Caps and gowns took center stage at David Geffen Hall at Lincoln Center on May 24, 2017, as Cardozo’s Class of 2017 celebrated the end of their law school journey at the school’s 39th commencement.
Dean Melanie Leslie told the graduates, “we are extraordinarily proud of your accomplishments...our country is more polarized than ever and it is a critically important time to be a lawyer.”
Guest speaker Vanita Gupta, former deputy assistant attorney general for civil rights in the Obama administration, inspired graduates to take on the challenges facing our nation and continue the fight for justice. “History is not linear…our values and our democracy do not protect themselves. You are obligated to see that this country lives up to its ideals.”
Cardozo conferred an honorary degree to Robert M. Morgenthau, LLB, a legal industry pioneer, former District Attorney for New York County and longtime advocate for justice. He thanked the Cardozo community and said “your name is synonymous with the best virtues of the word of law.” Morgenthau, age 97, knew Benjamin N. Cardozo personally and told the graduates, “I wish all of you great success as you follow in the footsteps of Benjamin N. Cardozo.”
Dean Judy Mender and Professor Malvina Halberstam, who will retire in the coming months, were recognized with the Dean’s Award for Distinguished Service. Professor Leslie Newman was the recipient of the Monrad Paulsen Award.
Other speakers included Richard M. Joel, Yeshiva University President; Alexander Rias, a member of the graduating class; and Loretta Gastwirth, chair of the Alumni Association.
