FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Newly appointed Yakima County Superior Court Judge Bree Black Horse to join Valley students at Heritage University Youth and Justice Forum

Toppenish, Wash. – High school students from across the Yakima Valley will gather at Heritage University’s Youth and Justice Forum on Friday, Sept. 25. The hands-on event will give students an up-close look at the justice system, careers in law, courts, corrections and law enforcement as well as their rights. Students will interact with judges, attorneys, correctional officers, K-9 units, SWAT teams and law enforcement drone operators while learning about the many career paths available within the justice system.

Newly appointed Yakima County Superior Court Judge Bree Black Horse Heritage University Criminal Justice faculty and Admissions Office organized the forum to give local students an opportunity to learn directly from professionals working throughout the justice system. Black Horse will also participate in several of the day’s sessions. Gov. Bob Ferguson appointed Black Horse to the Yakima County Superior Court earlier this month. She becomes the first Native American judge to serve on the Yakima County Superior Court. She brings more than 12 years of experience in public and private practice, handling criminal and civil cases in federal, state and Tribal courts.

As forum co-organizer, Black Horse said the event is designed to demystify the justice system while introducing students to the people who work within it. “Young people should be able to see themselves as future lawyers, judges, law enforcement officers, and leaders in our justice system. We want students to leave with a better understanding of their rights, the many roles people play in the justice system, and—most importantly—a sense that these careers and opportunities are open to them, too,” said Black Horse.

The Youth and Justice Forum will be held Friday, September 25, 2026, in Smith Family Hall at Heritage University from 8:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. For more information, please contact Davidson Mance at (509) 969-6084 or mance_d@heritage.edu.

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