LEGAL SERVICES OF GREATER MIAMI MARKS 60 YEARS, PASSES THE GAVEL

Legal Services of Greater Miami (Legal Services) recently celebrated its annual Passing of the Gavel and Board Installation Ceremony on September 17, marking the organization's 60th Anniversary and honoring the leadership, volunteers, and partners who have shaped six decades of advancing equal access to justice in Miami-Dade and Monroe counties.

Held at the Coral Gables Museum, the event brought together board members, volunteers, supporters, and community leaders to reflect on Legal Services’ history and future. Guests viewed a special commemorative film highlighting the organization’s 60-year legacy and the many individuals who have helped shape its impact.

“As we look back through the history of Legal Services, we especially recognize the extraordinary leaders whose vision, commitment, and service have helped us achieve every milestone we celebrate today,” said Legal Services CEO Monica Vigues-Pitan.

The evening included the installation of Stephen F. Rosenthal of Podhurst Orseck as president of the board of directors. Rosenthal succeeds Karen J. Lapekas of Lapekas Law.

Joining Rosenthal on the Executive Committee are:

• Arya Attari Li of  Lockton Companies, LLC, as first vice president

• Debra Tyler, representing Homeless/Formerly Homeless Forum, Inc., continuing as second vice president

• Aleida Martinez-Molina of AXS Law Group as treasurer

• Carlos Cardelle, Senior Counsel at ADP, as secretary

Board officers and directors were officially installed by Judge Adalberto Jordan of the U.S. Court of Appeals for the 11th Circuit, helping usher in the organization’s next chapter of leadership.

The celebration also included the presentation of the Julie Azuaje Volunteer Leader Award, which recognizes an individual whose exceptional commitment, service, compassion, and leadership create a lasting impact in the community.

Named in honor of Julie Azuaje, General Counsel at Ryder System and dedicated Legal Services board leader, the award reflects her enduring legacy of service and commitment to justice. Julie served on the board for more than a decade and was preparing to become president in 2021, the year she passed away.

This year’s award was presented to Jordi Guso of Berger Singerman in recognition of his leadership and longstanding dedication to Legal Services.

“Jordi’s impact on Legal Services extends far beyond his service as board president,” said Vigues-Pitan. “His leadership in guiding the purchase and renovation of our building has strengthened Legal Services operationally and financially and will benefit the organization for generations to come.”

The program also featured the presentation of a $255,358.67 Cy Pres Award to Legal Services. The funds were directed to the organization by Jeff Newsome of Varnell & Warwick following the resolution of a housing-related class action on behalf of tenants, recognizing Legal Services’ ongoing work to protect housing rights and expand access to justice. Christopher Brochu attended the event and presented the award on behalf of the case team.

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