RWU Law Student and Alum Honored by Justice Assistance for Their Commitment to Justice
Two members of the Roger Williams University School of Law community—Michelle Alves L’03 and 2L Gianna J. DelMonico —were among this year’s honorees at the 43rd Annual Neil J. Houston, Jr. Memorial Awards, hosted by Justice Assistance, a Rhode Island nonprofit led by CEO Jake Bissaillon L’16.
Held on October 9, 2025, the annual awards recognize leaders who exemplify fairness, compassion, and integrity in strengthening the state’s justice system. Since its founding in 1978, Justice Assistance has supported Rhode Islanders impacted by the justice system through programs that promote rehabilitation, stability, and opportunity.
Future Changemaker Recognized
RWU Law student Gianna J. DelMonico received the Francis J. Darigan, Jr. Scholarship, awarded each year to a law student who demonstrates exceptional academic achievement, leadership, and a commitment to community service. Named for the late Judge Francis J. Darigan, Jr., the award honors his lifelong dedication to fairness and mentorship in the administration of justice.
DelMonico, a Juris Doctor candidate in the Class of 2027, has distinguished herself as a student leader and emerging advocate. She serves as a Street Law program leader at Durfee High School in Fall River, where she helps students understand the law’s role in civic life, and works as a teaching and research assistant in Civil Procedure and Legal Practice. She is also active in the Women’s Law Society, Christian Law Society, and Justinian Law Society.
“I’ve always believed that law can be a force for compassion,” DelMonico said. “To be recognized by an organization that lives out that mission every day is incredibly meaningful.”
Her professional experiences include internships with the Rhode Island Office of the Attorney General’s Victim Services Unit and the Office of Congressman Gabe Amo, where she contributed to legislative research and constituent outreach. She will return next summer to Adler Pollock & Sheehan P.C. as a litigation summer associate.
Alum Honored for Public Defense Leadership
Michelle Alves L’03, an Assistant Public Defender in the Rhode Island Office of the Public Defender, was among five recipients of the Neil J. Houston, Jr. Memorial Award, which honors Rhode Islanders whose dedication and integrity have made a lasting impact on the justice system and their communities.
Alves was recognized for her tireless advocacy on behalf of clients and her leadership within the state’s public defense system. A 2003 graduate of RWU Law, she was also recently named one of the law school’s 2025 Champions for Justice, an honor that celebrates alums whose work reflects the school’s commitment to service, equality, and access to justice.
Her recognition by Justice Assistance places her among a distinguished group of honorees who have advanced fairness and compassion in Rhode Island’s legal community.
Continuing a Legacy of Justice and Service
As Chief Executive Officer of Justice Assistance, Jake Bissaillon L’16 leads the organization that confers these honors each year. Under his direction, Justice Assistance continues to expand its impact through initiatives such as Habitat for Justice, which provides affordable housing to justice-involved individuals, and JA Health & Wellness, an integrated primary and behavioral health clinic in Cranston.
“This year’s honorees reflect the enduring mission of Justice Assistance and the legacy of Neil J. Houston, Jr.,” Bissaillon said. “Their leadership and service strengthen our communities and remind us that justice must be measured not only by fairness in the courtroom, but by dignity and compassion in service to others.”
The recognition of DelMonico and Alves underscores the deep connection between RWU Law and the state’s justice community—one that continues to shape Rhode Island’s future through leadership, advocacy, and service.
*This news article was adapted from a press release from Justice Assistance