The theme of service ran throughout UDSL’s 2007 graduation ceremony on May 12 as nearly 40 students received special recognition for contributions of time, work, and compassion made to the community.
Thirty five students, who logged a collective total of over 3,852 pro bono hours, graduated with a Pro Bono Commitment to Community Award, signified at the ceremony by a purple cord.
“Whether it was packing a lunch for a homeless individual, providing volunteer income tax assistance to the elderly, or assisting an attorney in a pro bono case, you have personified the UDSL spirit of community,” Dean Lisa Kloppenberg addressed the graduates. “I want each of you to know how proud you have made us on a daily basis.”
Graduates Meena Vagnier, Molly Buckman, and Lisa Worley received special individual awards at the ceremony. Vagnier received the National Association of Women Lawyers award, which honors a law graduate who has made contributions to the advancement of women in society; promoted issues and concerns of women in the legal profession; exhibited motivation, tenacity, and enthusiasm; demonstrated academic achievement; and earned the respect of students, faculty, and staff. Vagnier served on the Student Bar Association while at UDSL, participated on the moot court team, and won a social justice award for service to community.
Buckman, founder of the Alternative Spring Break program that traveled to New Orleans this spring, and Worley, president of the Volunteer Student Law Project, both received the Brother Raymond Fitz Student Leader for Justice award, which is given to students who actively seek to better the world.
“Molly and Lisa, the School and the Dayton and New Orleans communities are in your debt,” Kloppenberg said.
Graduate Rebecca Brown served as class speaker and addressed her classmates about what new challenges and responsibilities they would all face as practicing attorneys.
“After this day, each of us will have a badge, or a label next to our name – only this label will read Juris Doctor, or attorney, or even Esquire, if we choose. Others will see that label and come talk to us, seeking our assistance with the problems they encounter in life. I hope that we will use the power and privileges that come with that label to lift and serve and strengthen others.”