The SSJ Sister Karen Klimczak Center for Nonviolence will welcome William J. Hochul Jr. as a keynote speaker for its annual event. (Courtesy of Sister Karen Center)

The SSJ Sister Karen Klimczak Center for Nonviolence will welcome William J. Hochul Jr. as keynote speaker for its annual event on April 15, at 3 p.m. at SS. Columba-Brigid Church, 75 Hickory St., Buffalo. A reception will follow. Hochel will invite attendees to join him on "A Journey of Justice and Mercy."

A United States Attorney for the Western District of New York from 2010-2016, Hochul will reflect on the ideals that led him to his long career in the legal field. He will share highlights of his extensive experience with why people resort to violence, what can help them turn from violence and what a community can do to assist people to live nonviolent lives. Questions will be welcome.

A native of Cheektowaga, Hochul received his undergraduate degree from the University of Notre Dame in 1981 and his juris doctorate from SUNY Buffalo Law School in 1984.  He currently serves as general counsel for Delaware North.

The event will also honor William Marx and the Buffalo Peacemakers Gang Intervention and Outreach Program. Marx, a member of the Center's board, is a long-time advocate of social justice, particularly through Pax Christi and as a facilitator of the Alternatives to Violence Project. Celebrating its fifth anniversary, the Peacemakers brings together existing peace-making groups to mentor youth, strengthen communities, enhance safety and reduce crime in Buffalo neighborhoods.  

Begun in 2007 by the Sisters of St. Joseph and directed by Rev. Vivian Ruth Waltz, the center aims to keep alive Sister Karen's vision of a world without violence.
Among its special programs are Camp Peaceprints for children in the summer and training in the Alternatives to Violence Project.

Tickets are $25 available through 716-362-9688, sisterkarencenter.org or at the door. Scholarships are available.