Chief Judge Denise Casper to Keynote New England Law Boston's 2026 Graduation Ceremony

Chief Judge Denise J. Casper to Address New England Law Boston's 2026 Graduates

New England Law Boston proudly announces that U.S. District Court Chief Judge Denise J. Casper will deliver the keynote address during its 2026 Commencement ceremony. The significant event is set to take place on Friday, May 15, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at the Boch Center Wang Theatre in Boston, Massachusetts.

Chief Judge Casper, who presides over the U.S. District Court for the District of Massachusetts, was nominated by President Barack Obama in 2010. Upon her confirmation, she made history by becoming the first African American woman to serve as a U.S. District Judge in Massachusetts. In 2025, she ascended to the role of Chief Judge, a testament to her exemplary legal career and leadership qualities.

Throughout her extensive career, Judge Casper has played a pivotal role in the administration of justice. Notably, she presided over the high-profile trial of notorious crime figure James "Whitey" Bulger. Furthermore, she has actively participated in enhancing the legal community's standards through her roles in organizations such as the Boston Bar Association. Her involvement includes serving on the Governing Council, Executive Committee, as well as the Board of Editors for the Boston Bar Journal, where she has contributed valuable insights into jury trial trends at state and federal levels.

In expressing her honor and excitement, James H. Kennedy III, the CEO and Dean of New England Law Boston, stated, "We are truly honored to host Chief Judge Denise Casper as our keynote speaker for the 115th Commencement at New England Law Boston. Known nationwide as a thoughtful, firm, and meticulously prepared jurist, Chief Judge Casper has broken barriers as a Federal Judge while also displaying uncompromising integrity, compassion, and patience. We are fortunate to have this distinguished legal mind share her experiences and wisdom with our graduates and community."

The upcoming ceremony will also recognize other outstanding individuals with honorary Doctor of Laws degrees, including Brigadier General Enoch "Woody" Woodhouse, one of the last surviving members of the legendary Tuskegee Airmen, and Father Nicholas A. Sannella, JD, MD, the Pastor of the Immaculate Conception Church in Lowell, Massachusetts. Additionally, James T. Brett, President and CEO of the New England Council, will be awarded an honorary Doctor of Humanities degree.

Founded in 1908 as Portia Law School, New England Law Boston was established as the first and only law school exclusively for the education of women. Today, it offers a diverse and co-educational environment where students benefit from flexible programs that marry rigorous academics with practical experience and community involvement. The school boasts a global alumni network that spans across 29 countries and all 50 states.

This forthcoming Commencement ceremony not only marks an essential milestone in the lives of the graduates but also underscores the legacy of trailblazers like Chief Judge Denise Casper, whose dedication to justice and the legal profession continues to inspire future generations. For further information about New England Law Boston and its programs, visit www.nesl.edu.