The Colorado Judicial Institute will host its 23rd annual Judicial Excellence for Colorado Gala Dinner on October 15, 2025, at the Hyatt Regency Denver at the Colorado Convention Center. This signature event serves as the organization's largest fundraiser and celebrates judges who demonstrate excellence, fairness, and leadership throughout Colorado's court system. 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.
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. 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. 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. For more information about CJI's programs and mission, visit https://coloradojudicialinstitute.org.
This event matters because it directly supports judicial education and public trust initiatives that are essential for maintaining a fair and effective court system. By recognizing judicial excellence across diverse districts and highlighting leadership in establishing new judicial infrastructure, the gala reinforces the importance of an independent judiciary that serves all Colorado communities. The fundraiser's success directly impacts CJI's ability to provide educational programs for judges and promote public understanding of the judicial system, which is crucial for maintaining confidence in legal institutions. The involvement of leaders from multiple sectors demonstrates broad community support for judicial excellence, while the recognition of judges from various districts emphasizes the statewide commitment to quality justice administration.
