Student Organizations

Access to 10 academic journals and more than 70 student organizations, from social clubs to legal aid groups, ensures that students explore the world outside law school and expand their legal experiences while leading well-rounded lives.

All rooms are in Slaughter Hall. Email corrections and updates to @email.

Advocates for Life at Virginia Law (AFL) - AFL brings together law students eager to protect the fundamental right to life and fosters balanced and open discussion about the issue in the legal community. AFL educates and trains law students about the jurisprudence of a pro-life ethic, the attacks on the right to life and the best strategies to protect women and children from abortion and the vulnerable from embryo-destructive research, assisted suicide and euthanasia. By building a culture of courage and support among pro-life law students and lawyers, AFL promotes a legal environment that values and upholds the dignity of human life.

  • Advocates for Life (AFL) President: Rebecca Fisher, @email 

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Agape Christian Fellowship for All - Agape is a Christian legal fellowship that seeks to uphold the two greatest commandments: to love God and to love others. Agape is an affirming and inclusive community, paying particular attention to those who have been traditionally marginalized by American Christian culture. We are committed to growing together in our faith as we seek to be better Christians, friends, community members, and law students.

  • Agape President: Laura Grace King, @email 

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American Constitution Society - The American Constitution Society for Law and Policy is a national organization of law students, law professors, practicing lawyers and others. The society aims to help revitalize and transform the legal debate, from law school classrooms to federal courtrooms, and to counter the dominant vision of American law today. The society seeks to restore the fundamental principles of respect for human dignity, protection of individual rights and liberties, genuine equality and access to justice to their rightful — and traditionally central — place in American law. For more information on the national organization, please visit www.acslaw.org. Room SL192B

  • American Constitution Society (ACS) President: Macallan Cruff, @email 

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Antitrust Law Forum - The Antitrust Law Forum brings together students across the Law School with academic and professional interests in antitrust and related fields. ALF offers the law school community a forum to discuss antitrust issues, raises awareness of antitrust opportunities, and brings antitrust speakers and practitioners to Grounds.

  • Antitrust Law Forum (ALF) Co-President: Mary Katherine McCullough, @email 
  • Antitrust Law Forum (ALF) Co-President: Zach Mendelovici, @email 

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Asian Pacific American Law Students Association (APALSA) - APALSA provides an academic and social network for the Asian-American law students at UVA; promotes the welfare of its members through educational, professional, cultural and social programs; and reaches out to the Law School community on local and national issues pertaining to Asian-Americans. Room SL158E.

  • Asian Pacific American Law Students Association (APALSA) President: Vivian Zheng, @email 

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Barristers United - Barristers United organizes recreational pick-up soccer games and represents UVA Law in the Soccer Organization of Charlottesville-Albemarle (SOCA). The club consists of law students and professors of all skill levels. In addition to organizing weekly pickup sessions, which are open to all law students and professors, we have taken home the championship in each of our last several SOCA unrestricted league seasons. Members also attend UVA soccer games and host watch events for professional club and international matches. Barristers is soccer’s home at the law school with the goal of building relationships and offering something for the casual fan and the competitive player.

  • Barristers United President/Captain: Jonathan McCutchen, @email 

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Black Law Students Association (BLSA) - BLSA represents the views of black students at the School of Law; promotes the welfare of its members through educational, professional, cultural and social programs; and provides a forum for the discussion of local and national issues affecting both the black law student community and the University community as a whole. For more information, visit www.uvablsa.org. Room SL192A

  • Black Law Students Association (BLSA) President: Derek Collins,  @email 

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Child Advocacy Research and Education -CARE brings together students interested in taking a legal approach to issues affecting children, including education, juvenile justice, foster care, and immigration. Through partnerships with faculty and local and national children’s law and advocacy organizations, CARE members learn about (and participate in) direct representation of children and broader systemic change through policy research and advocacy. CARE also spearheads the Street Law program, in which law students teach local grade school students about substantive legal issues. The program introduces students to the law and legal professions and educates them about their rights and responsibilities, and also encourages a connection between UVA Law and the Charlottesville community.

  • Child Advocacy Research and Education (CARE) President: Tessa Fries, @email 

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Common Law Grounds - Common Law Grounds is a student-faculty group whose mission is to encourage discussion and debate among students and faculty across the ideological spectrum with the goal of identifying and articulating areas of agreement about core values and practices; isolating points of substantive disagreement while also looking for common ground; and fostering a culture of open and civil dialogue about legal and political issues. The group pursues these goals not under the naive impression that compromise on important questions of policy is always possible or even desirable. Rather, members do so out of a conviction that for a constitutional democracy to survive and thrive, citizens — especially lawyer-citizens — must remain as attuned to what they have in common as they are to what divides them.

  • Common Law Grounds President: Justin Heywood, @email 

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Domestic Violence Project (DVP) - The Domestic Violence Project is a law student pro bono, education, and awareness project. DVP addresses the problem of domestic violence both directly (through pro bono service) and indirectly (through educational efforts to raise awareness and understanding of the issue). DVP educates the Law School community about issues of domestic and intimate partner violence through speakers, discussion panels, films and other events. DVP volunteers assist the Commonwealth's Attorney Offices of Charlottesville and of Albemarle in their prosecution of domestic violence cases by conducting evidence review through the Commonwealth's Attorney's Project (CAP). In addition, DVP participants volunteer with local non-profits and community organizations throughout Charlottesville.

  • Domestic Violence Project (DVP) President: Alli Dayton, @email 

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Extramural Moot Court - The Extramural Moot Court team is the official Moot Court Team of the University of Virginia School of Law.  The team competes in a variety of moot court competitions across the country in subjects like constitutional law, national security law, labor and employment, criminal procedure, family law, sports law and intellectual property. As a member of the team, you will strengthen your leadership, brief writing and oral advocacy skills.  

  • Extramural Moot Court Co-President: Cole Cunov, @email 
  • Extramural Moot Court Co-President: Madhavi Subramaniam, @email 

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Federalist Society - The Federalist Society for Law and Public Policy Studies promotes awareness and application of the following principles: that the state exists to preserve freedom, that the separation of governmental powers is central to the U.S. Constitution and that it is the duty of the judiciary to say what the law is, not what it should be. Room SL192B

  • Federalist Society President: Andrew Odell, @email 

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Graduate Law Students Association - GLSA is the representative body for all LL.M. and S.J.D. candidates and exchange students. It organizes social functions for its members and represents their interests with the faculty and administration. 

  • Graduate Law Students Association (GLSA) President: Mauricio Palmero, @email 

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Health Law Association - The Health Law Association is open to all law, LL.M., medical, graduate and undergraduate students. Its purposes are to explain what health law is, to give students a better view of the different areas of health law, to introduce types of available classes and to promote a healthy environment. The group sponsors many speakers and seminars in the health law field throughout the year and organizes social activities with medical and other graduate students. Association members also participate in pro bono activities with the UVA Medical Center.

  • Health Law Association President: Himani Gubbi, @email 

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If/When/How: Lawyering for Reproductive Justice at UVA Law - If/When/How is a pro-choice, pro-information student organization that educates, organizes and supports law students to ensure that a new generation of advocates will be prepared to protect and expand reproductive rights as basic civil and human rights. It is the organization’s position that reproductive justice will exist when all people can exercise the rights and access the resources they need to thrive and to decide if, when and how to create and sustain their families with dignity and free from discrimination, coercion or violence.

  • If/When/How President: Audrey Felton, @email 

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Immigration Law Society - The Immigration Law Society (ILS) provides a community for students to interact and prepare for a career in immigration law together. As part of its mission, ILS connects students with career development resources, pro bono projects, and advocacy opportunities related to the field of immigration law.

  • Immigration Law Society President: Laura Kun, @email 

International Tax Practicum/Moot Court - The International and European Tax Moot Court Team at UVA competes in an annual international tax competition in Belgium. Throughout the year, members prepare both an oral and written advocacy component. The team also emphasizes education and skills development. In the fall semester especially, the team focuses on honing advocacy skills, learning how to write and cite briefs for a European audience, and learning basic skills regarding tax treaties.

  • International Tax Practicum/Moot Court President: Jacob Cohen, @email 

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International Refugee Assistance Project - The International Refugee Assistance Project (IRAP) is a global legal aid and advocacy organization working to create a world where refugees and all people seeking safety are empowered to claim their right to freedom of movement and a path to lasting refuge. Since its founding in 2008, IRAP has provided free legal aid to over 40,000 displaced people from over 100 different countries and has trained over 6,000 law students and lawyers in the process. UVA Law is one of IRAP’s 26 student chapters across the United States and Canada, and it won “Best New Chapter” in 2019 at the annual IRAP Student Summit.

  • International Refugee Assistance Project (IRAP) Co-President: Allegra D'Virgilio, @email 
  • International Refugee Assistance Project (IRAP) Co-President: Megan Schaefer, @email 

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JD/MBA Society - The JD/MBA Society serves as a focal point for communication between JD/MBA students and the law and business school administrations, as well as the faculty, student body, alumni and prospective students of the schools. The organization promotes the exchange of information and advice among JD/MBAs; improves the functioning of the JD/MBA program; and sponsors events and activities that promote interaction among the law and business school communities. The JD/MBA Society welcomes all students.

  • JD/MBA Society President: Cory Sachs, @email 

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Jewish Law Students Association (JLSA) - JLSA provides cultural, educational and social programming for Jewish law students, and serves as a resource for the rest of the Law School. Room SL156D

  • Jewish Law Students Association (JLSA) President: Thomas Wolfson, @email 

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John Bassett Moore Society of International Law (J.B. Moore) - The John Basset Moore Society of International Law (J.B. Moore Society) is dedicated to furthering the study of international law at the University of Virginia, providing a forum for law students with an interest in international affairs to meet and discuss issues in international law, and sponsoring social and academic events that further these goals. Room SL192B

  • J.B. Moore Society President: Emma Verges, @email 

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Korean American Law Student Association (KALSA) - KALSA serves as a community space organized to represent the views of Korean American students at the University of Virginia School of Law; promote the welfare of its members through educational, professional, cultural and social programs; and provide a discussion forum for Korean American law students.

  • Korean American Law Student Association (KALSA) President: Stephanie Kim, @email 

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Lambda Law Alliance - Lambda Law Alliance provides a network for members of the LGBTQ+ community at the Law School, as well as their families and allies. The organization focuses on three main areas: professional development, advocacy, and community engagement. To that end, Lambda connects students with queer attorneys in public and private practices; promotes advocacy and pro bono opportunities; and helps to form queer friendship and allyship across class years. In addition, Lambda seeks to highlight legal issues relevant to the community at the Law School, in Charlottesville, and in Virginia more broadly.

  • Lambda Law Alliance President: John Lim, @email 

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Latin American Law Organization (LALO) - LALO is an inclusive student group that provides a sense of community and unites Latinx law students. The organization is founded on principles of social, ethnic, racial, gender and sexual equality, which informs members’ commitment to highlighting and addressing legal issues affecting the Hispanic/Latinx community nationally and internationally. LALO strives to be a center for student resources, dialogue and action to advance Latinx academic and professional success. In addition to sociocultural programming, LALO maintains a strong commitment to community service through its sponsorship of the Migrant Farmworker Project and ad hoc volunteering opportunities in Virginia. The organization aspires to inform, excite and empower generations of Latinx law students so that they may be responsive to the legal needs of the communities that surround them.

  • Latin American Law Organization (LALO) President: Brie Bauer, @email 
     

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Law Christian Fellowship (LCF) - LCF is a nondenominational Christian fellowship dedicated to understanding the person and claims of Jesus Christ. LCF remains uniquely committed to presenting Christianity to the Law School and the surrounding Charlottesville community through fellowship, service, and outreach. Room SL158A.

  • Law Christian Fellowship (LCF) President: Eric Meinerding, @email 

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Law, Innovation, Security & Technology (LIST) - LIST focuses on the novel legal, policy and business problems caused by the recent proliferation of emerging technologies. It educates students about issues in the area; prepares them with practical skills and experience to enter the legal workforce; connects them to a network of mentors, experts and resources; and collaborates with the policy, business and technology communities. Recent areas of focus have included cyber crime, net neutrality and autonomous vehicles, among others.

  • Law, Innovation, Security & Technology (LIST) President: Will Klink, @email 

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Law Republicans at UVA - The Law Republicans at UVA promotes a welcoming environment for political discourse. The organization focuses on presenting conservative viewpoints at UVA, ensuring mutual respect for Republicans ideas, and supporting local, state, and federal Republican candidates running for office.

  • Law Republicans at UVA President: Jack Younes, @email 

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Legal Advisory Workshops for Undergraduate Students (LAW for US) - LAW for US is a mentoring program for undergraduate students run by Law School students. Access to personal mentors through the application process is valuable, especially when those mentors are current law school students who have recently been “through the fire.” Mentors guide these undergraduates in LSAT preparation, choosing a good law school, arranging for letters of recommendation, understanding the logistics of LSAC’s website, tailoring undergraduate courses to prepare for law school and specialty areas and more. LAW For US supplements individual mentorship relationships with admissions panels and social events throughout the year.

  • LAW for US President: Cindy Tran, @email 

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Legal Research Forum - The Legal Research Forum is a student-run organization committed to supporting law students in their research endeavors and fostering a spirit of intellectual curiosity. Their mission is to provide a platform where students can engage in meaningful and in-depth exploration of legal issues, contributing to the body of legal knowledge and the broader academic discourse. The Forum's work focuses on four key areas: research workshops, guest speakers and panels, research support, and publication and dissemination.

  • Legal Research Forum President: Marilyn Hajj, @email 

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The Libel Show - The Libel Show is an annual theatrical production which has been humoring the Law School since 1908 (making us the longest running student organization on campus). Each year the Show lampoons professors and life at the Law School through a variety of impersonations, song parodies and skits. The Libel Show's mission is to do everything within its power to help the Law School community enjoy raucous laughter. Most of the show's work takes place in the spring semester. About 200 students write, sing, act, dance and work as run crew on the show. All law students are welcome, regardless of whether they have experience in theater. Room SL192D

  • Libel Show Co-Producer: Lydia Ho, @email 
  • Libel Show Co-Producer: Kathleen Samuelson, @email 

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Lone Star Lawyers - Lone Star Lawyers works to create a network for students interested in the Texas legal market by connecting them with employers, alumni and fellow students working in the state. LSL helps students find employment opportunities in Texas and provide a social atmosphere for students interested in Texas and alumni working in Texas to interact.

  • Lone Star Lawyers Co-President: Miller Bacon, @email 
  • Lone Star Lawyers Co-President: Connor Ford

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Middle Eastern and North African Law Student Association (MENA) - MENA seeks to create a community of people with Middle Eastern and North African descent at UVA’s Law School. Such a community grants members the opportunity to engage with one another in professional and legal settings while also providing a forum to connect around culture and heritage.

  • Middle Eastern and North African Law Student Association (MENA) President: Lea Iskander, @email 

Midwestern Wahoos - Midwestern Wahoos is an organization for students who are from the Midwest, are interested in practicing in the Midwest, or both. The purpose of the group is part social: connecting students from the Midwest; and part career-oriented: connecting and networking with employers across the Midwest. All students are welcome. The largest market Midwestern Wahoos serves is Chicago, but members are interested in markets across the Midwest, including Minneapolis, Columbus, Kansas City and more. Wherever members are interested in, the organization is happy to act as the intermediary for networking in those markets.

  • Midwestern Wahoos Co-President: James Brennan, @email 
  • Midwestern Wahoos Co-President: Brenda Chen, @email 

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Mock Trial at UVA Law - The Mock Trial Association is the official Mock Trial Team at the University of Virginia School of Law. Mock Trial provides an opportunity for law students to hone their trial advocacy skills, receive training from skilled attorneys, and represent the School of Law in nationwide mock trial competitions. Please reach out to Ananya Murthy if you have any questions or interest in joining the Mock Trial Team. 

  • Mock Trial at UVA Law President: Ananya Murthy, @email 

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Muslim Law Students Association (MLSA) - Muslim Law Students Association (MLSA) - MLSA provides religious, educational, and social programming to foster a sense of community at the Law School for Muslim students (of all sects and levels of faith) while aiming to increase awareness of the legal issues pertinent to Muslims in America and abroad.

  • Muslim Law Students Association (MLSA) President: Sami Islam, @email 

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National Lawyers Guild - NLG seeks to unite the lawyers, law students, legal workers, and jailhouse lawyers to function as an effective force in the service of the people, to the end that human rights shall be regarded as more sacred than property interests. NLG at UVA Law seeks to support marginalized voices at the law school and the larger Charlottesville community. The organization aims to bring together all those who recognize the importance of safeguarding and extending the rights of workers, women, farmers, people with disabilities, and people of color, upon whom the welfare of the entire nation depends; who seek actively to eliminate racism; who work to maintain and protect our civil rights and liberties in the face of persistent attacks upon them; and who look upon the law as an instrument for the protection of the people, rather than for their repression.

  • National Lawyers Guild (NLG) Co-President: Francesca Clemente, @email 
  • National Lawyers Guild (NLG) Co-President: Emmy Pilant, @email 

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National Security Law Forum- The student-led National Security Law Forum connects UVA law students with national security law and broader government issues by hosting distinguished speakers, educating students about career opportunities and facilitating student work on national security problems during law school. The forum seeks to produce the next generation of national security law leaders by engaging the school's outstanding faculty, alumni network and connections with the national security community.

  • National Security Law Forum President: Olivia Sanusi, @email 

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North Grounds Softball League (NGSL) - NGSL runs softball at the Law School and is responsible for organizing a tournament in the spring, the University of Virginia School of Law Softball Invitational. In the 2024-25 school year, the 42nd Annual Softball Invitational welcomed 80-plus teams from more than 40 schools nationwide and raised $45,000 for ReadyKids, a local non-profit providing the Charlottesville area with counseling, family support and early learning opportunities for disadvantaged children. Room SL158B; www.ngsl.com

  • North Grounds Softball League (NGSL) Head Commissioner: Buddy Palmer, @email 

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North Grounds Track Club (NGTC) - North Grounds Track Club is the law school’s running club. We welcome runners of all backgrounds and experience to join us in creating a lifelong relationship with fitness and wellness for law students. We offer weekly light runs, speed work, and long runs as well as have two dedicated workout coordinators who tailor training plans to your running goals. We host cooking classes and pasta dinners and work to foster an inclusive running community at the law school.  

  • North Grounds Track Club (NGTC) President: Jessa Podell, @email 

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Outdoors at VA Law (OVAL) - Outdoors at Virginia Law is committed to enhancing the law school experience by organizing local outdoor excursions such as nature walks, hikes, caving, rafting, climbing, skiing and snow-shoeing. OVAL aims to help students achieve a balanced approach to life and the study of law.

  • Outdoors at VA Law (OVAL) President: Tom Fiengold, @email 

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Older Wiser Law Students (OWLS) -  The OWLS at UVA strive to enhance the experience of nontraditional law students by organizing social events, facilitating mentorship, arranging networking opportunities, and holding other events that uniquely benefit members. While OWLS’ core focus is students who come to UVA Law with professional/life experience between undergrad and law school, the organization is open to all. Old souls, friends, spouses, partners and significant others are welcome as OWLS!   

  • Older Wiser Law Students (OWLS) Co-President: Natasha Wissmann, @email 
  • Older Wiser Law Students (OWLS) Co-President: Amanda Bennett, @email 

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Patent Law Society for Litigators, Agents, and Prosecutors (Patent Law SLAPs) -  The Patent Law Society for Litigators, Agents, and Prosecutors (Patent Law SLAPs) seeks to provide a comprehensive understanding of patent law. Patents have been an integral part of American society for over two centuries, but many people have either never heard of patents or they fail to understand their importance in daily life. In addition to informing others of the historical significance of patents (and patent law), Patent Law SLAPs seeks to provide information on (i) how to obtain a patent, (ii) the steps behind patent prosecution, (iii) how patent infringement suits are performed, and (iv) how to find a job in patent law following law school.

  • Patent Law SLAPs President: Errick Mah, @email 

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Peer Advisors - The Peer Advisors (PAs) serve to help acclimate 1L and LL.M. students into life at the University of Virginia School of Law. The PAs are designed to function as a community-building space for 1Ls and LL.M.s from all backgrounds, and members of the organization will do so by providing mentorship, peer support, and guidance to the 1L and LL.M. class each year.

  • Peer Advisors Co-Director: Shekina Medalla, @email 
  • Peer Advisors Co-Director: Morgan Gibbs, @email 

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Philip C. Jessup International Moot Court Team - Each year law students compete in the Philip C. Jessup International Moot Court Competition, the largest moot court competition in the world, with over 100 countries and 500 law schools participating. The competition simulates a dispute before the International Court of Justice and participating students gain expertise in both public and private international law. Selection for the Jessup Team is based upon a formal tryout and an interview.

  • Philip C. Jessup International Moot Court President: Katherine Metheny, @email 

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Plaintiffs' Law Association at the University of Virginia (PLAVA) - PLAVA's mission is to prepare the next generation of advocates who may be interested in plaintiffs'-side litigation. Our goals are to educate the Law School community on different varieties of plaintiffs'-side practices and to provide law students with recruiting opportunities from firms representing plaintiffs. We are committed to connecting current practitioners to our student body, and inquiries can be sent to the President's email listed below.

  • Plaintiffs' Law Association at the University of Virginia (PLAVA) President: James Pierpoint, @email 

Public Interest Law Association (PILA) - PILA promotes and supports public interest law among UVA students. PILA provides fellowships to students who accept volunteer or low-paying summer internships in public service, educates the Law School community about public interest law, and serves as a support network for students interested in the public sector. Room SL158D

  • Public Interest Law Association (PILA) Co-President: Shelby Wolfe, @email 
  • Public Interest Law Association (PILA) Co-President: Matt Steelberg, @email 

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Rex E. Lee Law Society (RELLS) - RELLS is a community of members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (Mormons) and others who strive to incorporate a perspective of faith into the study and practice of law. The organization promotes high ethical and moral values, provides assistance and information to those interested in studying at UVA Law, and serves as a resource for the Law School community. RELLS is a chapter of the J. Reuben Clark Law Society.

  • Rex E. Lee Law Society (RELLS) President: Braden Critchfield, @email 

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Rivanna Investments - Rivanna Investments (“Rivanna”) is an investment management organization run by students at the University of Virginia School of Law. The goal of Rivanna is to promote opportunities for UVA Law students to learn about financial concepts through educational activities and by managing a live investment portfolio. Rivanna was founded in 2010 with seed capital from the Law School Foundation. As of April 1, 2025, Rivanna manages a portfolio of U.S. equities totaling more than $300,000.

  • Rivanna Investments President: Cory Sachs, @email 

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Rural Law Students Association (RLSA) - The Rural Law Students Association at UVA works to provide a forum to discuss legal issues unique to rural areas; build a network for UVA law students from or interested in practicing in rural communities; and encourage UVA law students to undertake pro bono/community service in legal deserts.

  • Rural Law Students Association (RLSA) Co-President: Miller Bacon, @email 
  • Rural Law Students Association (RLSA) Co-President: Katelyn Brunson, @email 

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South Asian Law Students Association - South Asian Law Students Association (SALSA) was established with the purpose of representing the views of South Asian and South Asian American students at the University of Virginia School of Law. SALSA aims to promote the welfare of its members through educational, professional, cultural and social programs. We hope to provide a forum for the discussion of issues affecting South Asian American law students and the University community as a whole. All are welcome to join and learn more about the South Asian community at UVA Law.

  • South Asian Law Students Association (SALSA) President: Himani Gubbi, @email 

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Southeastern Wahoos - Southeastern Wahoos seeks to provide a space for students interested in the Southeast, both professionally and personally, to interact with employers, alumni, and fellow students. Southeastern Wahoos offers both career-oriented events aimed at helping students find job opportunities in the Southeast and social events with fellow students.

  • Southeastern Wahoos President: Will Ezzell, @email 

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St. Thomas More Society - The St. Thomas More Society is UVA’s Catholic outreach organization. The society provides spiritual and social support to the Catholic population of the Law School, and those interested in the Catholic faith; promotes the spiritual growth of members through catechesis, prayer and community service programs; and ensures that Catholic graduates of UVA are imbued with a knowledge of the law that is shaped and strengthened by the Catholic faith. Room SL158A

  • St. Thomas More Society President: Rebecca Fisher, @email 

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Student Legal Forum (SLF) - Founded in 1947, the Student Legal Forum seeks to create a forum to stimulate education, debate, and participation in important issues of general interest, including legal, political, economic, and foreign affairs. In doing this, the Student Legal Forum attempts to introduce notable individuals to our academic community. High-profile politicians, judges, actors, writers, and activists have all delivered remarks at the student organization’s request, such as: Former President Harry S. Truman addressed the Law School after leaving office; future President John F. Kennedy spoke as a member of the U.S. House of Representatives (invited by his younger brother and Student Legal Forum member, Robert F. Kennedy '51); Vice President Spiro T. Agnew, who was under investigation for corruption, spoke just months before his resignation; and others, such as director Oliver Stone and actress Whoopi Goldberg, spoke from their perspectives as entertainers and social commentators.

  • Student Legal Forum Co-President: Miles Cooper, @email 
  • Student Legal Forum Co-President: Kirk Wolff, @email 

Virginia Animal Law Society (VALS) - Virginia Animal Law Society provides a forum for education, advocacy, and scholarship aimed at advancing the rights and welfare of animals. Throughout the year, VALS hosts speakers, panels, and volunteering events at local animal sanctuaries. We welcome anyone who cares about improving the rights and welfare of animals!

  • Virginia Law Animal Society (VALS) Co-President: Zoe Lebovic, @email 
  • Virginia Law Animal Society (VALS) Co-President: Danny Malik, @email 

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Virginia Disability Law Association (DLA) - Virginia Disability Law Association is a fun and inclusive community for students of all abilities. DLA strives to engage any students interested in disability law, support disabled people and their loves ones, and create an accessible community for all students.

  • Virginia Disability Law Association (DLA) President: Salaar Khan, @email 

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Virginia Employment and Labor Law Association (VELLA) - VELLA educates the student body about the field of labor and employment law and provides a community for students interested in labor and employment paths. VELLA programming includes career development, alumni networking, and pro bono opportunities. This group is also responsible for LSAP, the Law Student Advocacy Project.

  • Virginia Employment and Labor Law Association (VELLA) President: Darren Manion, @email 

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Virginia Environmental Law Forum (VELF) - VELF provides a forum for law students interested in environmental issues and incorporating sustainable practices into their daily lives and careers. Throughout the year, the organization hosts events on topics such as climate change, energy, land use, natural resources and environmental justice, featuring leading experts in these fields. VELF also provides a social sphere for pro bono work, networking and the occasional outing at a local Charlottesville establishment celebrating the planet's continued survival. Room SL158C

  • Virginia Environmental Law Forum (VELF) President: Jack Magner, @email 

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Virginia International Arbitration Society (VIAS) - VIAS is dedicated to promoting international arbitration at the University of Virginia by facilitating discussion about it among students, academics, and practitioners, mainly through sponsoring events and workshops and competing in the Willem C. Vis International Commercial Arbitration Moot (Vis Moot), the second-largest moot court competition in the world. VIAS provides professional, academic, and social support for students interested in international arbitration and dispute resolution. To that end, VIAS trains members to compete in the Vis Moot, connects them to a network of mentors, scholars, and resources, and provides them with a platform to engage with cutting-edge issues in international arbitration.

  • Virginia International Arbitration Society (VIAS) President: Julian Heske, @email 

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Virginia Law & Business Society - Founded in 1981, the Virginia Law & Business Society is the oldest and largest student-run organization devoted exclusively to corporate law and business. The society sponsors a variety of academic, professional and social activities for students interested in careers in law and business.

  • Virginia Law & Business Society President: Catherine Hall, @email 

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Virginia Law Emerging Companies and Venture Capital Society (ECVC) - The Emerging Companies and Venture Capital Society (ECVC) is a dynamic student organization advancing knowledge and opportunities for those interested in pursuing the corporate/transactional side of practicing law. We focus on emerging companies, venture capital, M&A, and private equity through speaker series, networking events, and hands-on learning experiences. Our signature annual Transactional Law Competition gives students practical exposure to deal-making scenarios, while our educational events and mentorship programs help build crucial skills for future business lawyers.

  • ECVC President: Grayden Wolfe, @email 

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Virginia Law Families & Partners - Virginia Law Families & Partners serves as an outlet to bring together law students and their partners to foster friendships and provide engaging programs. VLFP is committed to providing a safe, inclusive, and fun-filled space for families and partnerships to meet, interact, and fellowship. The society supports and promotes the interests of students facing the challenges of attending law school while raising children. Issues of specific concern include childcare, medical resources and family activities or community events, with particular emphasis on low-cost options to help those on a tight budget. VLFP also supports the Law School admissions staff by encouraging individuals with families and partners to apply for admission and attend the Law School, and by serving as an information resource for potential attendees. Room SL156b

  • Virginia Law Families & Partners President: Finn McGillivray, @email

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Virginia Law First-Generation Professionals - Virginia Law First-Generation Professionals - Virginia Law First-Generation Professionals focuses on facilitating the transition and integration of first-generation college students, professional students, Americans and students from low-income or working-class communities into UVA Law and the legal profession. Through programming aimed at addressing barriers that exist to advancement in the legal profession, the organization hopes to make the profession a more inclusive space for students of diverse backgrounds and let first-generation students know and feel that they are supported at UVA Law.

  • Virginia Law First-Generation Professionals President: Brendan McGovern, @email 

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Virginia Law Games and Recreation Society - Formerly the Volleyball Club at UVA Law.  The UVA Law Games and Recreation Society aims to build community through shared interests in sports and games.

  • Virginia Law Games and Recreation Society President: Timothy Patawaran, @email 

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Virginia Law Golf Society (VLGS)-The Virginia Law Golf Society provides law students with an opportunity to build business and networking skills through the sport of golf. VLGS fosters a welcoming community where members can connect with peers while developing proficiency in a sport widely regarded as a valuable tool for professional networking. Open to all skill levels, the society offers a supportive environment for learning, improving, and enjoying the game.

  • Virginia Law Golf Society (VLGS) President: Kirk Wolff, @email 

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Virginia Law Prison Project - The project is a student organization dedicated to scholarship, education, and advocacy at the intersection of prison, abolition and the law. VLPP is a dedicated space for students interested in public defense, civil rights work, and other criminal legal reform efforts. VLPP sponsors speaking events, pro bono experiences and educational opportunities on correctional practices and policy.

  • Virginia Law in Prison Project (VLPP) President: Emmy Pilant, @email 

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Virginia Law Rod & Gun Club - The Rod & Gun Club seeks to promote America's traditions of hunting, fishing, archery and marksmanship within the Law School. The club provides opportunities for members and non-members alike to participate in exciting, educational hunting, fishing and shooting-range trips. Further, the Rod & Gun Club advocates within the Law School for the rights of sportsmen and gun owners. Room SL158B

  • Virginia Law Rod & Gun Club Co-President: Jim Brennan, @email 
  • Virginia Law Rod & Gun Club Co-President: Andrew Bender, @email 

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Virginia Law Ski and Snowboard Society (VLSASS) - The Virginia Law Ski and Snowboard Society brings together students to enjoy the camaraderie and excitement of skiing and snowboarding. VLSASS organizes local day trips, weekend getaways, and longer excursions during Winter and Spring Break, catering to everyone from beginners to seasoned skiers and snowboarders. Whether you’re looking to learn, improve your skills, or simply enjoy a fun winter activity with friends, VLSASS welcomes all levels of interest and experience.

  • Virginia Law Ski and Snowboard Society President: Charles Lea, @email 

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Virginia Law Veterans - Virginia Law Veterans shares information about veterans’ benefits and issues; sponsors speakers on issues of concern to the veteran and military community; encourages public interest in, and pro bono work on, issues related to the welfare and interests of military personnel and veterans; identifies members of the Law School community who, based on previous military experience, can serve as information resources for anyone conducting research on national security or international law and policy issues; provides support to Law School admissions staff by encouraging military veterans and active-duty personnel to attend the Law School; and promotes social interaction between the diverse population of military and Coast Guard veterans, active duty, national guard and reserve personnel at the Law School. Membership is open to anyone with no requirement of any past or present tie to the military. Room SL192E

  • Virginia Law Veterans President: Connor Leech, @email 

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Virginia Law Weekly - The Virginia Law Weekly has been the school's weekly newspaper since 1948. The Weekly publishes news articles, editorials, professor research, interest pieces and humor. The Law Weekly accepts articles and submissions from all UVA Law students, faculty and alumni. Staff meet every Monday at 5:30 p.m. to edit the articles and all are welcome to join. Room SL277/279

  • Virginia Law Weekly Editor: Nicole Demitry, @email 

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Virginia Law Wine Society (VLWS) - VLWS is a social and educational group that provides an outlet for students to build community and new relationships across the Law School and to develop a greater knowledge and appreciation of different varieties of wine, particularly those native to the central Virginia region. We organize visits to some of the dozens of wineries throughout Charlottesville and the neighboring counties and invite speakers, including local wine makers and sommeliers to Grounds to lead tastings, as well.

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Virginia Law Women (VLW) - VLW is primarily designed to support and promote women in their endeavors and to understand their unique challenges by providing forums for them to interact with faculty, administration, and other students; providing opportunities to create social networks with their fellow members; and exposing members to women working in professional, legal capacities. For interested private employers, please email: @email. For interested public sector employers, please email: @email.  Room SL196D

  • Virginia Law Women (VLW) President: Colleen Sharkey, @email

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Virginia Sports and Entertainment Law Society - The Virginia Sports and Entertainment Law Society provides an educational forum for students dedicated to exploring the interface between sports, entertainment and the law. The primary goals of the organization are to consistently host informative events featuring sports and entertainment law professionals, participate in national sports and entertainment law competitions, provide career networking opportunities for students, and promote a comfortable setting where students can socialize and discuss relevant legal issues in sports and entertainment. All students who share a passion for sports, entertainment and the law are welcome to join.

  • Virginia Sports and Entertainment Law Society President: Nayan Brahmbhatt, @email 

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West Coast Wahoos - West Coast Wahoos is an organization that connects law students interested in legal markets on the West Coast with alumni and fellow students working on the West Coast. WCW provides a support network to help students find and learn about job opportunities on the West Coast and social events with fellow students and alumni.

  • West Coast Wahoos President: Mira Ogawa, @email 

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William Minor Lile Moot Court -Honoring one of the oldest running traditions at the law school, the annual William Minor Lile Moot Court Tournament is UVA's premier moot court competition. Second-year students compete in two-person teams, where they submit briefs and hone their oral argument skills in a competitive four-round tournament. The Lile Board is made of up second and third-year students who run the competition and write the problem for each round. Students have the opportunity to argue in front of distinguished federal and state court judges in the semifinal and final rounds. Winners receive a cash prize and their names are inscribed on a plaque located outside the moot courtrooms in Slaughter Hall. Preliminary rounds are held in the fall of a student's 2L year, quarter finals are held 2L spring, and semifinal and final rounds are held 3L fall.

  • William Minor Lile Moot Court President: Ariel Vassar, @email 

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Women of Color - Women of Color provides social support to the diverse population of women at the Law School; promotes the welfare of its members through educational, professional, cultural, social and community service programs; and provides a forum for the discussion of issues affecting women of color in the Law School and the University community as a whole. Women of Color organizes service projects and fundraisers benefiting the University community and the greater Charlottesville-Albemarle community, social gatherings to promote fun and friendship, and open communication and involvement with the administration, professors, other student organizations and the undergraduate community. Room SL196D

  • Women of Color President:  Nanjibah Khan, @email 

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Although these organizations have members who are University of Virginia students and may have University employees associated or engaged in their activities and affairs, these organizations are not a part of or agencies of the University. They are separate and independent organizations that are responsible for and manage their own activities and affairs. The University does not direct, supervise or control these organizations and is not responsible for the organizations' contracts, acts or omissions.

Willem C. Vis International Commercial Arbitration Moot

Students Become First From UVA Law To Compete in ‘Olympics’ of International Arbitration

A team of students became the school’s first competitors at the Willem C. Vis International Commercial Arbitration Moot in Vienna.

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John Duffy and students

Students Finish as Top U.S. Team at Oxford Intellectual Property Moot

Mathéo Daniel René Le Goff LL.M. ’25, Jennifer Litchfield ’25 and Rohit Raguram ’25 finished as the top U.S. team and the second-best new team at the Oxford International Intellectual Property Law Moot.

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Faith Chudkowski

Finding Faith: Grad Reflects on ‘Energizing’ Law School Experience

Faith Chudkowski ’25 discusses how being involved in a variety of pursuits at UVA Law shaped her intellectual growth and advocacy skills.

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North Grounds Track Club

Student-Run North Grounds Track Club Encourages Healthy Habits

The student-run North Grounds Track Club aims to help future lawyers establish healthy habits designed to last throughout their high-powered careers.

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NGSL students

42nd Annual Softball Tournament Scores Record $45,000 for Charity

The 42nd annual North Grounds Softball League Invitational raised a record $45,000 for charity.

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Elijah Brown and Saron Setotaw

Students Learn Art of Negotiation at NBLSA Competition

Elijah Brown ’26 and Saron Setotaw ’27 advanced to the Nelson Mandela International Negotiations Competition semifinals at the 57th annual National Black Law Students Association convention, and Brown was named Best Negotiator.

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Mark Graff

Meet the Next SBA President, Mark Graff ’26

Mark Graff ’26, the newly elected president of the Student Bar Association, discusses his hope that a commitment to service will define his tenure.

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LSAP students

Student Advocacy Program Provides Real-World Experience in Employment Law

The Law Student Advocacy Program was recently revitalized, providing legal representation to state government employees who face grievance hearings.

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Jacob Bertram and Joshua Jolly

Accolades: Bertram, Jolly Win ECVC Transactional Law Competition

First-year students Jacob Bertram and Joshua Jolly won ECVC Society’s Transactional Law Competition, among other accolades for the Law School community.

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Ashley Ramsay ’25 and Sam Meyer ’25

Students, Clinic Receive $70,000 Grant To Teach Incarcerated Learners

The Jefferson Board of Trustees has awarded a grant to the Virginia Law in Prison Project and a UVA Law clinic to teach a course to incarcerated learners.

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BLSA members

BLSA Members Lend Legal Skills in Service Trip to Cape Town

Members of the Black Law Students Association conducted legal research pro bono and learned about the history of Cape Town, South Africa, while abroad over winter break.

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Cynthia Eapen

Cynthia Eapen ’25, for the Defense

Cynthia Eapen ’25 discusses her interest in defendant advocacy and what she learned competing in moot court.

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Jake Flansburg and Malia Takei

Flansburg, Takei Win 96th Lile Moot Court Competition

Third-year students Jake Flansburg and Malia Takei won the 96th William Minor Lile Moot Court competition.

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Fall 2024 Barristers United

Barristers United Wins Fourth Straight Title

Barristers United, a student-run soccer club, recently won their fourth straight playoffs in Charlottesville.

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Virginia Law Veterans members

Student Veterans, Service Members Discuss Paths to UVA Law

Five members of Virginia Law Veterans discuss their service, what made them choose UVA Law and their plans for the future.

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UVA Law students and Dean Kendrick volunteer at Casa Alma

New Students Volunteer for Day of Service

New students spent the day volunteering at nonprofits around Charlottesville for the annual fall day of service, run by the school’s Public Interest Law Association.

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Gala Co-Chairs James Hornsby ’24 and Madalyn Moore ’24 flank honorees Scott Migliori ’12, Cordel Faulk ’01 and Susan Baker Manning ’98

Lambda Honors Alumni and Marks Growth With 40th Anniversary Gala

UVA Law’s LGBTQ+ student organization, Lambda Law Alliance, honored two alumni, Susan Baker Manning ’98 and Cordel Faulk ’01, for their contributions to the community at a gala marking its 40th anniversary.

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Catherine Hu and Joshua McKinney

Students Elected to Leadership Roles in National Associations

Catherine Hu ’26 and Joshua McKinney ’26 have been elected to leadership roles for the National Asian Pacific American Law Student Association and the National Black Law Students Association.

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Chloe Chiles and Toni Woods

Chiles, Woods Win ECVC Transactional Law Competition

Second-year students Chloe Chiles and Toni Woods won the ECVC Transactional Law Competition.

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Rivanna Investments students

Students Grow Piece of UVA Law’s Endowment Through Rivanna Investments

Rivanna Investments offers students a unique opportunity to confront common investor issues and learn more about the corporate world.

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BLSA members in South Africa

BLSA Members Aid Women and Refugees in Service Trip to Cape Town

Members of the Black Law Students Association journeyed to Cape Town, South Africa, for their annual service trip abroad, volunteering pro bono hours to refugees and mothers.

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Aquila Maliyekkal and Sean Gray

Maliyekkal, Gray Win 95th Lile Moot Court Competition

Third-year students Aquila Maliyekkal and Sean Gray won the 95th William Minor Lile Moot Court competition.

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Bryce Campanelli

Law School Energizes Bryce Campanelli ’25

2L Bryce Campanelli discusses how his interest in energy policy led him to pursue a J.D., and he and his classmates’ plans to raise awareness of men’s mental health through running.

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Riley Segars

Riley Segars ’23 Exits the Law School Stage

Riley Segars ’23 discusses his interest in learning Spanish and how he honed his advocacy skills on stage and at the lectern.

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UVA Law students

Students Volunteer Their Services for Spring Break

Students volunteered 2,120 hours of pro bono service across the country during an alternative spring break run by the Public Interest Law Association.

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Marissa Baer and Molly Keck

Migrant Farmworker Project Is Back in Action

Molly Keck ’24 shares her experiences in educating immigrants of their rights while working in agriculture.

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Sabrina Mato

Building Bridges

Sabrina Mato ’24 discusses her interest in immigration law and how she wants to build bridges among student communities.

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Virginia Law Women members

Library Launches ‘VLW50’ Oral History Website

Virginia Law Women recently worked with the Arthur J. Morris Law Library to uncover new facets of its 50-year history, particularly its evolution as a diverse organization.

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Brecken Petty

Brecken Petty ’23 Blooms in Law School

Brecken Petty ’23 discusses her interest in environmental law and goals as president of Virginia Law Women.

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Chloe Knox

In Many Roles at UVA Law, Chloe Knox ’22 Put Teamwork First

Chloe Knox ’22 likes being part of a team. In her three years at the University of Virginia School of Law, she worked with fellow Federalist Society members to put on a national conference, edited the Virginia Law Review alongside classmates and coordinated with state officials to fairly prosecute criminal trials.

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Andi Schlut

Andi Schlut ’22 Puts Spotlight on Community

Andi Schlut ’22 discusses building a sense of community at the Law School through the student organizations she leads.

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Andrew Teal and Max Ain

How They Crafted a Winning Deal

Andrew Teal ’22 and Max Ain ’22 won the first Transactional Law Competition at UVA Law.

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Students

A Great Escape

Students in Outdoors at VA Law share images and their love for the great outdoors.

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Innocence Clinic

Born After Last Election, Student Organization Bridges Divides

Common Law Grounds has proved over the past four years that students have a desire for respectful discussion of issues that divide Americans.

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Federalist Society members

Federalist Society Named National Chapter of the Year

The Federalist Society at the University of Virginia School of Law was named winner of the James Madison Award for national student chapter of the year for the first time.

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UVA Law and high school students

UVA Law Students Boost First-Generation College Applicants With Essay Help

Students who advised 19 area youths on their college essays helped them all earn acceptances.

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