Benes Z Aldana
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President & CEO Benes Z. Aldana Steps Down from the National Judicial College

The National Judicial College, the nation’s premier institution for judicial education, announced today that Hon. Benes Z. Aldana (Ret.) stepped down from his role as President & CEO effective June 11, 2025.  He joined the College in 2017.

During the past eight years, the NJC undertook several innovative initiatives, including a multi-city tour for the College’s 60th Anniversary and new courses in artificial intelligence, judicial executive leadership with Harvard Law School Executive Education, an international Judicial Renaissance course, and a Judicial Academy for attorneys who aspire to be judges. In 2024, the NJC was honored by the American Bar Association with the Justice and Rule of Law Award, becoming the first organization ever to receive the prestigious recognition. The award underscored the NJC’s national and global leadership in strengthening the rule of law and the fair administration of justice.

Hon. Mary-Margaret Anderson (Ret.), Chair of the Board of Trustees, said “The NJC enjoys a strong and professional staff and over 300 committed judges who serve as volunteer faculty.  The Board is confident that the entire team will seamlessly continue the important work of the College, just as they have in other times of leadership change.”

The Board has asked Executive Vice President Joy Lyngar to assume day-to-day leadership responsibilities.  Lyngar’s deep operational knowledge, exemplary leadership skills, and commitment to the mission will serve the College well during this pivotal time.

NJC News