RI MEDIATORS ASSN. News & Tid-bits

Passing of Bruce I. Kogan

Wed, 27 Aug 2025 02:30:00 GMT

We are deeply saddened to announce the passing of Professor Bruce Kogan Esq. Mediator and Professor Emeritus on August 26, 2025. Bruce was a Co-Founder, Key Advisor and a driving force behind the RI Mediators Association. He not only had a brilliant legal mind but was also a generous mentor and friend to many. As Founding Faculty of the Roger Williams University School of Law, a two-time interim dean, and co-founder of the RI Mediators Association, he shaped the careers of countless lawyers, mediators and scholars.

Our condolences go out to his wife Jamie, his sons Mark and Mathew, and to family members. He took great pleasure in his time with them.

The RWULAW Instagram said "Even after retirement, he kept teaching and guiding students—his spirit and generosity remain deeply woven into the school’s fabric."

“RWU Law is stronger because of him, and his vision will continue to guide the school for generations to come.”

It was about 10 years ago I asked him about how many Law Students he thought he had taught. He stopped counting when his tally got close to 30,000 and he still kept teaching into this year. He was what one would call a "Natural-Born" teacher.

When asked about why he put so much energy and emphasis on Mediation, he would reply "Because it makes us better Lawyers".

He was a scholar, a "seeker" of knowledge, always asking what others saw in the world and always willing to share.

And above all he was a great Human Being and Friend.

Official Obituary : https://www.hetrickbitnerfuneralhome.com/obituaries/Bruce-I-Kogan?obId=44668822

Roger Williams University Law School Tribute:
https://law.rwu.edu/news/news-archive/remembering-bruce-i-kogan

He will be missed...

Passing of Superior Court Magistrate William Rampone

Mon, 22 Jan 2024 12:00:00 GMT

Family Court Choses Less-Readable Font for DR-6 Form

Thu, 11 Jan 2024 19:00:00 GMT

There is a lot of research on readability and typefaces. The Journal of Visual Impairment and Blindness published a review of 18 studies in which the total number of subjects was more than 1500 people. The researchers' conclusion: For people with low vision, sans-serif fonts such as Arial, Helvetica, Verdana or Adsans are more readable than serif fonts.

So Naturally, when the Court published a new DR-6 in October, 2023, they used a less-readable "serif" font.

‘Kraken’ COVID-19 Variant Threatens US Workforce - by Allen Smith, J.D.

Tue, 10 Jan 2023 19:00:00 GMT

"Many Americans believe that COVID is over or don't care that it isn't,"*

The XBB.1.5 omicron variant, or Kraken, is spreading quickly, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The revised projection for the number of cases caused by Kraken for the week ending Dec. 31, 2022, was 18 percent of U.S. coronavirus cases, followed by an increase to 28 percent for the week ending Jan. 6.

CDC's COVID-19 guidance about how people can best protect themselves from serious illness remains the same, even as the new variant seems more transmissible. The CDC will continue to investigate the ways in which XBB.1.5 may be different from other omicron lineages.

"employers should keep an eye on transmission in their community and in the workforce," noted Carrie Hoffman, an attorney with Foley & Lardner in Dallas.

*Marjory Robertson, assistant vice president and senior counsel with Sun Life in Wellesley Hills, Mass.

See SHRM Article for more:

https://www.shrm.org/resourcesandtools/legal-and-compliance/employment-law/pages/kraken-covid-19-variant.aspx

HAPPY HOLIDAYS 2022

Thu, 22 Dec 2022 06:42:55 GMT

Happy Holidays from the RI Mediators Association

The Winter Solstice has Arrived

AS we head towards Spring, the Days will become Longer

and Hopefully Brighter

October is National Domestic Violence Awareness Month

Thu, 01 Oct 2020 16:00:00 GMT

October is National Domestic Violence Awareness Month (DVAM), and this year the Rhode Island Coalition Against Domestic Violence(RICADV) has launched a new public awareness campaign calling on the community to help end domestic violence.

Mediators and all Rhode Islanders are called upon to “know the signs” and to learn more about subtle and commonly overlooked forms of abuse.

This month, the campaign will include survivor stories on social media, radio and Pandora public service announcements in English and Spanish, TV public service announcements across local stations and billboards and ads displayed throughout our state.

Look for a video interview series through Rhode Informa and featured stories in The Providence Journal.

Family Court Admin Order 2019-1 Lays-to-Rest Defunct Mediators List

Thu, 14 Mar 2019 12:00:00 GMT

By issuing Administrative Order 2019-1, RI Family Court Chief Judge Michael Forte has formally laid to rest the defunct Family Court "Private Mediators List" that many had hoped would drive business directly to them. The list may have functioned briefly in the mid-nineties, but proved to be cumbersome and unworkable over the years.

The new Order, issued March 13, 2019, declares that the Mediation profession "has matured to the point where it sets its own standards for attorneys, social workers, counselors, psychologists and other professionals who advertise themselves as mediators" and further that "the court has no jurisdiction or oversight over private mediators"

The mission of the RI Mediators Association is to support private professional mediators in their development.

The Administrative Order can be found at

http://www.rimediators.org/resources/Documents/Admin%20Order%202019-1%20X%20mediator%20List.pdf

IN MEMORIAM - Honorable Joseph A. Keough

Tue, 29 Jan 2019 16:00:00 GMT

We are saddened to announce the passing of a friend and mediation colleague Judge Joseph A. Keough. Judge Keough was an active member, contributor, and friend of the RI Mediators Association. He could be seen at most RI Mediators Association events.

He will be sorely missed.

The most moving part of his tribute was:

"Notwithstanding his many achievements, Judge Keough will be remembered for the way he lived his life. He was a self-made man who earned his successes through hard work, tenacity and education. A proud Irishman, he enjoyed life to the fullest and surrounded himself with friends, family and laughter. He may have had a few regrets when he left this world, but if he did, they were too few to mention because he did it his way".

Our deepest sympathies go out to his Family

http://www.trippfuneralhome.com/obituary/honorable-joseph-keough

Family Court to Once Again Expand Mediation Unit

Thu, 24 Jan 2019 11:00:00 GMT

Chief Judge Michael Forte has announced that the Court is, once again, in the process of expanding the number mediators employed by the Court. The actual Civil Service Title for the Court's staff Mediators is "Lawyer" or "Attorney" with a sub-classification of Mediator. The Court used its normal notification process and the application period has closed. Staff is at work reviewing the applications received. Staff Mediators are variously assigned to help resolve cases involving divorce, parenting, alienation, post-divorce, never-married couples, or miscellaneous cases.

The Court's hope is that the increased emphasis on mediation will prove less costly and time-consuming for litigants and the court.

related postings;

http://www.rimediators.org/News/6133475

http://www.rimediators.org/News/6245387

HAPPY THANKSGIVING from RI Mediators Association

Thu, 22 Nov 2018 02:10:21 GMT

Wishing you a HAPPY THANKSGIVING

and

Thank You for your support throughout the year.

Rhode Island Mediators Association

Also

You are invited to our

HOLIDAY OPEN HOUSE

Wed. December 12, 2018 at 5:15 - 7:15 PM

at 1149 Restaurant in Warwick, RI

All Proceeds will be Donated to the RI Food Bank

Please let us know if you can attend by registering at

http://www.rimediators.org/event-3093877

2018 Founders Award going to CMCRI at Sep. 26 CELEBRATION & KICK-Off

Thu, 06 Sep 2018 19:29:02 GMT

Rhode Island Mediators Association has announced that the 2018 "Bruce I. Kogan, Esq. Founders Award." will be presented to CMCRI at RIMA's 2018 KICK-OFF and CELEBRATION DINNER on Wednesday, September 26th. The dinner event will be held at Davenport's Restaurant in East Providence, RI.

The Founder's Award is intended to acknowledge significant contributions to "Advancing Quality Mediation in Rhode Island."

CMCRI is being recognized for its efforts in successfully expanding their Basic Mediation Training Program to 40 hours thereby providing the foundation for greater mediator skill development.

This event is open to the public - preregistration is required.

More info and Event Registration

Professor Bruce I. Kogan Clinic Conference Room Dedicated

Tue, 08 May 2018 21:36:16 GMT

On April 26, 2018, Professor Bruce Kogan was honored by the Roger Williams University Law community for his remarkable contributions at the dedication of the Professor Bruce I. Kogan Clinic Conference Room. The ceremony and reception was attended by members of the judiciary, elected officials, alumni, faculty, staff and friends.
Founding faculty member, two-time interim Dean, master mediator – Professor Bruce I. Kogan has been all these and more, and his name is now permanently ensconced at Roger Williams University School of Law’s experiential campus in downtown Providence.
A Distinguished Career
Professor Kogan’s career has been dedicated to providing his students with practical opportunities to apply what they learn in the classroom, whether by mediating under his supervision in the Rhode Island court system or participating in local zoning board hearings.
Long active in the Rhode Island legal community, Kogan is a co-founder and past president of the first non-profit organization for mediators in the state, the Rhode Island Mediators Association. He is active as a volunteer mediator with the Center for Collaboration and Mediation of Rhode Island, and was a member of the transition team of Attorney General Peter Kilmartin ‘97, in addition to having served for the past fifteen years on the Bristol, R.I., Zoning Board of Review.
Kogan has authored numerous articles on topics ranging from the Americans with Disabilities Act, to taxation, to disciplinary and ethical issues in divorce and family law (included as a chapter in A Practical Guide to Divorce in Rhode Island, 2009). In addition to Dispute Resolution, Professor Kogan regularly taught Property and Trusts and Estates.
Prior to joining RWU Law, Kogan served as an appellate attorney in the Tax Division of the U.S. Department of Justice, and then practiced law for almost ten years in Pennsylvania, concentrating on taxation, business and estate planning, for-profit and non-profit corporations, and real estate. He holds a B.A. from Syracuse University, a J.D. from Dickinson School of Law, an LL.M. in Taxation from Georgetown University Law Center, and an honorary doctorate in laws from RWU Law.
All gifts to the RWU Law Alumni Fund in honor of Professor Kogan’s retirement will be used to help us recognize his remarkable contributions.

https://law.rwu.edu/news/news-archive/honoring-professor-bruce-kogan

RI Family Court In-House Mediation Unit Expanding

Fri, 04 May 2018 16:51:31 GMT

ProJo 5/4/2018

By Katie Mulvaney Journal Staff Writer ProJo 5/4/2018

Former state Traffic Tribunal Chief Magistrate William R. Guglietta is joining the Family Court staff as a mediator, part of a restructuring aimed at assisting parties representing themselves in divorce cases.

Family Court Chief Judge Michael B. Forte agreed to hire Guglietta, expanding the number of Family Court Mediation Services lawyers to four, according to courts spokesman Craig N. Berke.

“Judge Forte feels that mediation is a really great tool for self-represented litigants,” Berke said. Currently, about 50 percent of cases in Family Court are being self-litigated, he said.

Guglietta applied for the position, and was selected, in part, for Forte’s familiarity with the empathy Guglietta exhibited during his years as a prosecutor in Family Court, Berke said.

“He thinks he’s a great fit,” Berke said. The base salary for the position ranges from $79,753 to $90,456. In addition, Guglietta will receive 17-percent longevity pay for his years in state service, Berke said. He is expected to start May 14.

Forte is also launching a pilot screening program to assess whether pro se cases could be resolved short of trial through mediation, Berke said.

The hope is that the increased emphasis on mediation will prove less costly and time-consuming for litigants and the court.

The state Senate last month confirmed a former member of its own ranks, Domenic A. DiSandro III, to replace Guglietta as chief judge of the Rhode Island Traffic Tribunal.

State Supreme Court Chief Justice Paul A. Suttell in March chose DiSandro to lead the court, instead of reappointing Guglietta, whose 10-year term had ended.

“He concluded he wanted a change in leadership at the Traffic Tribunal,” Berke said. Guglietta had earned $186,050 as head of the Traffic Tribunal.

John Marion, executive director of Common Cause Rhode Island, told The Journal that his group’s research showed that it was the first time a magistrate had been replaced at the expiration of his 10-year term.

Prior to being named chief magistrate, Guglietta worked as chief legal counsel for former House Majority Leader Gordon Fox and as a Cranston Municipal Court judge. He has done stints as a prosecutor in the state attorney general’s office and, in 1998, he ran unsuccessfully for attorney general

New Director of Family Court Mediation Services Appointed

Fri, 27 Apr 2018 18:48:48 GMT

Family Court Chief Judge Michael B. Forte promoted Lori Jean Giarrusso Esq. to Director of Family Court Mediation Services, where she previously worked as a staff mediator. She will earn $123,903 with longevity, according to courts spokesman Craig N. Berke.

Forte also has expanded the number of Family Court Mediation Services lawyers to four with the hiring of , former state Traffic Tribunal Chief Magistrate William R. Guglietta as a mediator, Berke said.

Forte is also launching a pilot screening program to assess whether pro se cases could be resolved short of trial through mediation, Berke said.

The hope is that the increased emphasis on mediation will prove less costly and time-consuming for litigants and the court.

Prof. Kogan to Receive Honorary Law Degree

Tue, 09 May 2017 14:00:00 GMT

Roger Williams Law School will be awarding an honorary law degree to Professor Bruce I. Kogan at this year's Commencement. Referred to as a luminary, Professor Kogan is a founding faculty member at RWU Law who has twice (in 1998-1999 and 2001-2003) served as Dean of Rhode Island’s only law school, and is one of the state’s leading experts on alternatives to litigation.

“I am very excited that the law school is able to honor people whose work is so consonant with our values,” said Michael J. Yelnosky, Dean of RWU Law. Yelnosky went on to say "Professor Kogan helped design a forward-looking curriculum that emphasized practical skills and public service when he helped found the school in 1993.”

RWU President Donald J. Farish, added “At Roger Williams University, we think it is particularly important to recognize those who have contributed to the public good and who reflect our institutional mission of strengthening society.”

RI Family Court Hosts Conference on “SAFE PASSAGES from Trauma to Healing”

Sat, 22 Oct 2016 21:00:00 GMT

RI Family Court Chief Judge Michael B. Forte welcomed over 250 attendees including school personnel, social workers, providers, attorneys, law enforcement and court staff to a conference he hosted for two days at the Providence Marriott Downtown on October 20 & 21, 2016.

In conjunction with many experts in the field, the conference included voices of several survivors of sexual assault and their journeys on the road to healing. Special focus was primarily placed on children but also included information relevant to adults. Attention was guided to areas such as: identification, dating violence, system response, and therapy.

Chief Judge Forte stated, “Almost every day, the effects of childhood trauma are brought to the attention of the Family Court, DCYF and/or the schools. As we examine these problems that face some children, we will explore how collaboration among the system providers can deliver effective appropriate interventions at all levels.”

“I applaud each of you for participating in this valuable conference which will help us to learn, to share and to help grow a system that will respond in an effective and timely manner when addressing some of these tremendous adverse life challenges that face so many of our most vulnerable assets – our children. It is incumbent upon us to ensure that they have the support and services to prosper and succeed in a safe and healthy manner. We must remain vigilant in our efforts to continue to take action to improve the futures of those that we are here to protect and guide,” the Chief Judge continued.

After the Chief Judge’s remarks, he introduced the Honorable Thomas Izzo who served as the Master of Ceremonies for the two day event. Mr. Izzo stated, “I appreciate being in a room full of advocates for children. Your presence here today is a testament that you are offering a willingness to make healing possible.”

Thursday’s presentations included: Kathleen Kemp, Ph.D. who is an Assistant Professor (Research) at the Brown University Warren Alpert Medical School and Staff Psychologist with Rhode Island Hospital Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and Bradley/Hasbro Children's Research Center and is also the Director of the Rhode Island Family Court Mental Health Clinic. Dr. Kemp spoke on the impact on youth that childhood adverse life events and trauma have. “The Rhode Island Family Court does an excellent job screening all youth for trauma and adverse childhood events and linking youth and their families to services. It is vital to empower families,” said Dr. Kemp.

SURVIVORS SPEAK RI was a panel presentation that gave very truthful, emotional and personal presentations on being proud team members of this important group. “This presentation was truly impactful,” stated Chief Judge Forte. SURVIVORS SPEAK RI gives a voice to ALL sexual assault victims.

Jane Johnson spoke about sexual assault from a survivor’s perspective. She told the audience about her horrific rape at age 47 by someone she knew. I was working at DCYF at the time and suffered in silence for almost two years. “It is critically important to understand the trauma of sexual assault and the healing of sexual assault. Also, it is imperative to understand the difference between physical trauma and emotional trauma,” said Johnson “It was traumatic to have to go through the process alone, in fear of telling anyone what had happened because of what they would think. I was humiliated sitting at court proceedings’ looking at photographs of what was done to me. SURVIVORS SPEAK RI has given me not only strength for myself, but the strength to be the voice of many other victims and to face perpetrators and tell them what they have done.” “Victims need to know that someone is going to fight for them. I do this work on behalf of all the victims out there. I talk for you until you can talk with me,” stated Johnson to a deafeningly quiet audience.

Wendy Allmendinger has spent more than two decades working for social justice - as a public defender, as an attorney for indigent survivors of domestic violence, and in various roles in the sexual domestic violence field. She is a survivor of sexual and domestic violence as a child and as an adult. Most importantly, she is the mother of two intelligent and compassionate young men who have committed part of their busy student lives to work for social justice, for equality and to end violence against women. Attorney Allmendinger said, “witnessing domestic violence as a child has a lifelong impact on a child.”

Jessica Cinquegrana is a survivor of child molestation by three family members. As a teenager, she was removed from her home by DCYF after she disclosed her abuse. She was in placement until she aged out of the system. After several years of therapy, she has been successful working through her abuse issues and is now able to advocate for other victims who have not yet found their voices. “I have thick skin because I AM A SURVIVOR,” said Jessica. She has spoken about her abuse at the Rhode Island State House during Sexual Assault Awareness Month (SAAM). She has been interviewed on television and has spoken at several colleges and universities in Rhode Island. In 2009 she earned a degree in Human Services and then chose a new career path as a nurse. She expects to graduate from CCRI in 2018.

Pasco Troia stated, “I believe in my soul the sexual abuse I experienced as a child broke me, but did not destroy me. I am a proud survivor of child sexual abuse. I believe the level of abuse I endured allows me to speak on behalf of the victims of child sexual abuse who did not survive. When I was 11 years old I was molested by a Roman Catholic Priest in Cranston, RI for about a year. I hid every sinful act of abuse from everyone, including myself. Twenty-one years later I read an article in the Providence Journal that changed my life forever. I later learned to confront the memories I recalled in order to become mentally and emotionally whole again. The internal anguish left behind after sexual assault is what kills the child. I kept silent for two decades because who would believe me (a child) over a man of the cloth. The sexual abuse had been unbearable and rough. I didn’t know how to handle it. I was young. I finally sought therapy and after about one year of intense therapy, with the right professional, I finally started to get my life back. I joined a lawsuit against the Providence Diocese and just finished writing a book titled “Behind the Altar” which is currently being reviewed for publication. Though my awakening, I am closer than ever to God. My words are to help all victims: SURVIVE, THRIVE and STAY ALIVE!”

Mary Byrne is a public speaker, educator and advocate. She is also a child molestation survivor. “I was born to a woman who did not really want a child. When I was four years old, a neighbor exposed himself to me. I wanted to know what happened to the nice man. No one asked me what was wrong. This went on until on was fourteen years old. My childhood was taken from me. I finally found my SAFE PASSAGE through therapy. Being sexually molested affected every aspect of my life. Counseling made all the difference in my life. Don’t let it take your life away – go to therapy. I am now a children’s book author.”

Peter Loss, ACSW provided sex offender treatment in Connecticut and in Rhode Island for nearly 40 years; directed the Sex Offender Treatment Program (SOTP) at the Adult Correction Institution (ACI) in Cranston, RI for 28 years; chaired the Sex Offender Board of Review for 10 years; and has provided training nationwide and is currently in private practice. Mr. Loss began, “Thank each of you on today’s panel for your powerful presentation. I work with sex offenders in treatment and in prisons. I have such admiration and resolve for the courage of each survivor to come into the cell block and speak about their personal stories. To have inmates hear the victims voices themselves is much more powerful from those who have lived it. I don’t think you can do sex crimes treatment in a community without this component of SURVIVORS SPEAK.”

Chief Judge Forte asked the panel about sex crimes and power. Mr. Loss responded, “That is an excellent point. Sex crimes are all about power and feeling emotionally superior to others. We almost never talk about sexuality. This is assault. Perpetration is the weapon.”

When asked how you encourage clients to participate in therapy?, Jessica responded, “They have to be ready.”

The panel of SURVIVORS SPEAK RI all received a resounding standing ovation after they each spoke. All participants at the conference listening were deeply affected by these personal tragic stories and no doubt left the conference changed and charged to continue to make a difference.

Amy Battersby, MS, LMHC, CTSC is the Director of Clinical Services at Day One in Providence. She spoke on the neurobiology of trauma and what it teaches us about effective treatment and intervention. “With technology we can look into the brain and see how it works after trauma. It is important to use bottom-up interventions. Therapists need to start at the bottom to aid in healing, When trying to get a trauma informed therapist, find a therapist trained in more than one kind of trauma,” stated Battersby.

Maureen Philbin, M.Ed., Director of Advocacy for Day One RI. Ms. Philbin addressed the audience on a multidisciplinary approach to survivors of childhood trauma and commercial sexual exploitation. “The CAC’s (Children’s Advocacy Centers) look at the victim first, they are videotaped so they do not have to tell their story over and over and over again. Victims should not have to be traumatized by re-telling their story. Every child gets trauma informed care. I would like to emphasize that we need to look at prevention in schools. One in four girls and one in six boys are affected by sexual abuse before age eighteen,’ Said Philbin.

The Voice Youth Leadership Panel consisted of well-spoken current and former foster youth who have had (and continue to have) the courage and tenacity to stand up and advocate for themselves and others. These young people are the experts of their own lives and their voices should be a part of the decision-making process. It is critical to hear the voices of foster youth when developing policies and practices that will directly affect them. The Voice youth leadership board advocates on behalf of current and former foster youth.

Gernani Yutob, Jr., a former foster youth from Hawaii, currently employed at Foster Forward as a Youth Engagement Specialist and is the adult supporter for The Voice Youth Leadership Board. Gernani asked poignant questions of the panel and had an exceptional grasp of the foster care system and what children face when then enter it. Gernani spoke of “Social Capital” which means Positive Support Network and asked the panel (Melody, Stephanie, Randy and Blanca), “How did your experience in foster care change how you interact with the world? They all stated that “moving around makes it hard to fit in; feel very alone and angry; confused; continuously have to keep re-telling your story; always feel like we did something wrong; difficulty trusting people which is a defense mechanism you develop over the years.”

Melody said, “Listen to us. Take the time to know us.”

Randy stated, “Talk to youth having trouble. Build trust. I had a real support person. Who told me, “Your education is all on you – no one can take that away from you.” I still talk to him today.”

Gernani spoke about the Prudent Parenting Standard, “the standard of care for foster youth should be the same as bio kids.”

Blanca said, “When I was in highs school a few years ago, I couldn’t go to school events. I couldn’t go to my prom. I couldn’t have a cell phone. I had no social media access so kids at school couldn’t call me. It made me an outcast. Now you can do those things.”

Melody stated, “Group homes and residential programs should have the same standards as foster care and bio kids – Prudent Parenting Standard.”

The panel strongly stated – unilaterally- that “FOSTER CARE should be EXTENDED to age 21 in Rhode Island. Hopefully this law will pass in RI.”

Randy, under an Interstate Compact between Massachusetts and RI, has his time in Massachusetts foster care extended until he is 23.

Today’s presentations continued to carry forward the strong message from yesterday that collaboration among system providers can deliver effective and appropriate interventions at all levels.

Governor Gina Raimondo welcomed conference participants this morning saying, “I want to begin by thanking the men and women here today who have dedicated their lives to the protection and care of our most precious resources – our children. From Family Court judges and staff, to DCYF social workers, to educators – thank you for your service. There are too many children in our own state who grow up subjected to violence, trauma and abuse. And too often, our fellow Rhode Islanders suffer lifelong scars –wounds that will hurt them for a very long time. That is unacceptable. Every child that grows up in Rhode Island deserves the opportunity to learn and grow in a safe, loving environment. That’s why we are here at this conference – to hear from survivors, to listen to their stories of profound courage, and to take action.”

There was then a panel discussion, led by Family Court Judge Laureen D’Ambra, “Youth and Trauma: The Rhode Island Landscape, that included Susan Lindberg, Associate Director, DCYF; Jeannine Nota-Masse, Cranston School Superintendent; Maureen Philbin and Amy Battersby, both from Day One.

Christie Rizzo, PhD., spoke on relationship violence. Dr. Rizzo is an Associate Professor, Northeastern University and Adjunct Associate Professor of Psychiatry and Human Behavior at Brown University and served from 2006 to 2014 as Assistant Director for the Juvenile Mental Health Clinic at the Rhode Island Family Court. Her research focuses on romantic relationship risk behaviors among adolescents (dating violence, sexual risk taking), with a particular focus on vulnerable youth such as those involved in the child welfare and juvenile justice systems. She said, “I think it is great that the Family Court put this conference on and having our research project in the Court. Our research , for example Project Strong” for middle school boys and their parents (which includes interactive games for the adolescent boys to play with their parents about sensitive topics including dating), is showing signs of becoming an evidenced based program.

There was a heartfelt presentation by Ann Burke¸ M.Ed., on the need for supporting the prevention of relationship violence. Ms. Burke founded the Lindsay Ann Burke Memorial Fund after her daughter’s murder and, independent of the fund, worked to pass the Lindsay Ann Burke Act of 2007, one of the first comprehensive dating violence education laws in the U.S. Through the her daughter Lindsay’s Memorial Fund, she has trained thousands of teachers in the topic of dating violence and the fund has donated curriculum materials to most secondary schools in RI. The fund is also involved in a variety of activities that support and promote dating violence education in RI schools.

The conference closed with an eye opening presentation by Frank Pescosolido, PhD., M.P.H. on the “Cost of Caring: Bearing Witness to Psychologically Traumatized Children.” Dr. Pescosolido lectures and has published on traumatic childhood experiences resulting from interpersonal victimization.

“On behalf of the Family Court, I am extending our thanks and appreciation to everyone involved with this two-day event. Special thanks to all the speakers for sharing your knowledge and personal experiences,” Chief Judge Forte said. “We can be part of the healing process and I welcome you to join me in this effort to continue to do the work to ensure that all of our children, young adults and adults have Safe Passages,” continued the Chief Judge.

Frank P. Geremia, Executive Director of the RI Mediators Association, noted that people who had attended the Conference commented that it was a "moving experience".

Michael Forte sworn-in as Chief Judge of RI Family Court

Wed, 22 Jun 2016 20:43:31 GMT

Family Court Judge Michael B. Forte was sworn in as the sixth Chief of the RI Family Court on Tuesday, June 21, 2016. He has served on Family Court since 1987.

Forte told those gathered for the ceremony about his plans for the court, considered the state’s most emotionally volatile for the sensitive divorce, child custody and juvenile cases it hears.

"It would adapt according to the evolving definition of family opened up by new technologies", he said. “What is a family?…. It’s the people in your life who want you to be in theirs,”.

Family Court, going forward, would be a treatment-focused, rehabilitative court aimed at families as a whole, he said.

He would create a women services unit and an infant protection plan, he said.

His vision is simple, he said: To help people through life’s challenges and enable them to reach normalization.

Forte, as senior Family Court judge, has been serving as acting chief since Jan. 1, following the retirement of Haiganush R. Bedrosian.

At his hearing before the Judicial Nominating Commission, Forte said he was fortunate to have worked with the late Family Court Chief Judge Jeremiah S. Jeremiah Jr., and Bedrosian. The autonomy they provided enabled him, he said, to bring court hearings to the Training School and to put in place gang intervention and work-release programs for the teens.

Forte earned a law degree from Franklin Pierce Law Center. Before being named to the bench in 1987 at age 34 by former Gov. Edward DiPrete, who was on hand Tuesday, Forte served as a Democratic state senator representing Little Compton, Tiverton and Warren.

Peter Glassman passes away at home in NewYork

Frank Geremia — Thu, 14 Jan 2016 02:30:00 GMT

Those of us who were fortunate enough to know him, were deeply saddened to hear of the passing of Peter Glassman on January 13, 2016 at home in New York. In 2012-2013 he served as Executive Director of Community Mediation Center of RI.

How time flies. It seems like only yesterday that Peter introduced himself to us at RIMA's 2012 September Annual Kick-Off Event. He was only here briefly, but he was full of energy and his promise was infectious. He touched many people in his home state of New York, as well as Rhode Island, and he will be sorely missed in the mediation community. Our condolences go out to his family.

Obituary (more)

Judge Bedrosian Announces Retirement

Thu, 24 Sep 2015 17:00:00 GMT

Haiganush R. Bedrosian, Chief Judge of the RI Family Court has announced plans to retire Jan. 8.

In 2010, Bedrosian, became the first woman to lead the Family Court which handles divorces and child custody issues. She was the first woman to serve on the court bench after being nominated by Gov. J. Joseph Garrahy in 1980.
Bedrosian initiated broadening the mediation program in Domestic and DCYF matters and expanding the family treatment drug court. During her tenure, the court rules and the forms used to guide the filing process underwent major revision.

Judge Bedrosian was keynote Speaker at RI Mediators Association's first "CELEBRATE MEDIATION-RI"* Event held in May, 2011, where she said "there must be a shift away from promoting an adversarial system which pits family members against one another". She has been a long time supporter of mediation and a friend and supporter of RI Mediators Association.

Before taking the bench, Bedrosian worked in private practice specializing in family law after stints as assistant general counsel to the Providence & Worcester Railroad Co. and as a prosecutor in the early 1970s. She earned her law degree from Suffolk University Law School.

In December 2013, Bedrosian hosted a two-day conference on sex trafficking and exploitation of children in the child-welfare system that was attended by 400 members of law enforcement, child-welfare workers, clinicians and investigators from across Rhode Island.

For more info on Judge Bedrosian see:

* Bedrosion Comments at "CELEBRATE MEDIATION RI–2011"

http://www.providencejournal.com/article/20150922/NEWS/150929796

RI Bar Association Annual Meeting June 18th and 19th at RI Convention Center

Fri, 12 Jun 2015 12:30:00 GMT

The Rhode Island Bar Association Annual Meeting is on Thursday, June 18th and Friday, June 19th, 2015 at the Rhode Island Convention Center. Featuring over 40 Continuing Legal Education seminars, keynote and workshop speakers, Bar Awards, many practice-related product and service exhibitors, and the chance to get together with your colleagues socially, the Bar’s Annual Meeting, traditionally drawing over 1,500 attorneys and judges.

“Rise and Shine”- A Celebration of Adoption and Foster Care

Sat, 22 Nov 2014 12:00:00 GMT

RI Family Court Announces
National Adoption Day
Saturday, November 22, 2014

Rhode Island Family Court Chief Judge Bedrosian and the Rhode Island Judiciary will be sponsoring a special event to celebrate the 11th National Adoption Day on November 22, 2014. Our event will coincide with events being planned across the United States on this day to draw attention to the adoption process and the large number of children available for adoption. The Court will be finalizing twenty-one (21) adoptions with sixteen (16) different families. Many sponsors and community agencies have joined in the Celebration.

The Celebration will begin at 9:00 a.m. on the 5th Floor of The Garrahy Judicial Complex. Many community sponsors are involved: Dunkin Brands; HASBRO; Pawtucket Red Sox; Cardi Brothers; Adoption Rhode Island; Pepsi; Pinkberry; Catherine Hellman Photography; Say Cheese Photography; local restaurants; etc.

Speakers include: Chief Judge Haiganush R. Bedrosian of Rhode Island Family Court; Chief Justice Paul Suttell of the Supreme Court; Janice De Frances, Executive Director, Department of Children, Youth and Families; Special Guests: Nick, Ron and Pete Cardi and the Weiner Family who will speak about their family’s experience with adoption; and a Musical Performance by Cassie and Rashae.

DATE: SATURDAY, November 22, 2014
TIME: 9:00 a.m.
LOCATION: Rhode Island Family Court - 5th Floor
One Dorrance Plaza
Providence
TOPIC: NATIONAL ADOPTION DAY
“Rise and Shine”- A Celebration of Adoption and Foster Care

RIMA Newsletter November 2014

Thu, 20 Nov 2014 19:47:45 GMT

RIMA NEWSLETTER NOVEMBER 2014

A MEDIATOR MOMENT

RIMA NEWSLETTER #2 NOVEMBER 2014

In This Issue:

-RIMA Board Expands

-New Officers Elected

-Kick-Off Event a Success

-Kogan receives RWU Award

-Bedrosian Honored by U.S. Congress

-RIMA goes LIVE on TWITTER

Updated Event Information on Website

Judge Bedrosian receives National Adoption Recognition Award

Tuesday, September 11, 2012

R. I. Family Court Chief Judge receives national adoption recognition award Rhode Island Family Court Chief Judge Haiganush R. Bedrosian was one of 140 people from across the United States recognized by a congressional group for outstanding advocacy in adoption or foster care issues.

The Congressional Coalition on Adoption Institute honored Chief Judge Bedrosian and the others at an awards ceremony in Washington, D.C., on September 11, 2012 as part of its “Angels in Adoption” program. The program provides members of Congress the opportunity to honor individuals, couples organizations from their districts who have made extraordinary contributions on behalf of children in need of homes.?

Chief Judge Bedrosian is the first woman to lead the Rhode Island Family Court...(READ MORE)

RI Family Court Announces

National Adoption Day

Saturday, November 22, 2014

The Celebration will begin at 9:00 a.m. on the 5th Floor of The Garrahy Judicial Complex. Many community sponsors are involved:...(READ MORE)

Welcome to your newsletter.

The Rhode Island Mediators Association has been in existence for 6 years. During that time, we have held numerous trainings, provided several opportunities to network and had a number of social events, namely, the highly successful yearly Celebrate Mediation RI event in May and the September Kickoff.

We will keep you updated via emails of trainings being offered by RIMA and others.

Building relationships is an ongoing focus at RI Mediators Association, and we will continue to work on "Advancing Mediation in Rhode Island."

Welcome to a new program year at RI Mediators Association. Your support and participation are important to the success of the organization, and we look forward to seeing you throughout the year.

Warm Regards,

Frank P. Geremia

RIMA EXPANDS BOARD

Two New Directors were elected to the expanded Board at RIMA's General Membership Meeting at the 1149 Restaurant on September 16th. The two were nominated by the existing Board and ratified by the membership at that meeting.

We welcome Erica Janton and Andy Wunsch to the Board.

Newly Elected Officers

2014-2016

Officers and Board

President: Bruce I. Kogan
Vice President and President-Elect: Jeremy W. Howe
Secretary: Michele Gousie Geremia
Treasurer: Frank P. Geremia

Directors

Board Member: Madeleine B. Bass

Board Member: Bryna B. Bettigole

Board Member: Margie Caranci

Board Member: Erica Janton

Board Member: Andy Wunsch

Executive Director

Frank P. Geremia

Prof. Bruce I. Kogan Receives Distinguished Service Award from RWU Law School

Tuesday, June 03, 2014

The "Distinguished Service Award" was presented to Professor Bruce Kogan at the 2014 Roger Williams University Law School graduation ceremony. The award was presented by Law School Dean David Logan and recognizes Professor Kogan for his 21 years of contribution to the training and mentoring of new lawyers and to Roger Williams University and it's Law School.

Professor Kogan is a founding member of Roger Williams Law faculty, and has served as Associate Dean for Academic Affairs and Interim Dean...(READ MORE)

Annual September Kickoff Event 2014

The Annual Kickoff Event was held on Thursday, September 16, 2014. We had thirty-four attendees at the Eleven Forty Nine Bar and Grill in Seekonk, MA. The highly successful evening included:

Annual General Membership Meeting
Approval of Slate of Officers and Board Members
Announce RIMA Training & Workshops for 2014-15
Keynote Speaker: Ben Johnson, Ph.D.

Thank you to everyone who attended for making the evening and the event such a success.

View Video of Event
on RIMA's YouTube Video Channel

Is your membership due? Does it seem like it has been a long time since you renewed your membership? Our new membership management system reaches out up to 3 times to let you know that your membership is due. As time goes on, however, we may not have your current contact information. If you want update your membership, you can do so online, or by mailing your membership dues ad informatin to RI Mediators Association at the address listed below. If you are not sure if your membership is due, contact us at exec@rimediators.org. We are happy to assist.

RI Mediators Association

9 Juniper Court
Bristol, RI 02809

401-253-2458

exec@rimediators.org

http://www.rimediators.org/

"Retirement Assets in Divorce" Workshop a Success

Thu, 13 Nov 2014 00:18:00 GMT

RIMA held another successful Training Workshop on November 12, 2014 at Roger Williams University Law School.

VIDEO

Selected Attendees' Comments

"Great presentation on dividing retirement assets @rimediators - looking forward to the next one!"

"Tonight's seminar was excellent. Thanks!"

"Presenters were clearly extremely knowledgeable & experienced. Materials are a great resource."

"A little more advanced than I will need, most likely, but I know who to send my clients to!"

"It was information filled and I did pick up a few bits of information that will be helpful."

95% of respondents rated Event as "Reasonable Value" or "I Loved It!"

Prof. Bruce I. Kogan Receives Distinguished Service Award from RWU Law School

Tue, 03 Jun 2014 17:42:00 GMT

A "Distinguished Service Award" was presented to Professor Bruce Kogan at the 2014 Roger Williams University Law School graduation ceremony. The award was presented by Law School Dean David Logan and recognizes Professor Kogan for his 21 years of contribution to the training and mentoring of new lawyers and to Roger Williams University and it's Law School.
Professor Kogan is a founding member of Roger Williams Law faculty, and has served as Associate Dean for Academic Affairs and Interim Dean. As both Director of RWU’s Mediation Clinic and an instructor of Dispute Resolution, He and his students have worked with the Rhode Island court system by providing alternatives to litigation. The Mediation Clinic mediates a wide range of cases including small claims, landlord-tenant disputes, and a full range of family court issues including child custody, visitation, child support and full divorces. In 2009, the Mediation Clinic handled in excess of 200 conflicts.
In addition to Dispute Resolution, Professor Kogan teaches Property and Trusts and Estates.
Active in the Rhode Island legal community, and a promoter of mediation and alternative dispute resolution, Professor Kogan is one of the co-founders for the first non-profit organization for professional mediators in the state, the Rhode Island Mediators Association. He also serves as an advisory board member at the Community Mediation Center of Rhode Island and is active with the New England Chapter of the Association for Conflict Resolution. Professor Kogan served as an appellate attorney in the Tax Division of the U.S. Department of Justice and then practiced law for almost ten years in Pennsylvania with the law firm Kogan & Smigel. His practice concentrated on taxation, business and estate planning, for-profit and non-profit corporations, and real estate.
Professor Kogan earned his B.A. from Syracuse University, his J.D. cum laude from Dickinson School of Law, and his LL.M. from Georgetown University
“Since the inception of the Roger Williams Law School and the RWU Mediation Clinic, Prof. Kogan has been a recognized leader and key to the promotion of mediation in Rhode Island" said Frank P. Geremia, current President of the Rhode Island Mediators Association.
"Prof. Kogan personifies the depth and temperament required of the best mediator and teacher." Geremia added. "He is always ready to share his experience and knowledge, and we have come to rely upon him for that."

Any RIMA Event Can Be Added To Your Calendar

Mon, 02 Jun 2014 22:00:00 GMT

Any RIMA event can be added to your calendar program including MS Outlook, Apple iCal, and Google Calendar.

To add an event to your calendar, go the event page and open the event details. In the top-right corner of the event details, click Add to my calendar.

An .ICS (iCalendar) file will be generated containing the event details and a link to the event page. The file will be downloaded via your browser.

You can now import the downloaded .ICS file into most calendar programs, including MS Outlook, Apple iCal, and Google Calendar. Your calendar program will automatically use the timezone of the event to set the equivalent event time in your calendar.

Importing .ICS files into MS Outlook

To import the .ICS file into MS Outlook, follow these steps:
1.From your download folder, double click the .ICS file.
2.Click the Open button.
3.Enter any notes then click Save and Close.

or:
1.In Outlook, click the File menu or tab and select the Open > Import or Import and Export option (depending on your version of Outlook).
2.Select Import an iCalendar (.ics) or vCalendar file (.vcs) then click Next.
3.Find the downloaded .ICS file then click on OK.
4.Click Import.

Importing .ICS files into Apple iCal

To import the.ICS file into Apple iCal, follow these steps:
1.From your download folder, double click the .ICS file.
2.From the Add Events dialog that appears, select the calendar where you want the event to appear.
3.Click OK.

or:
1.Open iCal.
2.Click the File menu and select Import.
3.Find the downloaded .ICS file.
4.Click Import.
5.Select the calendar where you want the event to appear.
6.Click OK.

Importing .ICS files into Google Calendar

To import the .ICS file into Google Calendar, follow these steps:
1.In Google Calendar, click the down-arrow next to Other calendars.
2.Select Import calendar from the menu that appears.
3.Click Choose file and find the downloaded .ICS file then click Open.
4.Select the Google Calendar where you'd like the event to appear, then click Import.

RIMA Members Receive Pocket Edition - Mediators Code of Conduct

Thu, 13 Mar 2014 20:02:00 GMT

All RIMA Members have received a Pocket Edition of the Mediators Code of Conduct which spell out the nine standards adopted by the by the American Arbitration Association(AAA), the American Bar Association (ABA), the Association for Conflict Resolution (ACR) and the Rhode Island Mediators Association for the conduct of Mediators.

Spelled out are Standards for:

STANDARD I. SELF-DETERMINATION
STANDARD II. IMPARTIALITY
STANDARD III. CONFLICTS OF INTEREST
STANDARD IV. COMPETENCE
STANDARD V. CONFIDENTIALITY
STANDARD VI. QUALITY OF THE PROCESS
STANDARD VII. ADVERTISING AND SOLICITATION
STANDARD VIII. FEES AND OTHER CHARGES
STANDARD IX. ADVANCEMENT OF MEDIATION PRACTICE

National Adoption Day at RI Family Court

Wed, 20 Nov 2013 17:26:27 GMT

Rhode Island Family Court Announces
National Adoption Day
Saturday, November 23, 2013

“I AM HOME”
A Celebration of Adoption and Foster Care

PROVIDENCE, RI — Rhode Island Family Court Chief Judge Bedrosian and the Rhode Island Judiciary will be sponsoring a special event to celebrate the 10th National Adoption Day on November 23, 2013. Our event will coincide with events being planned across the United States on this day to draw attention to the adoption process and the large number of children available for adoption. The Court will be finalizing eighteen (18) adoptions with fourteen (14) different families. Many sponsors and community agencies have joined in the Celebration.

The Celebration will begin at 9:00 a.m. on the 5th Floor of The Garrahy Judicial Complex. Many community sponsors are involved: Dunkin Brands; HASBRO; Pawtucket Red Sox; Cardi Brothers; Adoption Rhode Island, Foster Forward; Pepsi; Say Cheese Photography, local restaurants, etc.

Speakers include: Chief Judge Haiganush R. Bedrosian of Rhode Island Family Court; Chief Justice Paul Suttell of the Supreme Court; Janice De Frances, Executive Director, Department of Children, Youth and Families, Nick, Ron and Pete Cardi and special guests: Gayle Goldin and her husband Jeff Levy and their sons Zach and Jonah who will speak about their family’s experience with adoption. Gayle and Jeff adopted Jonah at the first RI Family Court National Adoption Day held on November 20, 2004.

DATE: SATURDAY, November 23, 2013

TIME: 9:00 a.m.

  LOCATION: Rhode Island Family Court - 5th Floor
     One Dorrance Plaza
     Providence

TOPIC: NATIONAL ADOPTION DAY
“I Am Home”- A Celebration of Adoption and Foster Care

If you would like more information, contact:
RI Family Court 401-458-5026

RIMA Newsletter 1 October 2012

Mon, 01 Oct 2012 16:52:45 GMT

A MEDIATOR MOMENT

RIMA NEWSLETTER #1 OCTOBER 2012

Letter From the President

Welcome to our first newsletter.

This has been a long time in the planning. So, bear with us as we refine our content and strive to bring you updated information about mediation and keep you in the loop about the hard work we are doing in the field.

The Rhode Island Mediators Association has been in existence for 4 years. During that time, we have held numerous trainings, provided several opportunities to network and had a number of social events, namely, the highly successful yearly Celebrate Mediation RI event in May and the September Kickoff. Both exceeded our expectations this year.

Our theme for last year was "bridging the gap", namely, the gap between mediation training and experience as a mediator and with building a mediation practice. This year we will continue to work in this area.

Recently, we introduced 3 great Peer Groups, led by skilled, experienced mediators, open to all levels of mediation experience, and affording you opportunities to engage in discussions regarding various mediation topics of importance to you, from the practicalities of building a practice to high level skills, and providing support along the way. For more information, click here.

We will keep you updated via emails of trainings being offered by the Community Mediation Center of Rhode Island. Hopefully, you have received their recent notice of an upcoming training "Mental Health and Mediation: A Universal Design Approach." Click here for more information.

Of tremendous importance, this past year, have been our efforts to build relationships with the RI courts. We have met on two occasions with Chief Judge Haiganush Bedrosian of the RI Family Court, and have included in our discussions and events, Chief Justice of the RI Supreme Court, Paul Suttell and Presiding Justice of the RI Superior Court, Alice Gibney. Building relationships is an ongoing focus at RI Mediators Association.

In closing, I want to welcome you to a new year at RI Mediators Association.

Your support and participation are important to the success of the organization, and we look forward to seeing you throughout the year.

Warm Regards,

Frank P. Geremia

Upcoming Trainings at RIMA

Wednesday, November 14, 2012

WHAT MEDIATORS NEED TO KNOW ABOUT BANKRUPTCY IN DIVORCE

Two hour training by Christopher M. Lefebvre, Esquire. As Mr. Lefebvre states: “I am convinced that 50% of the contested divorce cases could be resolved if clients took a “financial audit” with an eye towards effectively addressing marital debt.”

Click Here for More Information

Wednesday, October 10, 2012

MY MEDIATOR MISSTEPS

Open discussion for members in which pre-designated discussion leaders will share examples of techniques or approaches they have used mediating that did not work as well as they had hoped.
Participants are encouraged to share their ideas about what else a mediator might do if faced with a similar challenge.

EXCLUSIVELY FOR MEMBERS

Click Here for More Information

and to Register

Featured Article

Let Mediation Put You in the Driver's Seat

by Madeleine Butterfield Bass, Esq.

“Mediators are lawyers who are afraid to litigate.”

That was the comment of a law professor to me when I discussed my desire to focus my practice on alternative dispute resolution. Ignoring the glaring and erroneous generalization, his sentiments sounded like a challenge to me. Sure, litigation can be exciting, challenging and rewarding. Litigation is the ‘thrill seeking’ side of the law. So, why would an attorney seek to resolve disputes in any other way? CONTROL!

Litigation is a wild ride, but ultimately, it’s the judge in the driver’s seat. A litigator can draw the map and explain why their way is the fastest, the most direct or the most scenic. They can even advocate off-road travel. But, in the end, the judge decides what route to take, what speed to go and when they arrive at their destination. The litigators and...

click here to read entire article: http://rimediators.org/member_articles/

Initially published in the RI Bar Journal, Let Mediation Put You in the Driver's Seat

May/June 08:25(56).

Write an article for a future newsletter

We are seeking one article each quarter featuring some aspect of mediation.

If you would like to send in an article you have written, we will publish it in the newsletter and then put it online at www.rimediators.org. Please send your article to: RI Mediators Association, 9 Juniper Court, Bristol, RI 02809.

Pictures from Annual September Kickoff Event 2012

The Annual Kickoff Event was held on Thursday, September 20, 2012. We had thirty-three attendees at the Eleven Forty Nine Bar and Grill in Seekonk, MA.

Tamara Johnson of Studio Amis was the photographer taking wonderful pictures during the evening. Youi can see two of her photographs below, and if you click here, you can view several photographs posted on the RI Mediators Association website.

Madeleine Butterfield Bass was the winner of the 11149 Bar and Grill Sunday Brunch Gift Certificate and Clare Jabour won the Happy Pumpkin, shown in the picture below.

Thank you to everyone who attended for making the evening and the event such a success.

To view more pictures.......

Member Survey

Please take a moment to respond to the two questions

posed in our survey below.

SURVEY _ CLICK HERE

Is your membership due? Does it seem like it has been a long time since you renewed your membership? Recently, we tried to reach out via email and renewal postcards to let some of you know that your membership is due. As time goes on, however, we may not have your current contact information. If you want update your membership, you can do so online, or by mailing your membership dues to RI Mediators Association at the address listed below. If you are not sure if your membership is due, contact us at exec@rimediators.org. We are happy to assist.

RI Mediators Association

9 Juniper Court
Bristol, RI 02809

401-253-2458

exec@rimediators.org

http://www.rimediators.org/

Judge Bedrosian receives National Adoption Recognition Award

Tue, 11 Sep 2012 05:38:52 GMT

Chief Judge Bedrosian is the first woman to lead the Rhode Island Family Court, where she has served since 1980. She has undertaken numerous initiatives to improve the lives of children and families served by the court. In January, she hosted the first statewide conference that brought together the Family Court, the Department of Children Youth and Families, and the Department of Education to ensure that all stakeholders were working together to support the educational success of children. In attendance were more than 600 teachers, school personnel, social workers, lawyers, law enforcement officers and court staff.

She has served on numerous task forces, boards and commissions that have looked out for the interests of children and their families in the judicial system. She has presided over countless adoptions for families across Rhode Island.

The award ceremony was followed the next evening by a gala at the Ronald Reagan Building and International Trade Center in Washington. National awards were presented to actress Katherine Heigl, singer/songwriter Josh Kelley, and PEOPLE Magazine.