Students at Brentwood High School welcomed a distinguished guest on campus as Hon. Hector D. LaSalle, Presiding Justice of New York’s Appellate Division for the Second Department, returned to his alma mater for a special visit held in the school’s Sonderling Auditorium.
The event, organized by the Suffolk County Courts, featured a panel discussion aimed at introducing students to careers within the New York Unified Court System. Justice LaSalle was joined by several court professionals, many of whom also graduated from Brentwood High School, including Secretary Michelle Garcia, Senior Court Clerk Jessica Williams, Associate Court Clerk Crystal Douglas, Court Officer Paul McGlynn, Court Officer Anthony Arroyo, and Lieutenant James Martinez.
Suffolk County District Administrative Judge Hon. Andrew A. Crecca opened the program with welcoming remarks, setting the tone for a discussion centered on opportunity, perseverance, and public service. Throughout the panel, speakers shared personal stories about their career paths and emphasized the diverse roles available within the court system.
Justice LaSalle spoke candidly about his own journey, reflecting on his time as a student in Brentwood and encouraging attendees to take pride in their backgrounds. He urged students to remain confident in their potential, telling them that their experiences can serve as a foundation for success regardless of the paths they choose.
Brentwood Schools Superintendent Wanda Ortiz was also in attendance for the event, which drew significant engagement from students. The program concluded with a lively question-and-answer session, allowing students to interact directly with the panelists and gain further insight into careers in law and public service.
Following the discussion, representatives from the Unified Court System distributed complimentary items to students. Organizers said the visit underscores an ongoing commitment to community outreach and education, with the goal of inspiring the next generation to explore opportunities within the justice system.