On June 10th, VOLS was incredibly proud to celebrate the work of our colleague, and friend, Elizabeta (Liz) Markuci, at the Twenty-Fifth Annual Legal Services Awards.

Every year, this award is granted to “attorneys and non-attorneys who provide outstanding civil legal service to New York’s poor.” Three days ago, members of the legal services community gathered at the New York City Bar Association, where the Honorable Jenny Rivera, Associate Judge of the New York Court of Appeals, presented the awards to five winners.

All of us here at VOLS are thrilled to see Liz recognized for her extraordinary work with immigrant youth.

Liz joined VOLS in 2008 as Director of our Immigration Project. During her work in New York City public schools, Liz met countless students who were eligible for legal remedies but had no access to justice. In response, Liz launched the Dream Not Deferred project in the summer of 2011. The project provides young people with know-your-rights information and comprehensive legal assistance to resolve their immigration issues so they can attend college and pursue lawful employment.

Ms. Markuci is esteemed by her colleagues and pro bono volunteers for both her in-depth knowledge of the intricacies of immigration law and her dedication to sharing best practice models. Liz’s openness and unwavering commitment creates a welcoming environment for children and their families, many of whom have never previously sought legal assistance.

Congratulations, Liz!