The Suffolk County Courts launched their 2026 Women’s History Month celebration with a Women in the Law panel at the John P. Cohalan Jr. Court Complex in Central Islip, drawing more than 100 female high school students from districts across the county.
The event, organized in partnership with the Women’s Bar Association of the State of New York and the Suffolk County Women’s Bar Association, marked the first of three programs planned to highlight the achievements and leadership of women in the justice system.
A diverse panel of professionals, including judges, court administrators, a court officer, an interpreter and a court reporter, shared their personal career journeys and offered guidance to students interested in legal and public service careers.
“The courts are honored to host this program and to highlight the many different careers that exist within our court system,” said District Administrative Judge Hon. Andrew Crecca in welcoming remarks. “It is wonderful to see so many students here to learn about the various paths that are open to you.”
Panelist Hon. Cheryl Joseph, Acting Supreme Court Justice and Supervising Judge of Matrimonial Parts, emphasized the importance of representation and mentorship.
“Programs like this help students see that there are many meaningful paths to serving the public through the justice system,” Joseph said. “I was honored to share my experiences with the next generation and encourage students to pursue their goals.”
Additional panelists included Hon. Mary Kate Mullen, Rachel Landkammer, Julie Walsh, Sergeant Evelyn Portes, Darlene Devlin, Kelli Houlihan and Shawn Renee Guzman.
The Women’s History Month observance continues March 16 with a ceremony recognizing female court officers in leadership roles, and concludes March 26th with a grand celebration featuring awards, a keynote address, musical performances, and a luncheon reception.