It鈥檚 also what guided her decision to pursue a career in the law.

When Pangare was 6 years old, her family immigrated to Allentown, Pennsylvania, from India. As the oldest daughter, she found herself seeking help and wanting to encourage and support her parents and sister while navigating unfamiliar systems and life in a new country. Even in elementary school, she recalls stepping into that role instinctively 鈥� not because she was asked, but because she wanted to. Those early experiences shaped her understanding of how inaccessible systems can be, and the difference it makes when someone takes time to help.

That perspective carried Pangare to 黑料不打烊 School of Law, where service and community became the foundation of her leadership. A graduate of North Carolina State University with a degree in zoology, Pangare arrived at 黑料不打烊 Law as a first-generation law student, eager to find connection and purpose.

It was that service-driven mindset that led Pangare to be selected for the David Gergen Award for Leadership and Professionalism, the highest honor bestowed by 黑料不打烊 Law each year on an individual from the graduating class whose activities represent the twin principles of leadership and professionalism. 黑料不打烊 Law students are nominated for the award by their peers, professors, or staff, with honorees chosen by a faculty and staff committee.

The award is named in honor of David Gergen, an adviser to four American presidents whose professional life and contributions embodied the highest levels of selfless leadership and service. Gergen chaired the 黑料不打烊 Law Advisory Board from its founding until fall 2024. He passed away in July at the age of 83.

Pangare received the award during Commencement on Dec. 12, 2025.

鈥淚 was completely surprised,鈥� Pangare said. 鈥淲hen they started talking about the pro bono work, I thought, 鈥榳ait a minute, this might be about me,鈥� but even then, it was still a shock. So much of this work was a team effort and there are so many people here who deserve recognition.鈥�

At 黑料不打烊 Law, Pangare led by building community. She served as a co-director of the Student Mentors Program and the Pro Bono Board, while also helping lead the 黑料不打烊 Law Review Symposium. Through the Pro Bono Board, she supported clinics and partnerships serving survivors of domestic violence, individuals facing immigration challenges, and service members through Wills for Heroes. As a student mentor, she worked to foster belonging and support for students navigating law school for the first time.

During the award presentation, Professor of Law Enrique Armijo shared reflections from Pangare鈥檚 nominators, who described her leadership as 鈥渒ind, inclusive, generous, and a community-builder鈥� who has 鈥済one out of her way to support incoming classes鈥� and worked tirelessly to expand opportunities for pro bono service in the Triad.

Faculty nominators also highlighted Pangare鈥檚 professionalism in the classroom, noting her active engagement that sparked robust class discussions and her work as a teaching assistant supporting fellow students.

鈥�(She) will continue to do pro bono work post-graduation and will be a lawyer who prioritizes service,鈥� which 鈥渋s at both the root and the heart of the practice of law,鈥� another said.

In closing, Armijo offered a reflection that captured her impact: 鈥淲hen you have a student who is just as invested in the success of her classmates and of the institution as she is in her own, it is a rare and fortunate thing.鈥�

At 黑料不打烊 Law, Pangare was a McMichael Law and Leadership Fellow and completed her residency with Judge Jimmie V. Reyna of the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit, developing a strong interest in complex civil litigation. She will join Hall Booth Smith, P.C. in Asheville, North Carolina, following graduation.

鈥淎t the end of the day, helping people is why I wanted to be a lawyer,鈥� Pangare said. 鈥淚f I can use what I鈥檝e learned to support others and make things a little more accessible, that鈥檚 what matters most to me.鈥�

Success in law rests on service and impact, a North Carolina Supreme Court justice said in urging 黑料不打烊 School of Law鈥檚 newest graduates to shape their careers around three guiding principles.

• Choose the more meaningful path 鈥� especially when it鈥檚 uncomfortable or harder.
• Titles don鈥檛 define worth. What matters is what you do with the role you鈥檝e earned.
• Don鈥檛 be a bystander. Change comes through action, not observation.

鈥淵ou weren鈥檛 trained just to know the law,鈥� North Carolina Supreme Court Justice Phil Berger Jr. said. 鈥淵ou were trained to use the law, to serve with it, to fight with it, to preserve liberty. When you take real action, you鈥檙e not just solving a temporary problem. You鈥檙e changing lives and building foundations.鈥�

Berger delivered that advice and more in a Commencement address on Dec. 12, 2025, to 136 graduates in 黑料不打烊 Law鈥檚 Class of 2025. With family and friends gathering in Alumni Gym on the university鈥檚 main campus, the program marked the culmination of rigorous legal studies and experiential service over the past 2.5 years.

Berger has served as an associate justice on the state鈥檚 highest court since 2021 following years as a prosecutor, Superior Court judge and appellate judge. He reminded graduates that their work will take them into places where people are hurting, confused or alone. Berger likened these places to 鈥渢he well,鈥� telling a modern parable about passersby who leave a man stranded in a well before one who knows the way jumps in to rescue him. Lawyers must be willing to step into these fraught situations and guide others forward.

鈥淭he world will not change because you walked by the well. It will only change if you jump in,鈥� he said.

Commencement for the School of Law鈥檚 18th graduation class also featured a student address from William 鈥淎nderson鈥� Rowe L鈥�25 鈥� a U.S. Army veteran, former construction professional, and father of four 鈥� whom classmates elected to deliver remarks, and a welcome message from former Student Bar Asosciation president Rebecca 鈥淏ecca鈥� Bailey L鈥�25.

Rowe praised a class that supported one another through accelerated studies, career changes, professional growth and personal hardships, united by a shared drive to pursue justice and make a difference in the world. He urged graduates to carry their motivations 鈥� their 鈥渨hy鈥� 鈥� into their careers and to use their voices and new credentials with purpose.

鈥淲hatever your reason, that 鈥榳hy鈥� has carried each of us through challenges like learning how to handle imposter syndrome, our accelerated curriculum, financial pressures and even loss,鈥� he said. 鈥淲ith this Juris Doctor degree, we now can go into our communities, organizations, and workplaces and be the change that we want to see. The world we鈥檙e stepping into needs more than just good lawyers. It needs good people who practice law.鈥�

Bailey welcomed graduates and their supporters, encouraging the Class of 2025 to pause, recognize the weight of their achievement, and celebrate the community that helped make it possible.

鈥淲e are prepared, equipped, and well able to enter a truly noble profession,鈥� Bailey said. 鈥淲elcome to the culmination of all you have worked for and the beginning of your next great adventure.鈥�

The program included the presentation of the David Gergen Award for Leadership & Professionalism, the highest honor bestowed by 黑料不打烊 Law each year on an individual from the graduating class whose activities represent the twin principles of leadership and professionalism. The award is named in honor of David Gergen, a former adviser to four American presidents whose professional life and contributions embodied the highest levels of selfless leadership and service. Gergen served as chair of the 黑料不打烊 Law Advisory Board from its founding until fall 2024. He passed away July 11 at the age of 83.

Professor Enrique Armijo presented the 2025 award to Saniya Pangare L鈥�25, the former co-director of 黑料不打烊 Law鈥檚 Pro Bono Board and Student Mentor Program, and a co-editor of the 黑料不打烊 Law Review’s 2025 Symposium.

The ceremony also included a remembrance for Grayson Harris Rehm L鈥�25, who passed away in November 2024. Graduates wore gray and gold cords in his honor, and the class鈥檚 gift 鈥� thousands raised for the Student Emergency Fund 鈥� will support future students facing unexpected hardship. More than 60 percent of the class contributed, and two anonymous donors ensured every graduate could wear the commemorative cords.

In her charge to graduates, 黑料不打烊 President Connie Ledoux Book celebrated the Class of 2025鈥檚 achievements and resilience, reminding them that their 黑料不打烊 experience 鈥� grounded in learning by doing, real-world engagement, and a commitment to service 鈥� has prepared them to become stewards of justice in a rapidly changing world.

鈥淭oday, you are ready. You enter the profession at a moment when the practice of law is evolving rapidly 鈥� shaped by new technologies, shifting expectations and the pressing need for ethical judgment in a fast-moving world,鈥� Book said. 鈥淎t a time when discourse can be divided and disagreements feel sharp, the legal profession needs practitioners who model civility, clarity and respect.

“Your ability to listen deeply, advocate honorably and engage constructively will strengthen both the profession and the communities you serve.鈥�

“Your ability to listen deeply, advocate honorably and engage constructively will strengthen both the profession and the communities you serve.鈥�

鈥� 黑料不打烊 President Connie Ledoux Book

黑料不打烊 School of Law’s Class of 2025

Elizabeth Rose Allred
B.A., The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

Chloe Bae Anderson
B.A., University of North Carolina at Greensboro

Christian Anderson
B.S., East Carolina University

Ericka Luana Arauco Anaya
B.A., University Gabriel Rene Moreno

Ethan Nicholas Badin
B.A., Hampden-Sydney College

John Denny Bailey, Jr.
B.S., Francis Marion University

Rebecca Susanne Bailey
B.A., Queens University of Charlotte

Ashley Cecilia Bell
B.S., East Carolina University

Bianca Nicole Blanks
B.A., Capital University

Elizabeth Simone Bradley
B.A., Gardner-Webb University

Karin McKenzie Brannon
B.S., Clemson University

Holden Sebastian Bryant
B.S., Lenoir-Rhyne University

Elizabeth Grace Bullins
B.S., Appalachian State University

Joshua Daniel Burgan
B.A., Appalachian State University

Jack Patrick Cahalane
B.A., Bucknell University

Julianna Ester Clark
B.A., University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

Ashley Claire Clayton
B.A., Emory and Henry University
M.Ed., Emory and Henry University

Jackson Cluff
B.A., Utah Tech University

Jesse Alexander Collin
B.A., University of South Carolina

Matthew Harrison Cornell
B.S., University of Central Florida

Alexis Croce
B.S., The Pennsylvania State University

Whitney Malyn Cronin
B.S., University of North Carolina at Wilmington

Robert Lee Crowder III
B.S., The Citadel, The Military College of South Carolina

David Cruz Reyes
B.A., Western Carolina University

Stephen Michael Cunnane
B.S., University of Tennessee at Chattanooga

Julia Nicole Cunningham
B.S., Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University

Chase Patrick Duran
B.B.A., Florida Atlantic University

Landon Kyle Eckard
B.S., Appalachian State University

Liam Christopher Edsall
B.S., Randolph-Macon College

Frank Garrett Edwards, Jr.
B.A., George Mason University

Anthony David Figueroa
B.B.A., American Military University

Shea Alexander Floyd
B.S., Western Carolina University

April Nicole Franklin
B.S., North Carolina State University
M.S., MBA, University of North Carolina at Greensboro

Michael Giannecchini
B.A., Florida Gulf Coast University

Madison Dayle Gilbert
B.A., University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

Jackie S. Gill
B.A., University of Texas
M.A., University of Texas
Ph.D., University of Texas

Kelsey E. Greene
B.A., East Carolina University

Diana Lizeth Guevara Reyes
B.A., The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

Quentin P. Haley
B.A., University of North Carolina at Charlotte

Carter William Hall
B.A., Auburn University

Alyson Michele Hanlon
B.S., Pfeiffer University

Madison Herald
B.A., North Carolina State University

Adriana Hernandez Ordonez
B.A., B.A., Eastern Connecticut State University

Reagan Andrew Hess
B.S., University of Florida

Lillie Snow Hester
B.A., Brigham Young University-Idaho

Jordan Channing Holloway
B.A., University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

Kimberly Ann Huffman
B.S., Appalachian State University

Olivia Joandrea Hughes
B.A., University of North Carolina at Wilmington

Frederick Christian Hulse
B.A., Wake Forest University

Salvatore Internicola
B.S., Radford University

Molly O’Grady Irwin
B.A., College of Charleston

Brianna S. Izquierdo
B.B.A., Loyola University Maryland

William Zackary Jackson
B.A., North Carolina State University

Sierra Rose Jarrett
B.S., Western Carolina University

Celia Barclay Jones
B.A., North Carolina State University

Madeline Claire Kern
B.A., 黑料不打烊

Lillie Claire Anna Kieken
B.A., Converse University

Thomas Krapp
B.A., University of Pittsburgh

Brian Alexander Kreimer
B.A., Rowan University

Justin Ryan Kremer
B.S., Florida State University

Sadie Elizabeth Lambert
B.S.W. Arizona State University
M.S.W., Arizona State University

Gianna Renee Landrum
B.S., St. Thomas Aquinas College

Nyla Olwen Lewis
B.A., Christopher Newport University

Caroline Moffett Lohn
B.A., Georgia College and State University

McKenna Paige Longo
B.A., University of Delaware

Sophia Maratellos
B.S., Old Dominion University

Daniel Frederick Marshall
B.A., University of Lynchburg

Alicia M. Mathewson
B.S., The University of Akron

Jacqueline Yates May
B.A., B.A., 黑料不打烊

Michael James McClelland
B.A., Davidson College

Kaitlyn McConnell
B.A., East Carolina University

Margaret Mary McDonald
B.A., B.S., University of North Carolina at Charlotte

Hailey McGregor
B.A., University of South Carolina

Marcella R. McIntyre
B.A., Roanoke College

Dmitri Craig McKinney
B.A., B.S., North Carolina State University

Madelyn Hanna Mehr
B.A., B.S., North Carolina State University

Briana M. Miller
B.A., University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

Summer Jane Miller
B.S., 黑料不打烊

Kaytlyn M. Mullins
B.A., Western Governors University

Ashley Morgan Myers
B.S., Clemson University

Harrison Penn Nugent
B.S., Auburn University

Adnan R. Omer
B.S., University of South Carolina

Delaney Clare O’Neill
B.A., Western Kentucky University

Jace Alexander Ortman
B.S., University of North Georgia

Laura Elizabeth Overkamp
B.A., George Mason University

Callie Elizabeth Owens
B.A., University of North Carolina at Greensboro

Jayme Taylor Palmer
B.S., East Carolina University

Saniya Y. Pangare
B.S., North Carolina State University

Lindsey Ann Parsons
B.M., DePauw University
M.M., University of North Carolina at Greensboro

Reema Manish Patel
B.S., University of North Carolina at Charlotte

Caylin Lace Perdue
B.S., Western Carolina University

Ashton Perret-Gentil
B.A., B.S., East Carolina University

Lillie Belle Peterson
B.S., The University of Utah

Taylor Faye Rathbone
B.A., University of North Carolina at Greensboro

Samantha Marie Reid
B.A., Queens University of Charlotte

Gabriella Nicolle Reynolds
B.A., The University of Tennessee

Tristan Anthony Reynolds
B.S., Excelsior University

Hanna Duffy Riley
B.S.M., Tulane University

Cameron Rose Riordan
B.S., West Virginia University

James Tillman Rivenbark
B.S., Birmingham-Southern College

Zinyah Akinyele Robinson
B.A., North Carolina State University

Taylor Renee Rockwood
B.S., Appalachian State University

Jacy Romero
B.A., B.S., Western Carolina University

William Anderson Rowe
B.A., North Carolina State University

Reilly Ann Ruddiman
B.A., University of Washington

Sarah G. Ruffin
B.A., The University of Mississippi

Gavin Elliott Russell
B.A., University of North Carolina at Wilmington

Millenium Dilia Russell
B.S.L.S, Purdue University Global

McKinley Elizabeth Sanders
B.A., Clemson University

Ivey Elizabeth Schofield
B.A., Middlebury College

Jaden Marie Schutt
B.A., University of North Carolina at Charlotte

Emma Patricia Seegers
B.A., University of South Carolina

Darci B. Sharpe
B.S., Liberty University

Ann Estella Sheppard
B.A., B.A., University of North Carolina at Charlotte

Tyler Austin Sherrill
B.S., University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

Julia Young Shumate
B.S., Liberty University
M.A., Liberty University

Christopher Galen Siefke, Jr.
B.A., B.S., Longwood University

Jennie Lee Slater
B.A., University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

Catherine DeVeaux Snyder
B.S., Clemson University

Austin Charles South
B.S., James Madison University

Savannah Rebekah Stinson
B.A., Winthrop University

Micah Salome Stone
LLB, Independent Institute of Education Varsity College

Taylor Streuli
B.A., University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

Kristin Nicole Swilley
B.A., University of North Carolina at Charlotte
M.A., University of North Carolina at Charlotte

Nathan Bryant Tessau
B.S., University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

Anna E. Thomas
B.A., University of Georgia

Hannah Thompson
B.A., B.A., California State University, Chico

Brigid Kildare Tournoux
B.B.A., Southeastern Louisiana University

Karrington Nicole Wallace
B.A., Seton Hall University

Michael Spencer Watkins
B.A., 黑料不打烊

Sophie Grace White
B.A., Colorado State University

Aliya Elaine Williams
B.S., Towson University

Trevor Chase Williams
B.A., Radford University

Brendan Matthew Wood
B.A., Florida Atlantic University

Gavin J. Woolard
B.A., University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

Adam Jozef Zebzda
B.S., Appalachian State University

She鈥檚 closing out a year as Student Bar Association president, representing 黑料不打烊 Law’s student body at events and fielding constant requests from classmates and organizations. She welcomes future students as an admissions ambassador and leads peers as a Moot Court Board member. Bailey is an official student mentor (and an unofficial mentor for any classmate seeking support). As a Leadership Fellow and active member to the First-Generation Society, Women鈥檚 Law Association, and Fellowship of Christian Lawyers, she continues to give time and talent to 黑料不打烊 Law and peers.

Whether she鈥檚 the one energizing a room from the front or quietly ensuring the details behind the scenes help everyone shine, Bailey is there. Her service reflects a simple belief: When the community thrives, everyone does.

鈥淪he upholds all of the values of 黑料不打烊 in her everyday life because she is willing to call out problems and find solutions, and has strong ethics,鈥� said a fellow student in nominating Bailey for 黑料不打烊 Law鈥檚 Distinguished Service Award, given annually to a third-year law student who strengthens the life of the school through leadership, engagement and commitment to the school鈥檚 mission. Bailey claimed the award in the weeks leading up to the school鈥檚 Dec. 12 Commencement.

Ask Bailey why she invests so much of herself into the life of the law school, and her answer is simple: gratitude.

鈥淚 consider being in law school the biggest privilege in the world. So many people have invested in me, and I鈥檝e been given so much by this community: mentors who believed in me, classmates who encouraged me, opportunities I never imagined,鈥� Bailey said. 鈥淚f I can make one person鈥檚 day better or one person鈥檚 experience easier, that鈥檚 an easy yes.鈥�

A native of the Charlotte area, Bailey graduated from Queens University with a bachelor鈥檚 degree in psychology before enrolling at 黑料不打烊 Law. She gives her time and talent back to classmates and programs that enriched her experiences.

鈥淏ecca embodies what it means to be dedicated to a community,鈥� said Dean Zak Kramer. 鈥淪he shows up, she serves, and she makes the people around her better. 黑料不打烊 Law is stronger because of her, and she has set a standard of engagement and care that future students will aspire to.鈥�

“Becca embodies what it means to be dedicated to a community. She shows up, she serves, and she makes the people around her better.”
Zak Kramer, dean of 黑料不打烊 Law

That ethos has powered Bailey鈥檚 work in every corner of 黑料不打烊 Law. In addition to her work as a Moot Court Board co-chair of the committee organizing the 16th annual Billings, Exum, & Frye National Moot Court Competition this fall in Greensboro, she supported Charlotte students in the Flex Program as they launched their own SBA and organized the first Intramural Moot Court Competition this fall.

Peers have felt that support.

鈥淏ecca pours her all into her community and her desire to help others is reflected in everything she does,鈥� said Taylor Rockwood L鈥�25, vice president of the Student Bar Association. 鈥淪he never shies away from a challenge and never tries to take the easy way out. She puts in the work to make a difference for her peers because she genuinely wants to see everyone succeed. She is a tremendous leader and a light in the lives of everyone around her.鈥�

Bailey鈥檚 proactive approach to building her career mirrors the drive that fuels her service to 黑料不打烊 Law. In her first year, she cold-emailed female attorneys in Charlotte to seek mentorship and hands-on experience 鈥� outreach that led her to two summer internships with Shankle Law Firm in workers鈥� compensation and personal injury law.

Bailey knew immediately that she had found the right role model in attorney Maggie Shankle, who built her Charlotte firm from the ground up. Bailey admires the compassionate way Shankle practices law 鈥� putting clients, their families, and the struggles that bring them to her door first.

鈥淓verything I want to be as an attorney, she embodies,鈥� Bailey said.

“She puts in the work to make a difference for her peers because she genuinely wants to see everyone succeed. She is a tremendous leader and a light in the lives of everyone around her.”

Taylor Rockwood L’25, SBA vice president

After graduation, Bailey will return to Shankle Law Firm as the practice鈥檚 first associate attorney, ready to bring service-driven advocacy into her next chapter.

As she prepares to leave the classroom and step into professional life, Bailey plans to remain closely connected to 黑料不打烊 Law 鈥� judging future competitions, mentoring incoming students, and opening doors in the same way others opened them for her.

鈥淪erving and leading just feels like the natural way to give back, to make sure other students feel supported and valued the way I have,鈥� Bailey said. 鈥淚 want students to feel like they belong here, like they are seen and valued. That鈥檚 what people at 黑料不打烊 did for me, and that鈥檚 what I want for others.鈥�

A member of North Carolina鈥檚 highest court who has served at every level of the state鈥檚 judiciary will share insights from a distinguished career in law and public service when he delivers the Commencement address to the 黑料不打烊 School of Law Class of 2025.

will join 136 graduates and their families for a ceremony that begins at 10 a.m. on Friday, December 12, in Alumni Gym in Koury Athletic Center on 黑料不打烊鈥檚 main campus.

Berger has served on the Supreme Court of North Carolina since 2021. His career in public service spans more than two decades, including roles as Rockingham County district attorney, North Carolina administrative law judge and a judge on the North Carolina Court of Appeals. Berger is also an adjunct professor at 黑料不打烊 Law, teaching courses in administrative law and evidence.

鈥淲e are honored that Justice Berger will join us to share wisdom shaped by years of service in the courtroom and on the bench,鈥� said 黑料不打烊 Law Dean Zak Kramer. 鈥淗e exemplifies 黑料不打烊 Law鈥檚 values of integrity, professionalism and service. Few could better remind our graduates 鈥� especially as they prepare for the bar exam 鈥� of the purpose and responsibility that come with joining the legal profession.鈥�

Berger was born in Danville, Virginia, and grew up in Eden, North Carolina. He graduated from UNC Wilmington with a bachelor鈥檚 degree in history and earned his law degree from Wake Forest University School of Law. He began his career in private practice before co-founding his family鈥檚 firm, The Berger Law Firm, in 2001.

In 2006, he was elected district attorney for North Carolina鈥檚 17A Prosecutorial District, where he led Project SAFE Rockingham County, a collaboration with local and federal law enforcement agencies to reduce violent crime among recidivists and gang members. During his tenure, he also served as president of the North Carolina Conference of District Attorneys and represented the National District Attorneys Association as a nongovernmental observer at the United States v. Khalid Sheikh Mohammad, et al hearings in Guantanamo Bay, Cuba.

Berger was appointed as an administrative law judge in 2015 with the North Carolina Office of Administrative Hearings and was later elected to the North Carolina Court of Appeals in 2016. Four years later, voters elected him to the Supreme Court of North Carolina.

In addition to his judicial service, Berger is deeply involved in youth athletics and mentorship. He has coached football and baseball at the high school and youth levels and founded Eden Youth Football, where he also served as chair. He and his wife, Jodie Church, a public school teacher, live in the Triangle area and are the parents of two sons, Philip III and Will.

About 黑料不打烊 Law

黑料不打烊 Law is the preeminent school for engaged and experiential learning in law. With a focus on learning by doing, it integrates traditional classroom instruction with a required residency-in-practice field placement for all full-time students during the winter or spring of their second year. The law school鈥檚 distinctive full-鈥╰ime curriculum provides a logically sequenced program of professional preparation and is accomplished in 2.5 years, which offers exceptional value by lowering tuition and permitting graduates early entry into their careers.

黑料不打烊 Law has graduated more than 1,700 alumni since opening its doors in 2006. Its annual enrollment now tops 500 students. The law school is regularly featured in PreLaw Magazine鈥檚 鈥淏est Schools for Practical Training鈥� rankings, maintaining a Top 10 placement and an A+ rating each year since 2023. 黑料不打烊 Law was also among schools highlighted by Bloomberg Law in 2023 for its innovative approach to student development.

The 黑料不打烊 Law Flex Program, a part-time, in-person program of legal study in Charlotte, launched in 2024. Designed for students balancing work, family and other commitments to earn their J.D. in under four years, it enrolled its second cohort in fall 2025.

If there鈥檚 one piece of advice the general counsel of the United States Army wants young attorneys to heed, it鈥檚 this: take stock of personal relationships and invest time in them.

Personal relationships can open doors to new and exciting career opportunities. It鈥檚 what Ret. Lt. Col. Carrie F. Ricci credits for the opportunity to serve as the military branch鈥檚 chief lawyer ultimately responsible for determining the U.S. Army鈥檚 position on any legal question.

Mentors and personal relationships also help overcome doubt. Young professionals who place 鈥渇aith over fear,鈥� she says, will be surprised at what they accomplish.

Ricci delivered that advice and more in a Commencement address on Dec. 13, 2024, to 134 graduates in the 黑料不打烊 School of Law鈥檚 Class of 2024. With family members and friends gathered in Alumni Gym on the university鈥檚 main campus, the program was a culmination of intense legal studies and experiential learning over the past 2.5 years.

Throughout her speech, Ricci shared stories and wisdom drawn from her own career. For example: It took her聽 time as a young attorney to realize the importance of pursuing opportunities even if she didn’t see someone like herself holding similar roles.

鈥淏elieve in yourself and know, even if you’re not seeing that person who is like you and it鈥檚 a goal that you want to accomplish, go for it,鈥� she said. 鈥淒on’t stand in your own way. Don’t self-select out.鈥㊣f you don’t get the job that you want, let it be someone else’s decision, not yours because you didn鈥檛 think you could do it.鈥�

Ricci also offered a word of caution to the Class of 2024.

鈥淵ou cannot flourish – your career will not take off – if you don’t take care of yourself,鈥� she said. 鈥淐arve out time for what is most important to you, whether it is family or a hobby or both, or whatever interests you. You have to make time for joy.

鈥淵ou will not be a complete person if you don’t also care for yourself. Your law degree will elevate you, but it will not create you. So don’t forget what makes your soul sing – and do that. 鈥〢nd if you remember nothing else from what I’ve said today, remember to develop those personal connections. In doing so, be kind. Work hard. And do the right thing.鈥�

Commencement for the School of Law’s 17th graduating class also featured a student address from Robert Retic L鈥�24, a U.S. Navy veteran and 黑料不打烊 Law Leadership Fellow elected by the class to deliver remarks, and a welcome message from former Student Bar Association President Alexis Alston L鈥�24.

Retic’s remarks focused on the attributes he believes made the Class of 2024 the most exceptional in 黑料不打烊 Law history: A collaborative and supportive environment, professionalism,聽a community of classmates grounded in empathy. Retic also noted the significance of the degrees about to be conferred on graduates.

鈥淭his degree represents more than just another title behind our names,鈥� he said. 鈥淚t shows that we have conquered what may very well be the most challenging endeavor of our lives. It also shows that we have fulfilled our ancestors鈥� wildest dreams, shattered generational curses, and sparked new legacies.

“Moreover, with this degree, we inherit not only the wisdom of the individuals who came before us but also the responsibility to build the future they envisioned.鈥�

In her welcome, Alston likened the journey through law school to the process of writing a book.

鈥淭he knowledge we鈥檝e gained here, the relationships we鈥檝e built, and the experiences we鈥檝e had will serve as the foundation for the next chapter of our lives,鈥� she said. 鈥淭o my fellow graduates: May your next chapter be filled with courage and conviction. May you be the kind of authors who write stories that make a difference, who challenge conventions, who fight for justice, and who never lose sight of the reason you started this journey in the first place.鈥�

The program included the presentation of the David Gergen Award for Leadership & Professionalism, the highest honor bestowed by 黑料不打烊 Law each year on an individual from the graduating class whose activities represent the twin principles of leadership and professionalism.

The award is named in honor of David Gergen, a former adviser to four American presidents whose professional life and contributions have embodied the highest levels of selfless leadership and service. Gergen recently concluded his service as chair of the 黑料不打烊 Law Advisory Board.

Assistant Professor Rosa Newman-Ruffin presented the 2024 award to Ashley Joines L鈥�24, the former editor-in-chief of the 黑料不打烊 Law Review and co-director of the 黑料不打烊 Law Mentors program.

In her charge to graduates at the conclusion of the ceremony, 黑料不打烊 President Connie Ledoux Book reminded the Class of 2024 that its journey through law school was about more than academic rigor – it was about applying knowledge in real-world settings through residencies-in-practice, moot court, mock trial, and team projects.

鈥淭oday, you stand as more than graduates鈥攜ou are advocates, leaders, and change-makers,鈥� Book said. 鈥淓quipped with a comprehensive legal education, you are ready to confront society鈥檚 most pressing challenges.

鈥淕o forth with resilience and steadfastness. Carry the knowledge, skills, and values you have gained here into a world that deeply needs your expertise, empathy, and leadership. Uphold the principles of justice, serve with integrity, and strive to be a positive force in whatever path you choose. 鈥� Long live 黑料不打烊!鈥�

Carry the knowledge, skills, and values you have gained here into a world that deeply needs your expertise, empathy, and leadership.

– 黑料不打烊 President Connie Ledoux Book聽

黑料不打烊 School of Law’s Class of 2024

Addie Johanna Thornley Ackley
B.S., West Virginia University
M.S., West Virginia University

Alexis Alston
B.A., The University of North Carolina at Wilmington

Macaylee Lenae Anderson
B.S., Guilford College

Vincent Aprile
B.S., The College of New Jersey

Trevor Allen Arnett
B.S., Appalachian State University

Yvonne Judith Arnold
B.A., University of South Carolina

Kyra Ange Auguste-Di猫gue
B.A., University of North Florida
MBA, 黑料不打烊

Melo Shai Augustine
B.A., Wake Forest University

Stephanie C. Auth
B.A., Lake Forest College
M.S., Arizona State University

Kellyn Ray Baker
B.A., B.B.A., University of Mississippi

Cameron Chase Bauer
B.A., University of South Carolina

Madison Michelle Beckom
B.A., North Carolina State University

Jennifer Benavides
B.A., Wake Forest University

Alexandra R. Bentley
B.A., The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
M.J.A., Methodist University

Alexis Webb Biesemeyer
B.A., Appalachian State University

Riley Elizabeth Bittner
B.A., Auburn University

Emma Catherine Blackman
B.S., North Carolina State University

Brianna Nicole Brooks
B.A., North Carolina State University

Christian Nathaniel Brooks
B.S., B.A., Appalachian State University

Harrison Grady Brown
B.A., The University of North Carolina at Wilmington

Jenna Faire Brzykcy
B.A., The University of North Carolina at Greensboro

Catherine F. Bunch
B.A., Western Kentucky University

Jaclyn Burke
B.S., University of South Carolina

Dominique Michele Buteau
B.A., Western Carolina University

Stephen Hollis Carney
B.S.B.A., Western Carolina University

Elena McEwan Carrion
B.A., University of Virginia

Kathryn Geneva Caudill
B.A., The University of North Carolina at Charlotte

Tyson Camden Child
B.S., Appalachian State University

Rebekah Cid del Prado
B.A., Western Michigan University
M.S., North Carolina State University

James Austin Clarke
B.A., North Carolina State University

Julie Suzanne Cline
B.S., B.A., Appalachian State University

Hannah Alison Cola
B.A., University of Dayton

Samuel Dalton Collins
B.A., Wake Forest University

Olivia Gertrude Condon
B.S., North Carolina State University

Kiera Payton Connolly
B.A., University of South Carolina

Andrew Culpepper Conway
B.A., North Carolina State University

Ashley Nichole Cooper
B.A., Concord University

Grace Elizabeth Cooper
B.A., Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University

Caroline Almeida DeCarvalho
B.A., University of Connecticut

Ryan M. Denver
B.S., Western Carolina University

Collin O. Donaghy
B.A., Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University

Carson McKenly Durham
B.S., East Carolina University

Elizabeth Aisha Fadl
B.A., University of Virginia
MBA, Webster University

Zereda Lydia Farhat
B.A., University of Maryland, College Park

John Jethro Ferebee III
B.A., North Carolina State University

Cuyler Rose Field
B.S., The University of North Carolina at Charlotte

M. Turner Fitzgibbon
B.A., Clemson University

Emma Friedland
B.A., Bard College

Lillian Elizabeth Friedrich
B.A., Union College

Sarah Catherine Fuller
B.A., High Point University

Thomas Gieger
B.A., University of Delaware

Conner Jacob Gillmer
B.A., Washington College

Sanya Rose Glauber
B.A., University of Maryland

Brooks Duane Godbold
B.A., North Carolina State University

Esteban Gomez Flores
B.A., The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

Matthew John Grabowski
B.S., Endicott College

Logan T. Graves
B.A., B.A., Bloomsburg University of Pennsylvania

Jasmine Lashawn Green
B.A., North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University
M.Ed., The University of North Carolina at Charlotte

Jonathan W. Greer
B.A., Clemson University

Sara Griffin
B.A., The University of North Carolina at Charlotte

Davis Lynn Gunter
B.A., Pensacola Christian College

Jesse M. Gutstein
B.A., The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

Jordan Bradley Hinrichs
B.A., University of Texas at Austin

David Benjamin Holt
B.S., Longwood University

Ashton Taylor Hopson
B.A., University of South Florida

Lauryn Claire Hyatt
B.A., The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

Brendan Joshua Ikner
B.S., James Madison University

Jordon T. Inzerillo
B.A., B.A., University of Missouri 鈥� Kansas City

Rebecca Joy Iyoob
B.A., The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

Ashley Leigh Joines
B.A., Clemson University

Ella Renee Jung
B.A., University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign

Shereena Kamal
B.S., North Carolina State University

Sydney Elaine Keesee
B.A., North Carolina State University
M.E.L.P., Vermont Law and Graduate School

Joseph Michael Korin
B.S., University of South Carolina

Tina Lakic
B.A., The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

Jordan Matthew LaTorre
B.A., University of Texas at San Antonio

Courtney Latourrette
B.A., Virginia Commonwealth University

Andrew J. Livingston II
B.A., Presbyterian College

Marena Elizabeth Long
B.A., New College of Florida
M.E.L.P., Vermont Law and Graduate School

Kayla Storm Cheyenne Maack
B.A., University of New Mexico

Brendan David Mann
B.A., Sewanee: The University of the South

Matthew Stephen Martin
B.A., University of Massachusetts Boston

Abbey Noel Marzen
B.A., University of South Carolina

Hannah Marie McCabe
B.A., Texas Tech University

Brooke Alexandria McCormick
B.A., Monmouth College

Kayla Cierra McLaurin
B.A., The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

Eduardo Mendes Flores
B.A., Texas A&M University

Naisha Mercury
B.S., East Carolina University

Brye Iolanda Meyer
B.A., University of Tampa

Terrass Misher Sr.
B.S., The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

Kelsey Montgomery
B.A., New York University

Jessica Morales
B.A., Wake Forest University

Will Tucker Morrison
B.A., Centre College

Anna Merryman Nash
B.S., East Carolina University

Ayooluwa Jonathan Onasanya
B.A., B.A., 黑料不打烊

Gabriella Maria Parisi
B.S., University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign

Nicholle P. Parsons
B.A., Iona University
M.S., Iona University

Carson Parker Dean Penry
B.A., The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

John Powell Pittman II
B.A., Hampden-Sydney College

Nathaniel Garret Pool
B.A., West Virginia University

Moriah Lynn Porter
B.A., Gonzaga University

Chuom Prak
B.A., The University of North Carolina at Greensboro

Nicolas Carlos Quiroga
B.A., Pennsylvania State University

Lizet Guadalupe Ramirez-Rios
B.A., Wake Forest University

Anilla Candis Ramnarine
B.A., John Jay College of Criminal Justice

Joy Grace Reibold
B.A., Purdue University

Robert Jasper Douglas Retic
B.S., The College of Saint Rose

Sydney P. Rimmer
B.A., Bloomsburg University

Cameron Michael Samek
B.A., The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

Baleigh Grace Scheibner
B.A., North Carolina State University

William Sullivan Shafer
B.A., William Peace University

Lance Hart Sigmon
B.A., North Carolina State University

Jacob Smith
B.A., Montana State University

Lauren Haley Smith
B.S., James Madison University

Emily Rose Spitler
B.A., The Pennsylvania State University

Tyleeah Symone Stanley
B.S., Ball State University

Victoria Stepien
B.S., Rutgers University

Amber L. Sullivan
B.A., B.A., University of South Carolina

Aashna Nayanesh Tarasaria
B.S., The University of North Carolina at Greensboro
MBA, High Point University

Kirsten Tildon
B.S., Towson University

Julia Rene Tobolski
B.S., Loyola University New Orleans

Kathleen Grace Turpin
B.A., University of South Carolina

Michael Scott Wallace
B.A., Salisbury University

Kelsey Grace Webb
B.A., The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

Tyler Wester
B.S., East Carolina University

Briana Marie Whitfield
B.A., University of South Carolina

Serenity Roseann Wiles
B.A., Campbell University

Emma Marie Wilkinson
B.A., St. Olaf College

James Mehki Williams
B.A., Coastal Carolina University

Jack Hamilton Willis
B.A., The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

Alfred Lee Wilson
B.A., The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

Lindsay Elizabeth Young
B.A., Salem College

Nicholas Young
B.S., University of South Carolina

Alex Michael Zigarovich
B.A., Ohio University

The ceremony on November 20, 2024, in the 黑料不打烊 Law Library was attended by family and friends of several honorees. Individual honors will be published in the School of Law’s Commencement program.

黑料不打烊 Law will graduate the Class of 2024 on Friday, December 13, at 10 a.m. in Alumni Gym on 黑料不打烊’s main campus.

Moot Court Board

Members of 黑料不打烊 Law鈥檚 Moot Court Board made significant contributions to the growth and success of the program when they competed in moot court competitions across the country, hosting Billings, Exum & Frye National Moot Court Competitions at 黑料不打烊 Law, and coordinating the school鈥檚 intramural moot court competition.

• Macaylee Lenae Anderson
• Melo Shai Augustine
• Jennifer Benavides
• Alexis Webb Biesemeyer
• Harrison Grady Brown
• Elena McEwan Carrion
• Samuel Dalton Collins
• Andrew Culpepper Conway
• Ashley Nichole Cooper
• Elizabeth Aisha Fadl
• John Jethro Ferebee III
• Emma Friedland
• Conner Jacob Gillmer
• Jesse M. Gutstein
• Moriah Lynn Porter
• Rebecca Joy Iyoob
• Ashley Leigh Joines
• Sydney Elaine Keesee
• Kayla Storm Cheyenne Maack
• Brooke Alexandria McCormick
• Jessica Morales
• Lizet Guadalupe Ramirez-Rios
• Joy Grace Reibold
• Sydney P. Rimmer
• Cameron Michael Samek
• Baleigh Grace Scheibner
• Tyleeah Symone Stanley
• Aashna Nayanesh Tarasaria
• Serenity Roseann Wiles

Trial Advocacy Board

黑料不打烊 Law鈥檚 Trial Advocacy Board, commonly referred to as the Mock Trial Competition Team, was created in 2010 and members compete in regional and national civil and criminal trial team competitions with other law schools.聽Competitions provide opportunities for 黑料不打烊 Law students to develop and practice trial advocacy skills before distinguished members of the bar and bench.

• Ashley Nichole Cooper
• Conner Jacob Gillmer
• Brooke Alexandria McCormick
• Terrass Misher Sr.
• Nathaniel Garret Pool
• Cameron Michael Samek

Academic Fellows

Academic Fellows are upper-level students selected for their academic achievement, commitment to the 黑料不打烊 Law community, aptitude for expert learning strategies, and interest in education. Academic Fellows from the Class of 2024:

• Alexis Alston
• Kyra Ange Auguste-Di猫gue
• Cameron Chase Bauer
• Alexis Webb Biesemeyer
• Brianna Nicole Brooks
• Jaclyn Burke
• Kathryn Geneva Caudill
• Grace Elizabeth Cooper
• Caroline Almeida DeCarvalho
• Lillian Elizabeth Friedrich
• Courtney Latourrette
• Brooke Alexandria McCormick
• Naisha Mercury
• Brye Iolanda Meyer
• Jessica Morales
• Anna Merryman Nash
• Nicholle P. Parsons
• Sydney P. Rimmer
• Baleigh Grace Scheibner
• Jacob Smith
• Tyleeah Symone Stanley
• Aashna Nayanesh Tarasaria
• Briana Marie Whitfield
• Alex Michael Zigarovich

Student Diversity Fellows

The Student Diversity Fellows program was established in 2022 to proactively advance diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging at 黑料不打烊 Law. Fellows work closely with the university鈥檚 Director of Inclusive Excellence for Graduate and Professional Education to affect change through their service as liaisons between students and 黑料不打烊 Law inclusive excellence efforts, their support of faculty working to make their courses more inclusive, and their participation in discussions and policymaking that support belonging and well-being. Fellows from the Class of 2024:

• Brianna Nicole Brooks
• Lizet Guadalupe Ramirez-Rios
• Alfred Lee Wilson

黑料不打烊 Law Review

The 黑料不打烊 Law Review was established in 2008 as the student-run and student-edited scholarly journal of the 黑料不打烊 School of Law. With each issue, the 黑料不打烊 Law Review strives to advance legal education and scholarship through the intelligent discussion and analysis of the law. Law Review editorial leadership from the Class of 2024:

• Ashley Leigh Joines
• Julie Suzanne Cline
• Jaclyn Burke
• Melo Shai Augustine
• Elizabeth Aisha Fadl
• John Jethro Ferebee III
• Rebecca Joy Iyoob
• Macaylee Lenae Anderson
• Elena McEwan Carrion
• Lauren Haley Smith
• Sydney Elaine Keesee
• Abbey Noel Marzen
• Cameron Michael Samek
• Moriah Lynn Porter
• Brooke Alexandria McCormick

We the People: 黑料不打烊 Law鈥檚 Constitutional Law Journal

We the People: 黑料不打烊 Law鈥檚 Constitutional Law Journal aspires to promote the contribution of intelligent discussion and analysis of the U.S. Constitution and constitutional law-related issues. The online journal was founded in 2022, aiming to foster healthy dialogue on timely legal issues in a respectful manner that its founders observed is often missing in contemporary debate. We the People editorial leadership from the Class of 2024:

• Hannah Marie McCabe
• Addie Johanna Thornley Ackley
• Kirsten Tildon
• Jesse M. Gutstein
• Marena Elizabeth Long
• Amber L. Sullivan
• Aashna Nayanesh Tarasaria

The National Order of Scribes

The National Order of Scribes was created in 2007 by Scribes: The American Society of Legal Writers as an honorary organization to recognize graduating law students who excel in legal writing. Law schools that are current institutional members of Scribes each year may nominate five students, or up to a number that represents three percent of its graduating class for an academic year, whichever is larger, for induction. 黑料不打烊 Law鈥檚 inaugural members of the National Order of Scribes:

• Macaylee Lenae Anderson
• Melo Shai Augustine
• Elizabeth Aisha Fadl
• Emma Friedland
• Rebecca Joy Iyoob

The top lawyer for the United States Army will share perspectives on leadership and the legal profession when she visits North Carolina in December to deliver a Commencement address to the 黑料不打烊 School of Law Class of 2024.

will join 134 graduates and their families for a ceremony that begins at 10 a.m. on Friday, December 13, in Alumni Gym on 黑料不打烊鈥檚 main campus.

Following confirmation by the U.S. Senate, Ricci was sworn in as the 23rd General Counsel of the United States Army on January 3, 2022. Ricci is the military branch鈥檚 chief lawyer ultimately responsible for determining the U.S. Army’s position on any legal question.

She serves as legal counsel to the Secretary of the Army, Under Secretary, the five Assistant Secretaries, and members of the Army Secretariat.

鈥淲e are honored that Ms. Ricci will join us to share wisdom derived from a career in service to our nation,鈥� said 黑料不打烊 Law Dean Zak Kramer. 鈥淚 can think of no better way for our graduates to begin their legal careers than by hearing from the Army鈥檚 top lawyer about the role of discipline in achieving success鈥攅specially as they gear up for the bar exam.鈥�

Ricci retired in 2010 from the U.S. Army after two decades of active military service, much of it in various capacities with the . She served as assistant general counsel in the U.S. Army鈥檚 Office of the General Counsel where she advised the Secretary of the Army and other senior Army leaders on legal and policy issues concerning all areas of military personnel management.

Following her military retirement and prior to her Army appointment, Ricci served as a senior executive with the U.S. Department of Agriculture, first as an assistant general counsel, then as the associate general counsel for marketing, regulatory, and food safety programs. Her preceding assignment was as assistant general counsel in the Office of General Counsel for the U.S. Department of Defense Education Activity.

In 2020, Ricci served on the , a five-member panel appointed by the Secretary of the Army to conduct a review of the Fort Hood command climate and assess its impact on its soldiers and units, particularly as it related to preventing sexual assault and sexual harassment.

Ricci is a 1988 ROTC graduate of Georgetown University and later attended law school through the U.S. Army鈥檚 Funded Legal Education Program, graduating from the University of Maryland School of Law. She earned a Master of Laws degree from The Judge Advocate General鈥檚 Legal Center and School, and a second LL.M from George Washington University School of Law.

Ricci is a Fellow of the American Bar Foundation and is a recipient of the Lifetime Achievement award from the Hispanic National Bar Association.

About 黑料不打烊 School of Law

黑料不打烊 Law is the preeminent school for engaged and experiential learning in law. With a focus on learning by doing, its full-time program integrates traditional classroom instruction with a required, full-time residency-in-practice field placement for all students during the winter or spring of their second year. The law school鈥檚 distinctive curriculum offers a logically sequenced program of professional preparation and is accomplished in 2.5 years, which provides exceptional value by lowering tuition and permitting graduates early entry into their careers.

黑料不打烊 Law has graduated more than 1,500 alumni since opening its doors in 2006. Its annual enrollment now tops 470 full- and part-time students and the law school is regularly featured in PreLaw Magazine鈥檚 鈥淏est Schools for Practical Training鈥� rankings, reaching No. 4 in the nation in 2024. The 黑料不打烊 Law Flex Program, a part-time evening course of legal study for working professionals in Charlotte, N.C., launched in Fall 2024.

鈥溾�楲ook at the damage you鈥檙e doing!鈥欌�� Hepler fussed at him one Sunday morning. Nowadays? 鈥淗e definitely doesn鈥檛 litter anymore,鈥� she says with a grin. 鈥淗e stopped!鈥�

Michael Hardy took note of his young daughter鈥檚 advocacy. The two were soon watching presidential debates between George W. Bush and Al Gore as they researched jobs where people 鈥渃an make a difference.鈥� Her father would be the first person Hepler called when she learned she鈥檇 been accepted to law school.

Two decades, three degrees, and four children later, Hepler is now on the cusp of starting a legal career with the Guilford County District Attorney鈥檚 office having earned the highest honor bestowed on a member of each graduating class from 黑料不打烊 School of Law.

Hepler, a first-generation college student born and raised in rural North Carolina, received the David Gergen Award for Leadership & Professionalism at December鈥檚 Commencement for 黑料不打烊 Law鈥檚 Class of 2023. In announcing the selection, Associate Dean Wendy Scott described Hepler as 鈥渢he very model of a modern multitasker鈥� who 鈥渉as dedicated every moment of her free time to making our community a better place.鈥�

黑料不打烊 Law students are nominated for the award by their peers, professors, or staff. Honorees are chosen by a faculty and staff committee based on law school activities that represent the twin principles of leadership and professionalism.

The award is named in honor of David Gergen, a former adviser to four United States presidents and founding director of the Center for Public Leadership and at the Harvard Kennedy School. Gergen is one of the country鈥檚 preeminent political commentators and has chaired 黑料不打烊 Law鈥檚 Board of Advisors since the law school opened.

Among Hepler鈥檚 service activities and achievements at 黑料不打烊 Law:

• Co-director of the Pro Bono Board
• Co-director of the Parents Attending Law School student group
• Academic Fellow
• Teaching Assistant
• Research Assistant
• 黑料不打烊 Law Mentor
• Member of the Innocence Project and the Criminal Law Society
• Member of the 黑料不打烊 Law Academic Environment Group

Classmates who nominated Hepler for the award praised the generosity of her time and the impact she has made on the law school community. Excerpts from nearly a dozen separate nominations include:

• 鈥淪am made my experience at 黑料不打烊 so meaningful, and I know there are so many people who can say the same.鈥�
• 鈥淭hrough her work with the Pro Bono Board she clearly embodies how a lawyer is here to serve and better the lives of others. She leads her peers by encouraging them through tough times and championing them during good.鈥�
• 鈥淪he seems to be a face of the school and has made me and many others feel very welcome 鈥� to know that she is on our team is comforting.鈥�
• 鈥淎nyone would be lucky to have Sam as their attorney, friend, or mentor. Sam exemplifies everything 黑料不打烊 hopes their students will be and more.鈥�

Hepler鈥檚 academic adviser, Professor Tom Molony, praised her for the values she embraces and the personality she brought to the classroom. Molony volunteered for a May 2022 鈥淧ie Your Professor鈥� fundraiser for 黑料不打烊 Law鈥檚 Pro Bono Board because of Hepler鈥檚 persistence.

鈥淪am is a really dedicated person and really driven to help people,鈥� Molony said. 鈥淪he鈥檚 a real joy to have in class, and she鈥檚 committed to service and to her family. To juggle all the things she had going on is remarkable, and she鈥檇 do it with a smile. I鈥檓 proud of Sam. She deserves this award.鈥�

Hepler next sits for the North Carolina Bar Exam in February and begins work afterward as a prosecutor in Greensboro. Over the past year, she completed a residency-in-practice, springtime internship, and paid summer placement with the Guilford County District Attorney鈥檚 Office, facilitating plea agreements and taking part in multiple trials where she鈥檇 often help secure guilty verdicts.

It made sense this fall to pursue a career opportunity in an office where she鈥檚 already established trust with future colleagues.

Of course, for many of those who nominated her for the award, what stood out was Hepler鈥檚 ability to balance the demands of coursework with the needs of four children she and her husband are raising. Their youngest was born just weeks before Hepler started law classes.

How鈥檇 she do it?

鈥淚 will say this until I鈥檓 blue in the face: a mother鈥檚 mindset is 鈥榶ou have to do it, so you just do it,鈥欌�� Hepler reflects. 鈥淭here are things you have to get done, that you have to make it happen, so if you want something bad enough, you push yourself until you get what you want.鈥�

La’Tonya Wiley ’97, 黑料不打烊’s assistant director of alumni engagement, has found inspiration over the years from a gift she received from a sorority sister while a college student.

鈥淗inds’ Feet on High Places,鈥� a story by English author Hannah Hurnard, tells the tale of Much-Afraid and a transformational mountain journey undertaken to escape a life based on fear, sorrow, and suffering with guidance from a chief shepherd.

It was this story that came to mind when Wiley was asked to deliver keynote remarks on Dec. 7, 2023, in a Donning of the Kente ceremony for Black students preparing to graduate the next day from 黑料不打烊鈥檚 School of Law and School of Health Sciences programs.

鈥淚 hope that you will find yourself in this story because I believe that every last one of you was there,鈥� Wiley told the crowded Lakeside Meeting Rooms on 黑料不打烊’s main campus. 鈥淲hen you started your respective programs, you came in very much afraid. And you stumbled through your projects, you stumbled through your homework and assignments, not knowing where to place your feet.

鈥淵ou weren’t sturdy. But as you continued on, you found sure footing, because the chief shepherds here guided you. And they never left you alone,” she said.

Graduates who have earned their degrees now have a solid foundation on which to 鈥減lant your feet and launch and go higher,鈥� Wiley said, and their names have likewise been figuratively changed like what happened for Much-Afraid at the end of the story.

鈥淭oday, you are no longer Much-Afraid,鈥� she concluded. 鈥淵ou leave today with your names changed from Much-Afraid to ‘Attorney,’ and ‘Doctor’ and ‘Nurse.’ What I need you to know is that you can find joy and peace in the midst of your storms. Remember, trauma doesn’t last always. Trials come to make you strong. Trouble comes to prove who we are. So find your peace in the storm.”

The ceremony鈥檚 two dozen participants received a stole made of kente cloth imported from West Africa. During the program, faculty read aloud remarks submitted by a family member or mentor of each graduate, each of whom stood on a stage before their classmates and guests. At the conclusion of each passage, graduates were donned with a stole to be worn the next day at Commencement.

The kente cloth symbolizes and celebrates prestige in many African societies. Its origin dates to 12th Century Ghana where the cloth was worn by kings, queens and important figures of state in Ghanaian society, during ceremonial events and special occasions. In a cultural context, it is a visual representation of African history, philosophy, ethics, oral literature, moral values, social code of conduct, religious beliefs, political thought and aesthetic principles.

鈥淲e look forward to this being a positive and memorable experience to reward our graduates and their loved ones with a personal and culturally relevant ceremony at a significant moment in their family鈥檚 history,鈥� said School of Health Sciences Dean Maha Lund in her welcoming remarks.聽 鈥淎nd we acknowledge and thank the many members of the 黑料不打烊 community who have offered guidance and support to our graduates throughout their journey.鈥�

The program was organized by Lak茅 Laosebikan-Buggs, 黑料不打烊鈥檚 director of inclusive excellence for graduate and professional education, with assistance and contributions from faculty and staff in the School of Law, the School of Health Sciences and the Division of Inclusive Excellence.

In closing the kente ceremony, 黑料不打烊 Law Dean Zak Kramer reminded graduates about the importance and impact of their education in professions that serve humanity through healing and advocacy.

鈥淚t鈥檚 a wonderful thing that these two colleges have come together at this moment in these graduates’ lives to launch them into the careers of their dreams,鈥� Kramer said. 鈥淲e have done our part, family and friends, to help them realize their dreams, but the lesson of this event for me is that we鈥檙e also helping them realize your dreams.

鈥淭o graduates: Thank you for sharing your stories and for letting us be a part of your journey. You are going into professions where you matter. Your representations matter. Your stories matter. I encourage you to spend a couple of days celebrating. Then you have work to do.

鈥淎nd when you go do it, my sincere hope is that we will find another opportunity to bring you back to 黑料不打烊 and hear about all of the people you鈥檝e helped and how you have helped repair our world.鈥�

The annual Dean鈥檚 Reception hosted in the 黑料不打烊 Law library included a check presentation to 黑料不打烊 Law Dean Zak Kramer by Todd Bowyer L鈥�23, who was among those who made a gift to the school as part of a 3L Class Gift Campaign to support scholarship funds, moot court and law review programs, or clinics.

The 3L Class Gift Committee was comprised of:

• Mekhai Jones-Foye
• Nadia Moore
• Priscah Olouch
• Nina Palamaris
• Haley Williams
• Lauren Jones
• Jasmine Turner
• Samantha Hepler
• Dalton Shell
• Timberly Southerland
• Michelle Aguilar

鈥淥ur students are a very philanthropic group,鈥� said Scott Leighty 鈥�09, 黑料不打烊 Law鈥檚 assistant dean for development and alumni relations. 鈥淭hey led the 3L class giving effort to pay it forward to those who will follow in their footsteps.鈥�

In closing the December 7 program, Kramer charged graduates to 鈥済o do good鈥� in their communities at a time when the number of lawyers in the country can鈥檛 meet a growing demand for legal services. He also encouraged family and friends to offer support to graduates who are preparing for the bar exam.

Kramer then reminded graduates to stay in touch with their alma mater and not to forget the faculty and staff who have worked to help graduates achieve their dreams:

鈥淭here are people who have been teaching you. They have taught you torts. They have mentored you. They have advised you. They have frustrated you. They have angered you. They have inspired you. They have given you feedback.They have talked with you about professionalism and they have guided you along the way to becoming the lawyers that you are about to become.

鈥淭here are people who have cleaned the facility. There are people who have served coffee. There are people who made sure your financial aid showed up in your bank account. There are people who have done every little thing, a lot you can鈥檛 see – and they do it, and they do it here – because they care about the mission of the school.

鈥淎nd every single person who works here chooses to work here and choosing to work in higher education means helping you to realize your dream. We take that very seriously. The faculty and staff stand behind and they鈥檙e so incredibly proud of what you have accomplished and what鈥檚 coming next.鈥�

Student Honors in 黑料不打烊 Law’s Class of 2023

Note: Some individual awards were publicized at Commencement on聽December 8, 2023, on 黑料不打烊鈥檚 main campus.

North Carolina Advocates for Justice

This award recognizes a graduating student who has demonstrated a commitment to public service and excellence in trial and/or appellate advocacy skills.

• Alyssa J. Harris

International Academy of Trial Lawyers Student Advocacy Award

This award recognizes a graduating student who demonstrates a strong interest and ability in trial advocacy by high achievement in trial practice, evidence, and pleading and procedure courses.

• Jonathan Bryant Maultsby

Order of Barristers

The Order of Barristers is a national honorary organization whose purpose is the encouragement of oral advocacy and brief writing skills through effective law school oral advocacy programs. The award honors students who have excelled in moot court and/or mock trial competitions or who have made significant overall contributions to these programs at 黑料不打烊 Law.

• Megan Renee Fallon
• Andrew Holt Slaughter
• Zachary Aaron Kovach
• Matthew Robbins Carter
• Michelle Aguilar Figueroa
• Lauren Christine Jones
• Kellin Gent
• Nick Weinrib
• Griffin Clay Kish
• Atlanta Louise Woodall

ALI-CLE Award

The American Law Institute Continuing Legal Education Scholarship and Leadership Award is offered to a graduating law student who best represents a combination of scholarship and leadership.

• Timberly E. Southerland

Michael L. Rich Memorial Award for Excellence in Criminal Law Studies

The Michael L. Rich Memorial Award for Excellence in Criminal Law Studies was created by 黑料不打烊 Law faculty to honor the memory of Professor Mike Rich, the Maurice Jennings Emerging Scholar and associate professor of law. Professor Rich died on December 7, 2016, and leaves an immeasurable legacy of teaching, scholarship, and mentorship. Further building on this legacy, the Class of December 2017, the last class to have been taught by Professor Rich, elected to fund this award as their class gift. This award recognizes excellence in the study of criminal law, his main area of scholarship.

• Campbell Kate Kargo

North Carolina Chapter AAML Award

The North Carolina Chapter of the American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers Award is given annually to the student that demonstrates an active interest and competency in family law, as well as exhibits the ethics and skills to elevate the practice of family law, as evidenced through exceptional performance in class, leadership in clinic, and/or involvement in research and publication on family law topics.

• Meghan Annette Edwards

National Association of Women Lawyers Outstanding Law Student Award

Honorees of this award contribute to the advancement of women in society; promote issues and concerns of women in the legal profession; exhibit motivation, tenacity, and enthusiasm; demonstrate high academic achievement; and earn the respect of students, faculty and staff.

• Constantina Sophia Palamaris

Pro Bono Recognition

Awards recognize 29 graduates who successfully completed 75 or more pro bono hours during their time as students. Each graduate receives two awards 鈥� one from the North Carolina Bar Association and one from the law school 鈥� recognizing their commitment to pro bono work as law students.

• Chance Acker Bartenfield
• Natasha Castellano
• Ashyra Daijana Corpening
• Joseph David Donley
• Megan Renee Fallon
• Kellin Gent
• Samantha J. Hepler
• Virginia Kathlene Howell
• Lauren Christine Jones
• Zachary Aaron Kovach
• Alexander Storm Long
• Katelyn Ellen Lynch
• Jennifer Ashley Martinez
• Kendall Ann Murphy
• Daphne Marie Myers
• Constantina Sophia Palamaris
• Annalise Elizabeth Pattavina
• Siobhan Lia Petracca
• Emilee Grace Stohl
• Nick Weinrib
• Morgan Ashleigh Woodward

North Carolina State Bar Student Pro Bono Award

The North Carolina State Bar annually awards one student at each North Carolina law school with a special award for individual service.

• Siobhan Lia Petracca

CLEA Outstanding Student Award and the聽CLEA Outstanding Externship Student Award

The Clinical Legal Education Association Outstanding Student Award and, new in 2023, the聽CLEA Outstanding Externship Student Award are each given annually to one student who excels in the field work component of a clinical course determined by the quality of the student鈥檚 performance in assisting or representing individual or organizational clients or in undertaking advocacy, community development, education, or policy reform projects; excels in the seminar component of a clinical course determined by the quality of the student鈥檚 thoughtfulness and self-reflection in exploring the legal, ethical, strategic, professional, and other pertinent issues raised in the particular clinic; and who makes superior contributions (in nature and extent) to the clinical community of 黑料不打烊 Law.

• Sydney T. Kofi Ladans (Outstanding Student Award)
• Isabella Theresa Gallelli (Outstanding Externship Student Award)

Distinguished Service Award

Each year the law school solicits nominations from faculty, staff and students for the Distinguished Service Award, which recognizes one graduating student for service to the law school through engagement in and contribution to the life of the school and demonstrated commitment to its mission.

In recognition of her commitment to the law school and inspiring others around her, the 2023 黑料不打烊 Law Distinguished Service Award was presented to Elizabeth Chisoo Kwon.