The Superior Court of California, County of Santa Clara, held its 8th Young Women’s Power Lunch on December 4, 2025. The event brought together students from Gunderson High School, Roberto Cruz Leadership Academy, and Dr. TJ Owens Gilroy Early College Academy with mentors including female judicial officers, attorneys, peace officers, and local leaders.
Hon. Kelly Paul opened the event by encouraging students to believe in themselves and pursue their ambitions. “You do not need to wait for permission to dream big, a goal is where you put steps and a path in place,” she said. “Your story, your challenges, and your passions all matter. We are here to remind you that there is room for you at every table, including this one.”
During the lunch, students participated in activities such as vision mapping and sharing personal stories with their mentors. These small-group discussions focused on representation, resilience, and being open to new opportunities.
After lunch, an interactive panel was led by Judges Paul and Alloggiamento along with three mentors: Hon. Shelyna Brown (Ret.), Probation Officer Deserie Escobar, and Deputy Public Defender Cecilia Fernandez. When asked how to stand out in a job setting, Ms. Fernandez advised: “Be yourself. You can’t do what others are doing because you are not others. You have your own unique way of speaking and showing your skills, and the right people will appreciate that.”
Some students shared their aspirations during the event’s conclusion. One student expressed her intention to attend UC Berkeley for Sociology and spoke about learning the importance of perseverance despite setbacks: “I learned that rejection is redirection, and I shouldn’t lose sight of my dreams and goals because of it.” Another student said she valued meeting inspiring women who broadened her perspective.
Hon. Julia Alloggiamento closed the event with remarks on community support among women: “There is nothing more powerful than a room full of women supporting each other. Instead of feeling the need to compete with other women for a seat at the table, we all need to remember to just pull up another chair.”
The court thanked all participants as well as the California Judges Foundation for grant funding that supported new program elements and the Office of Women’s Policy for its ongoing support.
