A new Brooklyn school is blending tradition with innovation to inspire the next generation of leaders. The P.S. 413 Joanne Seminara School of Law and Medicine will serve students in grades K-5 starting in September, blending a standard elementary curriculum with early exposure to law and medicine.
Named in honor of Joanne Seminara, a lifelong Bay Ridge resident and tireless advocate for public service and legal education, the school reflects her legacy of learning and leadership. As a partner at Grimaldi Yeung Law Group, Seminara spent decades educating the public on legal matters and was a familiar face on local television, where she frequently discussed legal issues affecting everyday New Yorkers.
"Joanne was a Bay Ridge treasure: a steadfast leader and compassionate friend who served her community every day,” said state Senator Andrew Gounardes.
Seminara served on Brooklyn Community Board 10 for 26 years, including three as chair. She also helped found the Bay Ridge Democrats, reinforcing her commitment to civic engagement.
In 2015, she co-authored 5@55: The Five Essential Legal Documents You Need by Age 55, a guide aimed at making legal planning more accessible. She appeared on Fox 5 New York, NY1, PIX11, Good Day New York and Brooklyn Savvy, using every platform to inform and empower.
Over the years, Seminara was recognized with numerous awards, including the Civic Award from the Bay Ridge Third Avenue Merchants, the ‘Power Women in Business’ Award from Home Reporter & Spectator News, the ‘Community Service and Law’ Award from the Brooklyn Real Estate Board and the New York City Council Women’s Community Service Award.
“Joanne Seminara was the real deal. She understood the importance of planting seeds for trees whose shade you may never enjoy and encouraged young leaders to follow their hearts,” said Council Member Justin Brannan.
Seminara graduated from Notre Dame High School in Staten Island and later returned to teach biology and chemistry. She earned degrees from Lehigh University and Brooklyn Law School. The eldest of four siblings, she spent her life in Bay Ridge, known for her love of travel, art and family.
