Fellow Justinians:

It seems like just yesterday that John Sciaccotta honored me by nominating me to be the Secretary of our venerable Society. However, the pride I felt in my heart that day, burns even stronger today as I begin my year as president. I am humbled to follow in a long line of distinguished men and women who have served the Justinian Society of Lawyers with honor and vigor over the last 88 years. The Society has always had a strong presence and voice in the Chicago area legal community, while at the same time providing financial assistance to both future Italian-American lawyers and children in need. This year I hope to continue those worthy causes, expand our membership and increase attendance at our social dinner meetings. Further, I hope to provide our members with opportunities to fulfill their Continuing Legal Education (CLE) requirements by offering Justinian sponsored seminars and hosting a lunch meeting with a presentation that will provide CLE credit.

I am affectionately referring to my year as President as the year of the “Justinian Family”. Family plays such a distinct and prominent role for all Italians, and I have always thought of the Justinian Society as my family. This year we will embrace and celebrate our Justinian Family. I have considered the Justinian Society and its members’ family ever since I got my first email from Leonard Amari and it was addressed to “Brother Storino.” Admittedly, I was confused at first since I have four brothers who are lawyers, and thought maybe he was talking about one of my younger Storino Brothers. However, I soon realized that “Brother” and “Sister” are the terms of endearment and affection that we bestow on our fellow Justinians. The Justinian Society works to help all its family members achieve success through a myriad of ways. We provide mentoring and scholarship opportunities ensuring the next generation of Justinians are prepared to carry on our great many traditions and causes. We counsel and educate our fellow brothers and sisters so that our Society remains strong and true. We support our fellow Justinians in their endeavors to make the profession better and serve the Bar. We celebrate each other’s successes, and comfort each other in sadness. Like any large family, we routinely gather to break bread, sip “vino,” and share stories. It is these meetings where we meet new members, network, and reconnect with old friends. True to any family dinner, the conversation is lively and the company is second to none.

Bravo to Brother Amari and his entire newsletter staff. The newsletter keeps us apprised of all our Justinian Society members. As a result, I have often thought it resembles a family newsletter. The newsletter that follows doesn’t disappoint. It’s filled with pictures of Justinians both past and present, informative and educational articles, and the updates and accomplishments of our Justinian brothers and sisters.

On September 23 at the historic Palmer House Hilton in Chicago, the Justinian Society of Lawyers cordially invites you to join our family at the Annual Installation and Awards Dinner as we honor Richard F. Pellegrino with the Justinian Award of Excellence and Treasurer Alexi Giannoulias with the Justice Anthony J. Scariano Humanitarian Award. Brother Pellegrino has served the Society well for many years, and has been a mentor and counselor not only to me, but to countless other Justinians. Grazie mille Rich, for all you do for our Society. Treasurer Giannoulias is a dedicated public servant and loyal friend of the Justinian Society. His family’s story is all our family’s story. We are honored to celebrate the evening with them both. Also, we will celebrate all the many wonderful accomplishments of President Mauro Glorioso’s year. I will join my fellow officers, Christina Mungai, Katherine Amari, Gregg Garofalo, Judge Robert Bertucci, and Anita DeCarlo, as we take our oaths of office and officially be sworn in as officers of the Justinian Society of Lawyers.

I would be remised in the year of the “Justinian Family” if I didn’t acknowledge and thank my own family. First, my Great Grandfather, Serafino Storino, who came to this country with no money, a pregnant wife and did not speak the language. He had only his skills as a tailor and the desire to provide a better life for his family in the new world. Without his bravery, no Storino would be here. My thanks to my mother and father who always supported us and taught us that the most important thing in life is family. Dad encouraged us to pursue the law, but mostly he encouraged us to be educated. He is the best lawyer and father I know and everyday I strive to be a more like him. Thanks to my three younger brothers who are all successful Justinians. John is a partner at Jenner & Block, Daniel is an associate at MayerBrown; and Tim, a clerk for Judge Charles Wilson of the 11th Circuit Court of Appeals. No older brother could be prouder. Their wives, Claire (lawyer), Katie and Maggie(lawyer) respectively - I couldn’t ask for better sisters . Finally, to my wife and daughters: Lacy you support me in everything I do, and you are the secret to my success. Thank you for sharing me with my Justinian Family as you nurture ours. My girls and future Justinians Bianca and Violetta: I love you more than life and remember Family is God’s greatest gift.

Thank you for the opportunity to serve as president and I look forward to seeing you at our many events this coming year. May God bless you and your families.

Donald J. Storino II
President