During a career information session on Oct. 23, Utica City Court Judge Ralph Eannace discussed a recent trend in judicial practice used to combat specific areas of crime in New York State — problem-solving courts. In particular, the judge has been integral in establishing mental health courts in the Mohawk Valley, a process that has involved research and other contributions from Hamilton students under the guidance of Professor of Government Frank Anechiarico.
Eannace stressed the importance of the next generation’s role in shaping the judicial system and emphasized the essential role of experiential learning in effectively studying law and justice. “The law is, for me, a kind of a living organism,” he said. “We have an opportunity to be involved, not just in learning about it but in shaping it.”
Eannace shared his experiences at a career session for students interested in learning more about Hamilton’s Jurisprudence, Law, and Justice Studies program, which combines analytical, substantive, and liberal arts courses with hands-on experience that fully immerses students in the study of law and justice. Joining Eannace in the discussion were government professors Anechiarico and Gbemende Johnson, and Assistant Professor of Psychology Keelah Williams.
