On April 17, 2025, the cannabis law societies of St. John’s University School of Law and Hofstra Law came together at High Functions Event Space for a collaborative event ahead of NYC’s 4/20 weekend. Located next door to Silk Road NYC dispensary, the venue served as the ideal backdrop for this student-led forum exploring the intersection of law, cannabis, and culture.

This wasn’t just another campus mixer. It marked a defining moment for two of New York’s emerging cannabis law communities, bringing together future attorneys, organizers, and advocates to build dialogue around challenges in the space—particularly stigma, policy, and cross-school collaboration. For both law schools, this marked an important step in normalizing cannabis law as a legitimate and rapidly expanding professional track.

The event combined spirited interaction with meaningful conversations. From lighter decorating and cannabis law trivia to shared meals and rounds of Nintendo Switch, attendees kept the atmosphere relaxed and dynamic while digging deep into core issues around policy development and advocacy. Legal professionals, including Silk Road NYC attorney Jeffrey Hoffman, were also present, lending credibility and encouragement to the next generation of the cannabis bar.

“As this sector grows, we must stay united,” said Trent Justice Biscone, President of the Cannabis Law Society at St. John’s. “These kinds of events allow us to learn from each other and shape the future of the field.”

Hofstra Law’s Cannabis Law Society—founded by President Kiana Hodge—joined the movement earlier this year. “It’s about more than the law,” Hodge explained. “We’re here to build a culture of understanding and leadership. This event confirmed we’re on the right path.”

That energy carried over into a full weekend of 4/20 programming at High Functions and Silk Road NYC, organized around the themes of legacy, creativity, and collective growth.

Friday, April 18 – Celebrating Our Roots
The weekend began by honoring the cultural history of cannabis. DJ sets, raffles, and curated giveaways created an upbeat and welcoming environment while promoting dialogue around heritage and storytelling.

Saturday, April 19 – Celebrating the Plant
The second day offered a more introspective experience. With affirmation stations and karaoke, the focus turned to cannabis as a tool for reflection, empowerment, and joy.

Sunday, April 20 – Celebrating Growth Together
The weekend culminated in the “Sunday Cyph,” an event that emphasized artistic expression, expansion, and forward-thinking conversation. Attendees enjoyed raffles, tooth gem pop-ups, and plenty of space for meaningful exchange.

All three days were catered by Fly Private Social, the Brooklyn-based hospitality arm of Hawaii Mike Salman, co-founder of Chef for Higher—the first licensed culinary cannabis brand in New York. While the meals weren’t infused, each dish was crafted with intention, matching the elevated tone of the weekend.

“This was a full-circle moment,” said Sohan Bashar, owner of both Silk Road NYC and High Functions Event Space. “It’s incredible to host something like this without fear. We’ve come a long way, and now we get to build community legally.”

Bashar teamed up with High Functions event coordinator Marina Gerard to execute the three-day experience. “Sohan had the vision, and I helped create the vibe,” said Gerard. “This space is about intentionality—where people can feel seen, safe, and celebrated.”

With every detail meticulously planned, the weekend proved not just compliant and smooth—but deeply impactful. For many students, it was a signal that their advocacy has a place in both the classroom and the real world.

For a city at the forefront of cannabis reform, this event marked a clear pivot toward education, equity, and engagement.

To learn more about Silk Road NYC, visit silkroadnyc.com.

To explore High Functions Event Space, visit highfunctions.nyc.