LEGISLATIVE RESOLUTION honoring Jessica Persaud upon the occasion of her
designation as recipient of the Robert F. Bensing Award by Prisoners'
Legal Services of New York

WHEREAS, It is incumbent upon the people of the State of New York to
recognize and acknowledge those within our midst who have made signif-
icant contributions to the quality of life therein; and
WHEREAS, Jessica Persaud has given not only of her time and energies
but also of her competence, intelligence and leadership and consequently
has been designated for special honor; and
WHEREAS, This Legislative Body is justly proud to honor Jessica
Persaud upon the occasion of her designation as recipient of the Robert
F. Bensing Award by Prisoners' Legal Services of New York; this momen-
tous occasion was celebrated at its 5th Annual Pro Bono Event on Monday,
October 5, 2015, at the Capital Repertory Theater in Albany, New York;
and
WHEREAS, The Robert F. Bensing Award for Pro Bono Service by a Law
Student was established in honor of the late Robert F. Bensing, a
passionate advocate for civil rights who served as a Staff Attorney at
Prisoners' Legal Services during the 1980s and 1990s; and
WHEREAS, Each year, this prestigious award is presented to one person
who has demonstrated exceptional commitment to service and support, as
well as an exemplary dedication to the education of students; and
WHEREAS, Jessica Persaud earned her Bachelor of Arts in Political
Science and Philosophy from Florida Atlantic University in 2013;
currently, she is attending Albany Law School and is a candidate for
graduation in May of 2016; and
WHEREAS, This esteemed young woman has gained tremendous experience
from several legal internships including the Albany County District
Attorney's Office, the Office of the Federal Public Defender for the
Northern District of New York, the Empire Justice Center and the New
York Civil Liberties Union; and
WHEREAS, Upon graduation, Jessica Persaud plans to enter the field of
public service to continue her dedication to helping those who are
disadvantaged; and
WHEREAS, Volunteerism is an essential element of all societies; it
provides a way in which the human values of community, caring and serv-
ing can be sustained and strengthened; and
WHEREAS, Throughout the entire period of her community service, a
period of constructive involvement, Jessica Persaud has stood constant
in dignity, good grace and humor; and
WHEREAS, Rare indeed is the impressive dedication shown by an individ-
ual for the benefit of others which Jessica Persaud has displayed
throughout her life; and
WHEREAS, It is the sense of this Legislative Body that when individ-
uals of such noble aims and accomplishments are brought to our atten-
tion, they should be celebrated and recognized by all the citizens of
this great Empire State; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
honor Jessica Persaud upon the occasion of her designation as recipient
of the Robert F. Bensing Award by Prisoners' Legal Services of New York;
and be it further
RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be tran-
smitted to Jessica Persaud.