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Sabrina Ruiz-Monroy, Associate Director

Connection and Community: ULSM Fall 2025 Social Unites Legal Future

By News

The Utah Law Student Mentoring (ULSM) Program opened its fall season with a lively social on Thursday, October 23, 2025, at the Canyon Peak Venue Center in Draper. The evening brought together law students from both the University of Utah S.J. Quinney College of Law and BYU’s J. Reuben Clark Law School, along with attorney mentors from across Utah.

The event blended connection and fun in a relaxed setting. Students and attorneys played rounds of Jeopardy and Bingo centered on law school trivia, competing for prizes that ranged from JBL speakers and travel backpacks to skincare kits, hammocks, and gift cards. The games helped everyone unwind while sparking conversations that continued well beyond the tables.

Two practicing attorneys, Abby M. Dizon-Maughan and Remington “Jiro” Johnson, offered thoughtful remarks about their experiences in the legal field. Abby, a shareholder with significant experience in complex commercial litigation, shared insights about professional growth and maintaining balance in demanding environments. Jiro reflected on lessons learned from his years in both Washington, D.C. and Utah, emphasizing mental health, authenticity, and finding purpose amid the pressures of practice. Both speakers reminded students that they belong in the profession and encouraged them to build support systems that will sustain them throughout their careers.

After the talks, students and mentors had time to mingle and discuss career paths, practice areas, and personal strategies for success in law school and beyond. Many mentors shared stories about their own journeys and offered practical advice about confidence, work-life balance, and navigating the transition from student to attorney.

The event also encouraged students to begin developing a personalized plan from the ULSM Program Manual to make the most of their mentoring experience. Within the program, mentoring groups rotate every six months to help participants broaden their professional networks and gain a variety of perspectives.

So far, the program has welcomed 81 law students and around 50 attorney mentors representing Utah’s two law schools and 16 firms and organizations. The law student cohort reflects the diversity and talent of Utah’s legal community, with a majority of students identifying across multiple underrepresented backgrounds.

The evening at Canyon Peak served not only as a celebration of mentorship but also as a reminder of the strong community being built among Utah’s future lawyers. UCLI looks forward to continuing this momentum as the next round of the mentoring program begins with the new school year.

 

Remington “Jiro” Johnson speaks to Law students during the ULSM Social about his experience in law school

Two S.J. Quinney College of Law students chat during the social.

Startup attorney Lawrence Tuttle chats with a law student about building a career at the crossroads of law and innovation. His work helps Utah entrepreneurs launch their businesses with the support of streamlined, high-quality legal services.

Congratulations to the Summer 2025 UCLI–ACE Legal Leaders LSAT Scholarship Recipients

By News

The Utah Center for Legal Inclusion is proud to announce the recipients of the Summer 2025 UCLI- ACE Legal Leaders LSAT Scholarship. This scholarship helps level the playing field by equipping students with the tools, guidance, and community they need to succeed. While the scholarship does not cover LSAT exam fees (students may apply separately for LSAC’s fee waiver), it ensures recipients are prepared to face the test with confidence.

This round’s recipients include university students, recent graduates, and other aspiring law students from across Utah who will be preparing for the LSAT in 2025. UCLI extends our deepest gratitude to ACE Test Prep for their continued partnership and to the Wilson Sonsini Goodrich & Rosati Foundation for generously supporting this year’s program.

We congratulate the Summer 2025 scholarship recipients and look forward to seeing their impact as Utah’s future legal professionals. Learn more about them below:

Ale Benavides

Ale Benavides holds a B.A. in Intercultural Peacebuilding with a minor in Mediation and a B.A. in Anthropology from Brigham Young University–Hawaii. He has extensive international and domestic experience in peacebuilding and advocacy, including teaching workshops in Tonga, serving as an NGO Director in Mytilini, Greece during the Taliban takeover to assist with the refugee crisis, and working as a Case Manager for Catholic Community Services of Utah in Salt Lake City. He has furthered his legal and policy experience through work in the public defense sector as an intern with Georgetown Law in Washington, D.C., as well as with Lear & Lear in Salt Lake City, contributing to both the Oil and Gas and Immigration practice groups. His academic and professional background reflects a strong commitment to cultural fluency, humanitarian service, and the pursuit of a legal career.

Evelin Lagos

Evelin Lagos is originally from Choluteca, Honduras, and is currently a senior at Utah Valley University majoring in Criminal Justice. A proud first-generation college student, Evelin’s personal experiences have shaped her passion for advocacy and her dedication to fairness. Growing up, she witnessed the systemic challenges faced by underrepresented and undocumented communities, which fueled her desire to pursue law. Through her work alongside these communities, she has seen firsthand the barriers they encounter and the silencing of their voices. These experiences strengthened her resolve to advocate for others and to create meaningful change within the legal system. Evelin aspires to use her legal education to empower others, break down barriers, and open doors for the next generation of first-generation students and aspiring attorneys.

Gabriel Zavala

Gabriel Zavala is an English major at Utah Valley University and a fiction author preparing to embark on LSAT studies and the path toward law school. He hopes to attend the S.J. Quinney College of Law at the University of Utah, where he can build on his passions for advocacy and amplifying underrepresented voices. Gabriel looks forward to pursuing a legal career dedicated to service and justice.

Vero Martinez

Vero Martinez is a proud first-generation Chicana born and raised in Salt Lake City, Utah. She recently graduated with an Honors Degree in History from the University of Utah and is deeply passionate about community work. Vero currently serves as a Family Advocate at Early Head Start–DDI Vantage and actively organizes in her community, fighting injustices and striving for a better future. Having been exposed at a young age to the incarceration system and systemic inequities, she developed a strong commitment to combating bigotry and discrimination. Inspired by these experiences, Vero aspires to become a defense attorney and works every day to ensure that her community and underrepresented groups are given a fair chance.

Yoselyn Martinez

Yoselyn Martinez was born and raised in Utah and comes from a Mexican immigrant family background. She is a first-generation high school graduate and a recent first-generation college graduate, earning her bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice from Weber State University in August 2025. During her time at Weber, Yoselyn gained hands-on experience in the criminal justice field through internships with the Utah Attorney General’s Office, Kaysville City Attorney’s Office, and Weber Valley Detention Center. She also continues to volunteer with NOMAS Legal, assisting immigrant clients in the Ogden community. These experiences have strengthened her commitment to pursuing a career in law and advancing justice for underrepresented communities.

Support the LSAT Scholarship

We are happily accepting donations from individuals or firms who would like to make a difference. LSAT Scholarship sponsors enjoy unique benefits, including opportunities to engage with recipients and serve on the selection committee.

If you are a legal employer or individual interested in sponsoring the LSAT Scholarship, please contact .

We extend our heartfelt thanks to our LSAT access partners and sponsors, whose generosity helps create meaningful pathways to legal education for students across Utah:

ACE Test Prep

Wilson Sonsini Goodrich & Rosati Foundation

Associate Director, Sabrina Ruiz-Monroy reads out Scholarship Awards during the 2025 Pre-Law Fellowship Symposium.

Three of the five UCLI–ACE Legal Leaders LSAT Scholarship recipients—Ale Benavides, Gabriel Zavala, and Vero Martinez, were recognized during the 2025 Pre-Law Symposium.

Wildcats to Lawyers: UCLI and Weber State Inspire Future Attorneys

By News

On Wednesday, September 10, UCLI and Weber State University partnered to host an inspiring evening for students interested in law. From five-thirty to seven-thirty, around forty Wildcats gathered for bingo, presentations, and a keynote address from Fran M. Wikstrom, Of Counsel at Parsons Behle & Latimer.

This event marked UCLI’s first large-scale collaboration with Weber State, giving students a chance to explore both campus-based pre-law resources and UCLI’s statewide programs. Students learned about opportunities including the upcoming UCLI Pre-Law Symposium on Friday, September 19, the UCLI Pre-Law Fellowship, the Legal Leaders LSAT Scholarship, the Ambassador Program, and UCLI internships.

Dr. Jeffs, representing the Weber State Pre-Law Society, spoke on behalf of several programs and organizations that prepare students for careers in the legal field. She shared the work of the Pre-Law Society and also introduced resources from the Criminal Justice Program, the Political Science Department and Model UN program, and the Walker Institute, which offers a variety of meaningful internship opportunities. Through her remarks, students were able to see the many different avenues available to Wildcats who want to build a strong foundation for law school.

The evening also featured a powerful story from Weber State alumna Raissa Rohbock, now an Immigration Specialist Paralegal at Kirton McConkie. Proud of her Wildcat roots, Raissa shared her journey from a remote Brazilian village to higher education in Utah. Despite personal challenges, she persisted, finding support through UCLI and other mentors, emphasizing the importance of networking and community. Her advice to students was simple yet profound: “Collect as many keys as you can and put them in your pocket, because each key opens new doors.” She reminded students that law school isn’t limited to a few seats but that there are whole tables waiting for them.

UCLI Fiduciary Board Co-Chair and keynote speaker Fran M. Wikstrom closed the evening by sharing his own path from humble beginnings in Ogden to Yale Law School and an illustrious legal career. He reminded students that law school isn’t about knowing everything, but about embracing humility, curiosity, and growth. “Law school is for learners,” he explained, stressing that attorneys must always be willing to learn. A celebrated trial attorney and past president of the American College of Trial Lawyers, Fran talked about the willingness to learn that he always took into the courtroom. As a former Wildcat himself (class of ‘71) he was able to connect with audience members, fielding questions and inspiring them to push past barriers to make it into the profession. Fran left students with an encouraging message: each of them has a place at the table in the legal profession.

UCLI was thrilled to see so many Wildcats not only participate in the event but also sign up for the upcoming Pre-Law Symposium. Events like this are what help students imagine themselves not only in law school but in the courtroom too.

We extend our gratitude to Weber State’s pre-law associations, faculty, and student organizations for their support, to Raissa Rohbock for her inspiration, and to the Weber State Alumni Association for generously providing food and hosting us.

If your university is interested in collaborating with UCLI to bring pre-law resources to your campus, please reach out at utahcli.org.

Weber State representatives from the Alumni Association, UCLI Ambassadors, UCLI staff, and guest speaker Fran M. Wikstrom gather together following the Wildcats to Lawyers event.

Fran M. Wikstrom shares his personal journey to law school with Weber State students during Wildcats to Lawyers.

Fran M. Wikstrom answers student questions about the many paths available within the legal profession.

UCLI Associate Director Sabrina Ruiz-Monroy introduces Weber State students to UCLI programs and opportunities designed to support aspiring lawyers.

Fran M. Wikstrom connects with Weber State students as they share their personal stories and future goals for law school.

 

Thank You to the 2025 Summer Ambassadors

By News

The Utah Center for Legal Inclusion is proud to honor and thank the inaugural class of Summer Ambassadors for their outstanding work, drive, and commitment to UCLI’s mission. This distinguished group included: Jordan Evans, Daniela Valdama Roca, Ale Benavides, Ella Paligo, Tyson Udy, and Maya Hughes, who have all truly made their mark on UCLI and paved the way for future Ambassadors to follow in their footsteps.

The UCLI Ambassador Program was created for undergraduate students and recent graduates who are passionate about law, public service, and creating a more fair and just legal system as an opportunity to formally volunteer with the organization. UCLI Ambassadors this semester gained hands-on experience by working closely with UCLI staff, interns, and community partners on initiatives that made a real difference in our community.

This summer, UCLI Ambassadors went above and beyond. From assisting with the creation of a scholarship database, designing impactful social media campaigns, and updating resources on our website, to supporting the launch of UCLI’s upcoming podcast, building accessible LSAT study spaces in Salt Lake and Provo, and preparing backpacks for the Back-to-School Drive, their contributions were both wide-ranging and deeply meaningful. Many also helped connect UCLI to their own undergraduate institutions, further broadening our reach and deepening our impact.

UCLI also hosted a recognition event with staff, interns, and Ambassadors to honor the incredible work accomplished this semester. It has truly been a privilege to work alongside such talented and passionate individuals. Each Ambassador brought unique skills, energy, and heart to their work, and in doing so, helped strengthen UCLI’s role within Utah’s legal community. We are immensely proud of all they have achieved and are confident that they will continue to do extraordinary things as they pursue law school and their future careers in the legal profession.

To our 2025 Summer Ambassadors: Thank you for your hard work, your dedication, and the footprint you have left on UCLI. Your contributions will have a lasting impact, and we cannot wait to see the incredible futures you will build!

UCLI Summer 2025 Interns: Making a Positive Impact

By News

Every season at UCLI brings with it a new cohort of emerging leaders who leave a lasting impact on our mission. We are proud of every intern who has contributed to UCLI over the years, and this summer’s team – Helen Wang, Alofaifo Faleono, and Marlee Jeppsen – carried forward that legacy with fresh energy, creativity, and dedication.

From the first week, it was clear that their contributions would reverberate beyond the walls of our programs. Whether lending their voices to our initiatives, publishing thoughtful pieces that shared our work with broader audiences, assisting with outreach to new community partners, or strengthening the research foundations that anchor our programming, this summer’s interns became architects of momentum. They embedded their skills, perspectives, and compassion into the very core of our mission.

Their projects were diverse yet united by impact: supporting the UCLI Back-to-School Drive, which directly benefited families preparing for the new academic year; curating communications that elevated our collective voice; and helping develop K-12 and pre-law programming that will shape future cohorts of UCLI leaders. Their fingerprints are not only on the work we accomplished but also on the culture of collaboration and purpose we seek to foster.

We are especially grateful for the ways Helen, Alofaifo, and Marlee engaged in UCLI’s Legal and Career Readiness series, leading discussions with confidence, and participating fully in the Pre-Law Fellowship program’s seminars and experiences. Their work was nothing short of amazing, and watching their growth has been an absolute pleasure! 

Read below to learn more about their personal experiences as Interns with us:

“Working with UCLI has been an incredible opportunity to be a hands-on part of the work to promote legal inclusion in Utah. As I wrote grants, publicized fundraisers, and promoted UCLI’s events and mission, I gained a deep appreciation for the legal trailblazers who paved the way to a more equitable legal system, and for all those engaged in the work today. I’m grateful to have been a part of UCLI, and look forward to watching them continue their work!” -Marlee Jeppsen

“From working with great people to being a part of initiatives that give back directly to our community, I’m very grateful to have the privilege of being a part of the team this summer. UCLI’s mission is important and UCLI does so much to help people be successful. I know for a fact that the skills, experiences, and great guidance I received as an intern will continue to help me as I continue on my law journey!” -Alofaifo Faleono 

“The power of collaboration truly is shown through communities working to uplift individuals to reach their full potential. Through this internship, I had the honor of working on a wide range of initiatives that not only uplifted voices in the community, but also empowered those voices that have not been heard in the legal field. It has truly been an insightful experience to see what impact has been made through my internship, but also all the different life experiences and perspectives I am able to connect and engage with. I truly believe that difference is made through working and empowering communities and UCLI truly exemplifies these values to allow for sustainable long-term transformative change. I am grateful to have an opportunity to intern and hope to continue fostering change through my future career from what I have learned.” -Helen Wang 

UCLI Associate Director Sabrina Ruiz-Monroy and Administrative Coordinator Emily Zarate join interns Helen Wang and Alofaifo Faleono for a welcome photo at the UCLI Summer Intern Orientation on May 8, 2025.

UCLI Associate Director Sabrina Ruiz-Monroy with interns Marlee Jeppsen, Helen Wang, and Alofaifo Faleono at the UCLI Recognition Event hosted by Lear & Lear LLP on August 15, 2025.

One of UCLI’s final internship events, the Recognition Event honoring Ambassadors and Interns, was held on August 15, 2025, at Lear & Lear LLP.

UCLI’s 2025 Back-to-School Drive: Showcasing Community, Advocacy, and Opportunity

By News

UCLI is honored to announce the resounding success of its 2025 Back-to-School Drive. This year, UCLI was privileged to partner formally with Greenberg Traurig, whose generosity provided a significant portion of the school supplies that filled hundreds of backpacks. We are also deeply grateful for the contributions from each of you – attorneys, advocates, volunteers, and friends of UCLI – whose donations of funds, supplies, and time made this effort possible. This year we exceeded our fundraising goal of $2,500 thanks to the huge outpouring of community support shown. Together, these financial and in-kind gifts allowed UCLI to assemble and distribute around 500 backpacks, complete with critical school supplies, to students across the state. What began as a modest hope to meet a few local needs has flourished into an enduring tradition of care, advocacy, and community partnership.

At times, impact is imagined only in grand gestures. But UCLI’s mission has always rested on the belief that every act of support matters. A backpack filled with notebooks and pencils is not only a tool for the classroom, but it is a symbol of dignity, preparedness, and the belief that every child deserves the opportunity to thrive. Advocacy, as UCLI sees it, is not defined by scale, but by the sincerity of intention and the steady work of creating fairness, opportunity, and justice.

Building on the successes of the 2024 back-to-school drive which served the Boys and Girls Club and Backman Elementary School, we were happy to have had Meadowlark Elementary as an additional recipient of school supplies in 2025. Together, these schools represent vibrant communities of students whose futures are enriched not only through access to school supplies but also through exposure to UCLI’s mission and the possibility of pursuing a legal career.

As in past years, UCLI’s interns and ambassadors, as well as local attorneys, played an essential role in organizing, packing, and distributing supplies. They also shared information about UCLI’s mission at each back-to-school night, helping families and students connect with community resources and pathways into the legal profession. The season kicked off on August 9 with the Boys & Girls Club event at Dixon Middle School, followed by Backman Elementary School’s back-to-school night on August 15. The series wrapped up at Meadowlark Elementary School on Monday, August 18, where UCLI once again had a presence to ensure families were welcomed and supported.

The success of the back-to-school drive reminds us that progress comes not in isolation, but through the combined strength of partners and community members! By ensuring that hundreds of Utah’s children begin the year prepared, confident, and hopeful, we take another step toward a future where justice is within reach for all here in Utah. UCLI expresses heartfelt gratitude to this year’s partners: Backman Elementary, Meadowlark Elementary, the Boys and Girls Club of Utah County, and Greenberg Traurig, as well as to every individual who donated funds and school supplies. Your contributions have helped make this work possible, and your impact will resonate far beyond the classroom!

UCLI Associate Director Sabrina Ruiz Monroy, tabling at the Backman Elementary School Back-to-School Night event on August 15, 2025.

Children shared their superpower and wrote about what they hope to become in the future during Backman Elementary’s Back-to-School Night on August 15, 2025.

Kyra Woods, Annemarie Garrett, and Izzy Beckstead from Greenberg Traurig, LLP joined UCLI at Backman Elementary’s Back-to-School Night on August 15, 2025, helping distribute donated backpacks filled with school supplies and UCLI swag.

UCLI intern Alofaifo Faleono, UCLI ambassador Ale Benevides, Rachel Miller (attorney at Lear & Lear PLLC), and Amaris Leiataua (attorney at Holland and Hart) joined together to table and hand out backpacks at Meadowlark Elementary’s Title I Back-to-School Night on August 18, 2025.

UCLI ambassador Ale Benevides speaks with a mother at the Boys & Girls Club event at F. Dixon Middle School about UCLI programming for her children on August 9, 2025.

Celebrating the 2024–2025 Christine M. Durham Fellows: Law Student Leadership in Action

By News

The Utah Center for Legal Inclusion proudly celebrates the incredible contributions of the 2024–2025 Christine M. Durham Fellows, Aliza Murad and Madelyn Poston. These exceptional law students have worked closely with UCLI’s Executive Director, Associate Director, Administrative Coordinator, interns, Fiduciary Board members, attorneys, and mentors to help carry out some of UCLI’s most impactful programming and initiatives this past year.

Throughout the academic year, Aliza and Madelyn played an integral role in organizing events and strengthening connections across Utah’s legal education community. From coordinating UCLI’s involvement at both S. J. Quinney College of Law and the J. Reuben Clark Law School, to helping secure law student mentors for the UCLI Pre-Law Fellowship Program, their work has deepened UCLI’s impact across campuses. Their leadership extended to key projects such as organizing law student panels for the 2024 UCLI Pre-Law Symposium, contributing to the Utah Law Student Mentoring Program, planning and hosting an LGBTQ+ networking event for law students across the state, and offering valuable insights during planning and evaluation meetings. Their perspective as current law students has been critical to informing how UCLI can better support students preparing to enter the legal profession.

UCLI’s success is rooted in collaboration – from its generous donors, staff, and interns, to its board members and ambassadors. But law students like Aliza and Madelyn  – the 2024–2025 Durham Fellows – have been especially instrumental. Their dedication, creativity, and willingness to lead have helped shape programs that are more responsive and representative of the next generation of legal professionals.

We are especially grateful for the candid feedback and ideas they shared throughout their fellowship. Their reflections helped us consider how law schools in Utah can better engage their students, and how UCLI can continue building meaningful support for those currently navigating law school.

Their contributions this year have significantly strengthened UCLI’s programs and inspired the broader legal community. As they continue their legal education and prepare to enter the profession, we are confident they will carry forward the same spirit of leadership and service that defined their time as Durham Fellows.

Read below for reflections from Aliza and Madelyn on their experience as Durham Fellows.

Madelyn Poston

“I applied for the Durham Fellowship because I was inspired by its mission of legal inclusion and felt determined to contribute to that work. I loved getting to interact with all the amazing attorneys, peers, and supporters who are connected to UCLI in some way.

One of my favorite parts of the program was seeing the events I helped plan come to life highlights for me included trying out breathwork and tasting Kafé Mamai for the first time!

My biggest piece of advice to future fellows is this: never hesitate to ask for help on behalf of UCLI whether from professors, attorneys, or peers. Most people want to support legal inclusion and are just waiting for the opportunity to do so.”

Aliza Murad

“I was inspired to apply for the Christine M. Durham Fellowship because of my deep commitment to equity in the legal profession and my desire to uplift underrepresented communities. As a first-generation Pakistani-American law student, I found the fellowship uniquely impactful in connecting me with mentors and resources that supported both my academic and professional journey. One of the most rewarding aspects of the program was the opportunity to mentor pre-law students and witness their growth and confidence flourish. I especially appreciated the sense of community and shared purpose among fellows and mentors who are passionate about access to justice. I encourage future fellows to take full advantage of every networking and mentorship opportunity, and to approach the experience with intention, humility, and heart.”

Applications Now Open for UCLI’s Fall 2025 Ambassador Program

By News

The Utah Center for Legal Inclusion is excited to announce that applications are now open for the Fall 2025 cohort of the UCLI Ambassador Program! Now entering its second official round, the Ambassador Program is a growing initiative that reflects UCLI’s ongoing commitment to empowering the next generation of legal professionals in Utah.

This formal volunteer program is designed for undergraduate students and recent graduates who are passionate about law, public service, and creating a more fair legal system. Ambassadors gain hands-on experience working alongside UCLI staff, interns, and community partners to conduct outreach among K-12 students from historically underserved communities and assist with social media messaging and programming. Whether you’re passionate about advocacy, policy, community engagement, or justice reform, this program offers a meaningful path to make a difference and build your future in law.

About the Program
The Fall semester of the UCLI Ambassador Program runs from August 25 to December 5, 2025, and is structured to accommodate academic schedules through flexible, primarily remote participation. While this is an unpaid volunteer position, Ambassadors benefit from:

  • Direct mentorship from legal professionals
  • Meaningful leadership and professional development
  • Access to the Legal and Career Readiness Series on a weekly basis
  • Opportunities to contribute to impactful initiatives across Utah
  • Valuable experience for résumés, graduate school applications, and future public service careers

General Qualifications

UCLI hopes to work with Ambassadors who:

  • Are currently pursuing a Bachelor’s degree or have recently graduated from college
  • Intend to attend law school in the future
  • Demonstrate strong communication and time management skills
  • Are team-oriented, self-motivated, and open to feedback
  • Show a passion for law, public service, advocacy, or nonprofit work

UCLI staff and interns are committed to supporting Ambassadors throughout the program, and we are thrilled to welcome another cohort of future legal changemakers into our community.

Interested in applying?
Please fill out the application here. 

For questions or additional information, please contact us at .

The Summer 2025 cohort of UCLI Ambassadors.

Summer UCLI Ambassadors receive orientation training from Sabrina Ruiz-Monroy, Associate Director.

2025–2026 Utah Law Student Mentoring Program

By News

The Utah Center for Legal Inclusion (UCLI) looks forward to reopening applications for the 2025–2026 Utah Law Student Mentoring Program (ULSM) – a unique opportunity for law students and attorneys to build meaningful, lasting mentorship relationships that strengthen Utah’s legal community.

ULSM pairs law students with two practicing attorneys for structured, year-long mentorship that runs from Fall 2025 through Summer 2026. Whether you’re a 1L looking for guidance or a 3L preparing for the bar, the program is designed to offer personalized support, practical insight, and connection throughout your legal journey.

For mentees – law students enrolled in Utah’s law schools – this is a chance to:

  • Receive tailored advice on law school, clerkships, and career planning

  • Develop a deeper understanding of Utah’s legal community

  • Build confidence, clarity, and professional wellness

  • Strengthen your network with trusted mentors and allies

For mentors – attorneys licensed and practicing in Utah – ULSM offers a meaningful way to give back, stay engaged with rising legal talent, and shape the next generation of legal professionals. Mentors meet monthly with their student match (virtually or in person), and UCLI provides a Mentorship Manual with helpful resources, suggested topics, and best practices to guide the conversations.

Now entering its fifth year under UCLI’s stewardship, ULSM continues a strong tradition started by Holland & Hart LLP and the Utah Minority Bar Association. Hundreds of Utah law students have benefited from the wisdom and support of attorneys who generously shared their time and insights.

We invite you to join us—whether you’re new to mentoring or returning for another year. Help us build a stronger, more connected legal community.

Pairings will be finalized by mid-September, at which point participants will be connected to their mentoring group and receive a copy of the Mentorship Manual to help kick off the year. An in-person social will be held on October 23 for all program participants; save the date, and more details will be coming soon. If you have questions, don’t hesitate to reach out to the UCLI team – we’re happy to support you.

Attendees at the 2024-2025 ULSM Spring Social held in conjunction with All Rise Utah on March 6, 2025.

Channeling Your Inner Elle Woods? UCLI-ACE Scholarship Makes LSAT Dreams Possible

By News

Cue the pink notebooks and scented résumés—because the Utah Center for Legal Inclusion just dropped some seriously fabulous news. UCLI is thrilled to announce the launch of the UCLI-ACE Legal Leaders LSAT Scholarship—and yes, it’s giving major Elle Woods energy.

For the first time ever, UCLI has fully partnered with ACE Test Prep, founded by Utah’s own LSAT expert Brent Dunn, to offer a powerful new opportunity for aspiring attorneys in the state of Utah. This scholarship provides full access to ACE’s top-tier LSAT prep course—a resource valued at nearly $2,000—for free. But even more than that, it opens doors to mentorship, networking, and a future legal career rooted in service and inclusion.

Let’s be honest: preparing for the LSAT is no small feat. It’s rigorous, expensive, and often overwhelming—especially for students from underrepresented backgrounds. That’s where this scholarship steps in. It’s designed for Utah students and recent graduates who are passionate about law, committed to making an impact in their communities, and ready to roll up their sleeves (or put on a pink blazer) and study hard.

Scholarship recipients will be part of a vibrant, supportive network and will engage with mentors, attorneys, and future peers who are just as driven to build a more fair legal profession. And while the scholarship doesn’t cover LSAT exam fees (check LSAC’s fee waiver program for that!), it does ensure that students are equipped with the best preparation possible to face the test with confidence.

“This scholarship is really about removing barriers,” said Brent Dunn. “The LSAT is one of the most challenging parts of the law school journey, and we’re excited to work with UCLI to help students feel prepared, empowered, and supported.”

Applicants must be living in or studying in Utah, committed to weekly LSAT study, planning to take the exam within the year, and—most importantly—ready to serve justice with heart. Bonus points if you quote Legally Blonde in your study notes. Applications will be accepted until July 20th, and selected applicants will be awarded the scholarship. For exact details on eligibility, please visit our website.

Whether you’re a first-gen college student, a future public defender, or just someone who believes in justice (and maybe sparkles), this scholarship is your sign. Law school might not be easy—but with the right tools and support, it’s definitely not “like, hard.”

Ready to take the next step? Apply now and bring your best Elle Woods energy with you. UCLI and ACE Test Prep are here to help you bend and snap your way into law school! 

UCLI is deeply grateful to the individuals and organizations making this scholarship possible.

We are happily accepting donations from individuals or firms who would like to make a difference. LSAT Scholarship Sponsors have access to unique benefits through their involvement, including optional opportunities to engage with Scholarship recipients and participate in the selection committee. If you are a legal employer or individual who is interested in sponsoring the LSAT Scholarship, please reach out to .

We extend a heartfelt thank-you to our LSAT access partners and sponsors, whose generosity helps create meaningful pathways to legal education for students across Utah:

 ACE Test Prep
Wilson Sonsini Goodrich & Rosati Foundation