor Emerita of Law at Columbia Law School delivered the 9th annual Katheryn D. Katz '70 Memorial Lecture on Wednesday, November 8, 2023 at 5:30 p.m. Professor Spinak is a renowned advocate for children's welfare, family rights and juvenile justice. She presented the lecture titled The End of Family Court.

The Government Law Center at Albany Law School hosted the first of three programs in the series, Transcending Gender, Sex, and the Law, on October 26, 2023. In this program, panelists discussed some of the many challenges that transgender, gender non-conforming, and intersex adults encounter in New York State, the myriad ways in which the legal community, advocacy groups, and state government have worked to address these challenges, and potential strategies for the future.   Participants: Jillian T. Weiss, Esq. – Law Office of Jillian T. Weiss Kym Dorsey – S.T.Y.L.E. (Self Turnaround Your Living Environment) and Gender Equality New York Ezra Cukor – Transgender Legal Defense and Education Fund Charlie Arrowood – Richard C. Failla LGBTQ Commission of the New York Courts and Gender Equality New York Dena DeFazio '18 – Barclay Damon and New York State Bar Association, Committee on Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Chel Miller (moderator) – Government Law Center at Albany Law School

In honor of Domestic Violence Month, the Government Law Center and Office of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion at Albany Law School and community partners co-hosted “Cultural Responsiveness in Domestic Violence Services.” Panelists discussed the role of culture in violence prevention, how victims experience abuse in culturally specific ways, and strategies to practice cultural responsiveness and cultural humility in domestic violence services. Participants: Norina Melita, Esq., as emcee Prof. Jaya Connors, Director of the Field Placement Clinic at Albany Law School, former Director of the Family Violence Litigation Clinic Somaia Sharif Zada, Afghan attorney refugee, part of the Unified Court System's Judges for Career Opportunities for Refugees (J-COR) program Demekia Santana, Advocate and Assistant Program Director, Catholic Charities of Fulton & Montgomery Counties, Montgomery County Domestic Violence & Crime Victim Services Anna Breitegger '24, J.D. Candidate and Co-Chair of the Women's Law Caucus at Albany Law School Hon. Lisa M. Fisher, Justice of the Appellate Division, Third Department, as moderator Elizabeth Cronin, Esq., Director of the NYS Office for Victim Services Lindsey Crusan-Muse, Director of St. Peter's Crime Victim Services for St. Peter's Health Partners Remla Parthasarathy, Managing Attorney for Crime Victims at Empire Justice Center and Project Leader for the Crime Victims Legal Network William Rivera, Crisis Intervention Director for Opportunities for Otsego, as moderator Keri Boedigheimer, Rensselaer County Domestic Violence Courts Resource Coordinator Hon. Esther M. Morgenstern, Justice of the Supreme Court, Kings County, National Mentor Court for IDV Hon. Brian D. Burns, Justice of the Supreme Court, Otsego County IDV Hon. Rebecca A. Slezak, Justice of the Supreme Court, Montgomery County IDV, as moderator Partners/Presented By: Montgomery County Bar Association Women's Leadership Initiative at Albany Law School Women's Law Caucus at Albany Law School Government Law Center at Albany Law School Third Judicial District Gender Fairness Committee Fourth Judicial District Gender Fairness Committee National Association of Women Judges, New York Chapter New York State Bar Association, Women in Law Section The Capital District Women's Bar Association Capital District Black and Hispanic Bar Association Albany County Bar Association Adirondack Women's Bar Association Schenectady County Bar Association Legal Aid Society of Northeastern New York The Legal Project Vella Carbone & Vinson, LLP Copps DiPaola Silverman, PLLC

Albany Law School Professor Jonathan Rosenbloom, recently released his new book, Remarkable Cities and the Security and Sovereignty of Food and Nutrition: 41 Ways to Regenerate the Local Food System. The environment, climate, and society are rapidly changing. However, government regulations for land utilization and urban expansion lag behind. This powerful book delves into how local governments and communities can proactively transform zoning and development codes to effectively respond to changes by embracing a self-sustaining, local food and nutrition system that is accessible and equitable. The book provides dozens of best practice recommendations, supported by dozens of enacted ordinances. Listen as Prof. Rosenbloom speaks about his recommendations and shares how we can rethink the role of development and how communities can grow while fostering a strong, inclusive, affordable, accessible, and healthy food system. Albany Law School's President and Dean Cinnamon P. Carlarne, a leading international expert in environmental and climate change law policy, also joined the conversation as well as some other special guests offering tributes throughout the event. Event photos: https://www.flickr.com/photos/albanylaw/albums/72177720312032590 About the Book This book, the second in a under the Sustainability Development Code project, produced by Prof. Jonathan Rosenbloom and the Environmental Law Institute, seeks to share different ways to jumpstart a move toward healthier, more equitable, and more environmentally-friendly communities. The book examines ways local governments regulate development and how that impacts the food system and offers 41 recommendations to amend development codes to increase food and nutrition security and sovereignty and create healthier communities. A full description of the book is here.

The Albany Law Review and Government Law Center at Albany Law School hosted a panel discussion exploring judicial selection methods for state high courts employed across the nation. Panelists discussed how judicial selection methods can affect judicial independence, accountability, diversity, and public confidence. Panelists also discussed issues that can arise during the selection process and potential solutions to address these issues. The panel took place via Zoom on October 10, 2023.   Participants: Hon. Leslie E. Stein (ret.) '81 (moderator) — Director of the Government Law Center at Albany Law School and former Associate Judge of the New York State Court of Appeals John F. Kowal — Vice President of Program Initiatives at the Brennan Center for Justice Prof. Chad Oldfather — Professor of Law at Marquette University Law School Prof. Noah Rosenblum — Assistant Professor of Law at the New York University School of Law David J. Sachar — Director of the Center for Judicial Ethics at the National Center for State Courts

Jonas Caballero ‘24 is doing incredibly important, difficult, and necessary work helping incarcerated individuals. He speaks in-depth about it on this week's podcast. For those who are sensitive to the topics, there is discussion about rape and sexual abuse in this episode. Jonas recently went to Washington to be part of a Congressional Briefing regarding the 20th anniversary of the Prison Rape Elimination Act (PREA).  He is also on the Board of Directors and the Survivor Council for Just Detention International. While the work is draining and tough, he does find time to spread joy. Most notably, he has helped bring therapy dogs to help Albany Law students through finals for years now! Jonas Caballero - President of 1L Class, Candid Leader: https://soundcloud.com/user-952955809-873766748/jonas-caballero-25-president-of-1l-class-candid-leader Students Gain Real-World Courtroom Experience Through Unique Opportunity with United States District Court, Federal Bar Association: https://www.albanylaw.edu/news/students-gain-real-world-courtroom-experience-through-unique-opportunity-united-statesTherapy Dogs at Albany Law: https://www.flickr.com/photos/albanylaw/albums/72177720307320426

Marie-Therese Witte ‘24 is leading the oldest student-led law review in the nation. As you might imagine, the Albany Law Review has quite an interesting history. When it began, it also served as a news source for campus happenings and updates. It was decades before the internet, after all. Witte, a former Latin and Spanish teacher, is grateful to be part of the community as a non-traditional student and is taking advantage of many aspects of the student experience. The Albany Law Review is a quarterly law review edited by students at Albany Law School. The Albany Law Review is one of three student-edited law journals published by the school. Albany Law Review: https://www.albanylawreview.org/ Demystifying the Bluebook: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=46hLTq2jYLc

Albany Law School's 19th President and Dean, Cinnamon P. Carlarne, highlighted Reunion 2023 with her first State of the School address on Friday, September 29. "Albany Law School is stronger than ever and poised to continue building on its existing strengths. I am proud and honored to get to be a part of this community," she said. The speech focused on law school's achievements over the past 12 months including 52,000+ hours of pro bono work by students, the school's top national ranking in preparing Government leaders, record alumni giving and engagement, and the institution's first steps in adopting a new strategic plan.

Presented by the National Alumni Association, and celebrating alumni and friends for their dedication to Albany Law School. The 2023 Honorees are: Distinguished Alumni Award Robert L. Capers '96 Donald D. DeAngelis '60 Excellence in Alumni Service Award William W. Pulos '80 Outstanding Young Alumni Award Mara D. Afzali '17 Humanitarian Achievement Award Peter J. Glennon, Esq. '04 Trustees' Gold Medal Prof. Patricia Reyhan More here: https://www.albanylaw.edu/news/2023-grand-honors-recipients-announced

Max Sevor is not only leading SBA as its new Executive President, but he is engaged on Albany Law Review and in the GLC Fellows program! Meet him on this week's podcast. Albany Law School Student Bar Association: https://albanylawsba.org/ 2023 Barrister's Ball: https://www.flickr.com/photos/albanylaw/albums/72177720307770256 Albany Law School Student Organizations: https://www.albanylaw.edu/student-experience-support/student-organizations Class of 2023 Farewell Party: https://www.flickr.com/photos/albanylaw/albums/72177720308492594 Therapy Dogs at Albany Law: https://www.flickr.com/photos/albanylaw/albums/72177720307320426 Court of Appeals Visit: https://www.flickr.com/photos/albanylaw/albums/72177720307654957 NYS Capitol Visit: https://www.flickr.com/photos/albanylaw/albums/72177720303531847 Government Law Center Fellowship program: https://www.albanylaw.edu/government-law-center/government-law-center-fellowship-program Improving Interbranch Communication Project: https://www.albanylaw.edu/government-law-center/improving-interbranch-communication-project Albany Law Review: https://www.albanylawreview.org/

It is our honor to welcome The 19th President and Dean of Albany Law School - Cinnamon P. Carlarne - to this week's podcast! She talks about growing up in Texas, her passion for environmental law, and her daughter picking up field hockey. More about Dean Carlarne: https://www.albanylaw.edu/faculty/faculty-directory/cinnamon-p-carlarne

The Legal Aid Society of Northeastern New York (LASNNY) and the Government Law Center at Albany Law School hosted a CLE symposium in celebration of LASNNY's 100-year anniversary. The symposium, Justice for All: Striving for a Fair and Equitable World, took place at Albany Law School on September 8–9, 2023. CLE presenters: Joanna Davis, LASNNY Katherine Mastaitis, Donnellan Law Firm Professor Michael Hutter, Albany Law School Robert Romaker, LASNNY Jonathan Feldman, Prisoners' Legal Services of New York Saima Akhtar, NCLEJ Susan Antos, Empire Justice Center Jessica Keenan, NY State Senate Majority Counsel's Office Steven Koch, NY State Senate Majority Counsel's Office Hon. Christina L. Ryba, NYS Supreme Court, Third Judicial District Hon. Richard Rivera, Albany Co. Family Court Hon. Gerald W. Connolly, Acting Justice, Albany Co. Supreme Court Alison Coan, NYS Supreme Court, Third Judicial Dept. Attorney Grievance Committee Noel Mendez, Esq., NYS Supreme Court, Third Judicial Dept. Attorney Grievance Committee

The Legal Aid Society of Northeastern New York (LASNNY) and the Government Law Center at Albany Law School hosted a CLE symposium in celebration of LASNNY's 100-year anniversary. The symposium, Justice for All: Striving for a Fair and Equitable World, took place at Albany Law School on September 8–9, 2023. CLE presenters: Joanna Davis, LASNNY Katherine Mastaitis, Donnellan Law Firm Professor Michael Hutter, Albany Law School Robert Romaker, LASNNY Jonathan Feldman, Prisoners' Legal Services of New York Saima Akhtar, NCLEJ Susan Antos, Empire Justice Center Jessica Keenan, NY State Senate Majority Counsel's Office Steven Koch, NY State Senate Majority Counsel's Office Hon. Christina L. Ryba, NYS Supreme Court, Third Judicial District Hon. Richard Rivera, Albany Co. Family Court Hon. Gerald W. Connolly, Acting Justice, Albany Co. Supreme Court Alison Coan, NYS Supreme Court, Third Judicial Dept. Attorney Grievance Committee Noel Mendez, Esq., NYS Supreme Court, Third Judicial Dept. Attorney Grievance Committee

We are back for another year of podcasts and kicking things off with Abe Frangie ‘24 who is the Executive Director of the Anthony V. Cardona '70 Moot Court Program at Albany Law School. More about Moot Court: https://www.albanylaw.edu/programs-centers/the-anthony-v-cardona-70-moot-court-program See our Competitions on Flickr! 2022 Donna Jo Morse Client Counseling Competition: https://www.flickr.com/photos/albanylaw/albums/72177720303240196 2022 Karen C. McGovern Senior Prize Trials: https://www.flickr.com/photos/albanylaw/albums/72177720303677817 35th Domenick L. Gabrielli National Family Law Moot Court Competition: https://www.flickr.com/photos/albanylaw/albums/72177720306505791 2023 Donna Jo Morse Negotiations Competition: https://www.flickr.com/photos/albanylaw/albums/72177720307567985 2023 Domenick L. Gabrielli Appellate Advocacy Moot Court Competition: https://www.flickr.com/photos/albanylaw/albums/72177720307794344

Join our Career and Professional Development Center and a panel of experts virtually as they discuss the advantages of designing your own post-graduate fellowship. Our panel will talk about different fellowships and navigating the application process. This conversation will be led by Professor Lauren DesRosiers.

REPRESENTATIVES BESS CHIU, ESQ. - DEPUTY GENERAL COUNSEL AND CHIEF OF STAFF KELLY H. HENDRICKEN, ESQ. '14 - MANAGING COUNSEL, STUDENT AFFAIRS MISHKA A. WOODLEY, ESQ. '16 - ASSISTANT COUNSEL MARINA W. CHU, ESQ. '19 - ASSISTANT COUNSEL Join representatives from the The State University of New York Office of General Counsel to hear more about employment and career opportunities.

The Government Law Center at Albany Law School hosted the third program of the 2023 Warren M. Anderson Legislative Series on April 25. Panelists discussed the constitutional and legal issues related to the powers of the Governor of New York State in times of emergency.   Panelists: Mylan L. Denerstein, Esq. – Partner at Gibson, Dunn, & Crutcher, LLP, and former Counsel to Governor Andrew M. Cuomo Peter J. Kiernan, Esq. – Chair of the New York Law Revision Commission; Senior Counsel at Venable LLP; and former Counsel to Governor David A. Paterson Prof. Robert F. Williams – Former Director of the Center for State Constitutional Studies and Distinguished Professor of Law Emeritus at Rutgers Law School   Moderator: Prof. Leonard M. Cutler – Director of the Center for the Study of Government and Politics and Professor of Political Science at Siena College   Series Sponsors: A contribution made in the memory of Sharon P. O'Connor, Esq. '79 Greenberg Traurig LLP   Program Sponsors: Hinman Straub P.C. Lippes Mathias LLP About the Warren M. Anderson Series: https://www.albanylaw.edu/government-law-center/warren-m-anderson-series

The Government Law Center at Albany Law School presented the fourth and final program of the 2023 Warren M. Anderson Legislative Series on May 23.   Panelists discussed the evolving practices and procedures in New York's court system during COVID-19 and beyond. The discussion also described the findings and recommendations from a study conducted by the Pandemic Practices Working Group of the Commission to Reimagine New York's Courts.   Panelists   Jessica Cherry, Esq. '12 – Deputy Counsel for the New York State Unified Court System, Office of Court Administration; Member of the Pandemic Practices Working Group and the Court Modernization Action Committee of the Commission to Reimagine New York's Courts   Hon. Craig J. Doran '89 – New York State Supreme Court Justice, 7th Judicial District; Chair of the Pandemic Practices Working Group and the Court Modernization Action Committee of the Commission to Reimagine New York's Courts   Hon. Fern A. Fisher (ret.) – Call-In Center Attorney at Legal Hand, Special Assistant to the Dean of Social Justice Initiatives, and Visiting Professor at the Maurice A. Deane School of Law at Hofstra University; Former New York State Supreme Court Justice, 1st Judicial District   Moderator   Hon. Leslie E. Stein (ret.) '81 – Director of the Government Law Center at Albany Law School   Sponsors A contribution made in the memory of Sharon P. O'Connor, Esq. '79 Greenberg Traurig

Photos, Program, Video: https://www.albanylaw.edu/commencement Recorded May 19, 2023.

Roberta “Robbie” Kaplan successfully argued before the Supreme Court of the United States on behalf of LGBTQ rights activist Edith Windsor, in United States v. Windsor, a landmark decision that invalidated a section of the Defense of Marriage Act (DOMA) requiring the federal government to recognize marriages of same-sex couples. Kaplan went on to author Then Comes Marriage: United States v. Windsor and the Defeat of DOMA, chosen by the Los Angeles Times as one of the top 10 books of 2015. Kaplan currently leads some of the country's highest-profile commercial and public interest litigation, from suing the neo-Nazis behind the violence in Charlottesville to representing E. Jean Carroll, Mary Trump and investors in ACN in lawsuits against Donald Trump. Kaplan left Big Law to found Kaplan Hecker & Fink in 2017 as a new kind of law firm blending a high-stakes commercial and white-collar practice with a fundamental commitment to public interest cases centered on values of inclusion, equity and justice. The firm is majority women- and LGBTQ+-owned and more than 75 percent of its attorneys identify as women, people of color and/or LGBTQ+. KHF takes on groundbreaking, precedent-setting cases that not only advance the public interest, but have a significant impact beyond the courtroom – especially for women and other marginalized groups. In pioneering this new kind of boutique law firm, Kaplan has redefined the traditional concept of “pro bono” by taking on important matters – both to the firm and the public – and ensuring they are at the core of the firm's practice. Kaplan has been widely recognized for her impact and leadership, including the New York State Bar Association's Gold Medal Award and a Lifetime Achievement Award from the New York Law Journal, which also named her Attorney of the Year in 2020. Kaplan was also named Litigator of the Year by The American Lawyer and Most Innovative Lawyer of the Year by The Financial Times. In addition to an A.B. from Harvard College (magna cum laude) and a J.D. from Columbia Law School – where she teaches a seminar on advanced civil procedure – Kaplan holds honorary doctorates from Johns Hopkins University and the Jewish Theological Seminary, among others. Recorded May 19, 2023.

Recorded May 10, 2023. MODERATOR - Glenn Liebman -CEO, Mental Health Association in New York State (MHANYS) PANELISTS Ashley Dugger - Associate Dean and Director of HR Management and Organizational Psychology Programs, Western Governors University Alexandra Howell - Partner, Potomac Law Group; Adjunct Professor, Albany Law School Nearly one in five adults in the United States are living with a mental health disorder and more than 70% have experienced at least one symptom of stress, including feeling overwhelmed or anxious. Mental health doesn't just affect quality of life. The global economy loses around $1 trillion in productivity each year due to employee depression and anxiety. Poor mental health and stress can affect performance, engagement, and communication on the job. Despite the statistics, some employers struggle to promote mental health and support recovery. HR professionals and business leaders can help close the gap. This conversation will offer strategies to increase understanding around mental health, reduce stigma, identify resources, and articulate clear policies regarding mental health in the workplace to improve employee overall wellbeing, performance and retention. The session will also include advice on navigating personal privacy and other legal risks that may come up. PANELISTS WILL DISCUSS: Why mental health matters to employers and employees How to start building a workplace culture in which conversations about mental health are more commonplace and collaborative Barriers to employee wellness and how to overcome them Best practices and pitfalls to consider when creating organizational policies The obligations — both legal and moral — that employers have to provide reasonable accommodations for employees with mental illness The potential legal risks and issues associated with building an employee mental health program Panelists will also provide key resources that HR pros can use to dive deeper into topics covered.

President and Dean Alicia Ouellette '94 reflects on this academic year and her tenure leading Albany Law School on the final podcast before summer break this week! Justice Center Renamed to Honor Edward P. Swyer: https://www.albanylaw.edu/news/justice-center-renamed-honor-edward-p-swyer Cinnamon Piñon Carlarne Named Next President and Dean of Albany Law School: https://www.albanylaw.edu/news/cinnamon-pinon-carlarne-named-next-president-and-dean-albany-law-school Albany Law School Establishes Bar Preparation Assistance Fund in honor of Eugene P. Devine, Class of 1940: https://www.albanylaw.edu/about/news/albany-law-school-establishes-bar-preparation-assistance-fund-honor-eugene-p-devine $1 Million Gift to Support Firefighters, EMS, and Non-Traditional Albany Law Students: https://www.albanylaw.edu/about/news/1-million-gift-support-firefighters-ems-and-non-traditional-albany-law-students

Hear from New York State Department of Health representatives about: attorney hiring overview (and pointers) for filling out the Legal Specialties questionnaire the benefits of a career in public service including student loan forgiveness, state benefits, and a pension.

The Government Law Center at Albany Law School, New York University School of Law, and the New York Fair Trial/Free Press Conference convened the 2023 Fair Trial/Free Press Conference: Local Media, the Law, and Alleged Police Misconduct on April 24, 2023. The conference combines a discussion of a hypothetical scenario with an overview of media law. A panel of judges, prosecutors, journalists, and attorneys discussed the legal, political, and ethical issues that arise in the fictional scenario after a reporter is arrested while covering a police-involved shooting. Panelists: Richard Chacón - Director of News Standards and Practices, NBC News Hon. Jill Konviser - Acting Justice, New York County Supreme Court, Criminal Term, First Judicial District Anne LaBarbera - Principal Attorney, Anne LaBarbera Professional Corporation Darren LaVerne - Partner, Kramer Levin Naftalis & Frankel LLP Thomas Maier - Investigative Journalist, Newsday Hon. Robert M. Mandelbaum – Acting Justice, New York County Supreme Court, First Judicial District Hon. Shira A. Scheindlin (ret.) - Former Judge, United States District Court for the Southern District of New York, and Of Counsel, Stroock & Stroock & Lavan, LLP Tanvi Valsangikar - Attorney specializing in First Amendment and media law and co-host, SLANDERTOWN Steven Wu - Chief of the Appeals Division, Manhattan District Attorney's Office Moderators: Hon. Albert Rosenblatt (ret.) - Former Associate Judge, New York State Court of Appeals, and Counsel, McCabe & Mack LLP Rex Smith – Former Editor, Albany Times Union

Claire Stratton ‘23 is nearing the end of her time here at Albany Law School but - as she might say - BOY HOWDY did she make the most of it! The outgoing SBA President and Editor in Chief of the  Journal of Sci. & Tech. joins this week's podcast! Student Organizations at Albany Law School: https://www.albanylaw.edu/student-organizations 2023 Barrister's Ball: https://www.flickr.com/photos/albanylaw/albums/72177720307770256 Albany Law Journal of Science and Technology: https://www.albanylawscitech.org/ Student Bar Association at Albany Law School: https://albanylawsba.org/

Beven Nedumthakady ‘23 is an integral part of student life at Albany Law School this year.  He also loves to fish! You never know what you will learn on the podcast! Bev is: J.D. Candidate Class of 2023 Vice President - Student Bar Association President - Catholic Law Students Association Treasurer - Asian Pacific American Law Students Association Student Organizations at Albany Law School: https://www.albanylaw.edu/student-organizations Student Bar Association at Albany Law School: https://albanylawsba.org/ Senior Prize Trials at Albany Law School: https://www.flickr.com/photos/albanylaw/albums/72157720148066936

Panelists discussed potential statutory reforms to strengthen civil rights protections for people with developmental disabilities. Moderated by Jennifer J. Monthie '03 - Disability Rights New York - the speakers included: Rose Mary Bailly - Government Law Center, Albany Law School Paul Kietzman '72 - Barclay Damon LLP Sheila E. Shea '86 - Mental Hygiene Legal Service, Third Judicial Department Robert N. Swidler - St. Peter's Health Partners

From the Career and Professional Development Center (https://www.albanylaw.edu/about/career-and-professional-development-center)you read that right, hiring for Summer 2024 Associate positions starts soon. This program will give you the opportunity to hear directly from firms from across New York State about their Summer Associate recruiting process. You will learn what you can do to prepare and the timing for applications.

The Albany Law School Student Bar Association held an information session on the character and fitness portion of bar admission with guest speaker Anthony Moore, Director of Attorney Admissions for the Third Department in April. Moore went through the character and fitness procedure, what is required to be submitted, factors that are considered, and resources to help with the process.

Robert Hojnacki ‘23 isn't just an ambassador for Albany Law School, he is leading the Rugby Team and the 2023 William M. Watkins Weekend and Golf Outing, interning with the Attorney General, and competing in Moot Court!  Meet him this week on the podcast! Rugby at Albany Law: https://alumni.albanylaw.edu/s/977/21/interior.aspx?sid=977&gid=1&pgid=2200 Student Ambassadors: https://www.albanylaw.edu/applications-admissions/student-ambassadors 2023 Watkins Tournament: https://www.albanylaw.edu/events/albany-2023-william-m-watkins-weekend-and-golf-outing Senior Prize Trails Photos: https://www.flickr.com/photos/albanylaw/albums/72177720303677817 Senior Prize Trails Video:  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bYqAJiFalro https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Pkte79qE11c

Albany Law School and Albany Medical College students continue to discuss the ways sexual assault, domestic violence, and intimate partner violence affect individuals and their care. During April's Sexual Violence Awareness Month, Danielle Salazar '23 and Chloe Ross ‘23 who work in the Family Violence Litigation Clinic (FVLC) within the Justice Center here at Albany Law School worked with Isha Doshi and Drishti Patel from Albany Medical College to present, "Maternal Fetal Complications and IPV," on April 4. The presentation is a follow up to last year's, "Intimate Partner Violence: The Role of the Physician," which was presented as part of the medical college's student-led Community Grand Rounds. FVLC Director and Professor Hayat Bearat assisted the students with the presentation. The projects aim to fill the gaps in care for survivors of domestic violence starting by educating practitioners who assist them.

Albany Law Journal of Science and Technology, Vol. 33 presented its annual symposium on April 4, 2023 focusing on Reproductive Data Privacy Post-Dobbs. More about the Journal: https://www.albanylawscitech.org/ The discussion was moderated by The Honorable Leslie E. Stein '81 - Director of the Government Law Center, Albany Law School - and featured panelists: Tricia Asaro - Director, Upper Hudson Planned Parenthood and member of Greenberg Traurig's Dobbs Client Task Force and Dobbs Pro Bono Committee Antony Haynes - Associate Dean for Strategic Initiatives; Director of Cybersecurity and Privacy Law; Associate Professor of Law at Albany Law School Allie Bohm - Policy Counsel at the New York Civil Liberties Union (NYCLU)

New York State has itself in a bit of a predicament over its Chief Judge. Vincent M. Bonventre - Albany Law's Justice Robert H. Jackson Distinguished Professor of Law - is here to help us understand the latest. ​The Center for Judicial Process: http://www.judicialprocessblog.com/ Patricia Whelan '23: https://soundcloud.com/user-952955809-873766748/patricia-whelan-23-what-doesnt-she-do

The Office of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion welcomed Joshua Dodds to campus for an engaging keynote presentation followed by a Q&A session. This event was the culmination of workshops and trainings across campus this year including one on microaggressions in November and faculty and staff workshops in January. Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion at Albany Law School: https://www.albanylaw.edu/student-experience-support/diversity-equity-and-inclusion More about Josh Dodds: https://www.linkedin.com/in/josh-dodds-m-ed-70566951/

Join the Government Law Center and the Institute for Aging and Disability Law for the 2023 Disability Law Series: Civil Rights and Individuals with Developmental Disabilities. The series consists of five 2-hour forums exploring critical issues related to the civil rights of people with developmental disabilities. Panelists discussed the civil rights challenges of guardianship, as well as strategies to address such challenges and protect the civil rights of people with developmental disabilities. Speakers included: Rose Mary Bailly (Government Law Center, Albany Law School) Julie Friedman (Mental Hygiene Legal Service, Third Judicial Department) Lisa K. Friedman (Law Office of Lisa K. Friedman) Kathryn E. Jerian '07 (The Arc New York) Christopher Lyons (AIM Services, Inc.) The discussion was moderated by Lawrence R. Faulkner (The Arc Westchester)

This tradition celebrates women in the law in honor of the law school's first female graduate, Kate Stoneman, Class of 1898. Albany Law School's prestigious Stoneman Awards are presented to individuals who have demonstrated a commitment to seeking change and expanding opportunities for women within the legal profession. MIRIAM M. NETTER '72 KATE STONEMAN KEYNOTER The Honorable Teneka E. Frost '02 Judge Frost served as a staff attorney for the Legal Aid Society of Northeastern New York, co-chair of the Equal Justice in the Courts Initiative for the Fourth Judicial district, and as the Chief Administrative Law Judge and Director of the Office of Administrative Hearings at the NY Department of State. Last year, she was named to Albany Law School's National Alumni Association. In 2018, she was appointed as a city court judge by Schenectady Mayor Gary McCarthy. In 2021, she began the United Against Crime Community Action Network (U-CAN), a program where first-time offenders 18-25 years old with no criminal record can learn from mentors and work on self-improvement in a year-long program. In 2005, she was selected for a post-graduate fellowship in government law and policy at Albany Law School's Government Law Center, during which she served as an elected member of the Board of Education for the City School District of Albany. THE HONORABLE PATRICIA D. MARKS '74 Judge Marks was the first female full-time Assistant District Attorney in the Monroe County District Attorney's Office in 1976 and became the first female County Judge elected in Monroe County in 1984. She served as a County Court Judge for 25 years and retired in 2011. Since her retirement, she has remained active in a number of areas throughout the law, including as Interim CEO/Executive Director of Veterans Outreach Center, a not-for-profit organization that provides advocacy, direct service, and community collaboration for veterans and their families; as a Hearing Officer with the NYS Local and Retirement System and the Title IX office at the University of Rochester. She also provides pro bono services to various family law clinics in Western New York. Marks also presided over the Judicial Diversion Program and Veterans Court, which she created, and played a key role in establishing the Monroe County Mental Health Court. She is the author of 27 published legal decisions and several New York State Bar Journal articles. Marks began her legal career as a legal assistant with the Monroe County Department of Social Services. SECRETARY ALEJANDRA N. PAULINO '02 Secretary Paulino is the first Latina to serve as the Secretary of the New York Senate and is an expert in New York State election law. She was elected by members of the State Senate in 2019 and serves as chief administrative officer to the Senate and its 16 departments. She has increased access to resources and worked to improve working conditions at the New York State Senate. She has updated the Senate's sexual harassment policies and has added cultural competency to the training for all Senate employees. She has spent her career in several different government offices and adjacent groups, starting as a Senate fellow and has since served in the Majority Counsel's Office as Crime, Crime Victims, and Correction Committee Counsel and Team Counsel for Public Protection. In 2019, she was the recipient of the Capital District Black and Hispanic Bar Association's Trail Blazer Award.

The Government Law Center at Albany Law School preseted the second program of the 2023 Warren M. Anderson Legislative Series on March 22. Panelists discussed state-level approaches to developing environmentally sustainable affordable housing. In particular, the panel will explore legal and policy incentives and regulations that impact the development of environmentally sustainable affordable housing. The discussion will describe existing projects and the potential for future projects. Panelists Rory M. Christian - Chair and CEO, New York State Public Service Commission Board Member, New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA) Casius Pealer - Associate Dean and Director of Advancement, Director of Sustainable Real Estate Development, and Shane Professor of Practice, Tulane University School of Architecture Amar Shah - Manager, Carbon-Free Buildings, Rocky Mountain Institute Moderator Cinnamon Piñon Carlarne - Robert J. Lynn Chair in Law, Associate Dean for Faculty and Intellectual Life, Ohio State University Moritz College of Law 19th President and Dean of Albany Law School, effective July 1, 2023 Sponsors In the memory of Sharon P. O'Connor, Esq. '79 Greenburg Traurig CSEA