Joint AAPI Judicial Panel Highlights Leadership, Mentorship, and Pathways to Service

SEATTLE, WA - May 29, 2026

FLOW was proud to participate in the Joint AAPI Heritage Month Judicial Panel Discussion and Networking Reception, bringing together members of Washington’s legal community for an evening centered on leadership, mentorship, and the lived experiences behind ascending to the bench.

The distinguished panel featured Washington Supreme Court Justice Theodore Angelis alongside King County Superior Court Judges Maureen McKee, Benjamin Santos, and Monica Cary. The conversation offered attendees an opportunity to hear directly from jurists who have shaped and continue to serve Washington’s judiciary through public service and leadership.

President Cava served as emcee for the event, helping guide an engaging and candid discussion moderated by two rising legal professionals: 1L Jovina Chi and recent graduate, Theana Aromin. Their facilitation created space for reflection and dialogue around themes that resonated deeply with attendees, including mentorship, navigating challenges while pursuing judicial service, and the personal experiences that shaped each judge’s professional development.

One of the evening’s most meaningful takeaways came through the panelists’ willingness to share not only professional accomplishments, but also the relationships, support systems, and moments of perseverance that contributed to their success. Stories of mentorship and encouragement reinforced a powerful reminder: leadership journeys are rarely built alone.

The event was made possible through collaboration among multiple AAPI minority bar associations, including FLOW, SABA, VABA, KABA, ABAW, and the Seattle Chinese Bar Association. FLOW also extends appreciation to Board members Joseph Mansilla and Alyssa Garcia for their contributions as members of the planning committee and for helping bring the event to life.

Following the discussion, attendees gathered for a networking reception featuring Asian cuisine, a joint AAPI cake, and boba tea—creating a celebratory setting to continue conversations and strengthen relationships across communities.

FLOW also encourages members who are interested in supporting judicial pathways and contributing to the evaluation process for future judicial candidates to consider involvement with the Joint Asian Judicial Evaluation Committee (JAJEC). This committee reviews judicial references and conducts interviews as part of the process that supports candidates seeking appointment or election to the bench. Participation offers a meaningful opportunity to engage in civic leadership and help strengthen public trust in the judiciary.

Events like this reflect what becomes possible when AAPI legal communities collaborate intentionally—not only to celebrate representation, but to create opportunities for connection, mentorship, and leadership development.

SEATTLE, WA - On May 15, 2026, President Cava attended the WSBA Bar Leaders Summit held at the Washington State Bar Association offices, joining bar leaders from across Washington for a day focused on reflection, connection, and strengthening the future of legal communities statewide.

The Summit opened with a keynote address by Dr. Bre Haizlip of Evolution Engineered, who guided attendees through a thoughtful and engaging conversation centered on leadership wellness, 

Reflecting on the experience, President Cava shared:

“One of the most valuable reminders from the Summit was that strong organizations are built not only through programming and strategy, but through intentional relationships and leadership that creates space for people to feel connected, supported, and inspired to contribute. FLOW’s continued growth depends on both showing up for our members and building bridges across communities.”

The themes of leadership wellness, engagement, and organizational identity align closely with FLOW’s ongoing commitment to strengthening opportunities for Filipino legal professionals while contributing to a more connected and collaborative legal community across Washington.

As FLOW continues to expand its presence and partnerships statewide, participation in events like the WSBA Bar Leaders Summit helps inform how the organization continues to serve its members and advance shared leadership within the profession.

FLOW DEEPENS UNIVERSITY PARTNERSHIPS TO BUILD PATHWAYS TO THE LEGAL PROFESSION

May 1, 2026

Seattle, WA — The Filipino Lawyers of Washington (FLOW) continued its hands-on work this spring to expand access to the legal profession by partnering with local university student groups and law school communities to share lived experience, practical guidance, and long-term mentorship with students from traditionally underserved backgrounds.

On February 7, 2026, FLOW President Mario Cava, President‑Elect Caroline Sung, and Directors Bianca Tillman and Kayla Ganir joined the University of Washington’s First-Generation Leaders in Pre‑Law (FGLL) for an FGLL x FLOW discussion. FGLL is a community for students who are the first in their families to pursue higher education or law school, focused on demystifying the pre‑law journey and widening access to networks and resources. The FLOW panel blended candid personal stories with concrete advice—covering how to prepare for law school, navigate professional hurdles, secure mentorship, and find meaningful experience, leaving students with inspiration and actionable next steps.

“Representation matters. One of the most powerful things we can do is show students that people who look like them and share similar backgrounds can thrive in law,” said Mario Cava, FLOW President. “We want to turn hope into a plan—by listening, sharing practical steps, and opening doors to opportunities.”

FLOW’s university engagement is part of a broader, relationship‑driven strategy to build authentic pathways into the profession. Activities include campus panels, Q&A sessions, mentorship, and partnerships that connect students who ordinarily would not have access to a legal network. Through these efforts, FLOW works to lower barriers at every stage: helping students explore careers in law and public policy, gain hands‑on experience, prepare competitive applications, and transition into early legal careers with confidence and community.

On April 10, 2026, President Cava also traveled to Spokane to join a panel hosted by the Asian Pacific Islander Law Caucus (APILC) at Gonzaga Law School. Coordinated and moderated by Pangarap scholar Allison Salvador in the Barbieri Courtroom, the conversation explored cultural identity and professional life. Panelists—including Commissioner Eugene Cruz, Tribal Court Justice Lisa Dickinson, and attorney Amy Guarisco—spoke openly about imposter syndrome, code‑switching, and responding to bias and microaggressions while staying true to oneself. The discussion emphasized practical strategies for self‑advocacy and building supportive networks.

FLOW will continue to expand these efforts across Washington state—working with student organizations, law school partners, bar associations, and community groups—to ensure aspiring lawyers from underrepresented backgrounds have the support, exposure, and opportunities they need to enter and thrive in the profession.