Best of the Bench: Colorado Judicial Institute to Honor Judicial Excellence at 2025 Gala

The Colorado Judicial Institute (CJI) will host its 23^rd annual Judicial Excellence for Colorado Gala Dinner on Wednesday, October 15, 2025, at the Hyatt Regency Denver at the Colorado Convention Center. The event, CJI’s largest fundraiser, celebrates the judges who exemplify excellence, fairness, and leadership across Colorado’s courts.

“This special event shines a light on judges who make a real difference in Coloradans’ lives,” said Jeff Rupp, Executive Director of CJI. “Their commitment to the rule of law reflects the values that keep public trust in our courts strong.”

This year’s Judicial Excellence Awardees are:

• District Court Chief Judge Susan Blanco, 8th Judicial District
• County Court Judge John Mochel, Las Animas & Huerfano Counties, 3rd Judicial District
• Magistrate Melissa Annis, Denver County Court, 2nd Judicial District

In addition, CJI will present a special Judicial Leadership Award to Chief Judge Ryan J. Stuart of the 23rd Judicial District, for his pivotal role in establishing Colorado’s newest judicial district. Judge Stuart has been tasked with building the district from the ground up, shaping its administration and ensuring access to justice for the communities it serves.

Other event highlights include:

• Master of Ceremonies: Chandra Thomas Whitfield, Colorado Public Radio
• Welcome remarks by Chief Justice Monica M. Márquez
• Cocktail reception entertainment by Chilly Jazz
• Paddle raise fundraiser benefiting CJI’s judicial education program

The gala draws leaders from Colorado’s legal, business, and civic communities and directly supports CJI’s mission to promote excellence and public trust in the courts.

Tickets are available for $250, with reduced pricing of $200 for judges and public servants.

For tickets or to learn more about CJI’s programs, please visit Colorado Judicial Institute or contact Jeff Rupp, CJI’s Executive Director, [email protected].

Colorado Judicial Institute

The Colorado Judicial Institute (CJI) is an independent, nonpartisan, statewide community organization and 501(c)(3) nonprofit originally founded in 1979. Its mission is to promote excellence, equity, impartiality, and public trust in Colorado’s courts through outreach, education, and engagement. For more information, visit Colorado Judicial Institute. Continue the conversation on LinkedIn and Facebook.

For media inquiries or press credentials to attend, contact James Goll at [email protected] or 919-919-6219.