Suffolk County courts marked Women’s History Month with a major celebration honoring the leadership, achievements, and lasting impact of women across the legal community.
Held March 26 in the Ceremonial Courtroom of the Cohalan Court Complex, the event brought together judges, court staff, and community members as part of a broader month-long series themed “Leading the Change: Women Shaping a Sustainable Future.”
Hosted by District Administrative Judge Andrew Crecca and Suffolk’s Women in the Courts Committee, the program highlighted a series of initiatives, including a recognition ceremony for female supervisory court officers and a panel discussion connecting women in the courts with local high school students.
A central moment of the ceremony was the presentation of the inaugural Hon. Mary Werner Award, created to recognize a female member of the legal system whose work has advanced justice and inspired future generations. The award, named for the late District Administrative Judge Mary Werner, was presented posthumously to Surrogate’s Court Judge Theresa Whelan, who died in 2022 after battling cancer.
Supervising Family Court Judge Caren Loguercio, who joined Crecca in presenting the award, praised Whelan’s legacy. “Judge Whelan was the epitome of the gold standard for members of the judiciary,” she said.
The event also featured keynote speaker Lisa Gatti, founder and CEO of Pal-O-Mine, a nonprofit that provides therapeutic horseback riding programs for individuals with disabilities. Gatti highlighted the organization’s collaboration with the courts. “We are humbled to be a part of the court-based intervention system,” she said.
In closing, Crecca emphasized the importance of continuing progress. “This celebration is not only about recognition—it is about inspiring future generations and building a more just and equitable future,” he said.
The program concluded with musical performances by Bay Shore High School students and a reception, capping a month dedicated to mentorship and advancing opportunities for women.