Reflections on 50 Years of Justice: Anniversary Gala Recap

Neighborhood Legal Services (NLS) celebrated 50 years of service to the Western New York Community with a Gala on Friday, July 10^th, 2026, at the Powerhouse banquet facility.

During the Gala, NLS presented two major awards: the Champion Award, to recognize someone who has championed not only Neighborhood Legal Services as an organization but the people and communities that we serve; and the Impact Award, honoring an individual who has had a substantial impact on the lives of those we serve through direct service as a legal professional and as an agent of change.

The Champion Award honored Crystal Peoples-Stokes, who has been an ardent supporter, protector, and advocate for NLS. Majority Leader Peoples-Stokes secured critical support for NLS from New York State at a pivotal moment in our history. After receiving her award, Majority Leaders Peoples-Stokes said, “Neighborhood Legal Services is a wonderful organization, and I appreciate the work you have done for fifty years taking care of the people I represent.” Peoples-Stokes is the first-ever recipient of the Neighborhood Legal Services Champion Award.

Buffalo Mayor Sean Ryan was also honored at the Gala with the Impact Award. A former NLS Staff Attorney, Bill O’Connell, executive Director of Neighborhood Legal Services, describes Sean as a fierce advocate who knows what it takes to be in the trenches of legal aid. Mayor Ryan has often said that his time at NLS provided him with the ‘on-the ground” perspective that shaped everything he did after NLS.

Four former employees—Lauren Breen, former Executive Director; Penny Selmonsky, former Supervising Attorney for Public Benefits; John Zonitch, former Supervising Attorney for the Batavia Office; and Jim Morrissey, former Executive Director, were also recognized with the Legacy Award. Lauren was applauded for her transformational leadership, Penny Selmonsky-Draves for her creative problem solving who fought for clients with tenacity and deep respect; James Morrissey for his fierce litigation skills and John Zonitch for his extraordinary dedication to our clients.

Additionally, Janice Jackson, Administrative Assistant, and Grace Andriette, Senior Assistant Supervising Housing Attorney and former Interim Executive Director, received the Executive Director Award for their leadership, dedication, and commitment to NLS. Combined, Jackson and Andriette have served over 50 years of service to Neighborhood Legal Services and together represent the hard work and dedication of every employee in our 50-year history. Grace’s empathy and care for her clients was noted while Janice was described as a consummate professional who cares about each client like family.

The evening also included a video history of the organization, dancing, and reconnecting with old friends. We are proud to share the beautiful moments captured in pictures and our video below! Enjoy!

View Photos

Watch Video