Day: October 14, 2025

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AABANY Hosts Tax and Trusts & Estates Career Panel at Cardozo Law School

On the evening of September 30, the AABANY Student Outreach, Tax, and Trusts & Estates Committees, in collaboration with Cardozo Law School’s APALSA, presented a Tax and Trusts & Estates Career Panel. The program was organized as a single event divided into two parts, offering students a comprehensive look into two dynamic and specialized areas of law.

In the Tax Law portion, Eric Min of Baker McKenzie, Co-Chair of AABANY’s Tax Committee, and Hardy Zhou of Cooley, Co-Chair of AABANY’s Asia Practice Committee, discussed their career paths and the intricacies of cross-border tax practice. The session was moderated by Christine Shea, AABANY Student Outreach Committee Student Ambassador.

The Trusts & Estates portion featured Yi Stewart, Litigation Associate at Farrell Fritz and Co-Chair of AABANY’s Trusts & Estates Committee; Shu-Ping Shen, Wealth Advisor at JPMorgan Bank; George Martin, Senior Associate at ArentFox Schiff; and Bich-Nga Nguyen, Executive Director at Morgan Stanley. The panelists shared insights from their work in litigation, private practice, and wealth management, providing students with a well-rounded understanding of the field. This section was moderated by Bich-Nga Nguyen.

Throughout the evening, students gained a valuable overview of the diverse issues that tax law and trusts & estates law encompass—from corporate transactions and international matters to estate planning and fiduciary litigation. Panelists also offered practical advice on career development, networking, and coursework selection to help students distinguish themselves in the job market.

At the conclusion of the program, the panelists—joined by Trusts & Estates Committee Co-Chair Natasha Chang—networked with attendees, answering follow-up questions and sharing additional insights in an informal setting.

Special thanks go to Cardozo APALSA for hosting the event and providing catering, and to all participating committees and volunteers for making this collaborative event a success.

To learn more about the Tax Committee, click here. To learn more about the Trusts & Estates Committee, click here. To learn more about the Student Outreach Committee, click here.

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AABANY Co-Sponsors 18th Annual Caren Aronowitz Unity in Diversity Event at the New York State Supreme Court

On Friday, September 19th, 2025, the New York State Supreme Court hosted the 18th Annual Caren Aronowitz Unity in Diversity Event, co-sponsored by more than 25 bar associations, court committees, and professional organizations. Among the co-sponsors was the Asian American Bar Association of New York, represented by Yang Chen (Executive Director), Carrey Wong (Deputy Executive Director), and Jessie Zhou (Legal Intern). 

The event opened with a majestic performance by the New York State Courts Pipes and Drums, dressed in full Scottish attire. Their music, solemn yet celebratory, created an atmosphere of reverence and set the stage for a program honoring both tradition and community.

Hon. Suzanne J. Adams (Administrative Judge of the New York County Supreme Court Civil Term) offered welcome remarks, affirming the court’s commitment to diversity and inclusion. Then, she introduced Ukrainian singer Valeriia Kuzmuk, who moved the audience with her renditions of traditional and contemporary Ukrainian songs.

The program then continued with a dedication by Hon. Deborah A. Kaplan (Justice of the New York County Supreme Court), who reflected on the legacy of the late Caren Aronowitz. Known for her tireless dedication to cultural programming at the courthouse, Aronowitz was remembered as a beloved colleague whose vision continues to inspire annual celebrations of unity. Special recognition was given to Simone Abrams and Yesenia Herrera (members of the New York County Clerk’s Office) for their efforts in planning the program. 

The event concluded with closing remarks by Hon. Adam Silvera (Deputy Chief Administrative Judge of the New York City Courts). Justice Silvera highlighted the importance of building unity through diversity, reminding all attendees that the legal profession is strengthened when it embraces every community it serves. 

Following the program, attendees were invited to enjoy a reception featuring a wide variety of dishes contributed by all co-sponsoring associations and committees. From savory entreés to sweet desserts, the tables offered a vibrant display of cuisines that showcased the rich cultural traditions across many diverse communities.   AABANY’s spread was a true highlight—an array of of pork, shrimp, chicken, and edamame dumplings; pillowy pork and duck buns; egg fried rice; savory noodles; and Chinese greens. The aromas filled the room, drawing attendees to the tables again and again.

As the event drew to a close, the Unity in Diversity program once again achieved its purpose — to celebrate the richness of difference, to honor those who paved the way, and to strengthen the bonds of communities.

We thank the Gender Fairness Committee, Supreme Court, Civil Term, New York County, the New York County Supreme Court, Civil Term Equal Justice in the Courts Committee and the Cultural Diversity Sub Committee, and the New York County Clerk’s Office for their organization and continued commitment to inclusion and diversity. We thank all co-sponsoring associations, committees, and societies for their dedication and generosity in tabling, and we honor the memory of Caren Aronowitz, whose vision continues to unite the court and community year after year. 

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IP Committee Hosts Dinner at Dumpling Xi

On September 22, 2025, the AABANY Intellectual Property Committee gathered at Dumpling Xi for its monthly dinner filled with laughter, conversation, and delicious dumplings.

The attendees enjoyed authentic, hand-crafted dumplings, which many described as “comfort food that feels like home.” Each bite transported us back to family kitchens and hometown flavors, sparking nostalgia and connection.

Equally special was the community that came together. The dinner was a true reunion, with old friends reconnecting over shared plates and fond memories, while also warmly welcoming new faces into the group.

Attendees also shared war stories on the cases they have worked on, while exchanging practical tips and strategies with one another. These discussions highlighted the spirit of collaboration and mentorship that defines the IP Committee.

A heartfelt thank you to everyone who joined us for this special evening. We look forward to many more meals, meaningful conversations, and moments of connection ahead.

If you’re interested in future dinners, keep an eye on the AABANY calendar for upcoming events.  To learn more about this committee, visit the IP Committee subpage on the AABANY website.

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Thank You to Our Volunteers at the Manhattan Pro Bono Clinic on September 17

Many thanks to AABANY, AALFNY, PBCS, AAFE, and all the dedicated volunteers who contributed to the success of our pro bono legal clinic in Manhattan on September 17th, 2025.


During the clinic, our volunteers provided invaluable assistance to 20 clients, addressing a range of legal matters including housing, immigration, civil litigation, estate and property, personal injury, fraud and theft. Our volunteer attorneys and interpreters thoughtfully addressed client concerns, offered clarity through their answers, and facilitated connections to appropriate legal resources via AABANY’s Legal Referral and Information Service (LRIS).

We are committed to offering services in both Mandarin and Cantonese to ensure continued support for individuals facing linguistic or cultural barriers when seeking guidance on substantive and procedural legal matters.

We thank again all the volunteers at the September 17th Manhattan Pro Bono Clinic for their time, professionalism, and contribution.


Volunteer attorneys:

  • Yen-Yi Anderson
  • Sam (Ming-Sheng) Hou
  • Jack (Zixu) Hsia
  • Justin Lee
  • Beatrice Leong
  • Lily Li
  • Arthur Lin
  • Zixuan  Luo
  • Jie Shi
  • Jieman Tan
  • Jameson Xu
  • Cecilia Yang

Interpreters/shadowers:

  • Nandar Win Kerr
  • Carrie Nie
  • Shang Zhai
  • Wendy Zeng

Please join us at our next Pro Bono Clinics:

November 8th [Brooklyn link here] from 12:30pm – 2:30pm, CPC Brooklyn Community Services, NY, NY 11232

November 19 [Manhattan link here] from 6:30-8:30pm, AAFE Community Center, 111 Norfolk Street, NY, NY 10002

December 3 [Queens link here] from 6:30 – 8:30 PM, AAFE One Flushing Community Center, NY, NY 11355

Thanks once again to all our volunteers for attending the Pro Bono Clinic. We look forward to your participation in our future clinics! To learn more about how you can get involved with AABANY’s Pro Bono Clinics, visit probono.aabany.org.

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Applications Now Open for Federal Public Defender, District of Connecticut

Federal Public Defender Vacancy – The United States Court of Appeals for the Second Circuit invites applications from qualified candidates for the position of Federal Public Defender for the District of Connecticut. The term of office is four years, with potential for appointment to successive terms. For announcement, please click here. For application, please click here. The current authorized annual salary is $195,200.

The Federal Public Defender, functioning under the authority of 18 U.S.C. § 3006A(g)(2)(A) and the Criminal Justice Act Plan for the District of Connecticut, provides criminal defense services to individuals unable to afford counsel. The Office of the Federal Public Defender for the District of Connecticut has offices in Hartford and New Haven. The Federal Public
Defender supervises a staff of assistant federal defenders, research and writing attorneys, investigators, paralegals, mitigation specialists, and support personnel.

The website for the office is: Office of the Public Defender District of Connecticut. Applicants must satisfy the following conditions:
(1) be a member in good standing in the bar of the state in which the candidate is admitted to practice;

(2) have a minimum of five years criminal practice experience, preferably with significant federal criminal trial experience, which demonstrates an ability to provide zealous representation of consistently high quality to criminal defendants;

(3) possess the ability to effectively administer the office, including the following management areas:

  • Budget, procurement, and travel
  • Human resources
  • Space, facilities, and property;

(4) have a reputation for integrity; and

(5) demonstrate a commitment to the representation of those unable to afford counsel.

As the chief executive of the Office of the Federal Public Defender, the Federal Public Defender holds ultimate responsibility for the administration of the Office. The Office serves as a resource center for all practicing federal defense attorneys in the District, providing regularly scheduled training programs as well as advice and counsel when needed. The Federal Public Defender works nationally with other federal defenders on evolving issues in federal criminal law and other areas of shared concern.

The Second Circuit uses an open and competitive selection process. A Merit Selection Committee will review all applications and interview the most qualified candidates. With consideration of the District Court’s recommendation, the Committee will refer the best qualified candidate to the Court of Appeals for selection and appointment. Applicants will
be considered without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, sexual orientation, or disability. The selected nominee will be required to complete a background investigation prior to appointment. The Federal Public Defender may not engage in the private practice of law.

Application forms are posted on the Court’s website at http://www.ca2.uscourts.gov. Completed application packages must be in the format required by the Second Circuit and received no later than December 1, 2025.

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Welcome New NAPABA Leadership

NAPABA is proud to announce the 2025-26 Board of Governors, who will be sworn in during the 2025 NAPABA Convention in Denver.

Our NAPABA community thrives because of dedicated members who step into leadership roles across the organization. From the national Board of Governors to our affiliate leaders, substantive committees, affinity networks, and professional development programs, NAPABA’s impact is fueled by the vision, energy, and service of our volunteers.

We are grateful for all of our leaders and their commitment to advancing NAPABA’s mission and strengthening the AANHPI legal community.

If you are interested in serving and shaping the future of NAPABA, please contact Priya Purandare to learn more.

2025-26 NAPABA Board of Governors

Executive Committee

  • President – Joseph Yao, Retired
  • President-Elect – Jason DeJonker, Seyfarth Shaw LLP
  • Treasurer – Arlene Yang, Center for Employment Opportunities
  • Secretary – Annette Kwok, Owens Corning
  • Immediate Past President – Thy Bui, Maynard Nexsen
  • Executive Director – Priya Purandare, Ex Officio, NAPABA

Regional Governors

  • Northeast – Alan Y. Wong, KabaFusion
  • Northwest – Eric de los Santos, Emergent Biosolutions, Inc.
  • Eastern California/Nevada – Glicel Sumagaysay, Law Office of Glicel Sumagaysay
  • Central California – Jason Liang, Liang Ly LLP
  • Northeast – Kathleen Chen, Johnson & Johnson
  • Northern California – Lisa Mak, Flynn Group
  • Southeast – Onchantho Am, University of Central Florida
  • Central – Phil Bautista, Taft Stettinius & Hollister
  • Southwest – Phil Kim, Sheppard Mullin Richter & Hampton
  • Southern California – Tony Wang, O’Melveny & Myers LLP

At-Large Board Members

  • Alen Hsu, Weiss Serota Helfman Cole & Bierman P.L.
  • Alicia Limtiaco, Supreme Court of Guam, Judiciary of Guam
  • Anushree Bagrodia, Mastercard
  • Brian Wong, ServiceNow, Inc.
  • Eemaan Jalili, Jalili Law PC
  • Eugene Kim, Vanguard Cleaning Systems
  • Sapna Palla, White & Case
  • Vishal Chander, The Chander Law Firm PC

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