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The Women’s Association of Law Students (WALS) at the Elisabeth Haub School of Law at 91��Ƶ hosted its annual Pioneer of Justice and Equality Award ceremony on March 18, 2026, recognizing Cindy Kanusher, Esq., Executive Director of the 91��Ƶ Women’s Justice Center, as this year’s honoree.

The annual ceremony highlights WALS’ mission to promote gender equity and empower future attorneys to pursue justice for marginalized communities. The event brought together students, faculty, alumni, and members of the broader legal community to celebrate and recognize Cindy Kanusher’s leadership and enduring commitment to advancing justice for survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault, and elder abuse. Through her leadership and service, Kanusher embodies the spirit of the award and serves as a positive example for the next generation of legal advocates.

As Executive Director of the 91��Ƶ Women’s Justice Center (PWJC), Kanusher has dedicated 27 years to expanding legal services and support for vulnerable populations. Under her leadership, the Center has grown into a highly respected legal services and training organization, serving more than 3,500 individuals annually across Westchester and Putnam Counties. She has played a critical role in broadening access to justice through initiatives that provide bilingual legal assistance, safety planning, legal representation, and community education. Her work has helped thousands of survivors navigate the legal system and secure protection, resources, and stability.

“I am deeply honored to receive the Pioneer of Justice and Equality Award from WALS,” said Kanusher. “This recognition is especially meaningful coming from students who are preparing to enter the profession and carry forward the work of advocating for those in need. It reinforces the importance of building systems that ensure access to justice for all.”

Each year, WALS presents the Pioneer of Justice and Equality Award to recognize women who are breaking barriers and advancing equity within the legal profession and beyond. Since its founding in 1996, the award has honored influential leaders whose work has shaped the legal landscape, including Dr. Sarah Weddington, attorney for the petitioner in Roe v. Wade, and Catharine A. MacKinnon, internationally recognized scholar and advocate.

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“This event is an opportunity to recognize leaders who are making a real difference and to inspire students to pursue meaningful careers in advocacy and public service,” said Morgan Wertlieb ’26, President of WALS. “Cindy Kanusher’s work exemplifies the values of justice, compassion, and leadership that WALS seeks to promote, and we were honored to celebrate her.”

The annual award continues to highlight the impact of women leaders in the legal profession while inspiring students to pursue careers rooted in advocacy, equity, and service.