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About the Gala
Our Annual Gala is the signature fundraising event for Legal Services of the Hudson Valley (LSHV), bringing together a powerful network of nearly 300 leaders, advocates, and community members from the legal, business, nonprofit, and civic sectors. This inspiring evening celebrates our unwavering mission to protect and promote the rights of those who cannot afford legal representation. It highlights the extraordinary individuals and organizations who stand with us in that fight.
As our premier fundraiser of the year, the Gala is critical in sustaining LSHV's free legal services for low-income individuals and families across the region. The funds raised directly support our efforts to prevent homelessness, protect survivors of domestic violence, uphold the rights of people with disabilities, and ensure access to justice for vulnerable communities.
The event is more than a celebration-it reflects our collective impact and shared vision for a fairer, more equitable society. Through powerful stories, heartfelt tributes, and meaningful connections, guests leave the Gala inspired to champion justice and deepen their commitment to LSHV's mission.
Join us as we honor those who have made a difference and rally together to continue building a community where justice is not a privilege, but a right.
Our Esteemed Honorees
HONORABLE LYNDON D. WILLIAMS is a retired City Court Judge, attorney, educator, and longtime public servant dedicated to advancing justice and strengthening communities throughout Westchester County. During his tenure on the bench, he presided over a broad range of criminal and civil matters and spearheaded the creation of the Mount Vernon Emerging Adult Justice Part, an innovative initiative providing young adults with pathways to rehabilitation and success.
Prior to his time on the bench, Judge Williams spent 12 years on the Westchester County Board of Legislators, including four years as Vice-Chairman, and previously served as President of the Mount Vernon City Council for three terms. He holds degrees from Bernard M. Baruch College and Pace University School of Law and remains engaged in public service as Chairman of the Westchester County Charter Revision Commission, Administrative Law Judge for Westchester County, and a leader in numerous civic and professional organizations.
A lifelong advocate for opportunity, fairness, and community empowerment, Judge Williams has dedicated his career to improving lives through public service, education, and leadership.
DEBORAH A. SCALISE, ESQ. is a principal of Scalise & Hamilton, P.C. in Scarsdale, New York, Ms. Scalise focuses on representing lawyers, judges, and accountants in professional responsibility and ethics matters. Throughout her distinguished career in public service and private practice, she has earned recognition as a leader in legal ethics, professionalism, and attorney discipline.
Before entering private practice, Ms. Scalise served as Deputy Attorney General in Charge of Public Advocacy for the Westchester Region, Deputy Chief Counsel to the Departmental Disciplinary Committee for the First Judicial Department, and as an Assistant District Attorney in Kings County. She has authored numerous publications on ethics and professional responsibility, served on the New York State Office of Court Administration Continuing Legal Education Board, and remains committed to mentoring future legal professionals.
Her honors include the New York State Bar Association's Ruth G. Shapiro Memorial Award and recognition from Legal Services of the Hudson Valley for her longstanding support, mentorship, and commitment to excellence in the legal profession.
Our Esteemed Honorees
CLIFF WEBER, ESQ. & THE PCSB COMMUNITY FOUNDATION, The PCSB Community Foundation, established in 2017, carries forward PCSB Bank's 150-year tradition of philanthropy and community engagement. Through more than $350,000 in annual grants and resources each year, the Foundation supports nonprofit organizations and initiatives that strengthen communities, improve quality of life, and create opportunities for Hudson Valley residents.
Cliff Weber, Esq., longtime banking attorney and community leader, helps guide this important work. Mr. Weber has dedicated more than four decades to serving the banking industry and has been a steadfast advocate for community-based organizations throughout the region. He has been a valued member of the boards of both Legal Services of the Hudson Valley and the PCSB Community Foundation for several years, providing leadership and ongoing support for programs that strengthen and uplift local communities.
Together, the PCSB Community Foundation and Cliff Weber exemplify the power of partnership, philanthropy, and civic leadership to create lasting, positive change throughout the Hudson Valley.
Emcee
TARA ROSENBLUM is a veteran anchor, host, and investigative reporter for the News 12 Network, specializing in political reporting, breaking news, and investigative journalism. One of the most decorated local television journalists in the nation, she has earned more than 300 industry awards, including two National Edward R. Murrow Awards, 71 Emmy Awards, and 221 Emmy nominations. Tara has covered major national and international events, interviewed presidents and world leaders, and led award-winning investigations that have influenced public policy and garnered international attention. A familiar and cherished presence at the Equal Access to Justice Gala, Tara returns as our emcee, bringing her passion for storytelling and commitment to community service to the evening's celebration.
Keynote Speaker
RANSOM WYDNER is the Head of Partnerships at Ethena, a New York based compliance and learning platform. Wydner is an advocate for the accessibility and use of technology as a tool to assist in legal services, and believes that the law belongs to all Americans-just like public parks and libraries.
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