CENTRAL ISLIP, NY – The Suffolk County Courts continued their 2026 Women’s History Month observance with a special program, Women Who Protect and Serve the Courts, an awards ceremony recognizing the leadership and service of Suffolk’s female uniformed court officers. The event was held in the Central Jury Room of the John P. Cohalan Jr. Court Complex in Central Islip and was livestreamed to courthouses throughout Suffolk County, where staff gathered at each location and enjoyed luncheon receptions as part of the celebration.
Hosted in collaboration with the Suffolk County Women’s Bar Association, the ceremony honored ten female court officers who currently serve in supervisory roles within the court system in Suffolk County. The honorees – Major Karen Morro, Captain Sonia Alvarez, Lieutenant Celeste Forde, Lieutenant Alyssa Martinez, Sergeant Ann Marie Calise, Sergeant Yolanda Combest, Sergeant Janice Hago, Sergeant Kelly MacDonald, Sergeant Alexis Nugent, and Sergeant Evelyn Portes – were recognized for their leadership, professionalism, and unwavering commitment to ensuring safety and security within Suffolk County’s courthouses.
In his remarks, Suffolk’s District Administrative Judge, Hon. Andrew A. Crecca, praised the dedication and professionalism of the court officer ranks and highlighted the important role women continue to play in the evolution of the profession.
“Our court officers are the public face of the justice system,” Judge Crecca said. “They ensure that every person who enters our courthouses is treated with dignity and respect, while maintaining the safe and secure environment necessary for justice to be carried out. Today we recognize these outstanding women who wear the uniform and we thank them for their extraordinary service.”
The ceremony also included a special tribute to retired Chief Court Officer Eileen Mallon, who was presented with a special Award of Recognition for her trailblazing career and lasting contributions to the Suffolk County Courts. Mallon devoted 35 years to public service and holds the distinction of being the first woman to serve as Chief Court Officer in Suffolk County. Judge Crecca praised Mallon’s leadership and legacy, noting that her dedication, professionalism, and tireless work ethic helped pave the way for future generations of female court officers.
“Not long ago, seeing women in leadership roles in uniform was an exception, but today looking around this room, we can see just how far we’ve come,” said retired Chief Mallon after receiving her award. “For many of us when we first started, it wasn’t easy. We had to work hard to prove ourselves – but we did it. I am honored to be Suffolk’s first female Chief Court Officer, but what makes me prouder is to see the many talented women that are rising through the ranks today. I am confident that I will not be the last.”
“You are the role models for the women that will follow you,” the former chief said to her fellow honorees. “Keep believing in yourself, keep showing up, keep supporting each other, keep leading by example. Being the first is an honor, but the honor belongs to all the women who step forward, lead, and never give up,” she added.
The program marked the second event in the Suffolk County Courts’ Women’s History Month observance. The celebration began earlier this month with a Women in the Law panel discussion featuring female professionals from across the court system and will conclude later this month with a Grand Celebration honoring distinguished women whose leadership and service have made a meaningful impact within the courts and the community.
