UB Law Forum Volume 21 Number 1 Spring 2009

UB Law Forum

Volume 21 Number 1 Spring 2009 Article 1

4-1-2009

University at Buffalo School of Law

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Recommended Citation University at Buffalo School of Law (2009) "UB Law Forum Volume 21 Number 1 Spring 2009," UB Law Forum: Vol. 21 : No. 1 , Article 1. Available at: https://digitalcommons.law.buffalo.edu/ub_law_forum/vol21/iss1/1

This Full Issue is brought to you for free and open access by the Alumni Publications at Digital Commons @ University at Buffalo School of Law. It has been accepted for inclusion in UB Law Forum by an authorized editor of Digital Commons @ University at Buffalo School of Law. For more information, please contact [email protected]. UBLAWFORUM The Magazine of the University at Buffalo Law School The State University of New York

SPRING 2009

Meet the latest stars to join our faculty

Wentong Zheng Tara Melish S. Todd BrownMichael Halberstam Angela P.Harris

Lessons Bridge-term learning experience of the in Bosnia, Serbia and Kosovo Balkans proves life-changing Contents 1 UBLAWFORUM The Magazine of the University at Buffalo Law School The State University of New York

MESSAGE FROM THE DEAN 2 A message from Dean Makau Mutua BRIEFS 3 Short takes on what’s up ALUMNI PROFILES 44 12 8 Bella Maisel Goldin ’31, a pioneer Buffalo attorney, turns 100 Obama appointee Law 9 D. Christopher Decker ’98 works for human rights in Kosovo Mark G. Pearce ’78 Review 9 Dennis Patterson ’80 accepts position with elite European Dinner University Institute LAW SCHOOL REPORT 10 Lessons of the Balkans 11 Students of Color Dinner celebrates achievement and promise 12 Buffalo Law Review finds satisfaction in a productive year 13 Career Services report FOCUS ON FACULTY 14 S. Todd Brown to teach bankruptcy and business law 16 Michael Halberstam investigates theory and practice of governance 18 Tara Melish will direct the Buffalo Human Rights Center 20 Wentong Zheng brings an economist’s eye to legal study 22 Angela P.Harris first Baldy Distinguished Visiting Scholar 24 Virginia Leary, lawyer, professor, human rights activist, passes away in Geneva, Switzerland 25 New books by our professors 26 Baldy Center creates innovative working groups 11 27 Faculty members on the move 28 Theorists and Jurists Series at Baldy Center Students of Color LAW ALUMNI ASSOCIATION Bella Maisel 29 Court of Appeals justice addresses New York City 9 Goldin as alumni luncheon a graduate 30 Distinguished Law Alumni Dinner Alumni Profile, in 1931. 32 Class Action: Reunions/marriages/births/deaths Chris Decker AS WE GO TO PRESS 8 44 UB Law alumnus appointed by Obama to NLRB

Donna Brazile 32 6 at UB Reunions UB LAW FORUM • SPRING 2009 2 Message from the dean We want to be great – not just good memorable for our gradu- pleased with the new faculty ber is leaving for the Univer- ates and the community. It that we have hired over the sity of Toronto. will be headlined by Prime past year. We have hired six I believe that the mission Minister Raila Odinga of new faculty with star poten- of the Law School is to pro- Kenya,who will deliver the tial. Last fall,we hired Profes- duce great attorneys and in- Commencement Address on sor Stuart Lazar (JD Michi- fluential scholarship. In this the rule of law. Prime Minis- gan) to teach tax and Profes- regard,we are taking steps to ter Odinga is one of the most sor Ruqaiijah Yearby (JD create a rich and balanced charismatic politicians of our Georgetown) to teach public curriculum. That is why we times. The commencement health law. Four new faculty created this spring the Legal will also be special because will join us in this fall. Profes- Skills Program to bring cur- SUNY will confer honorary sor Michael Halberstam (JD riculum and administrative doctorates to two prominent Stanford,PhD Yale) for civil rationale,oversight and co- lawyers and global citizens. procedure and civil rights herence to all skills offerings. Irene Khan,the secretary- law; Professor Wentong The Legal Skills Program will general of Amnesty Interna- Zheng (JD,PhD Stanford) be headed by a tenured facul- tional,the world’s largest and will teach commercial law; ty member. We are carrying most influential human Professor Tara Melish (JD out internal reforms geared rights organization,will be Yale) will teach international to more accountability and one of the honorees. The law and human rights; and transparency in all our oper- other will be J.Mason Davis Professor S.Todd Brown (JD ations – academics,teaching Jr. ’59,a civil rights attorney Columbia) for bankruptcy, and scholarship by faculty, The Law School he spring is now who played an important torts and corporations.These oversight and coherence in in full bloom, sig- role in the desegregation of new professors have practice our adjunct faculty,faculty of the future nifying the vitali- Alabama in the 1960s. experience in major firms or governance and quality con- must have ty of the season. You will recall that last organizations. trol across the board. All the TThis is a great cue, because year’s entering class was the units in the Law School – ad- ambitions that there has never been a better most qualified in our histo- missions,technology,com- are national time to be a member of the ry as measured by LSAT e are also be- munications and alumni re- larger UB Law community. and GPA statistics. It was coming a desti- lations,the law library,devel- ‘‘ and interna- Just as the change of the sea- also diverse. As a result of nation for opment,placement and the sons reflects a new begin- that stellar class, the caliber Wrenowned faculty around the registrar’s office – are being tional in scope. ning, the reforms that are of our applicant pool has country. Professor Angela capacitated to fulfill their Our curriculum occurring at UB Law are gone up this year. We have Harris from Berkeley Law missions. We have instituted nothing short of a renais- every expectation that we School, a nationally known town-hall meetings with stu- and long-term sance. Over the past year, we will hold, and perhaps ex- scholar in criminal law,will dents every semester to planning reflect have attracted an excellent ceed, last year’s achieve- join the Law School in the fall openly hear their concerns. student body, hired new fac- ments. The academic pro- as a visiting professor and I believe that UB Law these goals. ulty with star potential, file of our student body is a Baldy Center Distinguished must be a national law brought good governance big factor in our standing Scholar for the year to teach school,not a regional one. and accountability in the among law schools, and is a criminal law. We know she The Law School of the future Law School, and forged central plank for our push will greatly enrich our law must have ambitions that are deeper relationships with to be a top 50 law school in school, and look forward to national and international in our alumni, the bench and the country. This is one of welcoming her among us. scope. Our curriculum and the bar. And we have the measures of academic Even though the economic long-term planning reflect reached out to Albany to excellence, and we are pur- crisis has hit us hard, we hope these goals. We are reaching make our case for support suing it vigorously. But I to hire several more faculty out to all our alumni across since we are the only public want to assure you that we next year because of several the country to establish law school in the SUNY sys- are doing so while con- departures. Professors Janet structures of support and ad- ’’ tem. structing a law school that Lindgren, Judy Scales-Trent vice. This is vital because no Commencement at UB looks like America. and Barry Boyer are retiring, law school can aspire to Law this year will be very I could not be more and Professor Markus Dub- greatness without the vibrant Briefs 3

support of its alumni. Our alumni are generous and must continue to support us at higher levels as we raise funds for tuition scholarships to compete for top-notch students and establish chairs and professorships to attract and retain star faculty. We are reaching out to the bar and bench – locally and nationally – to create strong bonds. It is these efforts that we hope will help us build a stronger Court of Appeals justice Eugene F.Pigott Jr.’73 addresses faculty and judiciary. school with an excellent reputation. Last,but not least,I want Sharing a wealth an incredible thing to do.” to share with you some good Professor Errol E.Meidinger,vice dean for news. My ambition for UB of learning research and faculty development,spoke of Law is not simply to be an OK the importance of research to the school’s or good law school. I want UB As both a justice of the state Court of mission.“I ﬁrmly believe that research ad- Law to be a great law school – Appeals and a UB Law alumnus, Eugene F. vances teaching,”he said.“The more I grapple among the top 50 in the Pigott Jr.’73 has a foot in two worlds.He with trying to get insights into something,the country. You will remember wanted those worlds to meet – and the result better I am as a teacher,the less formulaic,the the pain we felt last year when went beyond all expectations. more I can push students to see where the soft we fell to 100 in the rankings. “We had sat in the 4th Department in the spots are and where the hard spots are.A Well – because of the reforms Letro Courtroom at the Law strong research that we are undertaking – we School,”Pigott says.“But we program is ab- had an uptick of 15 points to were limited as to what we solutely essential 85 this year. That was the sec- could and couldn’t do. So I to respect in the ond-highest gain in the coun- thought,maybe we want to in- world of law try. While I continue to have vite the faculty to come to the schools.” serious concerns about the mountain.We started talking The faculty matrix and methodology about it,and once the dean got members who used to calibrate the rankings, into it,it just seemed to click.” spoke were Pro- we would be foolish to ignore What followed was billed as fessors Charles their impact. Even so,I am “A Brieﬁng for the Judiciary on Patrick Ewing, convinced that our rankings Recent Law Faculty Scholar- Susan V.Man- will continue to rise with your ship.”Held March 5 in the ma- Professor Robert S.Berger talks with gold,Robert S. support and the hard work jestic wood-paneled Ceremo- Family Court Judge Lisa Bloch Berger,James A. and shared commitment of nial Courtroom of Erie Coun- Rodwin ’85. Gardner and many people. I wish all of ty Hall in downtown Buffalo, James Wooten, you a great and relaxing sum- the gathering brought jurists of all levels to- and Associate Professor Ruqaiijah Yearby. mer! gether to hear brief presentations by six UB “What we have done here today is a down Law School faculty on their research.A copy payment for what we will do in the future,” of the Law School’s 2008 Faculty Scholar- Dean Makau Mutua said to the assembled ju- ship brochure was distributed.About 35 rists. judges and faculty members attended, and “Today we talked at you.In the future,we following the presentation they enjoyed a want to create opportunities for dialogue be- reception hosted by Francis M. Letro ’79. tween us.” “They knocked our socks off,”Pigott says of the faculty presenters.“I have gotten so many responses from judges saying this was Continued… UB LAW FORUM • SPRING 2009 4 Briefs

Raila Amolo Odinga, prime minister of the Republic of Kenya.

fronting the backlash against human rights,broadening the organization’s work in economic,social and cultural rights,and initiating a process of internal reform and renewal to enable the organization to respond flexi- bly and rapidly to world events.She has also focused attention on women’s human rights and violence A world of influence against women. Kenyan prime minister deliverers Commencement address Irene Zubaida Khan studied law at The Victoria Uni- versity of Manchester,UK, hen Dean man rights in Kenya.” the British Standards Institu- and Harvard Law School, Makau In the East African nation in London,the National specializing in public inter- Mutua in- tion’s 1997 general election Bureau of Standards in national law and human vited for president,Mr.Odinga Washington,D.C.,and the rights. Kenyan finished third out of 15 can- University of Denver. J.Mason Davis Jr.’59 was WPrime Minister Raila Amolo didates as the candidate of the first African-American to Odinga to address the Law the National Development practice as a senior partner of School’s 2009 Commence- Party.As the candidate of the a major Alabama law firm, ment on May 23,he cited the new Orange Democratic Sirote & Permutt.As the at- tie between the school’s tradi- Movement,he ran for presi- torney for a number of stu- tion of teaching and scholar- dent again in 2007.Following dents who participated in the ship in human rights law and the disputed general election, Huntsville lunch counter sit- Mr.Odinga’s embodiment of a coalition government was ins during 1961 and 1962, the power of the rule of law to formed,and Mr.Odinga be- Mr.Davis played a key role in create and safeguard human came Kenya’s second prime Khan Davis the desegregation of Alaba- rights. minister,with the authority ma.He argued and won “Prime Minister Odinga to coordinate and supervise Honorary degrees for every matter at the Court of is one of Africa’s celebrated government functions. Khan,Davis Appeals and as a result of human rights and pro- Born in Maseno in The Law School con- those legal victories and oth- democracy leaders.He is cer- Kenya’s western Nyanza ferred honorary degrees on ers,the state of Alabama de- tainly the most prominent Province,Mr.Odinga attend- two lawyers who are influen- segregated all public facilities, and electrifying politician in ed high school in Kenya and tial advocates for human and including its schools. Kenya,and is regarded as the then earned bachelor’s and civil rghts. Mr.Davis was an adjunct center of gravity of that master’s degrees in mechani- Irene Zubaida Khan faculty member at the Uni- country’s politics.He holds cal engineering in Germany. joined Amnesty Internation- versity of Alabama Law the distinction of having He then returned to Kenya, al as secretary-general in Au- School for 25 years.Active been Kenya’s longest-serving where he taught in the De- gust 2001.Ms.Khan is the with the Alabama Democrat- political detainee because of partment of Mechanical En- first woman,first Asian and ic Party,he was selected by his opposition to tyranny.He gineering at the University of first Muslim to head the Gov.Bob Riley to serve on seemed a natural choice giv- Nairobi. world’s largest human rights the state’s Citizens’Constitu- en our law school’s tradition From 1975 to 1982,Mr. organization.She has led the tion Commission. in human rights and his life’s Odinga served as deputy di- organization through chal- epic struggle to bring democ- rector of the Kenya Bureau of lenging developments in the racy,the rule of law and hu- Standards.He has studied at wake of Sept.11,2001,con-

For video of Prime Minister Odinga’s address,go to www.law.buffalo.edu 5

The road said,is the sheer volume of The major impediment, local governments operating he said,is an “antiquated”set to reform in New York State – by one of laws that make it “virtually count there are 10,521,in- impossible”to accomplish cluding nearly 7,000 “special such reforms.Reform,Cuo- A capacity crowd of law districts”formed to levy taxes mo said,would empower lo- students,faculty,media and for specific services such as cal governments – for exam- officeholders was on hand fire,sanitation and lighting. ple,the county executive and in the law library on Feb.19 That bloated bureaucracy,he county legislatures – to make as New York State’s chief law said,is why New York State governments smaller.And it enforcement officer intro- residents pay the highest local would make it possible for duced his sweeping plan to taxes in the country – about citizens,with petition signa- simplify and reform gov- $73 per $1,000 of property tures from 10 percent of vot- ernment. valuation,where the national ers,to force change onto the Attorney General average is $43. ballot if their elected officials Andrew Cuomo called his Cuomo is building sup- balk. presentation “The Empire port for a plan – not yet in- And to those who say re- State Strikes Back:A Plan to troduced in the State Legisla- form legislation is a pipe Reform New York State ture – that would enable local dream,Cuomo pointed to Government.” governments to reorganize to New York’s system of school The nation’s economic eliminate redundancy and districts.“In the 1930s,there crisis is the perfect occasion find efficiencies in their oper- waste.Consolidation,he said, were over 10,000 school dis- to take bold steps to stream- ations,he said,and the public could reduce property taxes tricts,”he said.“Now there are line government,the attor- sector should do the same. from 5 to 22 percent.As an fewer than 700.If you can ney general said:“New York’s “When the numbers change, example,he said that if the tackle and manage the con- governments are too big,they the reality changes,”he said. village and town of Seneca solidation of school districts, are too many,and they are “And government should be Falls were to consolidate,the you can do this.” too expensive.”Private com- doing the same exercise to- owner of a $100,000 house panies are scrambling to re- day.” could save $978 a year in organize,modernize and One problem,Cuomo property taxes.

For video on Attorney General Andrew Cuomo’s presentation,go to www.law.buffalo.edu/forum/spr09/cuomo.asp

The about $700 a week – unusual Rochester office of the Harris for first-year legal internships. Beach law firm. Rochester “We have been very Smith says she had been pleased,”says Michael Wol- intending to seek employ- difference ford ’68,of the Wolford Law ment in Washington,D.C.,or Firm in Rochester,who insti- New York City before the Mi- A Thruway alliance of tuted the program when he nority Clerkship Program sorts,now entering its fifth was president of the bar asso- Wolford ’68 Smith ’07 changed her mind. “It did year,has proved its worth in a ciation.“There just are not a take some convincing to keep big way by making one legal lot of minority lawyers in me at home,”says Smith,a community more diverse – town,so we decided that one applied for eight available native of Rochester.“This and offering a crucial first step way of trying to increase the slots. program is a way to get mi- for UB Law students. number is to start early and In addition to learning on norities who traditionally In its first four years,the try to attract law students the job,the interns have week- wouldn’t look at a smaller city Minority Clerkship Program who might be willing to relo- ly “Lunch and Learn”presen- like Rochester to do so.” of the Monroe County Bar cate and practice in tations at which they hear Now,as a member of the Association has placed 31 UB Rochester.” judges and practitioners talk bar association’s Diversity Law students in internships Though the “vast majori- about their areas of expertise. Committee,she helps review during the summer following ty”of applicants to the pro- One UB Law product who applications and serves as a their first year of legal train- gram come from UB Law, took part in the program in mentor to some of the law ing.The placements are with Wolford says,it is open to its first year is Jacia Smith ’07. students who have followed law firms,corporations and first-year students at all law She worked for Wolford in her into that critical summer public agencies,and come schools.For this coming sum- the summer of 2005,and now job. with a minimum salary of mer,Wolford says,21 students is an associate in the

Continued… UB LAW FORUM • SPRING 2009 6 Briefs

The real maverick Ralph Nader talks tough in UB Law appearance

Ralph Nader’s reputation preceded him,and the crowd started lining up early for the political activist’s appearance at UB Law School. They were not disap- pointed.Nader – a Harvard- trained attorney – enter- tained and challenged espe- Dean Makau cially the law students in his Mutua gave audience with frank words the keynote about legal education,the address in Buffalo’s City legal profession and lawyers’ Hall in honor of Black History Month. History and hope

akau W. from us. A significant part of race in America, it has Mutua, the of the dream of Dr. King has been a major contributor to first person been fulfilled by a black kid the struggles for racial and responsibility to work for of African born in the era of the civil social justice in this coun- the public good. descent to rights movement. That kid – try,”the dean said at the City True to form,he used his Mserve as dean of UB Law now President Barack Hus- Hall ceremony.“African- bully pulpit to encourage School, found himself in sein Obama – sits in the Americans, particularly students to find a way to demand during Black His- White House and occupies through the African-Ameri- make a difference in the tory Month. Organizers the most powerful office on can church and their civic world,not just serve the eco- called on Mutua to give con- Earth.” and political organizations, nomic interests of those in text and inspiration to two But, Mutua said,“much have long played a leading power.Practicing law,he major events – one at UB, more remains to be done role in the search for equity, said,is a profession,not a the other in downtown Buf- before we can get to Dr. inclusion and justice in this trade,and “a profession has Dean Mutua with Donna Brazile. falo. King’s mountaintop. Be- city.” an obligation to prevent that On Feb. 12 at UB’s Cen- cause public universities He added that Mayor which it is skillfully trained ter for the Arts, Dean Mutua mirror the complexity of the Brown is “a critically impor- to deal with.You are going gave the University welcome world around us, they are tant role model for our to be going into a profession before an address by politi- ideally positioned to provide youth who live under chal- that has a monopoly,and cal powerhouse Donna a forum where key social is- lenging conditions but who there is a moral imperative Brazile. Brazile’s appearance, sues and ideas may be pro- aspire to live a life of dignity. accorded to that. part of the University’s Dis- ductively and freely exam- The mayor – with a plethora “What is the demand for tinguished Speakers Series, ined, questioned, debated, of prominent politicians, justice in this country,and was celebrated as the discussed and interrogated.” leading clerics, successful to what extent are lawyers school’s 33rd annual Martin Also in February, Dean professionals such as lawyers representing those who are Luther King Jr. Commemo- Mutua stood with Buffalo’s and judges, and diligent par- in a position to have to de- ration Event. first African-American may- ents, all drawn from command justice because they Mutua noted the con- or, Byron Brown, to honor munities of color in this city are being ripped off so badly nection by saying,“We cele- “the change makers”– peo- – is working hard to give our or being subject to the cor- brate the legacy of the Rev. ple of color who have made young men and women a rosive effects of power or Martin Luther King Jr. in the life in the Queen City better. reason to hope and dream simply being mistreated by backdrop of the most his- “Although Buffalo has big.” other people?” toric year since he was taken not been spared the torment For video on Ralph Nader’s presentation,go to www.law. For a Black History Month slideshow, go to www.law.buffalo.edu/forum/spr09/bhm.asp buffalo.edu/forum/spr09/nader. asp 7

Early against the top briefs from every U.S.regional competi- to court tion as well as the national competitions of countries A record of success in student worldwide. Moot Court competitions The Jessup team consist- ed of Melanie Beardsley, It was another year of Pasquale Bochiechio, think-on-your-feet experi- Kathryn D’Angelo and Max ences for UB Law students Lafer,and was coached by who took advantage of the Darice Dinsmore and Kevin school’s array of opportuni- Espinosa. ties to hone their legal skills Also in February,UB Law in moot court competitions was represented by six teams nationwide. at the Frederick Douglass UB Law From Boston to Cleve- Moot Court Competition in competitors in the land,Toronto to Sacramen- Springfield,Mass. Albert R. Mugel to,students defended briefs First-year student Anant National Tax Court and argued both sides in Kishore was named Best competition. competitions. Oral Advocate in the North- From left to right, Melinda Saran,vice dean east Region.Two UB Law Gregory for student affairs,provides teams – Jonathan Pollard Verdibello ’09, administrative support to and Jawziya Zaman,and Darice Dinsmore the moot court and trial Tinu Awoyomi and Irina ’09, Jesika technique program,which is Barahona – advanced to the Gonzalez ’09 and overseen by the student-run quarterfinals of the competi- Samuel S. Buffalo Moot Court Board. tion.UB Law student Siana J. Feuerstein ’09. Erie County Court Judge McLean was Northeast Re- late Advocacy Northeast Re- ternational law principles.In Thomas P.Franczyk leads gion director for the compe- gional competition in addition,team member the school’s Trial Teams. tition. Boston.This is the largest Michael Gellar was recog- “Our students continue In late February, UB Law’s and most prestigious appel- nized with an honorable to work hard and have suc- Trial Team of Josh Agins, late moot court competition mention award as Best Oral- cess at these competitions,” Kristina Russell and Scott in the nation. ist. Saran says.“The number of Iseman advanced to the The UB Law team had Also in March,in the competitions has grown National Trial Competition the fourth-best overall brief Ceremonial Courtroom of tremendously,and our fac- regional semifinals in New and reached the final round, State Supreme Court in Buf- ulty who are teaching in ap- York City before being elimi- where it actually earned falo,the Herbert J.Wechsler plicable content-specific ar- nated by the host school, more points from all the National Criminal Moot eas have become involved in Benjamin N.Cardozo judges than its opponent. Court Competition was working with our students School of Law.Mark Foti,a But due to a scoring change held.The Buffalo Criminal and helping them to per- member of UB’s second that was instituted last year, Moot Court Society was form to the best of their abil- team,was named Best Advo- our team was officially de- praised by participating ity.” cate in the preliminary clared the runner-up. teams for the well-run com- Among the highlights of rounds. Naqi also earned one of petition and the strength of the moot court year: ••• the highest oral argument the competition’s judges. In ••• In the Albert R.Mugel scores in the competition, the final round,the judges In February,a case brief National Tax Court compe- and both he and Lang panel included Justice Eu- by UB Law’s international- tition,hosted by UB Law earned perfect scores from gene F.Pigott Jr.’73 of the law Jessup Moot Court School,Sam Feuerstein tied some of the judges. state Court of Appeals; re- Team bested those of teams for the second-best oralist ••• tired Court of Appeals Jus- from 23 other law schools, and Darice Dinsmore was In the Fasken-Martineau tice George Bundy Smith, including Harvard,Colum- named fifth-best oralist. International Law competi- now a partner in Chad- bia,NYU,Cornell,Boston In March,UB Law’s team tion,held in Toronto in bourne & Parke in New York College and Boston Univer- of Erin Cody,Tom Lang and March,UB Law’s team of City; U.S.Magistrate Judge sity,in a Northeast regional Taiymoor Naqi,coached by first-year students was com- Jonathan Feldman of competition in New York Professor and Vice Provost mended by several different Rochester; and State City.The team’s brief ad- Lucinda Finley,did extreme- judges for its level of prepa- Supreme Court Justice vanced to the international ly well at the American Bar ration,complexity of argu- Kevin M.Dillon ’76. competition,to compete Association National Appel- ment and command of in-

For slideshows of the competitions, go to: Desmond Moot Court Competition Finals: www.law.buffalo.edu/forum/spr09/desmond.asp Albert R.Mugel National Tax Court Competition: www.law.buffalo.edu/forum/spr09/mugel.asp Wechsler Law Moot Court Competition: www.law.buffalo.edu/forum/spr09/wechsler.asp UB LAW FORUM • SPRING 2009 8 Alumni Profiles

“When I did open my office ﬁnally,the people came in,they thought that I was the secretary or stenographer or something.They didn’t expect to ﬁnd a woman as a lawyer.When they began to talk to me,they realized that I was on a different level.” A ‘lady lawyer’s’life

ing postponed marriage so she could Bella Maisel Goldin ’31, an early help support her parents and younger sister and brother. He taught high school mathematics in Brooklyn, and Buffalo attorney, turns 100 “I thought, when I married, the wife should follow the husband,”Goldin hen Bella Maisel Broadway (near the Broadway Mar- says. So she moved with him to New Goldin was at UB Law ket), where he had a jewelry store and York Cit y. School,tuition was later a dress shop, and that was where “I was going to be a housewife in $250 a year – a bar- she set up shop under the name Maisel New York,”she says,“but I became gain,until you re- and Phillies. bored,because I had been so busy all Wmember that she graduated in 1931,in Not that it always went smoothly. the time between my law office and the the depths of the Great Depression. “When I did open my office finally,the store downstairs.I knew I had to do “Bread was 5 cents a loaf,and day-old people came in,they thought that I was something,but you don’t open a law of- bread was 3 cents.We ate day-old bread the secretary or stenographer or some- fice unless you have connections.” – 2 cents was a lot of money,”Goldin thing,”Goldin says.“They didn’t expect She went to the Board of Education, says.“People today don’t know what a to find a woman as a lawyer.When they where the interviewer asked,“What’s real depression is like.” began to talk to me,they realized that I your background?” Bella One of only five women in her was on a different level.” “I’m a lawyer,”she said. Maisel graduating class of 54 students,Goldin Word-of-mouth brought her some With a dismissive wave he replied, Goldin as was a pioneer – one of the first female general-practice cases.“You’d take any- “We don’t need lawyers.” a graduate lawyers in Buffalo.Pretty good for a thing if it came in,”Goldin says.“My fa- But along the way Goldin had in 1931. young woman who came out of Cor- ther would always talk me up if he had a picked up typing and shorthand, and nell University and decided to shelve customer in his store.I wound up with so she worked her way into the teach- her interest in medicine because going accident cases,anything that would ing ranks in the New York City schools. to law school was quicker and cheaper. come my way.” “I thought I’d teach for maybe a couple Goldin,who now lives in Charlotte, of years and go back to law,”she says, N.C.,celebrated her 100th birthday on he tells with delight of the time “but it suited my purpose very well, March 14.She has three children,five she was in her father’s dress and so I stayed with the teaching.”She living grandchildren and nine great- shop when a customer came in. ended up teaching at Central Com- grandchildren – a family she calls “my “I was waiting on her,”Goldin mercial High School in Manhattan proudest accomplishment.” Ssays,“and she was buying hosiery, and (now Norman Thomas High School) But she made her mark in Buffalo she kept saying,‘You remind me of for about 35 years, inspiring genera- legal history by graduating third in somebody.’She had come into my of- tions of young women. her Law School class (“I never found fice at one time, and I recognized her, “When an airplane would fly by,you Law School that difficult,”she says), but I didn’t say anything.” would rush to the windows and watch. passing the bar exam on the first try, “Oh, I know!”the woman said. It was an event,”she remembers. and taking cases as a “lady lawyer”on “You remind me of that lady lawyer.” “When radios came in,that was some- Buffalo’s East Side. “Really?”Goldin said.“Was she any thing.I’ve gone through and seen a lot “You were supposed to put in six good?” of changes.” months”as a clerk for a practicing at- “Oh,she was a smart one,that one,” torney,she says,and so she did,working the woman said. with a fellow UB Law graduate named Goldin practiced for “three or four George E.Phillies ’15.But after she ap- years,”she says,and “I guess I did very plied for some legal jobs and was of- nicely.”What did she like about it? “If I fered only legal-secretary positions,she made a buck.That was a lot of success decided to open a practice in partner- in those days.” ship with her mentor.Her father, Then in 1935 she married her Cor- Samuel, owned a building at 913 nell sweetheart, Robert Goldin, hav- 9

Germany,he has been part of the orga- D. Christopher Decker ’98 nization ever since. “It is a bit like a mini-United Na- tions,”Decker says of OSCE.Formed at works for human rights the end of the Cold War as a security conference between the United States he capital of Kosovo is called cal and medical effects of torture,”he and the Soviet Union,OSCE now has Pristina,but there is nothing says.“It certainly did mentally prepare 56 member states.The mission in pristine about it.The city is a me to go out to Kosovo.” Kosovo is its largest. living laboratory for imple- When he left Buffalo,he earned a In his department’s legislative menting the rule of law,and master of laws degree at Essex Universi- work, Decker says, the goal is enforce- “We took about TD.Christopher Decker ’98 sees that ty in England,and then plunged into ment.“For the most part, Kosovo has 6,000 statements from witnesses and process from the inside. the world of international human quite decent legislation, drafted by or victims in an Decker works with the Organiza- rights.He first went to Kosovo – the dis- with the international community,” attempt to map or tion for Security and Co-operation in puted region in the Balkans,smaller he says.“Now it is a question of get- re-create how the Europe,the world’s largest regional se- than the state of Connecticut,that last ting the authorities to implement it in conflict occurred.” curity organization.At OSCE’s mission year declared its independence from a meaningful way.” in Kosovo he oversees the Human Serbia – in 1999,with the International Everyday life in Pristina is tricky; Rights and Communities Department, Crisis Group.The assignment immedi- one never knows when the electricity which trains and monitors police offi- ately followed the end of the Kosovo will go out or the water will stop flow- cers and judges around human rights War.“We took about 6,000 statements ing.“It can be demoralizing,”Decker issues,helps to draft legislation on fair from witnesses and victims in an at- says,“when you get home from work treatment of minority populations, tempt to map or re-create how the con- and it is dark and your power goes off works to ensure property rights and flict occurred,”Decker says.“One of the for three hours,and by then it is time fights human trafficking. tasks was to go to exhumations of for bed.When you lose the ability to The seeds of this important and graves.I did see my fair share of dead take a shower and shave,it becomes challenging work were sown in his ex- bodies.” quite difficult to live with. perience at UB Law.Decker had an in- He eventually was asked to join “But the city itself is absolutely ternational law fellowship in Istanbul, OSCE in 2000,and except for a two- booming.Pristina has a huge café cul- with a group that worked with torture year stint as a researcher at the Euro- ture – they smoke and drink coffee like victims.“I saw firsthand the psychologi- pean Center for Minority Issues,in crazy.”

the same day he interviewed. At the institute,Patterson will be Dennis Patterson ’80 joins teaching master of laws and Ph.D.students,nearly all,he says,from Europe, but also some from Russia,South elite European institute America and Africa.He will teach an and legal philosophy as well as a basic introductory course in jurisprudence ennis Patterson ’80 was in contracts course.He will return to teach and another in the foundations of in- Italy, on the train from at Camden in the summers. ternational law. Florence to Milan, when “Everybody,myself included,wants “I’ve taught in Europe for last 20 the message came on his to live in Italy,”Patterson says.“Now I years,”Patterson says.“I’m very famil “Everybody, DBlackBerry: He got the job. get to live there and have a nice academ- iar with the students and the environ- myself included, That would be his new appoint- ic job.I can’t imagine a job teaching ments that they come from.This is a wants to live in ment as professor of legal theory at the anywhere that I would want more than very elite place.They get the best stu- Italy.” European University Institute,an elite this.To sit and look at the skyline of dents,and a lot of people want to go institution run by the European Union Florence,it’s just like it is in the movies.” there.It’s a very prestigious degree.” countries to provide training to the best One advantage of interviewing for a A native of Manhattan, Patterson and brightest European legal scholars. position in Europe,he says,is quick de- went from UB Law to a judicial clerk- “Basically,it’s a little piece of Brussels cision-making.“In the U.S.,hiring deci- ship in Maine, and then into private dropped into the Tuscan countryside,” sions drag out for months.In Europe, practice for six years. Since then he has he says. the hiring committees almost all have traveled the globe in his teaching, in- The appointment is for five years external members,people in the field cluding visiting professorships in Aus- and can be renewed for an additional from outside the school who read all tralia, London, Germany, Italy,Austria three.Patterson will take an extended the application packages,do the inter- and Washington, D.C. He has been at leave of absence from Rutgers Universi- viewing and vote.Since these people are Rutgers since 1995 and was named ty School of Law at Camden,where he brought in for a one-day meeting, Board of Governors professor, an holds a Board of Governors professor- everything has to be done at the end of honor recognizing a scholar’s interna- ship and teaches international trade the day.”He was offered the position on tional reputation, last year. UB LAW FORUM • SPRING 2009 10 Law School Report LESSONS OF THE BALKANS with the protest group Women in Black ernmental work through the Organiza- in Belgrade,”Marcus says.“The pur- tion for Security and Co-operation in pose of this trip was to try to listen,and Europe.” hear,and learn from people from nu- The experience also led the students merous sectors,especially non-govern- to examine their own attitudes.Says mental organizations,which have Aygun:“I went over thinking Serbia played major political roles.” was the aggressor.That was the blanket While they were there,the students association I had with Serbia.To go – all in their second or third year at the there and spend time with people puts Law School – decided to make a film a face to that.A lot of the younger indi- documenting their experiences and the viduals we met were 5 at the time.At voices of some of the people they met. what point do you take accountability?” The 23-minute film covers Serbia and But it is the people of the Balkans the breakaway republic of Kosovo.(The who will stay close to their hearts. video can be viewed at www.youtube. “The Mothers of Srebrenica: it’s com/UBLawSchool.) amazing how much loss they had en- L to R: or six UB Law students and The images and voices are striking: a dured,”James O’Shea says.“There was a Serra Aygun ’09, their professor,the January cemetery where the war dead are woman in her 40s who said she had lost Sarah B. Brancatella ’09, bridge term brought them face buried; a sad-eyed gray-haired woman 56 men in her family,which was all the Professor Isabel Marcus, to face with the harsh realities from the Mothers of Srebrenica,a men in her family.She was able to say James T.Farrell ’10, of war and its aftermath.For a group that seeks to give voice to the sur- that very matter-of-factly.Some people James J. O’Shea ’09, Fseminar called “Identities,Nationalities vivors of genocide; a warehouse full of our age said they never talked to their Jayme L. Feldman ’10, and the Rule of Law,”they traveled to green and blue duffel bags containing own parents about what role they Jennifer Rizzo ’10 Bosnia,Serbia and Kosovo in a three- the bones of unknown victims; the or- played in the war,because they were week learning adventure that left all in- nate University of Pristina. afraid to know the answer.” volved both sobered and inspired. To a one,the students said the expe- But the student group also recog- The students say nothing can com- rience was life-changing. nized that learning the law through an pare to meeting the people whose “I am writing my seminar paper on experience like this was invaluable. homelands were so deeply affected by the International Commission on “It reaffirmed my passion for inter- the 1999 war and the mass killings of Missing Persons,and in particular the national human rights,”Feldman says. citizens in Kosovo,which last year de- human rights aspects of being able to “At many law schools,the demand is for clared its independence from Serbia. identify human remains and provide the firms and the public interest.That’s “We read a stack of material.We had that,at the very least,for their family why programs like this are so impor- an important reading group,”says stu- members,”says Serra Aygun.“One tant.This gives me hope and guidance dent Jayme Feldman.“But it was like thing the ICMP will never be able to on the kind of path I want to pursue.” Risk,the board game – pieces on a play- give the families is an understanding of Adds Sarah Brancatella:“This trip ing board.It was statistical and re- how their family members died.Most was not in isolation from my Law moved.Then we got to the country and of them were fleeing through the School experience.It was like a met people,made friends our age,and mountains or en route to other areas of Napoleon – layers upon layers.For ex- those who experienced personal grief Bosnia.They don’t know exactly how ample,in the course I’m taking now on and loss.For me,I learned the impor- they died or when they died.” the federal courts,it strikes me about tance of things you can’t read in books.” “I got a more expansive view of the the complications of having a national That,says Professor Isabel Marcus, society and government than you court system in Bosnia.… The trip was who led the seminar and the trip,was would get as a tourist,”says James Far- not something that was a fun little largely the point of the experience. rell.“I could see the entirety of the soci- aside,an asterisk for me.It was woven “I have been going to the Balkans eties in this country,how the govern- into my Law School education.It was since the middle of the 1990s and have ment works and how it doesn’t work, an amazing experience,and I’m so glad spent a lot of time standing in solidarity the operation of NGOs,and intergov- I went.”

For video, go to: Bosnia: www.law.buffalo.edu/forum/spr09/bosnia.asp • Serbia: www.law.buffalo.edu/forum/spr09/serbia.asp Kosovo: www.law.buffalo.edu/forum/spr09/kosovo.asp 11

The traditional The color of success ceremonial passing of the legacy.

20-year tradition of soli- would be leaving Buffalo to become on the goal,and that is to obtain a darity and support was president of the American Association good-quality education.My parents cause for celebration at of State Colleges and Universities.She firmly believed that education was what UB Law School’s Stu- used that news as a springboard to re- would transform their children’s lives, dents of Color Dinner, flect on her upbringing and the lessons and they were absolutely right.” Aheld at the Buffalo Niagara Marriott. that have served her throughout her Distinguished Alumni Awards were The dinner,with the theme “Lifting life. presented to Margaret Wong ’76,ac- as We Climb,”is a joint effort of the Law Born on a farm in North Carolina, cepted by her daughter,Allison Chan School’s Black,Latin American and one of six children,Howard moved ’11,and to Tasha E.Moore ’98.The Asian American Law Students Associa- with her family to New York City as an Trailblazer Award was given to Brenda tions.Those organizations honored the adolescent.She remembered traveling W.McDuffie,president and CEO of the Buffalo State College President Dr. Muriel achievements of their members set to an hour and a half to attend a brand- Buffalo Urban League. Howard graduate in May,as well as recognizing new high school in a predominantly New at this 20th annual Students of distinguished alumni,minority trail- white area. Color Dinner was the Monique E. blazers in the legal “Those were very, Emdin Award,given in honor of the field,professors and very challenging times 2007 UB Law graduate,who died tragi- administrators. for me personally,”she cally of cancer at age 28.It is funded Those in atten- said.“My economics with an endowment from the Buffalo dance were urged to teacher in ninth grade law firm Hiscock & Barclay LLP,where the highest standards made me sit in the last Emdin worked as a summer associate of ethics and integrity seat in the last row,be- and briefly as a full-time associate,and by the evening’s hind all the boys,be- by Bethesda World Harvest Interna- keynote speaker, cause he didn’t think I tional Church,where she was a mem- Buffalo State College should be at that ber.The award was presented to gradu- President Dr.Muriel school.Although I ex- ating third-year student Kerese Foster Howard. perienced a lot of chal- by Emdin’s brother Christopher. Howard recently Siana McLean ’10 and lenges,my parents al- The event’s traditional candle-light- announced she Shereefat Balogun ’09 ways kept us focused ing ceremony closed the evening.

For a Students of Color Dinner slideshow, go to www.law.buffalo.edu/forum/spr09/soc.asp UB LAW FORUM • SPRING 2009 12 Law School Report

Senior class of the Buffalo Publish and ﬂourish Law Review.

embers and friends of the Buffalo Law Review had plenty to celebrate was greatly important to me and give when they gathered for the journal’s year-end dinner. insight into the way lawyers think. “We didn’t simply publish a journal this year,”Editor in Chief That, for me, is the kind of deeply Gabrielle C.Petersen said to those gathered at the Park Country thinking but extemporaneous intellec- ClubM on April 22.“We have been active in the community,helping others benefit tual and university work that Buffalo themselves through our mentorship program and our outreach program.” stands for. Buffalo is a place where you In addition to publishing five issues of the Law Review, members also undertook can not only study law but how the a major internal study,strengthening the organization and continuing to improve profession fits together with other the level of scholarship being published. things.” Hon.Kevin M.Dillon ’76,a justice in Introduced by Managing Editor Dr.George M. the 8th Judicial District Carrie Ann Wilkins,two UB Law Williams Jr.’78 was arti- of New York State School alumni, Hon.Kevin M.Dillon ’76 cles editor for the Buffalo Supreme Court,is one and Dr.George M.Williams Jr.’78 were Law Review and is now a of the best-known ad- honored for their service to the school partner at Dewey & junct professors at the and their accomplishments in the legal LeBoeuf LLP in New Law School,having profession. York City.Williams has taught Criminal Proce- The winners of several student been an active partici- dure and Evidence for awards were also announced.The Car- pant in the Law School’s 17 years. los C.Alden Award,given to the senior New York City Program in Internation- Dillon talked about his teaching ca- who has made the greatest contribution al Finance and Law since its inception, reer,which began when then-Dean to the Law Review,went to Gabrielle C. and has served as an adviser to group David Filvaroff recruited him “over Petersen.The Justice Philip Halpern research projects for the program. dinners and bottles of wine.”That first Award,presented to a senior for excel- He also spoke of the formative in- week,Dillon walked into a class of 100 lence in writing on the Law Review, fluence of his UB Law School years.“I students – and wasn’t sure where to went to Keith A.Gorgos.Associate Pub- didn’t always know what I wanted to start.“So for the first week or two I told lication Awards,presented to four asso- do,”Williams said,“and Buffalo is the them stories,”he said,“but then I felt ciates for excellence in writing,with the perfect example of the role American this obligation to try to teach them.In promise of publication in the coming education plays. Buffalo and the Law the third year,I found out I kind of year,went to Nathaniel J.Stuhlmiller, School made it possible for me to seri- liked it.I have thoroughly enjoyed my Jeffrey T.Fiut,Joshua M.Agins and ously work with good students and time at the Law School,and I continue Joshua Pennel. great professors to do something that to enjoy it.”

For a Law Review Dinner slideshow,go to www.law.buffalo.edu/forum/spr09/lrd.asp 13

Career Services: Coaching on the ﬁne points

ven in the best of economic times,finding the right legal job can be tricky.This year, UB Law’s Career Services Of- We’re here for you fice has been busy helping stu- Edents with a number of innovative ap- In addition to the pro- proaches to the employment challenge gramming for students, by providing a heavy volume of pro- the Career Services Office gramming on topics like networking,in- continues to offer free terviewing,public service and govern- lifetime access to its job ment job markets (especially in Wash- bank and alumni job ington,D.C.),judicial clerkships and newsletter, resumé and other topics. letter review and person- According to Lisa Patterson,associ- alized career counseling. ate dean of career services,“This has To access any of these ser- served two purposes: training the stu- vices, please e-mail law- dents to present themselves as strongly [email protected] or as possible,and ensuring our students call (716) 645-2056. Lisa Patterson, Marc Davies ’03, feel supported.”Toward this end,the associate dean of associate director CSO has conducted a heavy volume of career services for career services one-on-one counseling.Marc Davies,a 2003 UB Law School graduate,has been added to the office staff,where he is doing more employer outreach and counseling students. selling author of Guerrilla Tactics for ton’s presentation,and derive great en- “While we send people to a broad Getting the Legal Job of Your Dreams. ergy and inspiration from it,”Patterson spectrum of jobs,one part of that spec- “When things are competitive,we says.“ Especially this year,we want to trum is the large-firm job market in want our students to be as competitive give our students as many positive and New York City.Many of our soon-to-be as everyone else,”Patterson says.“This is creative tools as possible.” graduates joining those firms have been all intended to give our students some Patterson also points out that in sit- deferred,”says Patterson,but they will creative ways to find their edge in the uations where many people apply for a eventually go to firms including Ropes marketplace.” plum job,employers look for ways to & Gray;White & Case; Cadwalader, In her well-received Feb.10 seminar, narrow the field.Something as minor Wickersham & Taft;Willkie Farr & Gal- Walton assured law students,“There is as chewing with one’s mouth open,she lagher; Dewey & LeBoeuf; Skadden always a way to get a job you love.” says,can be a disqualifier. Arps,Slate,Meagher & Flom; Fried, How? By,among other things,net- Hence Career Services’three-part Frank,Harris,Shriver & Jacobson,and working creatively.Walton suggested, etiquette series “Career Networking others. for example,writing an article for a bar With Polish,”co-sponsored by the Stu- “We have seen bright spots,”she association newsletter showcasing a dent Bar Association,Kaplan Prelimi- says.“Recently,a larger volume of particular area of expertise,or volun- nary Multistate Bar Review and Lexis- smaller firms have hired our recent teering to pass out name tags at a con- Nexis.The series covered correspon- graduates.They have also been offered ference. dence around the interview,including jobs at the SEC,as well as Presidential And she suggested that job seekers tips on communicating with prospec- Management Fellowships.We have also remain enthusiastic about the hunt, tive employers,alumni and other pro- been getting cautiously optimistic re- even when it hurts.“The best thing you fessionals,presented by Mary Ann ports from the local market. Many of can show to an employer is that you re- Rogers,a UB assistant professor of hu- our employers are weathering the eco- ally want the job,”she said.“Everybody man resources; an at-the-table seminar nomic dips and turns pretty steadily. hates rejection,but rejection is not a on strategies and etiquette for lunch in- Some are even still growing.” guillotine.You cannot control it,but terviewing,led by expert Liz Englert; The CSO brought star power to you can control your attitude toward and a wine education and tasting ses- O’Brian Hall in the person of Kimm it.” sion with Professor and Vice Provost Walton,the “Job Goddess”and best- “Students always love Kimm Wal- Lucinda Finley,a wine aficionado. UB LAW FORUM • SPRING 2009 14 Faculty: Cover Story ON THE ROAD AGAIN

says.“It was tough, but interesting. I sues in such high-profile cases as En- S. Todd Brown to teach got a better feel for how people in dif- ron and Worldcom. ferent areas think about things.” In a two-year teaching fellowship They wound up in Gulfport, Miss., that began in mid-2007, Brown has in his high school years, and after his been at the Beasley School of Law at bankruptcy and business law short-term adventure in retailing, he Temple University. In addition to went to Loyola University of New Or- teaching courses, fellows interact with leans, where he studied philosophy master teachers and hone their class- and graduated summa cum laude. room skills.“This program was de- “I decided in my second year in signed for people who have been in college that I wanted to teach, but not practice for a while,”he says,“to help Todd Brown knows at the undergraduate level,”Brown them make the transition, learn about business – from some says.“The things that interested me different pedagogical approaches, and of the biggest compa- most in philosophy were issues that think about communicating complex nies in America, which translated well into law.A lot of the is- legal concepts for people who have he represented in large- sues that have been discussed in phi- never practiced law.” scale bankruptcy cases, losophy with respect to law have also to one of the smallest, an antiques and been coming up in cognitive psychol- n practice and at Temple, his fo- S.collectibles store that he ran for a while ogy and the behavioral sciences. There cus has increasingly turned to between high school and college. is a lot of overlap in the general con- bankruptcy law.“I was drawn to That experience, he says, has in- ceptual thinking in those fields.” it because of the way the bank- formed his scholarship on bankrupt- Brown graduated from Columbia ruptcy system is set up,”Brown cy and business law,“because I can re- University School of Law, where he Isays.“You really have to understand late to people who are running busi- was articles editor of the Columbia people and the motivations guiding nesses. I can personalize some of the Business Law Review, in 1999. From the different participants. It’s never just intellectual concepts and understand there he went to Cleveland, where his a one plaintiff, one defendant kind of what people are thinking when they’re wife was in medical school, and situation.You have a debtor and a lot of faced with certain situations.” worked with the firm Jones Day rep- different constituencies.As soon as you Brown joins the UB Law faculty resenting corporate debtors and cred- think you’ve got everything figured this fall, the latest stop in a peripatetic itors in Chapter 11 and cross-border out, something different comes along life journey. His father was in the bankruptcies.“The issues there were and makes you rethink everything. Navy, so the family relocated often.“I really interesting, cutting-edge issues,” These are fun areas to think and write saw a lot of different places,”Brown he says. One of them involved coun- about.” seling Napster executives after a feder- He has been taking the train each al judge ruled the company’s file-shar- week from Philadelphia to see his ing technology illegal. family in Columbia, Md., and now He then moved to the firm’s Wash- looks forward to having them togeth- ington office before joining the D.C. firm Wilmer Cutler Pickering Hale and Dorr. There he developed training programs for other attorneys on bankruptcy law and corporate investi- gations, and worked on banking is- 15

er in Buffalo. Brown is married to Dr. law and practical considerations at the “You really have to Natasha Cervantes, a forensic psychia- same time. It’s also important to inject trist, and they have two daughters, ethical considerations into what you understand‘‘ people and the ages 3 and 1. (“I probably spend more teach. of my spare time watching Dora the “I want my students to come out motivations guiding the Explorer than anything else,”he jokes.) with a ﬁrm understanding of the law, different participants.… At UB Law, he feels a kinship al- of their clients’interest, and of the ready.“A lot of people are working on obligations and responsibilities that As soon as you think you’ve things that I can relate to and I can feel go along with being in such an impor- got everything ﬁgured out, comfortable exchanging ideas with,” tant position.” he says.“And the fact that I would be something different comes able to teach the subjects that I am most interested in was a big plus. It is along and makes you rethink really important to be able to teach everything.” something that you’re passionate about. “I think you can teach black-letter ’’ UB LAW FORUM • SPRING 2009 16 Faculty: Cover Story PHILOSOPHER IN RESIDENCE

Halberstam joins the UB Law fac- losophy of law in a criminal justice Michael Halberstam ulty this fall, on the heels of a yearlong program at the University of South research fellowship at Columbia Law Carolina, he says, that he became in- School.Among his work there is a terested in the law.“I realized that get- major article on the Voting Rights Act ting a more detailed understanding of investigates theory and – which currently faces a constitution- governance and the language of gov- al challenge before the Supreme ernance would be immensely helpful Court – and the extent to which it in- and interesting,”he says.“I recognized practice of governance trudes on state and local government that as a political philosopher I did autonomy. not have a good understanding of In the classroom, he brings to UB how governance actually works.” Law memories of his own experience After completing his work at Stan- at Stanford Law School, where he was ford Law School in 2003, Halberstam articles editor of the Stanford Law Re- clerked for a year in federal court for orld War II may seem view and a co-founder of the Legal the former chief judge of New York’s the stuff of textbook Theory Group. Southern District.“It’s the best job in history, but Michael “Law school was a lot of fun,”Hal- the world if you’re clerking for a judge Halberstam notes berstam says.“I went there with many you like,”he says,“because you have that he was born in interests and questions.”Halberstam an enormous amount of responsibili- Germany less than 20 believes that “if you approach the ty and an enormous amount of dele- years after the war’s things you are learning with a theoret- gated power, while ultimately it is the Wend – “closer,”he notes,“than our own ical framework or with theoretical in- judge who makes the decisions. I was proximity to the civil rights era in the terests, then you tend to get a better involved in some of the most interest- United States.” His family is Jewish – sense of why they are interesting and ing cases in the nation.” his father was American, his mother important. German. Apart from growing up “I appreciated that the Stanford hen he worked as a litiga- bilingual, what he calls his “complicat- faculty were very conscious about tion associate for the New ed relationship to Germany”gave rise pedagogy and worked very hard at York City firm Paul,Weiss, to a deep interest in German thought their teaching. Some teachers would Rifkind,Wharton & Garri- and culture, and to research into the come into a class of 60 and know stu- son – “a very progressive roots of totalitarianism. Halberstam’s dents by name on the first day. The Tfirm,”he says,“well-known for its liti- book Totalitarianism and the Modern students, in turn, recognized that they gation department.” For three years Conception of Politics, published in were being taken very seriously and he focused on civil litigation in the 2000 by Yale University Press, has re- that the law school was a very special fields of securities, banking, directors ceived attention in the United States environment. I hope that I can give and officers’liability, bankruptcy and and abroad. that to my students at UB as well.” other complex business disputes. Halberstam received his Ph.D. in Among other cases, he worked on liti- philosophy from Yale University, then gation arising out of the collapse of taught philosophy as an assistant professor for four years at the University of South Carolina. It was after he was assigned to teach a course in the phi- 17

Enron Corp. As part of his pro bono Halberstam is married to Kate Halberstam says his research practice, he also shepherded a major Brown, a scholar of Victorian litera- voting rights case from complaint to ture who until recently taught at style‘‘ ﬁts with UB Law’s focus trial. Emory University and will be taking Halberstam says his research style up a position at UB’s English Depart- on interdisciplinary work. ﬁts with UB Law’s focus on interdisci- ment in the fall. They have 3-year-old “It’s becoming something that plinary work.“It’s becoming some- twins, a boy and a girl.“I try to speak thing that law schools are increasingly German to them,”he says. law schools are increasingly cultivating, but UB Law has had that cultivating,but UB Law has tradition for a longer time,”he says. “Academic work is often work that had that tradition for a you do by yourself, but not always. I hope that I will be able to collaborate longer time.” on projects at the Law School.” ’’ UB LAW FORUM • SPRING 2009 18 Faculty: Cover Story MAKING RIGHTS REAL

magna cum laude,Melish majored in way,I realized that if I wanted to make a Tara Melish comparative development,spending a difference,I had to go to law school to semester studying sustainable develop- learn how to make these rights gen- ment in Bolivia and another in Kenya, uinely enforceable.” while traveling back to Guatemala dur- At Yale Law School,from which she will direct the Buffalo ing her summers to work as an interna- graduated in 2000,Melish thus com- tional accompanier with a women’s mitted herself to studying economic, group,CONAVIGUA.Through these social and cultural rights,even writing a Human Rights Center experiences,Melish developed a strong book on it.She was heavily involved in interest in rights-based approaches to the human rights program – as editor development and to inclusive,partici- in chief of the Yale Human Rights and patory planning processes.Back at Development Law Journal, book reviews Brown,these lessons became a central editor of the Yale Journal of Internation- focus of her work at the World Hunger al Law, student director of the law Program on the right to food. school’s Human Rights Center and a rom very early on,my core Law school was not deﬁnitively in three-year member of the Human commitment was to social the cards,however,until Melish re- Rights Clinic. justice work,a commit- turned to Central America with a Ful- ‘‘ ment that led me directly bright after college.The yearlong fel- ven so,she says,“my greatest to human rights and,par- lowship was to work in a border inte- understanding of human ticularly,to a focus on eco- gration initiative between Guatemala, rights law,and the challenges nomic,social and cultural rights.Ensur- Honduras and El Salvador,using a it poses,came from my expe- Fing that appropriate steps are being tak- rights-based approach to target food riences working on the en to guarantee that everyone has sus- insecurity in several border communi- Eground in different parts of the world. tainable access to adequate food and wa- ties. That is where you see how concepts ter,health care and education,adequate “I was doing participation-based learned in the classroom conform to housing and land for subsistence,those workshops and rights trainings,work- people’s realities.”During her summers sorts of issues were always going to be ing with communities to put together she worked with the Land Claims Court my focus,”says Tara Melish. right-to-food projects that correspond- of South Africa,with human rights Melish began to travel to war-torn ed to local priorities,going with leaders groups in Argentina,and with the Cen- Central America as a teenager with to embassies and development offices ter for Justice and International Law,in Witness for Peace,collecting stories to seek funding,”Melish says.“It quickly Costa Rica. from affected communities,accompa- became clear,however,that invoking After completing her work at Yale nying refugees in repatriation efforts, the right to food – invoking any right – Law School,Melish clerked for a year and advocating for changes in U.S.poli- doesn’t get you very far if there is no ac- on the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals cy toward the region.These experiences countability,if that right cannot be en- in San Francisco.“I wasn’t planning to cemented a commitment to a commu- forced.We would go to mayors’offices, go into teaching immediately,”she says. nity-based understanding of human and they would promise us everything But a call came from a small law school rights that would guide Melish’s acade- we asked for,and deliver on nothing. in Miami,which was starting an LL.M. mic and professional work for the next From that experience of hitting our program in intercultural human rights. two decades. heads against the wall,of confronting She agreed to teach an intensive course At Brown,where she graduated practical barriers at every step of the on Economic,Social and Cultural 19

My greatest understanding of human rights law,and the challenges it poses, came from my experiences working on the ground in different parts of the world.That is where ‘‘ you see how concepts learned in the classroom conform to people’s realities. ’’

Rights,a job that turned into a two-year She has interspersed this practical give them the support that they need to visiting appointment to teach constitu- work with classroom teaching,serving follow their own paths in the human tional and criminal law. as a visiting professor or lecturer at the rights field,”she says.“I want to be a per- “It was an important experience in law schools of Notre Dame,George son they feel comfortable coming to my life,”Melish says,“because it became Washington,Oxford,Åbo Akademi, with their ideas,saying,‘How can I do clear to me just how much I loved to Georgia,and Virginia,where she has this?’ ” teach and to challenge students to think taught human rights,international liti- Melish wants the center to also be a in new directions.I knew I would con- gation,constitutional law and torts. place of active institutional engagement tinue in academia,but I felt I needed Melish thus brings a world of the- with human rights initiatives around more practical experience as a lawyer.” ory and practical experience to her the world – through research,scholarly Melish thus moved to Washington, new position as a UB Law faculty fora,monitoring initiatives and litiga- D.C.,in 2003 to work as a staff attorney member and director of the Law tion.She underscores in this respect for CEJIL,a non-profit law firm that School’s Human Rights Center. that “one of the great attractions of specializes in litigation before the Inter- coming to Buffalo is having a dean who American Commission and Court of s she succeeds Dean Makau so fully and genuinely supports human Human Rights.While continuing as le- W.Mutua as director of the rights,is so respected in the field,and gal adviser to the organization,she sub- Buffalo Human Rights who will be actively working to bring sequently took a position at the United Center,Melish knows she the full community together to Nations to work as associate social af- has big shoes to fill.She strengthen the center’s profile and im- fairs officer in the Department of Eco- Ahopes nevertheless that she can provide pact.” nomic and Social Affairs and,then,as the center with a strong foundation for Melish and her fiancé,Jeff Rinne, U.N.representative of Mental Disability growth and an open environment for who works for the World Bank,are en- Rights International in the drafting ne- students wishing to find meaningful thusiastic travelers,adventurers and gotiations of the U.N.Convention on ways to give expression to their human runners.They recently completed their the Rights of Persons With Disabilities rights commitments.“I hope the center first marathon. and its Optional Protocol. will be a real resource for students,to UB LAW FORUM • SPRING 2009 20 Faculty: Cover Story THE LANGUAGE OF ECONOMICS

satisfy his desire to understand the ton, D.C., firm Steptoe & Johnson, Wentong Zheng workings of human economic and where he works on international trade political life.“I found economics to be litigation and trade policy advocacy. more abstract than I would like it to For nearly two years, he worked pri- be,”he says.“We were using very com- marily on a case involving the import brings an economist’s eye plicated mathematical models with- of softwood lumber from Canada. out explaining the relevance of those U.S. lumber producers had com- models to reality. I wanted to apply plained to the Department of Com- to legal study my economics expertise to something merce that the Canadian government more concrete.And I just got very in- was unfairly subsidizing the costs of terested in legal issues, especially is- lumber production by charging be- sues relating to economics.” low-market stumpage fees, undercut- So he applied and was accepted at ting fair competition. Stanford Law School, earning the J.D. “It was a very interesting experi- (and serving as executive editor of the ence,”he says of the case, in which rowing up in a small Stanford Law Review) while at the Steptoe represented the Canadian city 200 miles south same time completing his dissertation producers.“We had to hire many of Beijing,Wentong for a Ph.D. in economics. He spent the prominent economists to prove why Zheng was a witness first year on his law courses, and then the Canadian government’s stumpage to history: China’s shuttled back and forth between the policy was not a subsidy. I had to be rapid transforma- law school and the economics depart- both a lawyer and an economist, be- tion from an isolated nation into an ment – a fortuitously short five- cause I was interpreting between the Geconomic powerhouse. The intense de- minute walk. lawyers and the economists.” bate about economic and political re- How does someone whose native forms, closely entwined in China, capti- tongue is Chinese survive such a rig- hat dual orientation – vated him – and led him to economics orous challenge? “I started learning Zheng considers himself a as a way to better understand it all. English in middle school,”Zheng says. lawyer with an economics Zheng, who joins the UB Law fac- “But when I left China for the U.S., I background, rather than the ulty this fall, went to big-city Beijing really knew mostly written English. other way around – fuels and earned bachelor’s and master’s When I came to the U.S., I realized Tthe research interests that he will con- degrees in economics from Renmin that I didn’t really know how to talk to tinue at UB Law. University of China. From there he an American and make him or her His major interest is in studying traveled to Stanford University, where understand me.”Fortunately, he said, international trade law from an eco- he earned his doctorate in economics much of his economics coursework nomic perspective. Specifically, he has in 2005. was in the universal language of math. been looking at the use of the market But along the way, he says, he real- “I devoted those years to studying as a benchmark for the law, as in tak- ized that “the dismal science”did not economics, but also to watching TV ings law that requires government to and talking to my advisers and class- pay fair market value for property ac- mates,”he says. His English – spoken and written – now is impeccable. After he completed his work at Stanford, Zheng joined the Washing- 21

quired through eminent domain.“My tions.“Buffalo people have interesting The Law School has given research points out that there is a lot ideas and want to talk about their re- of inconsistency with the economic search,”he says.“And the Law School a‘‘ very high priority to principles behind that approach,”he has given a very high priority to inter- says. disciplinary research, especially interdisciplinary research, Drawing upon his advanced train- through the Baldy Center. I think that especially through the ing in econometrics and statistics, he will provide an excellent platform for also wants to pursue his interest in my research interests.”As well, he says, Baldy Center.I think that empirical studies of legal and public he expects to build contacts in the will provide an excellent policy issues. School of Management and the de- He also is doing work in compara- partments of economics and Asian platform for my research tive law, such as comparing the Chi- studies. nese and U.S. anti-trust laws through Zheng is married to Zhuqin “Alli- interests. the lens of political and social factors son”Zhou; a fellow economist, she affecting their development, rather works as an economic consultant. 1 than the traditional economics-only They have two young sons, ages 2 ⁄2 ’’ approach. years and 7 months. At UB, Zheng says, he is looking forward to a wide range of collabora- UB LAW FORUM • SPRING 2009 22 Faculty: Cover Story CRIMINAL LAW SCHOLAR MOVES EAST

ciology professor Mark Gottdiener students have seen TV shows or Angela P.Harris about the launch of a new journal in maybe even had some personal expe- urban sociology, in keeping with her rience with criminal law.” interest in the workings of America’s cities. he confluence of race and comes from Berkeley In addition to teaching an intro- gender has deep roots in ductory course in criminal law, Harris our country, Harris says. will continue her research and writ- “These two kinds of subor- to UB Law as Baldy’s ing, work on conferences and, she dination have really been says,“get to know the faculty and the Tclosely intertwined throughout Ameri- students.” can history,”she says.“For example, first Distinguished Harris, whose undergraduate during slavery, there was a rule first ex- work was in creative writing and Eng- pressed in a Virginia statute that the lish literature at the University of status of a child followed the status of Michigan, has a master’s degree in so- the mother. So slavery status would fol- Visiting Scholar cial science from the University of low reproduction.Women’s bodies Chicago. Her J.D. is from the Univer- were essential to the maintenance of sity of Chicago Law School. She has slavery – they were engines that could hey say a change is bet- taught at Berkeley Law since 1988, in- produce more capital for the master.” ter than a rest. So when terrupted only by visiting professor- Today, she says, even though both Professor Angela P. ships at Yale,Stanford and George- racial discrimination and sex discrim- Harris was looking for- town. ination in the workplace have been ward to a sabbatical She identifies herself broadly with outlawed, race and gender bias con- from Berkeley Law the Critical Race Theory movement tinue to be uneasy dance partners. For School at the University of California, in legal scholarship, which looks at example, an employer hiring for a cer- Tshe thought a change of scene might be racial subordination and discrimina- tain position may be swayed by in order. tion, and the intersection of race with stereotypes and expectations that live “I love what I do,”Harris says,“and other social phenomena. But she also below the conscious level:“Black it’s recharging to think about doing it identifies as a feminist and sees race as women are too loud and sassy, I don’t in a different place. It’s a fun, nice way “inextricably intertwined”with gen- want them in my workplace; Asian of getting to know a different faculty der discrimination – and says that women are too quiet and passive, I and getting to live in another part of these issues make for a lively class- don’t want them in a sales position.” the country.” room. Laws against discrimination are al- Harris, a widely published legal “Criminal law is so much about ready on the books, Harris says.“The scholar and award-winning teacher, race, class, gender and sexuality,”she question is, how do you enforce that, will come to UB Law School this fall says.“Who gets punished, what do we how do you make it real?”One way, for a yearlong appointment as a Baldy make criminal, where is the line be- she says, is by “working through cor- Center Distinguished Scholar. That tween things that the community porate culture and corporate training link with UB Law School’s center for might consider just immoral and programs to help people get past interdisciplinary legal studies fits well, what the community might want to those stereotypes. If people are reflec- she says, with her multifaceted ap- make illegal? It’s a great course to tive and aware that they may be sub- proach to legal scholarship.Already, teach, because everyone comes into it ject to these stereotypes, they can get for example, she is talking with UB so- with some sort of opinion. All the past them.” 23

Criminal law is so much ‘‘about race,class,gender and sexuality.Who gets punished, what do we make criminal, where is the line between things that the community might consider just immoral and what the community might want to make illegal? ’’

t Berkeley Law, Harris from across the country for students serves on the board of the interested in issues and careers in social Berkeley Center for Race justice. and Gender, a research in- Harris comes to Buffalo with her stitute for students and fac- daughter, Rachel, 11; her partner, Aulty looking at how issues of race and Christopher Young;and his daughter, gender intertwine; as board chair of the Jasmine, who is also 11. The professor Institute for the Study of Social is also a musician – she plays the viola, Change, a university-wide umbrella for and has “performed for years with a research; and on the executive com- bunch of choirs”as a singer of both mittee of the Thelton E. Henderson sacred and secular music. Center for Law and Social Justice with- in the law school, which sponsors talks and workshops by practicing attorneys UB LAW FORUM • SPRING 2009 24 Faculty

“We have lost a giant in human rights …” — Dean Makau Mutua HUMAN RIGHTS PIONEER Virginia Leary, lawyer, professor, human rights activist passes away in Geneva, Switzerland

rofessor Emerita Virginia Leary, SUNY Distin- guished Service Professor at the University at Buffalo Law School, passed away April 8 in Gene- va, Switzerland, where she had lived since retiring from UB Law in 1995. Apparently, Professor PLeary suffered a heart attack. Professor Leary was a beloved member of the Law School and the University at Buffalo, where she taught for 19 years. Professor Leary was a pioneer in teaching and scholarship in human rights law, a field in which she put UB Law on the global map. She was long a leader in international law and served with distinction on the Executive Council of the Amer- ican Society of International Law. She was a visiting professor and frequent lecturer at several universities and conferences around the world. Professor Leary, who consulted extensively for NGOs and intergovernmental organizations, including the United Nations, was one of the first women to attain universal recognition in international law. Her work as a scholar and practitioner in labor rights and Dr. Robert J. economic, social and cultural rights was exemplary. Genco with Even in retirement from UB Law, Professor Leary nev- SUNY Distin- er lost touch with this law school. She repeatedly came guished Service Professor back to visit. She helped mentor UB Law students in hu- Emerita man rights. Professor Leary was the UB Law Commence- Virginia A. Leary ment speaker in 2004. at Commence- Says Makau Mutua, UB Law dean:“For me, the loss is ment 2004. very personal, as I am sure it is for her colleagues here. “When I came to UB Law in 1996 to teach international law and human rights, she offered me invaluable advice and assistance.We kept in touch over the years, and her wise counsel to me was priceless. Professor Emerita Virginia Leary “We have lost a giant in human rights and international law, but her legacy and contributions to the field and to Aug.15,1926 – April 8,2009 the most vulnerable peoples on earth will live on.” 25

New works by our professors The UB Law bookshelf

Prison Religion: Navigators of Human Rights NGOs Trials of a Faith-Based Reform, the Contemporary: in East Africa: Political and Forensic Psychologist: and the Constitution Why Ethnography Normative Tensions A Casebook By Winnifred Fallers Sullivan Matters Edited by Makau W.Mutua By Charles Patrick Ewing (Princeton University Press) By David A. Westbrook (University of (John Wiley and Sons) (University of Chicago Press) Pennsylvania Press) rofessor Sullivan, di- rofessor Westbrook, a ean Mutua’s new wing, a SUNY Distin- rector of the Baldy Floyd H. and Hilda L. book chronicles the guished Service Profes- PCenter for Law & So- PHurst Faculty Scholar, Dhuman rights move- Esor and widely known cial Policy, looks at “faith- here argues for the impor- ment in East Africa as set expert on criminal psycholo- based”prison programs in tance of ethnography – the against the se- gy, details 10 high-profile light of the constitution- descriptive study of human ries of politi- cases from U.S. courtrooms ally mandated separa- societies based on fieldwork cal transi- in which forensic psycholo- tion of church and – as a way to understand tions in gists – psychologists apply- state. Sullivan takes our interconnected, yet the region. ing their knowledge in a as her springboard a mysterious, worlds. In particu- legal setting – played recent trial chal- Though ethnography tradi- lar it exam- a crucial role. lenging the constitu- tionally has been ines the role Drawing from his tionality of a faith- used by of nongovern- experiences testify- based residential rehabil- Western mental organizations and ing as an expert itation program in an Iowa anthro- broader “civil society,”the witness over three state prison. In that trial pologists social organizations that decades, Ewing brings she served as an expert wit- to study Mutua sees as key to the suc- to life the personal as well as ness for the plaintiffs, a far-flung cess of political democracy the legal stories in these cas- group of prisoners who were cultures, in African nations. Recog- es, and shows how the foren- assigned to the “God Pod,”a Westbrook nizing that the state remains sic psychologist’s craft ap- section of the prison admin- says they are now using the one of the major challenges plies to such issues as the istered by a faith-based orga- tools of this discipline to to the human rights effort, ability to waive Miranda nization that equated crime study such close-to-home these essays also acknowl- rights, the insanity defense, with sin. cultures as corporations, the edge serious internal prob- battered woman syndrome Sullivan argues that scientific establishment, the lems in the movement to en- and evaluating allegations of church-state separation is no military and organized reli- sure human rights through- child sexual abuse. longer possible because religion. out Africa. “I have tried to paint a gious authority has shifted In an informal and rela- The book brings together detailed and compelling from institutions to individ- tively brief book, written in a some of the most celebrated portrait of the evidence and uals, making it difficult even conversational style and human rights thinkers in the testimony,”Ewing says, to define religion, let alone without footnotes,West- East Africa, as well as writers “and leave it to readers to de- disentangle it from the gov- brook reaches out to a wide from South Africa and the cide who was right and ernment. audience with what he calls United States. Mutua, a whether justice was done.” “a publicly available medita- SUNY Distinguished Profes- tion on intellectual life.” sor, also directs UB Law’s Human Rights Center. UB LAW FORUM • SPRING 2009 26 Faculty A meeting of minds Baldy Center working groups put innovative ideas to the test “It is imperative today for people Cultural Policy and Diplomacy: to be flexible and able to adapt to new This working group “looks at the inter- ways of thinking. Having students ex- section of law,art,museums and poli- posed to that is vital.” tics,”French says – “what the political A brief tour of four well-estab- dimensions are,how they are under- lished and productive working groups stood in different context and what the at the Baldy Center: legal implications are.” Law and Religion: “This is an ex- Examples include the 2005 contro- ceedingly broad category, and it is versy over a Danish newspaper’s publi- wonderful because it is so open,” cation of an editorial cartoon that de- French says. Participants in picted the Prophet Muham- the working group look at mad,igniting a furor in the Professor the ways that legal systems Muslim world; and an inci- Rebecca R. have been shaped by reli- dent in Stockholm when the French, Baldy Center gious systems, either home- Israeli ambassador discon- director. grown or imported. Mem- nected the electricity to an bers of the group, which in- exhibition of Palestinian art corporates French’s Law and that he found objectionable. love to lose myself in other men’s Buddhism Project, helped to Professor The group is convened by minds,”wrote the 19th century organize the 2006 visit to UB Winnifred Ruth Bereson,director of British essayist Charles Lamb. It of the Dalai Lama, including Fallers Sullivan UB’s Arts Management Pro- ‘‘ is that philosophy that under- a conference on Law, Bud- gram in the College of Arts girds a movement in the Baldy dhism and Social Change. and Sciences.Says French, ICenter for Law and Social Policy to They also sponsored this “She puts together fascinat- bring together scholars from many spring’s three-day confer- ing people and intriguing disciplines, including the Law School, ence “Re-Describing the Sa- ideas.” and organizing them into working cred/Secular Divide.” Law,Place and Space: groups centered around particular in- Law School members also This working group looks vestigative interests. The result is include among others at the intersection of law groups that have become forums for Professors Winnifred Fallers Associate and geography – “thinking rich interdisciplinary exchanges, Sullivan and Stephanie Professor Mateo in a spatial way about how Tausig-Rubbo scholarly collaborations and intellec- Phillips. Sullivan’s books in- the law works,”French ex- tual ferment. clude The Impossibility of Re- plains.“It is very, very excit- The working groups are open to ligious Freedom (Princeton ing.”The group is planning any interested member of the Univer- University Press) and Prison a major two-day conference sity at Buffalo faculty. Their activities Religion: Faith-Based Reform at UB in the fall, and in Feb- include informal meetings, presenting and the Constitution (Prince- ruary sponsored a work- research work-in-progress, hosting ton University Press). Phillips shop called “The Hidden visiting speakers and organizing re- says,“My focus is upon the Places of Law: Exploring search workshops. juncture of law, religion and Associate Legal Geographies.” “Each one of these groups is doing politics. These intersections Professor Irus Among the Law School something completely different and are being rethought and re- Braverman participants is Associate interesting,”says Professor Rebecca R. fought in many places on the Professor Irus Braverman, French, Baldy Center director.“The globe, including Iraq, Kenya, whose scholarship has ad- research they are doing has great prac- Nigeria,Afghanistan and the dressed the laws surround- tical value.When I was in practice, I United States. To enrich the ing trees and house demoli- realized that the more you know interdisciplinary aspect of tions in East Jerusalem.“My about the world and about people, this work, I am presently pur- doctoral thesis focused on and the more you know about the suing a master’s degree in the- the politics of natural land- context people are operating in, the ology at Colgate Rochester scapes,”Braverman says.“In better lawyer you are. Crozer Divinity School.” Professor Errol particular, this work exam- Meidinger 27 On the move UB Law School celebrates the accomplishments of these faculty ines the ideological uses of trees in both Israel/Palestine and in four members whose professional lives North American cities, employing an ethnographic approach to examine are taking them elsewhere. the relations between law, natural landscapes and scientific technolo- gies.” • Professor Lee Albert’s major • Judith Scales-Trent, a professor and Also part of the group is Professor research areas have been law and Floyd H. and Hilda R. Hurst faculty Errol Meidinger, who also serves as medicine, constitutional law and the scholar, has written extensively about vice dean for research and faculty de- U.S. Supreme Court. He has retired. race in America. She is retiring from velopment. Meidinger is the editor of • Professor Barry B. Boyer,an teaching but will continue her Confronting Sustainability: Forest Cer- environmental law specialist, served research at UB Law through the fall tification in Developing and Transition- as dean of UB Law School from 1992 semester. ing Countries (Yale University Press), to 1998. He has retired. • Amy Deen Westbrook has been which looks at the emergence of a sys- • Professor Markus D. Dubber,who director of UB Law’s New York City tem for identifying well-managed for- studies penal law and comparative Program in International Finance and est land and how market choices affect law, has accepted a position at the Law. She is beginning a tenure-track the health of some of the world’s most University of Toronto Law School. professorship at Washburn University environmentally sensitive forests. • Kenneth F.Joyce, SUNY School of Law in Topeka, Kan. Law and Anthropology: “This was Distinguished Teaching Professor, has • David A.Westbrook, a professor and a hidden resource at UB that no one taught and written on estates, trusts Floyd H. and Hilda R. Hurst faculty really knew about,”French says.“Sud- and taxes. He has retired, but will scholar has taught and studied on denly we realized how many people teach his last course in the fall. business and international law topics. here are doing legal anthropology. • Professor Janet S. Lindgren,who He will be a visiting professor at the There are five people just on our law taught several advanced writing University of Kansas School of Law faculty who have this interest.” courses, has retired. and at Washburn University School of French is one of them, as she has Law. done extensive work on the Tibetan legal system. She is the author of The Golden Yoke: The Legal Cosmology of Buddhist Tibet (Cornell University Press). Also in this working group from the Law School is Associate Professor Mateo Tausig-Rubbo, who says:“My work on law and violence draws on Lee Albert Barry B. Markus D. Kenneth F. anthropological methods and con- Boyer Dubber cepts. I am especially interested in Joyce forms of meaningful violence that af- firm or transform legal categories.” For example, Taussig-Rubbo has written about the concept of “outsourcing sacrifice”through the use of private military contractors.

Janet S. Judith Scales- David A. Amy Deen Lindgren Trent Westbrook Westbrook UB LAW FORUM • SPRING 2009 28 Faculty Big names at the Baldy Center Theorists and Jurists Series brings top minds to UB Law

n ambitious initiative of the Baldy Center for Law and Social Policy is putting some of the best-known Aand most well-respected figures in law and humanities before UB Law audi- ences. The Theorists and Jurists Series, new this spring semester, includes lec- tures by several such leading scholars. The participants are chosen by a faculty committee, and invitations have been extended to major theorists in such far-flung fields as urban planning, philosophy and anthropology, as well as to renowned jurists including U.S. Supreme Court justices. “UB is a world-class institution,” says Professor Rebecca R. French, Baldy April 9, “The Yagé Tapes: Shamanism and Intellectual Property in Center director.“At the Baldy Center, Colombia,” Michael Taussig, professor of anthropology at Columbia we would like to bring world-class University. scholars in to present their ideas to the Taussig, who has a medical degree from the University of Sydney and University, Law School and social sci- a doctorate in anthropology from the London School of Economics, is ences communities. best-known for his work on Marx’s concept of commodity fetishism – “The goal is to have the great the idea in some societies that commodities have inherent value, rather thinkers here – people who are capable than acquiring value through labor. Taussig’s fieldwork in South Ameri- of changing the way we think about the ca, especially Colombia and Bolivia, has been widely read and discussed. world, the way we think about ideas and the way we think about ourselves.” The spring semester lineup of the Theorists and Jurists Series includes School, Coleman teaches in the areas izes in the ethnography of Europe (es- appearances by three well-known fig- of philosophy of law; torts law; law, pecially Greece and Italy) and of Thai- ures: language and truth; political philoso- land. His most recent project is a doc- phy; and rational choice. His books in- umentary film, Monti March 17,“Normativity of Law,” clude Hart’s Postscript: The Practice of Moments: Men’s Memo- Jules L.Coleman, professor of ju- Principle and Oxford Handbook of Ju- ries in the Heart of risprudence and philos- risprudence and the Philosophy of Law. Rome, an intimate por- ophy at Yale Law School. trait of social change in On March 18, Professor April 24,“Housing Rights and His- a rapidly gentrifying Coleman also discussed torical Wrongs: Gentrification and neighborhood in the “The Accountability Neoliberalism, From the Eternal City to Italian capital. He drew Theory of Tort Law.” the City of Angels,” Michael Herzfeld, on his research for that film in this Educated at Brook- professor of anthropology at Harvard discussion of the effects of gentrifica- lyn College and with a University. tion in Rome and Los Angeles. Ph.D. in philosophy from Rockefeller Herzfeld, one of the world’s pre- University and an MSL from Yale Law mier social anthropologists, special- Alumni Association 29 A view from the top Court of Appeals justice addresses New York City alumni luncheon

reparing to mark the Court of Appeals takes it. second anniversary of It has to be the type of case his appointment to that has ramifications New York State’s high- throughout the entire Pest court,the Hon.Theodore J. state.If not,it goes in the Jones addressed the New York discard bin.” City chapter of the UB Law The judges,he said,are Alumni Association on Jan.30. seated in Albany “approxi- Jones,an associate justice on mately 64 or 65 days a the state’s Court of Appeals, year.The rest of the time brought the lessons of his nearly we are in our chambers, two years on the high court to working on our decisions. an appreciative audience at the It’s an interesting experi- historic Union League Club.Af- ence.The appellate ter a welcome by Alumni Asso- process is an ongoing ciation President E.Jeannette thing.I learn from it every Ogden ’83, a Buffalo City Court single day.” judge,and an update by Dean Jones acknowledged Makau W.Mutua,Jones was in- that the national and state troduced by Hon.Erin M.Per- economic crisis will affect adotto ’84,a State Supreme the courts along with the Court justice. rest of society.“I’m only “I know the significance of hopeful that the effect of this institution and the history those changes can be min- of this institution,”said Jones, imized,”he said.“We in whose J.D.is from St.John’s the courts depend on legal University Law School in community to help mini- Queens.“I was so impressed by Hon. Theodore J. Jones mize the effects of those the plans,Dean Mutua,that you changes on the least have to take the Law School to another ahead and pick.’I thought they were among us.We hope that,with pro bono level altogether.I serve on the board of kidding.I thought this was some kind work and free legal work,we can keep directors of St.John’s Law School,and I of initiation for me as a new judge.I the courts open to all.” also serve on the trustee board.So we sit said to myself,‘This can’t be the way He also committed to advocating in these meetings and we discuss the fi- they assign cases.But I’m going to play for UB Law students and alumni to nancial and academic ramifications of along with this and see where it goes.’I serve clerkships in the state court sys- both the law school and the university, took a card,and everyone else took a tem,saying,“I would like to see Buffalo and I guarantee you that I am in touch card,and I kept waiting for the punch Law School more completely repre- with the economic realities with which line.But I found out that was actually sented than it has been,and I will do schools are faced today.That makes the way they assigned cases.And the everything in my power to make that your work here all the more impressive. first case I picked was really hard.” happen.” You are to be congratulated.” Jones told about the clerk system in Jones recalled the day he was sworn the court,in which each judge has three into office on the Court of Appeals – clerks,but in addition a group of“cen- “that very same day,”he said,“we heard tral staff”clerks evaluate applications our first oral arguments.After the oral for legal proceedings,writing detailed arguments,everyone went back to what reports and making arguments for is known in the Court of Appeals as the which cases the court should accept. red room.The chief clerk came in,and “We only accept about 5 percent of he had a stack of white 3-by-5 cards.He the cases,”Jones said.“A case has to have put them on the table and said,‘Go a certain level of significance before the UB LAW FORUM • SPRING 2009 30 Alumni Association

Front row: Hon. Jeffrey S. White ’70, Lynn A. Clarke ’83. Second row: Brent L.Wilson ’76, Elizabeth B. Mensch ’79 Top row: Hon. Sharon S. Townsend,Anna Marie Cellino ’81 Distinguished alumni honored everyone with respect, courtesy and n “exceptionally select group of highly distinguished honorees,”in the compassion. Perhaps most important, words of Dean Makau W.Mutua, collected Distinguished Alumni Jeff White is simply a wonderful hu- Awards on May 5 at the UB Law Alumni Association’s 47th annual man being. I think he is simply what dinner.Awards were presented to ﬁve alumni of the Law School and to we all aspire to be.” oneA non-alumna. Buffalo City Court Judge E. Jeannette Ogden ’83, president of White said in his remarks: “When the Law Alumni Association, served as master of ceremonies. UB Law School admitted me, it took a The honorees, whose acceptance remarks were printed in booklet form, chance on a poor kid from Brooklyn were: with a thirst to learn how to use the Hon.Jeffrey S.White ’70,for his America, having tried more than 100 law to serve the community. UB Law conscientious and diligent perfor- jury trials without one loss. I don’t and its world-class faculty inspired me mance in the judiciary.White is a U.S. know anybody in the country who and taught me well. I have always fol- District Court judge in the Northern knows more about how to effectively, lowed the directive of my trial advoca- District of California. honestly and conscientiously try a cy instructor, that a prosecutor should Ronald Hayes Malone, a partner in lawsuit. be held to the highest standards of a San Francisco law ﬁrm, presented “On the bench, he is a judge who ethical and public responsibility. On the award.“This is truly an inspired cares passionately about justice. He the bench, I have always held the pros- choice,”Malone said.“Jeff White was calls the balls and strikes with accura- ecutors who appear before me to that one of the very best trial lawyers in cy and with fairness, and he treats same high standard.”

For a Distinguished Alumni Awards Dinner slideshow, go to www.law.buffalo.edu/forum/spr09/alumniDinner.asp 31

UB Law Alumni Association recognizes six for their accomplishments

Brent L.Wilson ’76,for his leader- Elizabeth B.Mensch ’79,for her ed me in achieving my success at Na- ship by example as a private practi- commitment to public service. tional Fuel. … I have been fortunate to tioner.Wilson is a partner in the At- Mensch is SUNY Distinguished have both a successful career and a lanta firm Elarbee, Thompson, Sapp Teaching Professor Emerita at UB Law very fulfilling personal life. I am thank- & Wilson, LLP. School. ful to my husband, Ross, and my six Presenting the award was Richard In presenting the award, Dean Mu- beautiful children, who have encour- F.DiGiacomo ’76, a classmate of Wil- tua said:“There are four things that aged me in my career and continue to son’s and a vice president of the Law define who Betty Mensch is: humility, bring much love, joy and laughter into Alumni Association.“He has received excellence, brilliance and dedication. I my life.” awards that are too numerous to have never met anyone who was more ••• mention,”DiGiacomo said.“But this self-deprecating and more unassum- Hon.Sharon S.Townsend,for out- award is especially noteworthy being, and yet so substantial. No matter standing service to the community by cause Brent is a great example for us, how much she knows and no matter a non-alumna. Townsend is adminis- whether in town or out of town, as to how little you know, Professor Mensch trative judge for the 8th Judicial Dis- how to stay connected to this Law always made you feel comfortable.” trict of New York State Supreme School, which has meant so much to In her remarks, Mensch said:“The Court. all of us.” single most constant feature of UB life Hon. Erin M. Peradotto ’84 intro- In his remarks,Wilson said:“By was also its greatest source of change duced the honoree:“Her roles as a some beautiful twist of fate, I arrived and renewal: the always new, always Family Court judge, supervising judge at UB in my second year of law school lively class of first-year students who of the Family Courts of the 8th Judi- after beginning my legal education in unfailingly filled our classrooms every cial District, and now administrative Georgia. I was embraced by the UB fall, determined, three years later, to judge have given her a unique oppor- Law family, including students, faculty join our community of UB Law alum- tunity to use her talent and ability to and staff, and the people of Western ni – the real UB Law community. make a positive difference in countless New York.” Every year I would marvel at the rich- lives.And she has done it one day at a ••• ness of experience and freshness of time, one person at a time. She is a Lynn A.Clarke ’83,for her many perspective they brought to us. It was a person who clearly understands the contributions to the betterment of privilege to teach them, and a privilege impact of individual efforts, and has our community. Clarke is principal to be part of the alumni community to recognized that her words and actions court attorney with the New York which they brought constant renewal.” have afterlives.” State Supreme Court. ••• Townsend said in her remarks:“I In presenting the award, Judge Og- Anna Marie Cellino ’81,for her ex- have felt that I belonged to UB Law den said:“Lynn is a person who makes emplary performance in business. School since I arrived here in Buffalo community service happen.All of the Cellino is president of National Fuel 30 years ago this month as a recent hours that she has devoted to com- Gas Distribution Corp. graduate of the University of Con- munity service have been an act and a Paula M. Ciprich ’85 noted that necticut School of Law. That first labor of love.We are very proud that Cellino began with National Fuel Gas summer, my husband, Bradlee, and I Lynn decided to engage in a labor of as a law clerk, then an attorney, and de- would ride our bicycles to UB Law love by serving our community.” tailed her accomplishments in im- School for our daily bar review Clarke, in her remarks, said:“It proving customer service, promoting course. It was there that we met such seems curious to be acknowledged for cost and quality control, and serving as wonderful and warm people as Fran activities which, for me, were labors of corporate secretary.“Anna Marie has ‘Cheech’Letro and Tom Black, both love. The community endeavors I incredible energy, focus and business successful alums who have given back have pursued have primarily involved judgment,”Ciprich said.“She has been to the Law School community many recognition and protection of human an outstanding mentor and friend, times over and have become our dear and legal rights, preservation of histo- and I can think of no one who de- friends and colleagues.” ry, participation in our political serves this recognition more.” The Distinguished Alumni Awards process and helping those who are less In her remarks, Cellino said:“I have dinner committee was co-chaired by fortunate, causes all dear to my heart. many fond memories of my years at DiGiacomo and Mark J. Stuhlmiller I feel privileged to have been able to UB Law School and am very apprecia- ’99.Also on the committee were work on community issues which are tive of the time spent with my profes- Robert L. Boreanaz ’89, James W. important to me.” sors and the legal training that I re- Grable Jr. ’96, Margaret P.Gryko ’77 ceived. That education certainly assist- and Catherine E. Nagel ’98. UB LAW FORUM • SPRING 2009 32 CLASS ACTION ’70s Share your reunion photos on Flickr Terrence M.Connors ’71 of Buffalo has been named “Lawyer of the Year” 2009 by Best Lawyers. He was listed in the categories of personal injury, he Law School has moved toward posting reunion photos on the commercial litigation, legal Web.We are currently migrating our alumni photos onto a photo malpractice, medical malpractice, and sharing Web site, Flickr.com, where all of the 2008 reunion photos white-collar and non-white-collar criminal law. Connors is a partner in from the fall and spring Forum are available for viewing.We hope Connors & Vilardo in Buffalo and a thatT you will find this site helpful by allowing you to view additional photos taken past member of UB Law School’s Dean’s Advisory Council. at the reunion and to make prints if you wish. To access your reunion photos, go to www.law.buffalo.edu/reunions. Click on Hon.Alexander W.Hunter Jr.’74 of New Rochelle, N.Y.,was re-elected “past reunions,”which will take you to our area at Flickr.You can then view a New York State Supreme Court slideshow of all your reunion photos, or simply click on a single photo to view de- justice, 12th Judicial District, in tails and order prints. Our user group is at ww.law.buffalo.edu/alumniFlickr.asp. Bronx, N.Y.He was also recognized for his 20 years of service as an Do you have photos from other events, or are you planning a reunion with adjunct professor at Pace University classmates? Please let us know.We would be happy to help, including having a School of Law in White Plains, N.Y. Hunter is currently teaching at photographer document the event for inclusion in a future Forum magazine. Concord Law School in Los Angeles. Questions or looking for more reunion photos? Contact Amy Hayes Atkin- David E.Jacobson ’74 has joined son, assistant director of reunions and alumni services, at (716) 645-6224 or Troutman Sanders as a partner in the [email protected]. Washington, D.C., office. He is a member of the firm’s tax practice group and lives in McLean,Va. Hon.James A.W.McLeod ’74 was re-elected Buffalo City Court judge. He has been a city court judge since 1999 and resides in Buffalo. Class Action Richard F.Griffin ’57 was named to compiled by the steering committee for the 25th Dianne Bennett ’75 has co-authored anniversary celebration of The Best a book with her husband,William Cynthia Watts, ’50s Lawyers in America, held in Atlanta. Graebner, Rome the Second Time: 15 alumni database Herald Price Fahringer ’56 received Griffin was recognized for his listing ItinerariesThat Don’t Go to the the Hon. Robert L. Cohen Award in the fields of alternative dispute Coliseum. The book is an alternative manager, from the New York Criminal Bar resolution, commercial litigation, travel guide and history lesson. [email protected] Association at a ceremony in New personal injury litigation and product Bennett is past chair of Hodgson Russ York City. The award, in recognition liability litigation. He is of counsel in Buffalo and a past recipient of the (716) 645-2107 of lifetime achievement, is the highest with Kavinoky Cook in Buffalo, where UB Law Alumni Association’s honor bestowed by the association. he resides. Griffin is a past recipient of Distinguished Alumna Award. She is a Fahringer, a celebrated civil liberties the UB Law Alumni Association’s Buffalo resident. attorney, is associated with the Distinguished Alumnus Award. Manhattan firm Fahringer & Dubno. Maurice L.Sykes ’75 has joined He lives in Manhattan. Kenney Shelton Liptak Nowak as a senior associate in the Buffalo office. Hon.Joseph S.Mattina ’56 was He focuses his practice in self-insured reappointed to a three-year term on ’60s and insurance defense litigation. Sykes the board of directors of Roswell Park lives in East Amherst, N.Y. Cancer Institute in Buffalo. Mattina, Fredric H.Fischer ’67 is co-editor in former Erie County Surrogate Court chief of How to Take a Case Before the judge, is CEO of Counsel Financial National Labor Relations Board, Services in Williamsville, N.Y.He is a Eighth Edition (BNA Books). Fischer past recipient of the UB Law Alumni is a partner in the Chicago office of Association’s Distinguished Alumnus Seyfarth Shaw and is a member of the Award and the Jaeckle Award. firm’s labor and employment department. He lives in Highland Park, Ill. 33

50+ Reunion Luncheon

n Aug. 6, 2008, the Law School Seated – Richard M. English ’53, hosted its fifth annual 50+ Re- Richard Lipsitz ’43,Arthur J. union Luncheon. This annual Maloney ’48, Hon. Joseph J. Sedita ’50, Hon. Michael A.Amico ’58, event welcomes alumni who Sue Dealy Murszewski ’58, graduated 50 or more years ago. Alexander J. Russ ’52, Michael T. OAlumni and guests joined Vice Dean Alan S. Sullivan Jr. ’53 Carrel, who gave updates about the Law School. Standing – Joseph C.Vispi ’49, In attendance were alumni ranging from the Owen F.Mangan ’56, Hon. John J. classes of 1943 to 1958. Gruber ’52, John F.Canale ’47, The event took place in the fifth-floor Law Hon. Joseph D. Mintz ’56, Ross M. School Conference Center in O’Brian Hall. Cellino Sr. ’56, Sanford M. There were lively conversations and plenty of Silverberg ’57, Thomas J. Kelly ’52, Ralph L. Halpern ’53, Hon. John P. memories between alums. This wonderful tra- Lane ’53, Frederic C.Washburn dition gave all an opportunity to celebrate their ’53, Frank R. Papa ’52,Anthony J. many accomplishments and relive a few of the DeMarie ’55,Wells E. Knibloe ’50, fond memories from their days in law school. Hon. Charles R. Newman ’50, David P.Evans ’56, Herbert Shafer ’50,Anthony J. Colucci Jr. ’58, Victor C. Silverstein ’54

Top: Ross M. Cellino Sr. ’56 and Joseph C.Vispi ’49 Above: Richard Lipsitz ’43 and Sue Dealy Murszewski ’58 Left: Hon. Joseph J. Sedita ’50 and Barbara Newman, Hon. Charles R. Newman ’50 Herbert Shafer ’50 and Wells E. Knibloe ’50 UB LAW FORUM • SPRING 2009 34 Class Action

High honors for Two alums rise in Daniels, Freedman State Senate staff

Two distinguished alumni of UB Law School have At a critical time for New York State government, received prestigious awards in recognition of their two UB Law alumni have been named to high-level le- Margaret W. achievement in legal practice. gal posts in the State Senate. Wong ’76 Joel L.Daniels ’63,who for four decades has been Shelley Mayer ’79 has been named Counsel to the one of Buffalo’s leading defense attorneys,received the Majority by Majority Leader Malcolm A. Smith, a Charles F.Crimi Memorial Award as the state’s out- Queens Democrat. Mayer previously served as Coun- standing private defense practitioner.The award was sel to the Minority under Smith, as well as Special presented in New York City at the annual awards lun- Counsel to former Minority Leader Martin Connor. cheon of the New York State Bar Association’s criminal Before beginning work with the Senate, she was an as- justice section. sistant attorney general for 12 years. She lives in Also,the New York Bar Foundation Yonkers. conferred its Lifetime Achievement Also, Lourdes Ventura ’98 was named Counsel for Award on Maryann Saccomando Freed- Latino and Immigrant Affairs. Previously,Ventura man ’58. The award,presented at a New served in the Minority Counsel’s office, following Dennis R.McCoy York City dinner,recognizes Freedman’s work as a prosecutor with the Queens County district ’77 service both to her clients and to the legal attorney’s office and as an assistant attorney general profession in New York State.A former with the state attorney general’s office. She currently director and president of the Bar Foun- serves as a director of the UB Law Alumni Association dation,she also was the ﬁrst female president of the New and as a member of the Dean’s Advisory Council. York State Bar Association and the Erie County Bar As- She lives in Queens. sociation.She is of counsel at Cohen & Lombardo in Buffalo,where she maintain a general civil practice.

Terrie Benson Margaret W.Wong ’76 is representing James J.Duggan ’78 of Amherst, N.Y., Association’s Distinguished Alumna Murray ’79 President Barack Obama’s aunt, has become a partner in the Buffalo Award and is a member of the Law Zeituni Onyango, who is a Kenyan office of Kenney Shelton Liptak School’s Dean’s Advisory Council. immigrant living in the U.S. illegally. Nowak. He handles cases involving Pryor is a resident of New Rochelle, Wong is managing partner of self-insured and insurance defense N.Y. Margaret W.Wong and Associates in and insurance coverage litigation. Cleveland. She is a recipient of the UB Duggan was a founding partner of Claudia G.Allen ’79 was named to Law Alumni Association Lustig & Brown in Buffalo. the 2009 “Ohio Super Lawyers”list. Distinguished Alumna Award, a She is a partner in Strauss & Troy in lifetime member of the UB Law Robert B.Fleming Jr.’78 is listed in Cincinnati, counseling clients in Alumni Association and a member of Best Lawyers as Lawyer of the Year employee beneﬁts and employment UB Law School’s Dean’s Advisory 2009 in the corporate law category. law.Allen lives in Cincinnati. Council.Wong lives in Shaker Fleming is a partner in Hodgson Russ Heights, Ohio. in Buffalo, where he resides. Terrie Benson Murray ’79 was elected recording secretary of Dennis R.McCoy ’77 was named Mark J.Moretti ’78 was appointed the Philanthropic Education general awards committee chair of the chair of the trial lawyers section of the Organization for the CM Chapter, New York State Bar Association’s torts, New York State Bar Association. He is based in Orchard Park, N.Y.,where insurance and compensation law a partner in the Rochester, N.Y.,office she resides. She is a founding member section. McCoy is a partner in the of Phillips Lytle, practicing in business of the chapter and is also the project Buffalo office of Hiscock & Barclay. and tort litigation. Moretti lives in chairperson for Cottey College, a He is a member of UB Law School’s Pittsford, N.Y. private two-year liberal arts college for Dean’s Advisory Council and is a past women in Nevada, Mo. Murray is an president of the UB Law Alumni Vikki L.Pryor ’78 received the associate with Cohen & Lombardo in Association. McCoy lives in Snyder, Distinguished Alumna Award from Buffalo. N.Y. the UB Alumni Association. Pryor is president of SBLI USA Mutual Life Insurance in New York City. She is a past recipient of the UB Law Alumni 35

Class of 1953

Seated – Joseph M. Nasca, Richard M. English, Ralph L. Halpern, Joseph A. Marion Jr., he 55th reunion for the Neil R. Farmelo, Michael T.Sullivan Jr., Frederic C.Washburn Class of 1953 was held on Standing – Michael G.Wolfgang,Frank N. Cuomo, John D. Cahill, Hon. John P.Lane, Jack I. Morris, June 26, 2008, in Buffalo. Daniel T.Roach, Hilary P.Bradford,William E. Lawson Jr., Matthew X.Wagner Jr. There was an excellent Tturnout of classmates and friends, Left: Matthew X.Wagner Jr. ’53, Joseph A. with some coming from as far away as Marion Jr. ’53 and Joseph M. Nasca ’53 California. The reunion was celebrated in grand fashion at the fabulous Man- Below: Michael T.Sulliban Jr. ’53, sion on Delaware Avenue. The class Daniel T.Roach ’53 and provided Dean Makau Matua with a John D. Cahill ’53 special class gift in honor of their sig- niﬁcant milestone.

Left: Michael G.Wolfgang ’53, Richard M. English ’53, Jo-An Webb and Joyce Crawford and Jack I. Morris ’53 Hilary P.Bradford ’53 UB LAW FORUM • SPRING 2009 36 Class Action

UB recognizes three Law School alumnae Three UB Law alumni received University-wide recognition this spring when they were named winners of achievement awards from the University at Buffalo Alumni Association. The awards were presented at a gala dinner March 20 at the Adam’s Mark Hotel in Buffalo. Nicole Lee ’02 re- Vikki L. Pryor ’78 Jean C. Powers ’79 ceived the George was presented with received a Volunteer W.Thorn Award, the Distinguished Recognition Medal Hon.Barbara given to UB gradu- Alumni Award in from the UB Alumni Howe ’80 ates younger than recognition of her Association. The 40 who have made exceptional career honor acknowledges outstanding nation- accomplishments. her long and diverse al or international contributions to Pryor, president and CEO of SBLI service to the Law School, includ- their field. Lee is executive director USA since 1999, has transformed ing serving as president of the UB of TransAfrica Forum, an interna- the New York City-based mutual Law Alumni Association, on the tional organization that promotes life insurance company into a di- Dean’s Advisory Council, and as human rights and social justice for versified national financial services chair of the Annual Fund cam- people of African descent. Lee, firm. The company has a commit- paign in 2003-04. She also mentors based in Washington, D.C., has led ment to gender and racial diversity, law students and serves as a trustee TransAfrica Forum for three years. and since Pryor’s arrival has donat- of the UB Foundation. Denise E. ed more than $750,000 to local and O’Donnell ’82 national charities.

Jean C.Powers ’79 received the UB Patrick C.O’Reilly ’80 is listed in Best Denise E.O’Donnell ’82 was named Alumni Association Volunteer Lawyers as Lawyer of the Year 2009. deputy secretary for public safety by Recognition Medal. Powers is a He is a senior partner in the ﬁrm New York State Gov. David A. partner in the Amherst, N.Y.,office of Lipsitz Green Scime Cambria in Paterson. She will oversee all Jaeckle Fleischmann & Mugel, Buffalo, where he resides. O’Reilly is homeland security and criminal practicing in the real estate group. She an adjunct faculty member at UB Law justice agencies, in addition to is a member emeritus of UB Law School and is a past president of the maintaining her current position as School’s Dean’s Advisory Council, a UB Law Alumni Association and the commissioner of the Division of former recipient of the UB Law New York Chapter of the American Criminal Justice Services in Albany, Alumni Association’s Distinguished Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers. N.Y.O’Donnell also received the New Alumna Award and a past president of York State Bar Association’s the alumni association. She lives in Michael L.Ciminelli ’81 of Rochester, Excellence in Public Service Award. Williamsville, N.Y. N.Y.,is the new commander of patrol She is a Buffalo resident. division west for the Rochester Police Department. Ciminelli recently Hon.Tracey A.Bannister ’84 was served as deputy chief counsel for elected New York State Supreme operational law for the U.S. Drug Court justice, Eighth Judicial District ’80s Enforcement Administration in in Buffalo. Bannister lives in Washington, D.C., and previously Kenmore, N.Y. Hon.Barbara Howe ’80 was served for 11 years in the Rochester appointed president of the New York Police Department as a patrol officer, Perry Binder ’84 has written the State Chapter of the National an investigator and a sergeant. book Unlocking Your Rubber Room, Association of Women Judges. Howe with “44 off-the-wall lessons to is Erie County Surrogate Court judge Richard P.Valentine ’81 has joined lighten and transform everyday in Buffalo, where she resides. She is a Rosenthal Siegel & Muenkel in the life.”The book is available at past recipient of the UB Law Alumni Buffalo office.Valentine practices in www.YourRubberRoom.com and Association’s Distinguished Alumna plaintiff’s medical malpractice. He Amazon.com. Binder is an assistant Award, a past president of the UB Law was previously a partner in Hamsher professor at Georgia State University Alumni Association and is an adjunct & Valentine in Buffalo, where he in Atlanta, where he resides. faculty member at the Law School. resides. 37

Class of 1963

Seated – David C. Laub, Roger V.Barth, Saul Lerner,William J. Mullins Jr., Bernard B. Freedman, he 45th reunion for the Robert J. Tronolone Class of 1963 was held on June 28, 2008, in Buffalo. Standing – James V.Hall, Joel L. Daniels, John P.Robshaw Jr., Timothy C. Leixner,William C. Farner, An excellent turnout of Peter J. Fiorella Jr., Jerome D. Carrel Tclassmates and friends helped to cre- Left: Timothy C. Leixner ’63, Joyce, and ate an ideal weekend for these alums Roger V.Barth ’63 to reconnect. Classmate Peter J. Fiorel- la graciously hosted a lunch on Satur- day afternoon at his office on Summer Street, while regaling his classmates with its historic signiﬁcance. Saturday evening brought yet another opportunity for the class to gather. The reunion weekend was highlighted on Saturday evening with dinner at Mari- naccio’s Seafood and Steak House in Williamsville. The night was full of reconnecting and reminiscing.

Teresa Lerner and Jerome D. Carrel ’63 Above: John P.Robshaw Jr. ’63 and Saul Lerner ’63 Left: Mary Loy Robshaw, Suzanne Sinnott, James V.Hall ’64 and Saul Lerner ’63 UB LAW FORUM • SPRING 2009 38 Class Action

Catherine Cerulli ’92 received the Kate Stoneman Award at Albany Law School. The award is named for the Births first woman attorney licensed in New York. Cerulli is assistant professor of Simon A.Fleischmann ’01 and Jamie H.Fleischmann,a daughter, psychiatry at the University of Remi Adel, on Feb. 18, 2009, in Chicago. Rochester Medical Center and director of its Laboratory of Interpersonal Violence and Victimization in Rochester, N.Y., Michael G. where she resides. She is also director Zapson ’85 of research for the Women, Children Marriages and Social Justice Clinic at UB Law Congratulations to the following newlyweds: School. Michael J.Keane ’92 has been named Stephanie G.Carter ’01 and Jason C. Pennington, Dec. 19, 2008 special counsel in the Buffalo-based firm Colucci & Gallaher. He Kenneth R.Kraus ’05 and Alyssa M.Truelove ’05, Aug. 8, 2008 represents clients in personal injury and business litigation and lives in Orchard Park, N.Y. Frank T.Housh ’93,a West Seneca, Katherine A.Fijal Patrick J.Higgins ’84 is editor in chief Diane R.Tiveron ’89 has been N.Y.,resident, was elected Western ’88 and contributing author of the New promoted to partner in the firm New York regional vice president of York State Bar Association treatise HoganWillig in Buffalo. Tiveron the New York Democratic Lawyers “The Plaintiff’s Personal Injury handles cases involving business and Council. He practices in Cohen & Action in New York State.”Higgins commercial law, civil litigation and Lombardo in Buffalo, in civil was also named in the 2008 Upstate bankruptcy. She is a resident of litigation, special education and Super Lawyers. He is a partner in Lockport, N.Y. criminal defense. Powers & Santola in Albany, N.Y., Cathy Lovejoy Maloney ’94 of where he resides. Snyder, N.Y.,is the new executive John T.Kolaga ’85 was named special director of Cornell Cooperative counsel in the Buffalo office of ’90s Extension in Lockport, N.Y.She has Damon & Morey. Kolaga is chair of previously served as executive director Frank T.Housh Carl J.Tierney ’91 was awarded the ’93 the environmental law practice group of the Buffalo & Erie County and is listed in Business First“Who’s Group Superior Honor Award from Botanical Gardens. the secretary of state in recognition of Who in Law”for environmental law. Amy Habib Rittling ’95 has become a He is a Buffalo resident. outstanding work during the negotiation of missile defense partner in Lippes Mathias Wexler Michael G.Zapson ’85 was appointed agreements with the Czech Republic Friedman in Buffalo. She concentrates to serve on the Democratic Judiciary and Poland. Tierney is associate her practice in state and federal Committee by Nassau County deputy general counsel, international employment and general business Democratic Leader Jay Jacobs. Zapson affairs, for the Department of counseling and litigation. Rittling lives is managing attorney in Davidoff Defense, Office of General Counsel, in in Amherst, N.Y. Malito & Hutcher in the Garden City, Washington, D.C. He is currently on a leave of absence and is deployed as an Pauline C.Will ’96 was named N.Y.,office, specializing in commercial partner in Watson Bennett Colligan litigation, real estate, zoning, estate Air Force Reserve Judge Advocate to Southwest Asia, supporting air Johnson & Schechter in Buffalo. She planning and estate administration. specializes in toxic tort litigation, Zapson lives in Long Beach, N.Y. operations in Iraq and Afghanistan. Tierney resides in Falls Church,Va. product liability, trucking industry Hon.Rolf M.Thorsen ’86 was elected defense litigation, insurance defense town justice of Clarkstown Town Scott B.Schwartz ’91 spoke on “Ten and criminal law.Will is a resident of Court, County of Rockland, in New Tips on Trademark Trial and Appeal Lancaster, N.Y. City, N.Y.,where he resides. Board Practice”at a panel discussion sponsored by the Pennsylvania Bar Philip D.Leone ’97 has opened his Katherine A.Fijal ’88 has become a Institute’s Intellectual Property Law own law firm in Buffalo. He focuses member of the Buffalo-based firm Institute. Schwartz is a member of the his practice on plaintiff representation Hurwitz & Fine. Fijal is a litigation intellectual property department in in personal injury claims, estate attorney in the insurance coverage Cozen O’Connor in Philadelphia. He administration, residential real estate practice group. She is a Buffalo is a resident of Bala Cynwyd, Pa. transactions and misdemeanor/traffic resident. violations. Leone lives in Depew, N.Y. 39

Class of 1968

Seated – Michael F.Chelus, Sanford D. he 40th reunion for the Rockowitz, Jeffrey A. Sellers, Michael R. Class of 1968 was held on Wolford,Andrew Feldman, Patrick J. Baker,William H. Bond, Hon. Thomas June 6 and 7, 2008, in Buf- H. Meldrim falo. An excellent turnout Tof classmates and friends helped to Standing – John J. LaDuca, Ronald W. create an ideal weekend for these Zackem, Joseph A. Plantania, Bruce D. alums to reconnect. Drucker, Thomas M. Montante, Hon. On Friday, things got under way Jeremiah J. Moriarty III, Kenneth S. with an informal reception at class- Kirsner, Howard R. Relin, Norman P. mate Norman Effman’s house in the Effman, Robert B. Conklin, Max E. heart of Buffalo. Classmates enjoyed Schlopy cocktails and hors d’oeuvres in a beau- tifully landscaped garden. The night Kenneth S. Kirsner ’68, Susan Conklin and provided plenty of laughs and oppor- Robert B. Conklin ’68 tunities to catch up with old friends. Saturday morning brunch brought the class together at the Law School. Following the brunch, classmates toured the Law School’s facilities, which provided an opportunity for the alumni to see ﬁrsthand the ad- vancements that the school is making. Saturday evening brought yet another opportunity for the class to gather. The reunion weekend was highlighted on Saturday evening with a gourmet dinner at the Buffalo Club. The night Sanford D. Rockowitz ’68 Hon. Jeremiah J. Moriarty III was full of reconnecting and dancing and Barbara Rockowitz ’68 and John J. LaDuca ’68 to Mark Mazur’s Jazz Quartet and was Michael R.Wolford ’68 and a great way to cap off the reunion Andrew Feldman ’68 weekend. UB LAW FORUM • SPRING 2009 40 Class Action

Maj.Scott Lovelock ’97 received the Meritorious Service Medal for his performance during Operation Enduring Freedom in Afghanistan In Memoriam and Operation Iraqi Freedom. Lovelock is assigned to the 152nd Air The Law School extends its deepest condolences to the families and Operations Group out of the Air National Guard Base at Hancock friends of the following friends and alumni/ae: Field, Hancock International Airport, in Syracuse, N.Y.This is the second Theresa M. time he has been awarded this medal. Montgomery G. Pooley ’41, Buffalo, New York Cusimano ’98 In addition, he received the Air Force Hon. Ralph J. Radwan ’44, San Antonio, Texas Commendation Medal for outstanding achievement as chief of Richard M. English ’53, Rancho Mirage, California the Master Air Attack Plan Cell, Aaron Goldfarb ’54, Orchard Park, New York Combat Plans Division, Combined Air and Space Operations Center at Al Toni Delmonte ’91,Warsaw, New York Udeid Air Base, Qatar. Lovelock lives Michael Doran ’82,Amherst, New York in Clifton Park, N.Y. Matthew J. Schnirel ’08,Amherst, New York Jeremy J.Best ’98 has accepted a position as senior attorney at the SUNY Distinguished Service Professor Mental Hygiene Legal Service, Emerita Virginia Leary,Geneva,Switzerland Damon M. Appellate Division of the Supreme Gruber ’99 Court, Third Judicial Department, in the Ogdensburg, N.Y.,office. He lives in Brasher Falls, N.Y. Theresa M.Cusimano ’98,a human Katherine E.Cauley ’99 was named rights advocate, was sentenced to 60 partner in Hodgson Russ in Buffalo. days in federal prison for nonviolent She is a member of the estates and trusts practice group, concentrating in ’00s civil disobedience. She was charged with trespassing after walking onto estate and trust law, cross-border tax John C.Godsoe ’00 is a member of the Fort Benning, Ga., military base to and estate planning. Cauley is a Bond Schoeneck & King, focusing his protest the controversial Army Buffalo resident. practice in employee benefits law in training school called School of the Buffalo. Godsoe handles matters Kirstin Lowry Damon M.Gruber ’99 has become a Sommers ’99 Americas. Cusimano is executive involving the design, implementation director of the Colorado Campus partner in Goldberg Segalla in and termination of qualified pension Compact at Regis University in Buffalo. He practices in workers’ plans, tax-sheltered annuity plans, Denver, where she resides. compensation, accidental work self-funded medical plans, cafeteria injury, occupational disease claims, plans and COBRA compliance. He is Eric C.Naegely ’98 is a partner in psychological stress claims, a Buffalo resident. Damon & Morey in Buffalo. He automobile negligence and accidental specializes in medical malpractice and death. Gruber resides in Williamsville, Catherine Grantier Cooley ’01,a insurance defense. He lives in N.Y. Hamburg, N.Y.,resident, is a partner Amherst, N.Y. in the Buffalo office of Hodgson Russ. Kirstin Lowry Sommers ’99 is of She is a member of the business Frank J.Sparacino ’98 is assistant counsel in Hurwitz & Fine in Buffalo. litigation group, practicing in managing attorney of the Law Office She joined the commercial real estate securities, ERISA, and employment of Teresa M. Spina, Geico staff development and finance practice and construction litigation. counsel, in Woodbury, N.Y.He has group, concentrating on sustainable been with the firm since December development projects, environmental Ellen B.Sturm ’01 is practicing with 2002 and is a resident of Melville, N.Y. regulatory matters and Cellino & Barnes in the Buffalo office. environmental business practices. Sturm specializes in personal injury Shelly Baldwin ’99 of Yonkers, N.Y., Sommers is the only LEED-accredited litigation and appellate matters. She has become a partner in Wilson Elser professional attorney in Western New was previously an associate in Moskowitz Edelman & Dicker in the York and is a resident of Orchard Skadden Arps Slate Meagher & Flom New York City office. Baldwin Park, N.Y. in Wilmington, Del. concentrates her practice in the defense of health care professionals Tara Johnson ’02 was promoted to and institutions in medical legal counsel for Excellus Health Plan malpractice and negligence claims. in Rochester, N.Y.She previously served as associate counsel. Johnson lives in Webster, N.Y. 41

Class of 1973

1st Row – Walter R. Pacer Jr., Hon.Yvonne Lewis,Amy C. Haber, Robert A. Friedman,Arthur H. he 35th reunion for the Ackerhalt, Nelson F.Zakia, Hon. Eugene F.Pigott Jr., Robert B. Nichols Class of 1973 was held on June 6 and 7, 2008, in Buf- 2nd Row – Douglas G. Roberts,Walter P.Seegert, Peter A. Reese, Sally A. Mendola, Leslie Mark falo. An excellent turnout Greenbaum, Dennis M. O’Leary, Stephen E. Jaffey,William G. Hamilton Jr., Philip M. Marshall Tof classmates and friends helped to create an ideal weekend for these Left: William G. alums to reconnect. Hamilton Jr. ’73, and On Friday, things got under way Philip M. Marshall ’73 with a reception at 77 W.Eagle St. – the former home of our Law School. Classmates enjoyed seeing the changes made to this historic building, which is now the Supreme Court Library at Buffalo. Saturday morning brunch brought the class together at the current Law School. Following the brunch, classmates toured the Law School’s facilities and learned where our Law School Above: Margaret is headed. Immediately after brunch, Bender and several classmates gathered at a local Douglas G. course and teed off for a beautiful Roberts ’73 summer day of golﬁng. That evening everyone reconvened on Buffalo’s pic- Right: Nelson F. Above: Gezina Zakia ’73, Leslie Hamilton and turesque waterfront for dinner at the Mark Greenbaum Hon.Yvonne Buffalo Yacht Club. ’73, Hon. Eugene Lewis ’73 F.Pigott Jr. ’73 and Robert B. Nichols ’73 UB LAW FORUM • SPRING 2009 42 Class Action

Nicole C.Lee ’02 received the George W.Thorn Award from the UB Alumni Association. Lee is executive director of TransAfrica Forum in Washington, Student kudos D.C., where she resides. Joseph M.Hanna ’05 was named As if Kimberly Sweet ’09 didn’t have enough partner in Goldberg Segalla in to do over her Christmas break, she wrote a heavily Buffalo. He focuses his practice in researched, 13-page scholarly paper for a national intellectual property law, construction entertainment law competition. Kara M. litigation, fidelity and surety law, and How’d that work out for you, Kim? Addelman ’08 sports and entertainment law. He is Very well indeed. Sweet was named one of four the national vice chair of the ABA’s runners-up in the competition, run by the Gram- arts, entertainment and sports law my Foundation and the American Bar Associa- section. He also is founder and tion’s Forum on Entertainment & Sports Law. For president of the Bunkers in Baghdad her efforts she received a $1,500 scholarship – and Troop Program. Hanna is a resident of even more interesting, a trip to Los Angeles, where she and the other win- Amherst, N.Y. ners hobnobbed with entertainment industry types at a series of events, culminating in a star-studded night at the Grammy Awards ceremony. Fatimat O.Reid ’05 has become associated with Davidson Fink in Theodora Belniak ’10 and Jason Tubinis ’09, students in the JD/MLS Rochester, N.Y.,practicing program, are co-winners in the Student Category of the AALL/LexisNex- Roland R. commercial litigation. She resides in is 2009 Call for Papers competition for their papers,“The Law Librarian Georger ’08 West Irondequoit, N.Y. of the Twentieth and Twenty-First Centuries: A Figuration in Flux” (Theo) and “A Law Librarian’s Guide to the Economic Crisis”(Jason). Minryu Kim ’06 was elected a The winners in each division receive $750 donated by LexisNexis, plus director of the Minority Bar the opportunity to present their paper at a program at the 2009 AALL Association of Western New York in Annual Meeting in Washington, D.C.Winning papers are also consid- Buffalo. She practices civil litigation as ered for publication in the Association’s prestigious Law Library Journal. an associate with Phillips Lytle in Buffalo, where she resides. Siana McLean ’10 has been named the recipient of the 2009 President’s Pro Bono Award from the New York State Bar Association for a Law Stu- Carla J.Miller Montroy ’06 was dent for her work with the Volunteer Legal Services Project of Monroe chosen to represent Liz Claiborne Inc. County during the summer of 2008 on a research project regarding the as- and Redbook magazine in a national signment of counsel in Supreme Court divorce actions pursuant to Judi- Taylor M. coalition of concerned citizens who ciary Law Section 35(8). This report and recommendations were dissemi- Miranda ’08 are advocating for legislation to nated to legal service providers to assist volunteer attorneys in possibly at- ensure teen dating violence taining payment as assigned counsel,creating an incentive to become as- education. Montroy is a Buffalo solo signed counsel or to volunteer in these cases. She also helped 208 clients practitioner practicing in criminal through the VLSP's Family Law,Pro Se Divorce and Debt Clinic during the defense and family law.A member of summer of 2008. UB Law School’s GOLD Group, she lives in West Seneca,N.Y. Mathew J.Morton ’07 practices as an associate in Lipsitz & Ponterio in Kara M.Addelman ’08 has become Amanda L.Lowe ’08 of Depew, N.Y., Buffalo, where he resides. Morton associated with Damon & Morey in has joined HoganWillig as an handles cases involving asbestos and the Buffalo office. She practices in the associate in the Amherst, N.Y.,office. mesothelioma litigation as well as firm’s general litigation department She concentrates in civil litigation, automobile accidents. and resides in Williamsville, N.Y. personal injury and medical malpractice. Patrick M.McNelis ’07 has joined Roland R.Georger ’08 has joined Goldstein Ackerhalt & Pletcher in Damon & Morey as an associate in the Taylor M.Miranda ’08 practices in Buffalo. McNelis will focus in special Buffalo office. Georger practices in the the business litigation and insolvency education and education, wills, trusts, real estate department and is a department of Damon & Morey. She guardianship, not-for-profit member of the zoning and land use joined the firm as an associate in the corporation law, disability practice group and the environmental Buffalo office and resides in West discrimination, health law and law practice group. He is a resident of Seneca, N.Y. vaccine injury cases. He is a resident of Williamsville, N.Y. Amherst, N.Y. Amanda J.Kelly ’08 is an associate in HoganWillig in Amherst, N.Y.She practices in family law and personal injury. Kelly lives in North Tonawanda, N.Y. 43

Class of 1978

Seated – Janice R. Trybus, Elise Hagouel Langsam, Maryann E. T.Foley, Ruth E. Fleming, Sarah E. Sholes, he 30th reunion for the Linda J. Marsh, Diane J. Morgenroth, Jane E. Mago, Donnalynn Darling, Roberta E. Tarshis Class of 1978 was held on Standing – Neil S. Cartusciello, James W.Meeker, Philip J. Szabla, Robert B. Fleming Jr., Garry M. Graber, June 6 and 7, 2008, in Buf- Steven H. Polowitz, Charles C. Murphy Jr., Thomas J. Murphy, John N. Lipsitz, David M.Ascher, Jeffrey T. falo. An excellent turnout Lacey, James M. Mucklewee, Hon. Kenneth L. Gartner, Mark J. Moretti, Peter Hersh, David J. Saleh, Tof classmates and friends helped to Michael S. Schwartz, Neal A. Haberman, Steven J. Errante create an ideal weekend for these alums to reconnect. The reunion celebration began on Friday evening with an informal reception at Shanghai Red’s. The beautiful weather and picture-perfect views of Buffalo’s waterfront provided an ideal setting for the ﬁrst night of the reunion. Saturday morning brunch brought the class together at the Law School. Following the brunch, classmates toured the Law School which provided an opportunity for the alumni to see all the changes in the facility. The reunion weekend was highlighted on Saturday evening with dinner at the Above: Roberta E. Muse – the restaurant inside the Tarshis ’78,Jeffrey world-renowned Albright-Knox Art T.Lacey ’78, Gallery. The classmates had an oppor- Laurie G. Ogden tunity for a private docent tour of the ’80 and Sarah E. museum. Everyone enjoyed seeing Sholes ’78 pictures of each other from the year- book from their senior year. It allowed Left: Candace for a great opportunity to reconnect Caprow-Polowitz Top: Charles C. Murphy Jr. ’78 and Steven H. and reminisce. and Donnalynn Darling ’78 Polowitz ’78 look at class photos Above: Hon. Kenneth L. Gartner from their senior ’78 and Philip J. Szabla ’78 year. UB LAW FORUM • SPRING 2009 44 As we go to press New face on National Labor Relations Board

A Brooklyn native, Pearce gradu- Buffalo attorney ated from Cornell University and moved to Buffalo to attend the Uni- appointed by versity at Buffalo Law School. Pearce served as a district trial President Obama specialist with the NLRB’s Buffalo office before entering private prac- to serve tice. He has served on the Commis- sion on Increasing Diversity in the Reprinted from The Buffalo News State Government Workforce and the State Industrial Board of Ap- By Jerry Zremski peals. In addition, Pearce serves as a adjunct professor at the Cornell Uni- ASHINGTON — versity School of Industrial Labor A prominent Buffa- Relations. He is also an accom- lo labor lawyer will plished painter whose work has been likely take a seat on displayed at the Buffalo Arts Council Wwhat a colleague called “the Supreme Mark G. Pearce ’78 and the AFL-CIO headquarters in Court for labor law”later this year. Washington. President Obama has named Pearce is not, however, especially Mark Gaston Pearce, a 55-year-old As administrator of the National active in politics.While many partner with the Buffalo firm Labor Relations Act, the NLRB over- lawyers give thousands of dollars in Creighton, Pearce, Johnsen & sees elections where workers deter- political contributions, a check of Giroux, to the National Labor Rela- mine whether they want to join a federal records showed that in the tions Board. The board administers union. The board also is charged last two years, Pearce made just one the main law that governs relations with preventing and remedying un- donation, sending the Obama presi- between unions, companies and fair labor practices. dential campaign $250 last October. workers. “They create the policies and Pearce is the first attorney with a Pearce said he could not com- trends,”said Creighton, who dubbed Buffalo connection to serve on the ment until after the Senate holds a the NLRB the labor- law version of board since Sarah M. Fox, a former confirmation hearing on his nomi- the U. S. Supreme Court. Buffalo journalist who later became nation. The full Senate will have to The board’s five members serve a lawyer on Capitol Hill, who was vote on his appointment.Current five-year terms. Obama appointed appointed to the board by President and former colleagues described Pearce along with Craig Becker, asso- Bill Clinton in 1996. Pearce as a labor-friendly lawyer who ciate general counsel to both the Ser- also has good relations with attor- vice Employees International Union neys who represent management. and the American Federation of La- “The good thing about Mark is bor & Congress of Industrial Orga- that he has represented working nizations (AFL-CIO), to fill two of people for decades, so he comes to the board’s five vacancies. this not with an ideological bent but Richard Lipsitz, of the Buffalo with real working knowledge,”said firm Lipsitz Green Scime Cambria, Catherine Creighton, Pearce’s law said Pearce is well-respected among parter. lawyers who represent unions and management alike. “I’m confident that Mark will be confirmed without any real problem because of his solid reputation,”said Lipsitz, who noted that Pearce used to work at his firm.“We loved his work,”Lipsitz added. Presiding Justice Henry J. Scudder and Associate Justices Samuel L. Green ’67, Salvatore R. Martoche, Erin M. Peradotto ’84 and Eugene M. Fahey ’84. UB Law hosts appellate court

The New York State Supreme Court Appellate Division,Fourth Department,spent the last day of its term April 9 in the Francis M.Letro Courtroom on the first floor of O’Brian Hall. The five-judge panel heard arguments in 17 cases,ranging from a child custody matter to actions involving fraud,divorce,counsel fees and criminal charges.One case involved issues Professor Theresa Miller’s Criminal Procedure class had been discussing.“We just talked about consent to searches yesterday,”said Miller, who gave her students credit for attending the oral arguments and writing about them.“Studying law in the classroom is not the same as seeing it applied in action.This is an opportunity to see the consequences of some of the doctrines that they’re studying in class.” Three of the five appellate justices are UB Law graduates.

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