On Thursday, November 7, Western New England University (WNE) School of Law hosted its 10th Annual Law Alumni Awards Dinner at the Marriott Springfield, celebrating three exceptional alumni for their leadership, contributions to the legal field, and dedication to service.

Hosted by the WNE Law Alumni Association, the event recognized and celebrated the recipients of the Dean’s Alumni Excellence Award, the Ascending Alumni Award, and the Distinguished Alumni Award. President of the WNE Law Alumni Association, Nicole Mule L’17, emceed the event, while Dean of the School of Law, Zelda Harris, and Vice President for University Advancement, Dean Hickey [on behalf of President Robert E. Johnson], shared remarks.

Dean’s Alumni Excellence Award

At the discretion of the dean of the WNE University School of Law, the Dean’s Alumni Excellence Award is given in recognition of alumni who have a record of service to the school, community, state, nation, or world that demonstrates the core values of the School of Law.

The Honorable Michael Wu L’83, Superior Court Judge for the Hartford Judicial District - Criminal Division was this year’s Dean’s Alumni Excellence Award recipient. Wu works on family, housing, and juvenile matters, and is a member of the Dean’s Advisory Council at WNE, where he served as a former chair.

Ascending Alumni Award

Spotlighting the achievements of alumni who have graduated from the School of Law within the past 10 years, the Ascending Alumni Award honors graduates who have shown leadership, drive, and potential in their chosen field and/or in the community.

The 2024 Ascending Alumni Award recognized Michelle Tsang L’17, Trial Attorney at the New York County Defender Services (NYCDS). Tsang founded the Asian American and Pacific Islander affinity group at the NYCDS and is an active member of the Racial Justice Litigation Committee. Outside of work, she dedicates her time mentoring law and prelaw students.

Distinguished Alumni Award

The Distinguished Alumni Award is given to alumni who have made significant contributions to the legal profession and society while exemplifying leadership, ethics, and integrity.

This year’s honoree of the Distinguished Alumni Award was Amy Wilson L’97, Superior Court Assistant District Attorney, Deputy Chief, Special Victims Unit. Wilson has one of the highest recent trial conviction rates in Hampden County, as well as being noted for successfully prosecuting several high-profile and media intensive special victims’ cases advocating for children and victims of violence.