Message from the President

I am honored to serve as the President of the Central New York Women’s Bar Association (“CNYWBA”), a chapter of the Women’s Bar Association of the State of New York (“WBASNY”), for the 2024-2025 term.  

I have been an active member of CNYWBA for years, and just two years ago was sworn in as Vice President of this organization.  It was both an exciting and surreal moment, as I was four months pregnant with our daughter, and I was proud to stand amongst the ranks of officers who have worked to advance the status of women, while preparing to raise a little girl of my own. 

Now, just eleven days after giving birth to our second daughter, I cannot help but reflect upon that same sentiment.  Although, this year is undoubtedly different, because no matter your political affiliation, this election cycle will have lasting impacts on future generations of women to come.

Therefore, for the 2024-2025 term, the CNYWBA aims to return to its roots and squarely focus on its important mission: 

To promote justice for all, regardless of sex, in all phases of the study, practice, and application of the law, to ascertain and advance the social, economic, and legal status of women through law, to expand opportunities for women for advancement in the field of law, and to raise the level of competence and integrity in the legal profession. 

My hope is that through our organization’s great work, together with the work of women across this state and country, future generations – of which my daughters will be included – will no longer say that women still have a long way to go.  Instead, they will say, “we have arrived.” 

As we lay the groundwork for this effort, we welcome your thoughts and suggestions regarding our mission, and any topics you would like to see addressed at upcoming CNYWBA events and programs. 

With great enthusiasm and determination, 

Samantha C. Riggi, Esq., President, CNYWBA