June 2024

I am honored in becoming the first Black woman President of the Queens County Bar Association (“QCBA”).

As I embark on this historical journey, I want to express my utmost respect and gratitude to my predecessors, especially Seymour James, Jr., QCBA's first Black President. The path that led me here has been influenced by aspirations and challenges that resonate with many. This milestone signifies a personal accomplishment and an opportunity to advocate for inclusivity and foster a culture that genuinely represents the diverse backgrounds of our membership and the Queens County community.

Queens County is the most diverse county in the world, making it essential for the Queens County Bar Association to embrace this unique attribute. As President, I commit to promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion—not because it is the “new” necessary phrase, but because it is a necessary process for change.

In the upcoming year, I aim to advocate for diversity and inclusion by working closely with various affinity bar associations to promote diversity, fairness, and inclusivity within the legal profession and the Queens County community. While I respect the autonomy of each affinity bar association, I believe our collective strength lies in our diversity and our shared commitment to justice.  

I wish to acknowledge and thank the outgoing President, Michael Abneri, for his mentorship and support. I greatly appreciate his unwavering commitment to QCBA. I look forward to working closely with him as he continues as Dean of the Academy of Law.

Lastly, QCBA’s achievements and day-to-day operations would not have been possible without the steadfast support of our Executive Director, Jonathan Riegel, and our devoted support staff, Sasha Kahn and Janice Ruiz.

Thank you for allowing me to lead QCBA in the 2024-2025 term.  I invite each of you to join or renew your membership and actively participate in committees. Your distinct backgrounds, areas of practice, and experiences will contribute significantly to the success of QCBA.

Sincerely,

Zenith T. Taylor