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Rutgers-Newark APALSA held its 11th anniversary Mela at the law school on Thursday night, October 25.  Mela is the Sanskrit word for “gathering,” and this annual event celebrates various Asian cultures and honors the achievements of Asian Americans in the legal community. 

This year, Rutgers-Newark APALSA honored the Hon. David F. Bauman, Presiding Judge, Civil Division, Superior Court of New Jersey, Monmouth County.  Judge Bauman is the first Asian American judge in Monmouth Vicinage.

Also honored was our very own Jean Lee, President of AABANY and VP and Assistant General Counsel at JP Morgan Chase & Co.  After accepting her award, Jean delivered an impassioned and inspiring speech about her path to career success, overcoming significant struggles and hurdles along the way.  “Don’t say no to yourself before someone else does,” she advised the students, sharing the wisdom of a friend and mentor.

The evening also featured a dance performance by Rutgers SAPA (South Asian Performing Artists), delicious Pan-Asian buffet, open bar and dancing.  Congratulations to the honorees and to Rutgers-Newark APALSA on a great Mela!