Her Honor Mentoring, the program co-founded by Judy Sheindlin and her daughter Nicole, marked its 20th anniversary in 2026. Sheindlin told Fox News Digital that the effort began with a small class of eight or nine participants and has grown; the latest class, in September, had more than 100.
Over two decades, the program has included approximately 1,500 mentees from 31 high schools and more than 1,000 mentors affiliated with 400 organizations and businesses, according to the source report. Its 2026-27 class includes 108 mentees and 123 mentors at 14 schools in Bronx, Rockland and Westchester counties.
The program pairs young women with mentors in different fields. Over 20 weekly meetings during the academic year, participants discuss education, careers and financial literacy. They also complete four electives, which can include field trips, digital courses and creative projects. Sheindlin described the combination of mentoring and paid work experience as a way to help participants build practical skills and prepare for adulthood.
Nicole Sheindlin, the program’s CEO, said the model grew from her experience with her stepmother and the value of professional women serving as guides and supporters. The report also described former mentees who later returned as mentors.
Keiry Alvarez, a current mentee, and her mentor, Lilliana Mendoza, said participation helped them become more confident. Mendoza, a 2016 program alumna and police officer, said the experience helped her develop people skills and empathy.
