Hon. Stephanie A. Saunders ’00
Hon. Stephanie A. Saunders ’00, judge, New York Court of Claims, is an advocate for diversity, equity, and inclusion in the legal profession. She has volunteered with organizations such as the Volunteer Lawyers Project, the Erie County Bar Association, the American Red Cross, and the Minority Bar Association.
About this Interview
Interview Date(s)
April 2024
Occasion
Recipient of the Distinguished Alumna Award for Community Service at the 61st Annual Dinner
Interviewed By
Kerisha Hawthorne-Greer
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About Hon. Stephanie A. Saunders
Judge Stephanie Saunders, a Buffalo native, attended public schools and graduated from Kensington High School before earning her degree from Syracuse University. After college, she worked various jobs in Washington before returning to Buffalo after her son was born..
In Buffalo, she began working at the law firm Hiscock & Barclay, where Salvatore Martoche, seeing her potential, became her mentor. He suggested she go to law school. Despite her initial reluctance, Martoche was persistent, eventually convincing her to take the LSAT. With the support of her mother, extended family and the law school's Legal Methods Program, she enrolled at UB law.
Judge Saunders credits her family with instilling in her the values of dignity and respect that guide her judicial approach. Their unwavering support during her time in law school was crucial to her success.
After graduating from UB law, Judge Saunders returned to Hiscock & Barclay as an associate for four years. Her career then led her to positions as Director of Medical Affairs at Kaleida Health and Assistant Legal Counsel for the Buffalo Board of Education. A pivotal moment came when Justice E. Jeannette Ogden appointed her as principal law clerk and encouraged her to pursue a judgeship. In 2022, Gov. Kathy Hochul appointed Saunders to the New York Court of Claims.
Judge Saunders credits UB law with providing the adaptability and comprehensive skills she needed to excel in diverse legal roles. She emphasizes the vital role of her mentors, including Marc Brown of Goldberg Segalla, retired Judge Barbara Howe, and retired Judge Salvatore Martoche, as well as the unwavering support of her family. A mentor herself, Judge Saunders advises aspiring lawyers to believe in themselves, prioritize their mental health, and value their relationships.
