Committees

Interested In Joining a Committee?  Please fill out this committee interest form (members only).

REPORTS

Committee Reports from April 2023 (Midyear)
Committee Reports from October 2022 (Annual Conference)
Committee Reports from March 2022 (Midyear)
Committee Reports from October 2021 (Annual Conference)
Committee Reports from April 2021 (Midyear)

​ADMINISTRATIVE JUDICIARY

The Administrative Judiciary committee ensures that administrative law judges at all levels are included and reflected in all aspects of NAWJ membership, leadership, networking, and educational programming.  The committee also ensures that proposed legislation and other issues impacting Administrative Judiciaries are fully addressed by the Executive Committee, Board of Directors.

Committee Chairs:

Hon. Susan Lois Formaker, Office of Administrative Hearings

Hon. Theresa Timlin, U.S. Department of Labor

Members:

Hon. Jacinta Alves, U.S. Department of HHS
Hon. Francine Applewhite, DOL/OALJ
Hon. Dania Ayoubi, Maryland Office of Administrative Hearings
Hon. Ann Breen-Greco, Independent Administrative Judiciary Professional
Hon. Suzanne Bruguera, ADR Services, Inc.
Hon. Emily Gould Chafa, State of Iowa, Retired
Hon. Joan Churchill, Immigration Judge, Retired
Hon. Gwenlynn D'Souza, D.C. Department of Employment Services
Hon. Emily Ferrell, Court of Common Pleas
Hon. Jennifer Gee, U.S. Department of Labor
Hon. Janet James-Mahon, U.S. Social Security Administration
Hon. Carol A. King, Immigration Judge, Retired
Hon. Margaret Mangan, D.C. Office of Administrative Hearings
Hon. Michelle A. McGovern, Iowa Division of Workers' Compensation, Retired
Hon. Angela Robinson, D.C. Office of Administrative Hearings
Hon. Emily Cameron Shattil, Social Security Administration, Retired
Hon. Erin Masson Wirth, Federal Maritime Commission 

ANNUAL CONFERENCE SITE SELECTION

The Conference Site Selection committee researches, works with local NAWJ leaders, and recommends and secures agreement for the Board for future venues for the Annual Conference.

Committee Chair:

Hon. Marcella Holland, Circuit Court for Baltimore City, Maryland

Hon. Marguerite Downing, Superior Court of California

Members:

Ms. Claudia Barber, City of Annapolis
Hon. Anne Elizabeth Barnes, Georgia Court of Appeals
Hon. Te'iva Bell, 339th District Court, Texas
Hon. Emily Gould Chafa, State of Iowa, Retired
Hon. Stacey Fortes, Massachusetts Trial Court
Hon. Pennie McLaughlin, San Diego Superior Court
Hon. Jamoa Moberly, ADR Services
Hon. Ramona See, Los Angeles Superior Court
Hon. Theresa Timlin, U.S. Department of Labor

AUDIT AND COMPLIANCE

The Audit and Compliance Committee recommends policies and processes to the board related to financial information provided to government bodies and the public. The committee reviews the independent audit/review of the annual returns (IRS Form 990, related schedules, and forms) to ensure the integrity of the audit process. Once the process is complete the committee recommends the audit/review for approval, signature, and submission by the president. The committee also ensures that reports are received, monitored, and distributed correctly.

COMMITTEE CHAIR:

Hon. Susan Owens, Washington State Supreme Court

MEMBERS:

Hon. Denise Owens, Chancery Court, Fifth Judicial District, State of MS
Hon. Sandra Ann Robinson, State of New Jersey

AWARDS

The Awards committee elects recipients of the Honoree of the Year Joan Dempsey Klein Award, and the Florence K. Murray Award.

Committee ChairS:

Hon. Cindy Davis, San Diego Supreme Court

Hon. Ariane Vuono, Massachusetts Court of Appeals

Members:

Hon. Te'iva Bell, 339th District Court, Texas
Hon. Sharon Burrell, Circuit Court for Montgomery County, Maryland
Hon. Natalia Cornelio, 351st District Court, Texas
Hon. Kameshia Gant, 6th Circuit Court, Michigan
Hon. Marcella Holland, Circuit Court for Baltimore City, Maryland
Ms. Salwa (Sally) Kader, International Federation for Peace and Sustainable Development
Hon. Maureen Kinsella, 6th Circuit Court, Michigan
Hon. C. Renee Little, 26th Judicial District, North Carolina
Hon. Delissa (Lisa) Ridgway, U.S. Court of International Trade
Ms. Cathy Winter-Palmer, CWP & Associates

BYLAWS

The Bylaws Committee provides the Board of Directors with advice to the history, interpretation, and meaning of the bylaws, prepares and drafts new and amended bylaws for the Board’s consideration, and advises the Board on the application of bylaws.

Committee ChairS:

Hon. Barbara Holmes, U.S. District Court, Middle District of Tennessee

Members:

Hon. Deitra Burney-Butler, Clayton County Juvenile Court
Hon. Karen Donohue, King County Superior Court
Hon. Vivian Henderson, Virginia Beach General District Court
Hon. Brenda Kennedy, 403rd District Court, Travis County, Texas
Hon. Judith McConnell, Court of Appeal, California
Ms. Audrey Moorehead, Kastl Law, P.C.
Col. Linda Murnane, High Court Republic of the Marshall Islands
Hon. Sandra Ann Robinson, State of New Jersey

DIVERSITY AND INCLUSION

This Standing Committee serves to build diversity and inclusion within NAWJ, its Districts, Resource Board, and the judicial community. The objective and commitment of this committee will be to encourage NAWJ leadership, its Districts, and active members to promote diversity and inclusion within the organization and its programming by requiring full and equal participation of lawyers and judges across the spectrum of race, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, religious affiliations and disability status.

COMMITTEE CHAIRS: 

Hon. Francine L. Applewhite, Department of Labor

Hon. Elizabeth Welch, Michigan Supreme Court

MEMBERS:

Hon. Dania Ayoubi, Maryland Office of Administrative Hearings
Hon. Patrice Ball-Reed, Circuit Court of Cook County
Hon. Anne Elizabeth Barnes, Georgia Court of Appeals
Hon. Te'iva Bell, 339th District Court, Texas
Hon. Kimberly Best, Mecklenburg County District Court
Hon. Ann Breen-Greco, Independent Administrative Judiciary Professional
Ms. Brigid Campo, San Diego Superior Court
Hon. Pamela Dashiell, Massachusetts Trial Court
Hon. Sophia Hall, Circuit Court of Cook County
Hon. Juliet Howard, Civil Court of the City of New York/Housing Part
Mrs. Salwa Kader, International Federation for Peace and Sustainable Development
Hon. Thanayi Lindsey, State of California
Hon. C. Renee Little, North Carolina 26th Judicial District
Hon. Claire Loeak, Republic of the Marshall Islands Judiciary - Traditional Rights Court
Hon. Alex Manning, Fulton County, Georgia
Hon. Lisa Martin, 34th District Court, Michigan
Hon. Miki McGovern, Iowa Division of Workers' Compensation
Ms. Audrey Moorehead, Kastl Law, P.C.
Col. Linda Murnane, USAF, Retired
Hon. Orlinda Naranjo, Retired
Hon. Beverly Nash, D.C. Office of Administrative Hearings
Hon. Wanda Negron, Bronx Criminal Court
Hon. Yasmine Poles, 6th Circuit, Michigan
Hon. Maria Salas-Mendoza, 120th Judicial District Court
Ms. Patricia Taitano-Valdovinos, San Diego County Primary Public Defender
Hon. Toni Terrett, Ninth Circuit District State of Mississippi
Hon. Sherry Thompson-Taylor, San Diego Superior Court
Hon. Mindy Walker, Jefferson County District Court
Hon. Julia Weatherly, Circuit Court for Prince George's County, Maryland
Hon. Elizabeth Welch, Michigan Supreme Court

DOMESTIC VIOLENCE

The Domestic Violence committee explores, develops, and presents NAWJ judicial educational programs relating to issues of domestic violence.

Committee Chairs:

Hon. Annette Karem, Jefferson District Court, Kentucky

Hon. Catherine Shaffer, King County Superior Court

Members:

Ms. Brigid Campo, San Diego Superior Court
Hon. Tracy Catapano-Fox, Queens Supreme Court
Hon. Ernestine Gray, Orleans Parish Juvenile Court
Hon. Sandra Jenkins, Louisiana Court of Appeal, Fourth Circuit
Hon. Carroll Kelly, 11th Judicial Circuit, Florida
Hon. Hollie Levine, Family Court, Broome County
Hon. C. Renee Little, North Carolina 26th Judicial District
Hon. Joy Lobrano, Fourth Circuit Court of Appeal
Hon. Patricia Lynch, Reno Justice Court
Hon. Alex Manning, Fulton County, Georgia
Hon. Aurora Martinez Jones, 126th District Court
Hon. Bobbie McCartney, U.S. Department of Agriculture
Hon. Wanda Negron, Bronx Criminal Court
Hon. Debra Sasser, North Carolina AOC District Court
Lynn Schafran, Esq., Legal Momentum
Hon. Megan Valentine, Grays Harbor District Court
Hon. Julie Verheye, St. Joseph Superior Court, Indiana
Hon. Debre Weintraub, Los Angeles Superior Court
Hon. Diane Wray, Buffalo City Court

ENSURING RACIAL EQUITY IN THE JUSTICE SYSTEM

The Ensuring Racial Equity in the Justice System committee seeks to educate its members and the general public about how racial inequity can manifest itself in the judicial system and works towards identifying specific steps through which courts can remedy the inequity. 

Committee Chair:

Hon. Nadia Keilani, San Diego Superior Court

Hon. Sherry Thompson-Taylor, San Diego Superior Court

Members:

Hon. Dania Ayoubi, Maryland Office of Administrative Hearings
Hon. Anne Elizabeth Barnes, Georgia Court of Appeals
Hon. Te'iva Bell, 339th District Court, Texas
Hon. Kimberly Best, Mecklenburg County District Court
Hon. Ann Breen-Greco, Independent Administrative Judiciary Professional
Hon. Sharon Burrell, Circuit Court for Montgomery County, Maryland
Hon. Betty Calvo-Torres, Court of Claims
Hon. Julia Campins, Contra Costa Superior Court
Hon. Emily Ferrell, Court of Common Pleas, Delaware
Hon. Stacey Fortes, Massachusetts Trial Court
Hon. Kathy Garner, Gadsden Conty Court
Ms. Yadhira Gonzalez-Taylor, City of New York, Department of Education
Hon. Ernestine Gray, Orleans Parish Juvenile Court
Hon. Vivian Henderson, Virginia Beach General District Court
Hon. Vickie Henry, Massachusetts Appeals Court
Hon. Sandra Jenkins, Louisiana Court of Appeal, Fourth Circuit
Ms. Salwa (Sally) Kader, International Federation for Peace and Sustainable Development
Hon. David Keenan, King County Superior Court
Hon. Hollie Levine, Family Court, Broome County
Hon. C. Renee Little, North Carolina 26th Judicial District
Hon. Lisa Martin, 34th District Court
Hon. Aurora Martinez Jones, 126th District Court
Hon. Pennie McLaughlin, San Diego Superior Court
Ms. Audrey Moorehead, Kastl Law, P.C.
Hon. Arose Nielsen, Juvenile Court, Hampden County, Massachusetts
Hon. Lisa Paglisotti, King County District Court
Hon. Yasmine Poles, 6th Circuit Court, Michigan
Ms. Janelle Price, Price Legal Practice
Hon. Maria Puente-Porras, Los Angeles Superior Court
Hon. Daniela Reali-Ferrari, San Diego Superior Court
Hon. Terrie Roberts, San Diego Superior Court
Hon. Carol Scott-Berry, Phoenix Municipal Court, Retired
Ms. Renee Stackhouse, Stackhouse APC
Hon. Soma Syed, NYS Unified Court System
Ms. Patricia Taitano-Valdovinos, San Diego County Primary Public Defender
Hon. Mindy Walker, Jefferson County District Court
Hon. Elizabeth Welch, Michigan Supreme Court
Hon. Latrice Westbrooks, Court of Appeals

FAIRNESS AND ACCESS

The Fairness and Access Committee recommends steps necessary to ensure diversity in the justice system primarily with respect to women, but also as to people of color, the LGBTQ+ community, and other underrepresented communities, and ensures that the system provides fair and equal access, opportunity and treatment to all sectors of the community.

Committee Chairs:

Hon. Nadia Keilani, San Diego Superior Court

Ms. Renee Stackhouse, Stackhouse APC

Members:

Hon. Te'iva Bell, 339th District Court
Hon. Stacy Boulware Eurie, Superior Court of California, County of Sacramento
Hon. Julia Campins, Contra Costa Superior Court, California
Ms. Jodi Cleesattle, California Department of Justice
Hon. Wende Cross, Hamilton County Common Pleas Court, Ohio
Hon. Pamela Dashiell, Massachusetts Trial Court
Hon. Emily Ferrell, Court of Common Pleas, Delaware
Hon. Kameshia Gant, 6th Circuit Court, Michigan
Hon. Ernestine Gray, Orleans Parish Juvenile Court
Hon. Deborah Kaplan, Supreme Court, State of New York
Hon. Maureen Kinsella, 6th Circuit Court, Michigan
Hon. C. Renee Little, North Carolina 26th Judicial District
Hon. Patricia Perez Fersard, 3rd Circuit of Michigan
Capt. Michelle Pettit, Navy Reserve Trial Judiciary
Ms. Janelle Price, Price Legal Practice
Hon. Daniela Reali-Ferrari, San Diego Superior Court
Hon. Karen Romano, Iowa District Court
Lynn Schafran, Esq., Legal Momentum
Hon. Shannon Schlegel, 29th Circuit Court
Hon. Carol Scott-Berry, Phoenix Municipal Court, Retired
Ms. Patricia Taitano-Valdovinos, San Diego County Primary Public Defender
Hon. Judith Wheat, Arlington Circuit Court, Virginia

FINANCE

The Finance Committee oversees the investment account and grant funding received by the organization. The committee also advises the board with respect to making significant financial decisions. The committee chair provides a monthly investment report to the Executive Committee and is a member of the Audit and Compliance Committee.

COMMITTEE CHAIR:

Hon. Anita Josey-Herring, D.C. Superior Court

MEMBERS:

Hon. Barbara Holmes, U.S. District Court, Middle District of Tennessee
Hon. Annabell Perez. 41st Judicial District Court of Texas

HUMAN TRAFFICKING

The Human Trafficking committee works toward eliminating human trafficking, especially women and children trafficked for sexual and labor exploitation.

Committee Chairs:

Summer Stephan, Esq., San Diego District Attorney

Hon. Bobbie McCartney, U.S. Department of Agriculture

Members:

Hon. Stacy Boulware Eurie, Superior Court of California, County of Sacramento
Hon. Ann Breen Greco, Independent Administrative Judiciary Professional
Hon. Joan Churchill, Immigration Judge, Retired
Hon. Annabelle Cortez, Los Angeles Superior Court
Hon. Robin S. Garson, Supreme Court of the State of New York
Hon. Ernestine Gray, Orleans Parish Juvenile Court, Retired
Ms. Salwa (Sally) Kader, International Federation for Peace and Sustainable Development
Hon. Carol King, Immigration Judge, Retired
Hon. Joy Lobrano, Fourth Circuit Court of Appeal
Hon. Claire Loeak, Republic of the Marshall Islands Judiciary - Traditional Rights Court
Hon. Patricia Lynch, Reno Justice Court
Hon. Alex Manning, Fulton County
Hon. Selina Mireles, 4th and 5th Judicial Regions, Child Protection Court
Col. Linda Murnane, USAF, Retired
Lynn Schafran, Esq., Legal Momentum
Hon. Julianne Sylva, Superior Court of California
Hon. Renee Worke, Minnesota Court of Appeals
Hon. Melinda Young, King County Superior Court

IMMIGRATION

The Immigration committee explores, develops, and presents NAWJ judicial educational programs relating to issues on Immigration law, diversity, inclusiveness, implicit bias, cultural humility, acceptance and tolerance.

Committee Chairs:

Hon. Joan Churchill, Immigration Judge, Retired

Hon. Carol King, Immigration Court, Retired

Members:

Hon. Beverly Cutler, Alaska Court System, 3rd Judicial District
Hon. Holly D'Andrea, Executive Office for Immigration Review
Hon. Victoria Ghartey, Immigration Court
Hon. Ernestine Gray, Orleans Parish Juvenile Court
Hon. Katherine Hansen, Executive Office of Immigration Review
Ms. Salwa (Sally) Kader, International Federation for Peace and Sustainable Development
Hon. Amiena Khan, EOIR/Immigration Court
Hon. Andrea Koppenhofer, New York Immigration Court
Hon. Dana Marks, Immigration Court
Hon. Tiffany Palmer, Court of Common Pleas of Philadelphia
Hon. Luisa Santiago, DOJ/EOIR
Hon. Mary Sommer, Connecticut Superior Court
Hon. Monica Thompson Guidry, Executive Office of Immigration Review
Hon. Mimi Tsankov, New York Immigration Court

INTERNATIONAL OUTREACH

The International Outreach committee ensures that NAWJ is well-informed about international law and related issues, educates members on these issues, and provides commentary when appropriate. The committee seeks to maximize participation of women judges in international tribunals, the International Association of Women Judges, and other internationally-oriented bodies.

INTERNATIONAL Liaison:

Hon. Lisa Walsh, 11th Judicial Circuit Court, Civil Division

Hon. Delissa (Lisa) Ridgway, U.S. Court of International Trade

Members:

Hon. Jacinta Alves, U.S. Department of HHS
Hon. Anne Elizabeth Barnes, Court of Appeals of Georgia, Atlanta
Hon. Joan Churchill, Immigration Court, Retired
Hon. Caryn Datz, 17th Judicial District, Colorado
Hon. Robin Garson, Supreme Court of the State of New York
Hon. Ellen Gesmer, Appellate Division
Hon. Dianna Gibson, Third District Court, State of Utah
Ms. Salwa (Sally) Kader, International Federation for Peace and Sustainable Development
Hon. Wendy Li, New York State Court
Hon. C. Renee Little, North Carolina 26th Judicial District
Hon. Claire Loeak, Republic of the Marshall Islands Judiciary - Traditional Rights Court
Col. Linda Murnane, USAF, Retired
Hon. Orlinda Naranjo, Senior Judge (Retired)
Hon. Cara Lee Neville, 4th Judicial District Court, Minnesota
Hon. Charmaine Joy Pemberton, Court of Appeals
Hon. Arlene Perkkio, Dakota County District Court
Ms. Annette Boyd Pitts, Justice Teaching Center for Civic Learning
Hon. Lauren Reeder, 234th Judicial District, Texas
Hon. Michelle Rick, Michigan Court of Appeals
Hon. Ramona See, Los Angeles Superior Court
Hon. Julianne Sylva, Superior Court of California
Hon. Mimi Tsankov, New York Immigration Court
Hon. Carmen Velasquez, Supreme Court of the State of New York
Hon. Mindy Walker, Jefferson County District Court
Hon. Pamela Washington, Alaska Superior Court
Hon. Debra Weintraub, Los Angeles Superior Court
Hon. Valerie Yarashus, Superior Court of Massachusetts

JUDICIAL Education & ACADEMIC NETWORK

The Judicial Education & Academic Network committee recommends to the Board of Directors and membership timely topics and subject matter for programs and assists in developing, and presenting judicial educational programs. In addition, the committee provides guidance in recording and preserving NAWJ history and archives.

Committee Chairs:

Hon. Marian Perkins, Circuit Court of Cook County

Ms. Annette Pitts, Justice Teaching Center for Civic Learning

Members:

Hon. Anne Elizabeth Barnes, Georgia Court of Appeals
Hon. Lucy Billings, New York State Supreme Court
Hon. Tracy Catapano-Fox, Queens Supreme Court
Hon. Michelle Court, Los Angeles Superior Court
Hon. Vivian Henderson, Virginia Beach General District Court
Hon. Lakshmi Herman, Miami Immigration Court
Hon. Janet James-Mahon, U.S. Social Security Administration
Hon. Shelley Kaufman, Los Angeles Superior Court
Dr. Joan B. Kessler, JAMS
Hon. Maureen Kinsella, 6th Circuit Court, Michigan
Hon. Diana Leyden, U.S. Tax Court
Hon. C. Renee Little, North Carolina 26th Judicial District
Ms. Audrey Moorehead, Kastl Law, P.C.
Hon. Charmaine Joy Pemberton, Court of Appeals
Hon. Patricia Perez Fresard, 3rd Circuit of Michigan
Hon. Verena Powell, Office of Court Administration
Hon. Lauren Reeder, 234th Judicial District, Texas
Hon. Delissa (Lisa) Ridgway, U.S. Court of International Trade
Ms. Lynn Schafran, Legal Momentum
Hon. Soma Syed, NYS Unified Court System
Hon. Latrice Westbrooks, Court of Appeals

JUDICIAL INDEPENDENCE

Since 2011, when it became apparent that unlimited sums of money could be spent on attack ads aimed at judges in elections, members of NAWJ decided to respond proactively, and thus the Informed Voters/Fair Judges Project was created. Now usually called IVP, this project has been the primary work of the Judicial Independence Committee from that time to the present. Among the first goals set by Judge Joan Irion, Justice Judith McConnell, and other early leaders of IVP, was to create educational materials for the public geared to a variety of age groups, to counter attacks on judges by providing accurate history and background information about the role of the Judicial Branch of our Constitutional democracy and the importance of independent and impartial courts to all of the people in America. Click here for full description.

Committee Chairs:

Hon Robin Hudson, North Carolina Supreme Court

Hon. Carletta Brown, Civil & Magistrate Court of Richmond County

Hon. Debra Stephens, Washington State Supreme Court

Members:

Hon. Anne Elizabeth Barnes, Court of Appeals of Georgia
Nicole Bautista, California Judges Association
Hon. Te'iva Bell, 339th District Court, Texas
Hon. Betty Calvo-Torres, Court of Claims
Hon. Emily Chafa, State of Iowa
Ms. Jodi Cleesattle, California Department of Justice
Hon. Dori Contreras, 13th Court of Appeals
Hon. Beverly Cutler, Alaska Court System, 3rd Judicial District
Hon. Karen Donohue, King County Superior Court
Hon. Kameshia Gant, 6th Circuit Court, Michigan
Hon. Lucy Inman, North Carolina Court of Appeals
Hon. Tamila Ipema, San Diego Superior Court
Hon. Sandra Jenkins, Louisiana Court of Appeal, Fourth Circuit
Hon. Lynda Jones, Davidson County Court
Hon. Andrea Koppenhofer, New York Immigration Court
Hon. Changyong Li, New York State Court
Hon. Kristen Lucena, Butte County Superior Court
Hon. Judith McConnell, California Court of Appeal
Hon. Pennie McLaughlin, San Diego Superior Court
Annette Pitts, Justice Teaching Center for Civic Learning
Hon. Verena Powell, Office of Court Administration
Hon. Dorothy Proudfoot, San Francisco Rent Board
Hon. Lauren Reeder, 234th Judicial District, Texas
Hon. Delissa (Lisa) Ridgway, U.S. Court of International Trade
Hon. Terrie Roberts, San Diego Superior Court
Jim Robinson, Hite, Fanning & Honeyman
Hon. Cymonie Rowe, 15th Judicial Circuit, Palm Beach County, Florida
Hon. Ramona See, Losa Angeles Superior Court
Hon. Maura Slattery Boyle, Cook County Circuit Court, Civil
Hon. Soma Syed, NYS Unified Court System
Ms. Patricia Taitano-Valdovinos, San Diego County Primary Public Defender
Hon. Theresa Timlin, U.S. Department of Labor
Hon. Mimi Tsankov, New York Immigration Court
Hon. Christine Walczyk, North Carolina, Wake County, 10th Judicial
Hon. Rohanee Zapanta, San Diego Superior Court

JUVENILE JUSTICE AND CHILD WELFARE

The Juvenile Justice and Child Welfare committee’s mission is to ensure that NAWJ is well-informed about court initiatives that improve the lives of children and families and increase access to justice in a fair, equitable, effective and timely manner; provide information on standards, practices, and efficacy of the nation’s juvenile courts; explore, develop, and present educational programs related to the wide range of child welfare and  juvenile justice issues in courts and communities; and provide NAWJ members with information from other national associations that address child welfare and  juvenile justice initiatives including continuing education, data and research, publications, and technical assistance information.

Committee Chairs:

Hon. Ernestine S. Gray, Orleans Parish Juvenile Court, Retired

Hon. Joy Cossich Lobrano, Fourth Circuit Court of Appeal, Louisiana

Members:

Hon. Stacy Boulware-Eurie, Court of Appeal, Third Appellate District
Hon. Deitra Burney-Butler, Clayton County Juvenile Court, Georgia
Hon. Annabelle Cortez, Los Angeles Superior Court
Hon. Caryn Datz, 17th Judicial District, Colorado
Hon. Stephanie Davis, Comanche County Court
Hon. Marguerite Downing, Superior Court of California
Hon. Kathy Garner, Gadsden County Court
Ms. Yadhira Gonzalez-Taylor, City of New York, Department of Education
Hon. Maureen Kinsella, 6th Circuit Court, Michigan
Hon. Lynn Leopold, Family Court
Hon. Hollie Levine, Family Court, Broome County
Hon. C. Renee Little, North Carolina 26th Judicial District
Hon. Alex Manning, Fulton County
Hon. Bobbie McCartney, U.S. Department of Agriculture
Hon. Jacquelyn McClinton, 36th District Court, Michigan
Hon. Lisa McEvers, North Dakota Supreme Court
Hon. Deborah McNabb, 17th Circuit Court, Kent County
Hon. Amy Nechtem, Massachusetts Juvenile Court
Ms. Janelle Price, Price Legal Practice
Hon. Daniela Reali-Ferrari, San Diego Superior Court
Hon. Mary Sommer, Connecticut Superior Court
Hon. Megan Valentine, Grays Harbor District Court
Ms. Julie O. Wolff, The Law & Mediation Office of Julie O. Wolff

LGBTQ+

NAWJ LGBTQ+ Committee seeks to provide opportunities for NAWJ members to meet and exchange views and to promote education among its members and among the general public on legal and judicial issues related to the gay and lesbian community; and aid in ensuring the equal treatment of all persons who appear in a courtroom, as a litigant, attorney, juror, staff person in any other capacity.

MEMBERS:

Hon. Ann Breen-Greco, Independent Administrative Judiciary Professional
Hon. Cheryl Cesario, Circuit Court of Cook County
Hon. Emily Chafa, State of Iowa, Retired
Ms. Jodi Cleesattle, California Department of Justice
Hon. Gwenlynn D'Souza, D.C. Department of Employment Services
Hon. Kathleen Feeney, Kent County Circuit Court
Hon. Vickie Henry, Massachusetts Appeals Court
Hon. Lakshmi Herman, Miami Immigration Court
Hon. Juliet Howard, Civil Court of the City of New York/Housing Part
Hon. Carol King, Immigration Judge (Retired)
Hon. Victoria Kolakowski, Alameda County Superior Court
Hon. Alex Manning, Fulton County, Georgia
Hon. Michelle McGovern, Iowa Division of Workers' Compensation, Retired
Hon. Sharon Mettler, Kern Superior Court (Retired)
Hon. Tiffany L. Palmer, Philadelphia Court of Common Pleas
Ms. Julie Wolff, The Law & Mediation Office of Julie O. Wolff

MEMBERSHIP OUTREACH AND RETENTION

The Membership Outreach and Retention committee ensures NAWJ includes members from each of the major judicial groups, helps to recruit and meet the special needs of each group, and formulates and implements a plan for membership recruitment and retention.  The committee analyzes statistical data and other information that may assist in identifying issues relevant to retaining and increasing membership.

Committee Chairs:

Hon. Doreen Boxer, Los Angeles Superior Court

Hon. Beverly Cutler, Alaska Court System, 3rd Judicial District, Retired

Members:

Hon. Anne Elizabeth Barnes, Georgia Court of Appeals
Hon. Te'iva Bell, 339th District Court, Texas
Hon. Jill Feeney, Los Angeles Superior Court
Ms. Salwa (Sally) Kader, International Federation for Peace and Sustainable Development
Hon. C. Renee Little, North Carolina 26th Judicial District
Hon. Lisa Martin, 34th District Court, Michigan
Hon. Millicent Newhouse, D.C. Office of Administrative Hearings
Hon. Jane Reynolds, Spotsylvania General District Court
Hon. Judith Wheat, Arlington Circuit Court
 

MILITARY and VETERANS Judges

The Military and Veterans Judges Committee includes military judges (active duty, guard, and reserve), judges serving in any judicial capacity who qualify as veterans of any branch of the Armed Forces, retired military members in any capacity, judges and court support staff whose dockets include Veterans Treatment or similar mental health support courts, spouses and family members of U.S. military members (active duty, guard, and reserve) and veterans, and those whose practice includes representation of military members and veterans.  The committee ensures that these members and their concerns and issues are included and reflected in all aspects of NAWJ membership, leadership, networking, and educational programming and other activities.  The Committee also seeks to educate the judiciary on how involvement in the courts affects servicemembers, veterans, and their families.  The Committee ensures the sharing of information unique to military members and military judges, as well as the family life issues that impact servicemembers, veterans, military spouses ,and their families, including, but not limited to: specialized information on the Uniform Code of Military Justice and the court-martial process, military equality for women, men, and the LGBTQ+ community, issues related to visitation, custody, family housing, dual punishment of military members and their families in the criminal justice system, licensing challenges, medical care access, Veterans Administration benefits and access challenges, and related matters.  

Committee Chairs:

Hon. Kirsten Brunson, US Army, Retired

Col. Linda Murnane, USAF, Retired

MEMBERS:

Ms. Yadhira Gonzalez-Taylor, State of New York, Department of Education
Ms. Patricia Harris, US Army
Mr. Tom Leighton, Thomson Reuters
Hon. Alex Manning, Fulton County
Hon. Jacquelyn McClinton, 36th District Court, Michigan
Ms. Renee Stackhouse, Stackhouse APC
Hon. Renee Worke, Minnesota Court of Appeals

MOTHERS IN COURT

Mothers in Court Committee identifies the issues that mothers face in the courtroom; from the bench to counsel table, from courtroom staff, jurors and litigants.  The committee will work to raise awareness on these issues, and provide education and methods of addressing them to courts across the nation. 

Committee Chairs:

Hon. Cori Barkman, 29th Circuit Court, Michigan

Members:

Ms. Brigid Campo, San Diego Superior Court
Hon. Tracy Catapano-Fox, Queens Supreme Court
Commissioner Debroah Cumba, San Diego Superior Court
Hon. Ernestine Gray, Orleans Parish Juvenile Court, Retired
Hon. Arlene Perkkio, Dakota County District Court
Ms. Renee Stackhouse, Stackhouse APC
Hon. Melinda Young, King County Superior Court

NOMINATING

The Nominating committee, chaired by the Immediate Past President, presents at least one nominee for each officer position.

Committee Chair:

Hon. Karen Donohue, King County Superior Court

Members:

Hon. Anna Blackburne-Rigsby, District of Columbia Court of Appeals
Hon. Bernadette D'Souza, Civil District Court in New Orleans
Hon. Fernande (Nan) Duffly, Massachusetts Supreme Court, Retired
Hon. Dana Fabe, Alaska Supreme Court, Retired
Hon. Julie Frantz, Mulnoltmah County Circuit Court, Retired
Hon. Brenda Loftin, St. Louis County Circuit Court, Retired
Hon. Judith McConnell, Fourth District Court of Appeal, California
Hon. Brenda Murray, U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, Retired
Hon. Amy Nechtem, Massachusetts Juvenile Court
Hon. Bea Ann Smith, Texas Court of Appeals, Retired

PROJECTS

The Projects committee assesses, supports and ensures broad replication of NAWJ programs. The committee also monitors the viability on an ongoing basis of both new and longstanding programs, and periodically tracks their presentations.  Ongoing projects include:

• ​Color of Justice
• ​From the Bar to the Bench
• ​Informed Voters Project
• ​Mentor Jet
• ​Storybook Project
• ​Women’s Resource Fair
• ​Women Moving Forward

Committee Chair:

Hon. Kathy King, Supreme Court of New York, Kings County

Ms. Cathy Winter-Palmer, CWP & Associates

Members:

Hon. Te'iva Bell, 339th District Court, Texas
Hon. Beverly Cutler, Alaska Court System, 3rd Judicial District
Hon. Pamela Dashiell, Massachusetts Trial Court
Hon. Stacey Fortes, Massachusetts Trial Court
Hon. Robin Garson, Supreme Court of the State of New York
Dr. Joan B. Kessler, JAMS
Hon. Brandy Mueller, County Court at Law #6
Hon. Delissa (Lisa) Ridgway, U.S. Court of International Trade
Hon. Laura Seigle, Los Angeles Superior Court
Hon. Toni Terrett, Ninth Circuit District, State of MS
 

RESOLUTIONS

The Resolutions committee receives and reports on all resolutions proposed for adoption at the Annual Meeting.

COMMITTEE CHAIR:

Hon. Mary Schroeder, U.S. Court of Appeals

MEMBERS:

Hon. Kimberly Best, Mecklenburg County District Court
Hon. Marcella Holland, Circuit Court for Baltimore City, Maryland
Hon. Sharon Mettler, Kern Superior Court
Hon. Sandra Ann Robinson, State of New Jersey
Hon. Karen Romano, Iowa District Court

RETIRED/SENIOR JUDGES

The Retired/Senior Judges committee seeks to maximize the membership and active participation in NAWJ of retired and senior judges. The committee promotes programing, networking, and other opportunities tailored to meet the needs and take advantage of the experience, perspective, and expertise of retired and senior judges.

Committee Chair:

Hon. Joan Churchill, Immigration Judge, Retired

Hon. Ramona See, Los Angeles Superior Court

Members:

Hon. Cynthia Baldwin, Supreme Court of Pennsylvania, Retired
Hon. Mary Becnel, 40th Judicial District Court
Hon. Suzanne Bruguera, ADR Services, Inc.
Col. Kirsten Brunson, U.S. Army, Retired
Hon. Marjorie Carter, California Superior Court, Orange County
Hon. Cheryl Cesario, Circuit Court of Cook County
Hon. Emily Chafa, State of Iowa
Hon. Donna Crandall, Orange County Superior Court
Hon. Beverly Cutler, Alaska Court System, 3rd Judicial District
Hon. Phyllis Flug, New York State Supreme Court, Queens County
Hon. Robin Garson, Supreme Court of the State of New York
Hon. Jennifer Gee, U.S. Department of Labor
Hon. Patricia Hurst, Rhode Island Superior Court
Hon. Barbara Levenson, 11th Judicial Circuit of Florida
Hon. Carole Levy, Bronx Family Court
Hon. Patricia Lynch, Robertson Johnson Miller & Willamson
Hon. Miki McGovern, Iowa Division of Workers' Compensation
Hon. Sharon Mettler, Kern Superior Court, Retired
Hon. Jamoa Moberly, ADR Services
Hon. Susan Moiseev, 46th District Court
Hon. Karla Moskowitz, Appellate Division, First Department, NY
Hon. Orlinda Naranjo, Senior Judge, Retired
Hon. Beverly Nash, D.C. Office of Administrative Hearings, Retired
Hon. Cara Lee Neville, 4th Judicial District Court, MN
Hon. Doris Pechkurow, Philadelphia County Court of Common Pleas
Hon. Karen Romano, Iowa District Court
Hon. Kitty Schild, Former County Court at Law/Visiting Judge, Texas
Hon. Carol Scott-Berry, Phoenix Municipal Court, Retired
Hon. Emily Shattil, Social Security Administration
Hon. Julia Weatherly, Circuit Court of Prince George's County, Maryland
Hon. Diane Wray, Buffalo City Court

RURAL COURTS

The Rural Courts committee ensures that judges who sit in rural areas are fully included and reflected in NAWJ activities, and that the needs and interests of rural judges are reflected in NAWJ initiatives.

Committee Chairs:

Hon. Stephanie Davis, Comanche County Court

Hon. Elisabeth Reynoldson, Iowa District Court

MEMBERS:

Hon. Rachel Ahrens, Alaska Court System
Hon. Cori Barkman, 29th Circuit Court
Hon. Joy Lobrano, 4th Circuit Court of Appeal
Hon. Michelle Rick, Michigan Court of Appeals
Hon. Shannon Schlegel, 29th Circuit Court
Hon. Cindy Vanlandingham, Bosque County
Hon. Margaret White, 8th Judicial District, Kansas

SELF-REPRESENTED LITIGANTS

The Self-Represented Litigants committee seeks to raise awareness and promote judicial education about how justice system professionals can improve self-represented litigants' courtroom environment and experience. The goal is to ensure that self-represented litigants with civil legal issues can have effective and equal access to justice. 

COMMITTEE CHAIRS:

Hon. Emily Ferrell, Court of Common Pleas, Delaware

Hon. Debra Sasser, North Carolina AOC District Court

MEMBERS:

Hon. Carletta Brown, Civil & Magistrate Court of Richmond County
Hon. Emily Gould Chafa, State of Iowa, Retired
Hon. Shelley Kaufman, Los Angeles Superior Court
Hon. Diana Leyden, U.S. Tax Court
Hon. Thanayi Lindsey, State of California
Hon. Verena Powell, Office of Court Administration
Hon. Michelle Rick, Michigan Court of Appeals
Hon. Angela Robinson, D.C. Office of Administrative Hearings
​Hon. Kitty Schild, Former County Court at Law/Visiting Judge, Texas
Hon. Theresa Timlin, U.S. Department of Labor
Hon. Julie Verheye, St. Joseph Superior Court, Indiana

WOMEN IN PRISON

The Women in Prison committee disseminates information, makes recommendations and develops new initiatives relating to NAWJ programs to improve the lives of women inmates and/or ex-offenders, and their relationship with their children.

Committee Chairs:

Hon. Suzanne Maxwell Barnes, Erie County, New York

Hon. Judith Wheat, Arlington Circuit Court

Members:

Hon. Dania Ayoubi, Maryland Office of Administrative Hearings
Hon. Te'iva Bell, 339th District Court, Texas
Hon. Kimberly Best, Mecklenburg County District Court
Hon. Tracy Catapano-Fox, Queens Supreme Court
Hon. Susan Criss, Criss & Rousseau Law Firm LLP
Commissioner Deborah Cumba, San Diego Superior Court
Hon. Beverly Cutler, Alaska Court System, 3rd Judicial District
Hon. Susan Danoff, Kings County Family Court
Hon. Karen Donohue, King County Superior Court
Hon. Marguerite Downing, Los Angeles Superior Court
Hon. Jill Feeney, Los Angeles Superior Court
Hon. Emily Ferrell, Court of Common Pleas
Hon. Robin Garson, Supreme Court of the State of New York
Ms. Yadhira Gonzalez-Taylor, State of New York, Department of Education
Hon. Rupa Goswami, Los Angeles Superior Court
Hon. Michelle Ialeggio, San Diego Superior Court
Hon. Debra A. James, New York State Supreme Court
Hon. Sandra Jenkins, Louisiana Court of Appeal, Fourth District
Hon. Nadia Keilani, San Diego Superior Court
Hon. C. Renee Little, North Carolina 26th Judicial District
Hon. Alex Manning, Fulton County
Hon. Judith McConnell, Court of Appeal
Hon. Pennie McLaughlin, San Diego Superior Court
Hon. Brenda Murray, Retired
Hon. Beverly Nash, D.C. Office of Administrative Hearings
Hon. Patricia Perez Fresard, 3rd Circuit of Michigan
Hon. Marian Perkins, Circuit Court of Cook County
Hon. Arlene Perkkio, Dakota County District Court
Hon. Mary Sommer, Connecticut Superior Court
Hon. Lisa Walsh, 11th Circuit Court, Civil Division
Hon. Julia Weatherly, Circuit Court of Prince George's County, Maryland
Hon. Latrice Westbrooks, Court of Appeals
Hon. Renee Worke, Minnesota Court of Appeals, St. Paul
Hon. Valerie Yarashus, Superior Court of Massachusetts