Attorney Inspires Mount LEO Entrepreneurship Students

Erika Jungblut, Esq., a Harvard-educated divorce and family law attorney and municipal judge in Teaneck, recently spoke to students in Mount St. Dominic Academy’s L.E.O. Entrepreneurship Program. This transformative two-year initiative, a signature program at the Mount, equips high school students with entrepreneurial skills, critical thinking, and leadership development through mentorship, expert presentations, and events like the LionWorks “Shark Tank” Competition. Dedicated to the memory of Leonidas “Leo” Vagias, the program inspires students to become the next generation of leaders who innovate with purpose and resilience.

Jungblut, who earned her Bachelor of Arts degree from Harvard College in 2002 and her Juris Doctor from Harvard Law School in 2007, shared her professional journey from Harvard to her current role as a divorce and family law attorney at Jungblut Law LLC in Englewood, NJ, and as a municipal judge. Her firm focuses on helping clients navigate complex legal and emotional issues. Jungblut reflected on her career, including her time as a public defender, her decision to establish her own firm, and the emotional challenges of balancing family law cases with her judicial responsibilities.

“It was terrifying,” she said about her decision to leave a stable public defender role to start Jungblut Law LLC. “Starting my own practice felt like stepping off a cliff. But I believed in myself, and I’ve learned that fear doesn’t have to control you. Some of the most rewarding decisions come when you take risks.”

As a family lawyer, Jungblut shared the emotional weight of custody and divorce cases, often involving children. “The best interest of the child is always my priority,” she emphasized. “It’s hard to see parents in conflict, but I remind them that they need to focus on what’s best for their kids—not just for their own peace of mind but because it’s the legal standard.”

Jungblut encouraged the LEO students to pursue their dreams authentically and to build confidence in their abilities. “Be unapologetically you,” she told the audience. “Your unique perspective is what the world needs. Don’t let fear or comparison stop you from pursuing your goals.”

The students, who are immersed in entrepreneurial and leadership training through the LEO Program, asked thoughtful questions about her career and challenges. One student inquired about handling the emotional toll of family law cases. Jungblut explained that while the work can be difficult, her empathy allows her to connect with her clients and advocate effectively. She also stressed the importance of self-care and building a strong support network.

When asked about being a woman in the legal field, Jungblut acknowledged that her gender has shaped her career in unique ways. “As a female judge in a male-dominated field, I sometimes see people surprised to see me,” she said. “But the respect I receive speaks to how far we’ve come. Representation matters—it shows the next generation what’s possible.”

Jungblut also shared her experiences as a Harvard student, where she initially struggled with imposter syndrome. “Your inner voice is the loudest voice you’ll ever hear,” she told the students. “Make sure it’s encouraging and supportive. Positive self-talk helped me shift from doubting myself to embracing my strengths.”

Mrs. Christine Victori, OPA, Campus Minister, Director of the LEO Program, and Chair of the Theology Department, praised Jungblut’s talk, saying, “Erika’s story exemplifies the values we aim to instill in our LEO students—resilience, confidence, and a willingness to embrace challenges. Her candid reflections and practical advice have inspired these young women to approach their futures with courage and purpose.”

Principal Karen D’Avino added, “We are proud to bring exemplary professionals like Erika Jungblut to our students. Her journey is a testament to the power of education, perseverance, and self-belief. The LEO Program fosters the kind of critical thinking and innovation Erika spoke about, and her message will undoubtedly leave a lasting impact.”

The session concluded with a group photo and a renewed sense of empowerment among the students. One participant shared, “Hearing from Ms. Jungblut reminded us that success isn’t about being perfect—it’s about resilience and taking bold steps.”

Jungblut’s story, marked by perseverance, authenticity, and fearless decision-making, perfectly aligned with the mission of the LEO program. Through her work at Jungblut Law LLC (jungblutlaw.com), she continues to inspire others to approach challenges with courage and compassion.

About the L.E.O. Program

The Mount’s signature L.E.O. Program is a transformative two-year initiative that immerses MSDA high school students in the entrepreneurial process, from ideation to business development. With mentorship from industry leaders and opportunities like the LionWorks "Shark Tank" Competition—where winners earn college scholarships—the program equips students with real-world skills and prepares them for future success.

As the second school in New Jersey, and the first all-girls school selected for this prestigious program, Mount St. Dominic Academy is proud to foster critical thinking, innovation, and purposeful leadership among its students. The program is dedicated to the memory of Leonidas “Leo” Vagias, a Don Bosco Prep alumnus and brother of Mount alumna Alexandra Vagias ’18. Through the program, Leo’s passion for business and leadership inspires the next generation of leaders.

Through experiential learning, mentorship, and initiatives like expert presentations, the L.E.O. Program empowers students not only to develop entrepreneurial skills but also to make meaningful impacts on their communities and beyond.