At CASES, the work of transforming lives doesn’t stop at the office door, and for a remarkable group of staff members, the past year meant carrying that same determination into classrooms, late-night study sessions, and achieving milestones. We’re proud to spotlight eight colleagues who recently earned degrees, certificates, and spots at top law schools, all while continuing to show up for the people we serve.
Ana Morrobel | Master of Social Work
Silberman School of Social Work at Hunter College
Ana’s path to her MSW is a story of full-circle growth. She first came to CASES through the OYR Workplace Internship Program and, with the guidance of supervisors and colleagues across the newSTART Team and Harlem SRP, built a foundation that carried her through graduate school.
“Graduating with my Master of Social Work means perseverance, growth, and proving to myself that I could achieve a goal even while balancing two jobs, graduate school, and life’s many challenges,” Ana said. “As a first-generation graduate student, this accomplishment represents breaking barriers and creating new opportunities for myself and my family.”
Her supervisor Asa Scott put it simply: “Ana’s success is a reflection of the many supervisors, mentors, and colleagues who supported her along the way. Her story embodies CASES’ commitment to developing our workforce and investing in the next generation of social service leaders.”
Stephanie Jackson | Master’s in Youth Studies
CUNY School of Professional Studies
Family, a promotion, helping her oldest son navigate his first year of college, Stephanie Jackson did it all. And somewhere in the middle of it, she earned her master’s degree in Youth Studies.
“Balancing family, a promotion, supporting my oldest through his first year of college and life, was not easy, but I had the most amazing support from all avenues to complete this goal,” the senior director of ECE said. “Here’s to setting your sights on a goal and making it happen!”
Jayson Caraballo | Bachelor of Social Work
SUNY Plattsburgh
For Jayson Caraballo, a supervisor in the ACES program, earning his BSW is more than an academic achievement, it’s a testament to the transformative power of second chances.
“As a formerly incarcerated bilingual Latino male, earning this degree means more than a title—it represents growth, resilience, and the power of second chances,” Jayson said. “This journey challenged me, shaped me, and strengthened my commitment to serving young people, families, and communities with empathy, accountability, and purpose.”
Martin Feld | Master’s in Forensic Mental Health Counseling
John Jay College of Criminal Justice
Martin Feld, Mental Health Specialist on the newSTART team, completed his master’s in Forensic Mental Health Counseling with a deepened sense of purpose for the work ahead.
“We all know that the criminal justice system is not perfect,” Martin reflected. “Having the privilege of learning from and working alongside some of the most influential individuals dedicated to supporting and improving the lives of those impacted by the system has further strengthened my passion for this work. I am grateful for the opportunity to apply my knowledge and skills at CASES, where I can contribute to meeting the needs of my clients and helping them achieve positive outcomes.”
Angela Stefano | Master of Social Work
Louisiana State University
Angela Stefano, Senior Program Assistant on the Manhattan ACT Team, earned her MSW with a clear vision of what comes next.
“Earning my MSW from Louisiana State University is a significant milestone that reflects my commitment to serving others and growing as a professional,” Angela said. “This accomplishment will strengthen my ability to support the individuals and communities we serve at CASES while bringing new knowledge, skills, and perspectives to my work.”
Cherith-Renee Wellington | Master of Arts in Forensic Psychology
John Jay College of Criminal Justice
Cherith-Renee Wellington, Assistant Team Leader in the Intensive Services Unit, earned her MA in Forensic Psychology, a distinction that speaks to both her achievement and the barriers she’s helped break down.
“I am one of the 9% of Black women with a master’s degree, and one of the few who hold a master’s in Forensic Psychology,” she said. “I have dedicated my work to challenging systems, especially within the justice sphere, and supporting the individuals and communities impacted. I will continue to bring a critical, curious, and interdisciplinary perspective to every step I take.”
Moving On to Law School
Two members of our CASES family are taking their commitment to justice into the legal arena. We wish them both every success.
Jack Dekempe from the Court Services team heads to NYU School of Law, where he plans to pursue litigation with a long-term goal of clerking in the Federal Circuit. His interests span constitutional and criminal law—fitting preparation for the kind of systemic change this work demands.
Trevor Bishai, Peer Specialist in ISU2, has been accepted to the CUNY School of Law, where he will specialize in Public Interest law beginning in spring 2026. Team Leader Kurt Havens, LCSW, described Trevor as “a devoted advocate for our folks here at ISU2,” and there’s little doubt that energy will follow him into the courtroom.
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To every CASES staff graduate and future law student: your accomplishments reflect not only your own dedication, but the spirit of possibility that drives everything CASES does. We are proud to have been part of your journey and we can’t wait to see what you do next!
