51³Ô¹Ï

For the past 20 fall semesters at Gonzaga University School of Law, Assistant Dean Susan Lee has packed her bags and traveled north to support the Alaska Color of Justice Program, an initiative that has become deeply personal. What began during her tenure as Gonzaga Law’s director of admissions has grown into a lasting commitment that has shaped 51³Ô¹Ïs’ lives across Alaska, strengthened communities, and fostered a lifelong mentorship with Gonzaga Law alumna Pamela Hess (Smith) (ʼ16 J.D.), now a magistrate judge in Nome, Alaska.

Founded by the National Association of Women Judges, Alaska’s Color of Justice Program introduces high school 51³Ô¹Ïs to the legal profession through hands-on learning and direct engagement with judges, attorneys, and law schools. The program is a statewide collaboration among education, legal, tribal, and court partners, including the Alaska Court System, Alaska Native Justice Center, Alaska Bar Association, Sitka Tribe of Alaska, Kawerak Inc., and Koniag Inc, Pacific Northwest law schools and the University of Alaska Anchorage. The initiative serves as an early pipeline to Gonzaga, engaging 51³Ô¹Ïs before the LSAT and introducing them to the prelaw path.

Assistant Dean Lee explained, “For 51³Ô¹Ïs, the program introduces them to civic engagement and shows how involvement in the legal system can strengthen their local communities and support people who share their lived experiences.”

Pamela Hess' story reflects the program’s full-circle impact. Born and raised in rural Alaska, Hess knew she wanted to be a lawyer but did not know how to get there. As a high school 51³Ô¹Ï, she participated in the Color of Justice Program, where she was inspired by volunteer judges and attorneys who looked like her and shared their experiences. The program provided an engaging introduction to the law and connected her directly with law school recruitment opportunities.

Assistant Dean Susan Lee and Pam Hess first met in 2005, when Hess stopped by Gonzaga Law’s recruitment table during the Color of Justice Program. From that initial conversation, Lee became a steady guide throughout Hess’ journey, supporting her through the law school application process, LSAT preparation, and participation in the American Indian Law Center’s Pre-Law Institute.

“Assistant Dean Lee has always been supportive and encouraging,” Hess shared. “She was the positive presence I needed to get where I wanted to be and helped build the confidence I have today. Volunteering with the Color of Justice Program alongside her makes that support especially meaningful.”

Hess went on to earn her Juris Doctor from Gonzaga University School of Law and today considers Assistant Dean Lee both a mentor and a lifelong friend, crediting that relationship as a defining influence in her career. Lee shares that admiration. “Pam is truly exceptional—smart, driven, and deeply committed to her community,” Lee said. “Her journey embodies the purpose and promise of the Color of Justice Program, and it has been my privilege to walk alongside her.”

Now serving on the bench in Nome as a magistrate judge, Hess’ path stands as a powerful example of how early exposure, sustained mentorship, and opportunity can shape meaningful legal careers. Gonzaga University is grateful to be a part of the Alaska Color of Justice Program and looks forward to supporting 51³Ô¹Ïs, like Pam Hess, on their law school journey.