Colorado Judicial Institute to Honor Judicial Excellence at 23rd Annual Gala

The Colorado Judicial Institute (CJI) will host its 23rd annual Judicial Excellence for Colorado Gala Dinner on Wednesday, October 15, 2025, at the Hyatt Regency Denver at the Colorado Convention Center. This signature event serves as CJI's largest fundraiser and celebrates judges who demonstrate excellence, fairness, and leadership throughout Colorado's court system. The gala represents a critical opportunity to support judicial integrity and public confidence in the legal process.

This year's Judicial Excellence Award recipients include District Court Chief Judge Susan Blanco from the 8th Judicial District, County Court Judge John Mochel from Las Animas & Huerfano Counties in the 3rd Judicial District, and Magistrate Melissa Annis from Denver County Court in the 2nd Judicial District. These honorees represent the diverse judicial talent across Colorado's court system, highlighting the importance of recognizing judicial excellence at all levels and across various communities.

In a special recognition, CJI will present a Judicial Leadership Award to Chief Judge Ryan J. Stuart of the 23rd Judicial District for his instrumental role in establishing Colorado's newest judicial district. Judge Stuart has been responsible for building the district from its foundation, shaping its administrative structure and ensuring access to justice for the communities it serves. This recognition underscores the vital role judicial leadership plays in expanding and improving court services for Colorado residents.

Jeff Rupp, Executive Director of CJI, emphasized the significance of the event, stating that it highlights judges who make meaningful differences in Coloradans' lives through their commitment to the rule of law and the values that maintain public trust in the courts. The gala attracts leaders from Colorado's legal, business, and civic communities and directly supports CJI's mission to promote excellence and public trust in the judicial system. This cross-sector engagement demonstrates the broad community support for maintaining a fair and effective judiciary.

The evening's program will feature Chandra Thomas Whitfield of Colorado Public Radio as Master of Ceremonies, with welcome remarks by Chief Justice Monica M. Márquez. Attendees will enjoy cocktail reception entertainment by Chilly Jazz and participate in a paddle raise fundraiser benefiting CJI's judicial education program. The funds raised directly support CJI's ongoing efforts to enhance judicial performance and public understanding of the court system. For more information about CJI's programs and mission, visit https://coloradojudicialinstitute.org.

The annual gala serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of supporting judicial excellence and maintaining public confidence in the legal system. By recognizing outstanding judges and raising essential funds, CJI strengthens the foundation of justice in Colorado communities. The event highlights how charitable support for judicial education and recognition programs contributes to a more effective and trusted court system that serves all Coloradans equitably.