Colorado Judicial Institute to Honor Judicial Excellence at 2025 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 exceptional excellence, fairness, and leadership throughout Colorado's judicial system.

Jeff Rupp, Executive Director of CJI, emphasized the significance of recognizing judicial excellence, stating that the event highlights judges who make a meaningful impact on Coloradans' lives. Their dedication to upholding the rule of law reflects core values that strengthen public confidence in the court system, a crucial element for maintaining a functional justice 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 serving Las Animas and Huerfano Counties in the 3rd Judicial District, and Magistrate Melissa Annis from Denver County Court in the 2nd Judicial District. These honorees represent diverse judicial roles and geographic regions across Colorado, showcasing the breadth of judicial excellence throughout the state.

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 charged with building the district from its foundation, shaping its administrative structure and ensuring accessible justice for the communities it serves. This expansion represents significant progress in judicial accessibility and efficiency for Colorado residents.

The gala will feature Chandra Thomas Whitfield from Colorado Public Radio as Master of Ceremonies, with welcome remarks by Chief Justice Monica M. Márquez. Attendees will enjoy cocktail reception entertainment provided by Chilly Jazz and participate in a paddle raise fundraiser benefiting CJI's judicial education program. The event typically attracts leaders from Colorado's legal, business, and civic communities, creating a collaborative environment focused on strengthening the state's judicial system.

Proceeds from the gala directly support CJI's mission to promote excellence, equity, impartiality, and public trust in Colorado's courts through outreach, education, and engagement initiatives. As an independent, nonpartisan, statewide community organization originally founded in 1979, CJI plays a vital role in maintaining judicial integrity. For additional information about CJI's programs and mission, visit https://coloradojudicialinstitute.org.

The recognition of judicial excellence has broader implications for Colorado's legal landscape and public perception of the justice system. By honoring judges who demonstrate exceptional commitment to fairness and leadership, CJI reinforces the importance of judicial quality in ensuring equal access to justice for all Coloradans. These awards not only celebrate individual achievements but also set standards for judicial performance that benefit the entire legal community and the public it serves.

Tickets for the gala are available for $250, with reduced pricing of $200 for judges and public servants. The event represents a significant opportunity for legal professionals, community leaders, and concerned citizens to support judicial excellence and contribute to the ongoing improvement of Colorado's court system.