News

The Utah Center for Legal Inclusion (UCLI) is excited to start the new year with the Winter 2026 interns. A new year brings fresh energy, new learning experiences, and opportunities to make meaningful contributions to the legal community. This semester promises engaging events, professional growth, and hands-on work that supports UCLI’s mission to foster a more inclusive and accessible legal profession.

This winter, the  interns will support social media content creation and PLEDGE programming, while connecting with attorneys, judges, law school deans, and other legal professionals and gaining exposure to Utah’s legal community. They will also have the opportunity to participate in the Career & Law Readiness series. Through this experience, they will build skills, expand their networks, and contribute ideas that make a real impact.

We are thrilled to welcome the Winter 2026 interns: Derek Adkins, Eliza Lucia Mancilla, and Luciana Chunga! Each intern brings unique experiences and perspectives, and we are excited to see how they will shape UCLI’s programs this semester. As they explore the path to law school and the legal profession, we hope they leave inspired, empowered, and more connected to the legal community.

As Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg once said, “Real change, enduring change, happens one step at a time.” We look forward to seeing our interns take those steps this semester and beyond. Welcome to UCLI, Winter 2026 interns. We are excited for the year ahead and all that you will accomplish!

If you are interested in future internship opportunities or want to learn more about the program, please reach out to or .

Eliza is a student at Brigham Young University who was raised in Southern California by Mexican immigrant parents. She is majoring in History with minors in Business, Global Business Literacy, and Civic Engagement Literacy. Her interest in law emerged through her study of modern historical events and the profound influence legal decisions have had on global affairs. An Honors Program student, she is particularly fascinated by the broader role social institutions play in shaping civil rights and the treatment of people of color. Eliza is working toward a career as an international business lawyer specializing in intelligence security consulting, while continuing her commitment to volunteering with human rights organizations. Driven by her passion for making professional opportunities more accessible to underrepresented communities, she has worked with the Geneva Office for Human Rights Development, served as an Empower Her Rise College & Community Ambassador, and been a BYU Faith, Learning, and Leadership Seminar Fellow.

Luciana, who grew up in Provo, Utah, in a proud Peruvian immigrant family is working towards finishing her degree. As a student at the University of Utah, she plans to complete her Honors Bachelor’s degree in English this spring. Through her work with campus organizations, such as the Dream Center and refugee centers outside of campus, her academic and professional focus has become working with and helping the community. In the Dream Center, her experience centered around student resources and aid, an experience that helped her gain a strong insight about the immigrant community, giving her a stronger purpose towards pursuing law. Her interest in law stemmed from community connection while working with immigrants, steering her towards her goal of working as an immigration lawyer. She hopes that she can expand on her community involvement and exposure to the legal field while working with the UCLI team.

Derek is a senior at Brigham Young University and grew up in San Diego, California. He is studying economics with interests in law and public policy. His interest in law stems from studying how economic systems shape opportunity and inequality. He plans to use his economics background to pursue a legal career that informs policy, advocacy, and decision making.

As we step into a fresh new year, we are filled with gratitude and excitement for what 2026 holds. What began just a few years ago as a vision to expand access to legal education has grown into a thriving, impactful initiative. We are proud to announce the third cohort of the UCLI Pre-Law Fellowship Program, launching this January and marking another meaningful milestone for the program.

The 2026 cohort consists of 12 exceptional students and recent graduates from across Utah, each bringing unique experiences, perspectives, and a shared commitment to pursuing a future in the legal profession. These Fellows are motivated, thoughtful, and deeply invested in creating pathways to justice and representation within the law.

The 2026 Pre-Law Fellowship offers a comprehensive, nine-month long experience designed to prepare Fellows for the realities of applying to and succeeding in law school. The program includes a series of seminars covering key topics such as the law school application process, LSAT preparation, and navigating the academic and professional demands of legal education. Fellows also benefit from one-on-one mentorship with attorneys, will have the opportunity to receive consultation with a private law school admissions consultant, and can access structured LSAT preparation resources. To further remove financial barriers, the Fellowship provides opportunities for reimbursements for expenses such as LSAT exam fees, travel to seminars, and law school application costs.

At its core, the UCLI Pre-Law Fellowship exists to create a more accessible pathway to law school. By offering intentional support, mentorship, and resources, the program empowers aspiring legal professionals to pursue their goals with confidence, right here in Utah.

Participation in the Fellowship is both a privilege and a commitment. Fellows are expected to actively engage in all seminars, participate fully in LSAT preparation, track their progress throughout the year, take the official LSAT at least once during the program cycle, apply to law school by the end of the program, and provide feedback through intake and exit surveys to help strengthen the Fellowship for future cohorts.

We are incredibly proud of this year’s Fellows and honored to support them as they begin this next chapter. As we celebrate the start of 2026, we also celebrate the continued growth and impact of the UCLI Pre-Law Fellowship Program.

Please join us in welcoming the 2026 UCLI Pre-Law Fellows:
Melissa Ayala, Brian Fuentes, Maximus Garcia-Olazabal, Kimley Morlant, Nevaeh Parker, Valeria Pozos, Kukua Quansah, Asia Reid, Kalijah Robinson, Teon Strong, LeNora Suguturaga, and Scarlet Urey.

Here’s to a new year, new beginnings, and the continued success of our Pre-Law Fellows.

Melissa Ayala is a first generation college graduate who earned her bachelor’s degree in Social Work with a minor in Legal Studies. Coming from an immigrant family, she developed a strong desire to pursue immigration law through both lived experiences and academic training. Her background in social work has strengthened her commitment to advocacy, client-centered representation, and fair access to justice. Melissa is particularly interested in supporting immigrant families and individuals that are navigating complex legal systems. She is preparing to apply to law schools and has continued to build the skills and experiences needed for a legal career rooted in service. She plans on pursuing a career centered on immigration law that is focused on policy, representation, and overall community impact.

Brian Fuentes is a graduate of Brigham Young University, where he earned a degree in Public Relations and Portuguese Studies with minors in Business, Psychology, and Family Life. He currently serves as a legal assistant at The Advocates Law Firm, where he focuses on case resolution, end-of-case processing, and client communication. Raised in a Salvadoran household in Washington, D.C., Brian developed a strong commitment to advocacy. He intends to pursue a long-term career in the legal field centered on public service, justice, and community impact.

Maximus grew up in Utah, where he attended Weber State University, and in 2025 was awarded a Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice and a Certificate in Juvenile Justice. Maximus developed an interest in law after seeing the impact it had on his community. In an effort to give back to his community, Maximus devoted his time to serving various programs; including Save the Kids from Incarceration, a program focused on addressing the issue of the school-to-prison pipeline by seeking reform in the criminal justice system. Maximus intends to pursue a law degree next year, where he plans to focus on juvenile law, civil rights, and criminal defense law. In his free time, Maximus enjoys motorcycle rides, reading, and weightlifting.

Kimley is a Brigham Young University student in the Marriott School of Business, pursuing a B.S. in Global Supply Chain Management. Her interest in law grew from personal experiences that showed her how deeply legal systems influence everyday life and access to opportunity. Throughout her time at BYU, she’s renewed her commitment to service through leadership opportunities, including founding and serving as president of the Caribbean Students’ Association and co-founding the BYU Apiology (Beekeeping) Association. Kimley has consulting experience improving operational efficiency and building AI-driven workflow solutions, and she is fluent in French and Haitian Creole.

 

Nevaeh Parker is a junior at the University of Utah pursuing a major in Political Science and a minor in African American Studies. She is a passionate student who aspires to earn a law degree and deepen her ability to serve communities in need. Nevaeh serves as the President of the Black Student Union, where she works to build community, advocate for equity, and support Black students on campus. As the Program Coordinator for Salt Lake Peer Court, she contributes to restorative justice initiatives rooted in accountability and care. Grounded in community, Nevaeh finds power in her voice and encourages others to do the same in all spaces.

Valeria is a BYU graduate and is excited to pursue law school. She is originally from Mexico but has lived in Arizona, Oregon, Utah, California and Washington D.C. She loves getting to know people, learning from different cultures and believes everyone has a story to tell. She wants to go to law school so that she can help others and is determined to work hard so that she can give back to her community and create a platform for others to feel heard and seen. She is grateful for her family, friends and mentors and looks forward to giving it her all as a 2026 UCLI Pre-Law Fellow!

Kukua Quansah is a first generation international student studying Criminal Justice at Utah Valley University. Her academic interests focus on community justice and the legal system and plans to attend law school after graduation. Outside of academics, Kukua explores creative projects and advocates for black students in her community. She has gained practical experience working in the courts and supporting neglected and abused children, which has reinforced her commitment to advocacy and public service. Kukua aspires to become a civil defense litigator, and to apply her legal training to help strengthen Ghana’s justice system.

Asia Lynne Reid attended Brigham Young University, graduating in April 2025 with a degree in Political Science and a minor in English Literature. During her time at BYU, she served as the President of Women in Politics, held a leadership role in the Pre-Law Presidency, and was a Fellow with the Center for the Study of Elections and Democracy. She currently works as a paralegal in the Utah Attorney General’s Office within the Constitutional Defense and Special Litigation Unit, assisting with federal and state constitutional challenges. Asia is passionate about advocating for the rights of victims, particularly for women and marginalized individuals who are often overlooked in the legal system. She is excited to continue learning and preparing to apply to law school.

Kalijah Robinson is a driven college student with a passion for law, influenced by his love for movies. He has developed strong communication and leadership skills over the past five years, thriving in fast-paced environments. As a podcast coordinator and social media manager at Weber State, Kalijah blends creativity with attention to detail in his projects. He has also excelled in public speaking, both in college and on tour for stand-up comedy. While he embraces the digital world, he has a particular fondness for traditional paperwork. An avid sports enthusiast, he values maintaining a sense of fun and teamwork in all his endeavors. Kalijah is eager to bring his unique perspective to the field of law.

Teon is a hardworking mother and a 2024 graduate of the University of Utah, originally from New York. Her interest in law was shaped early on by the strong women she admired growing up, like a state Olympic runner competing with power and determination, as well as her mother helping her in the mornings before school. This early influence helped form Teon’s deep appreciation for strength, advocacy, and perseverance. Motivated by a commitment to justice and creating meaningful change for her family and community, Teon now aspires to attend the S.J. Quinney College of Law, Syracuse University College of Law, and New York University School of Law. She brings a strong work ethic, lived experience, and a clear sense of purpose to her pursuit of a legal career.

LeNora is a senior at Brigham Young University majoring in Psychology with a minor in Sociology. She grew up in Hawaiʻi as the daughter of Tongan and Fijian immigrant parents and is one of nine siblings, experiences that shaped her values of community, responsibility, and service. Her interest in law first emerged through conversations with friends and peers, but it became more concrete after attending the UCLI Pre-Law Symposium. Meeting and learning from women of color in the legal field helped her see law as both an attainable and meaningful path forward.

Scarlet is a first-generation immigrant and aspiring law student dedicated to advancing inclusion and justice within the legal profession. She earned her undergraduate degree in Political Science and Sociology from the University of Utah and has gained hands-on experience working in immigration law, supporting clients as they navigate complex legal systems. Her interest in law is shaped by her lived experiences and a deep curiosity about how legal systems impact individuals and communities. Scarlet has also worked in legislative and political spaces, which strengthened her interest in public service and advocacy-oriented work. She is committed to learning from mentors and peers as she builds a strong foundation for a career as an attorney.

We extend our sincere gratitude to the sponsors whose generosity makes this program possible:

Larry H. & Gail Miller Family Foundation

Florence J. Gillmor Foundation

Utah Bar Foundation

B. W. Bastian Foundation

On Thursday, December 4, 2025, the Utah Center for Legal Inclusion (UCLI) and the LGBT and Allied Lawyers of Utah (LALU) co-hosted a CLE event on Legal Issues & Effective Advocacy for LGBTQ+ Clients. The session, held at the Utah Law and Justice Center, brought together attorneys and advocates from across Utah. Presented by Chris Wharton and Jess Couser, the program offered practical guidance, ethical insights, and an in-depth review of key statutes and landmark cases affecting LGBTQ+ clients in Utah. Attendees had the opportunity to engage with the presenters, ask questions, and gain strategies to better support LGBTQ+ individuals and families in legal settings.

Utah has a dynamic LGBTQ+ population. Roughly 3.7% of adults identify as LGBTQ+, and Salt Lake City has the state’s densest concentration at 5-6%. Approximately 40% of Utah’s LGBTQ+ individuals are raising children, compared to about 30% nationally, and Utah ranks #1 in the nation per capita for same-sex couples raising children. Nationwide, Utah ranks in the middle among states by LGBTQ+ population. These statistics underscore the importance of equitable legal protections for LGBTQ+ families.

Wharton and Couser emphasized Utah Rule of Professional Conduct 8.4(d), which prohibits lawyers from engaging in conduct prejudicial to the administration of justice. Attorneys and legal staff were given actionable guidance, and the session also reviewed landmark cases and statutes shaping LGBTQ+ rights in Utah and nationwide. Families come in many forms, yet outdated laws continue to create unnecessary burdens for LGBTQ+ families, particularly regarding parentage, surrogacy, adoption, and gender identity. The CLE session reviewed some of these and advised attorneys on how to best advocate for their clients.

Despite legal advancements, LGBTQ+ individuals face ongoing challenges. The presenters discussed everyday barriers, costs, discrimination, and restrictive laws, affect LGBTQ+ families’ ability to access justice, healthcare, and social services. Legal professionals must navigate these challenges carefully to advocate effectively and ethically. Protecting the legal rights of LGBTQ+ families ensures all children have the security, stability, and support they deserve.

Organizations such as the Utah Pride Center, Equality Utah, Encircle, Mama Dragons, Rebirth OB/GYN Health Center, and Rainbow Law Clinic provide essential support, legal guidance, and community connections for LGBTQ+ clients. Engaging with these organizations equips attorneys with insight into the lived experiences and needs of LGBTQ+ families. 

UCLI extends gratitude to presenters Chris Wharton and Jess Couser for their insightful presentation, as well as all attendees, partners, and sponsors who made this event possible, including the B. W. Bastian Foundation.. Special thanks to those who participated and for this wonderful educational session. The event highlighted the importance of a respectful and ethically sound legal advocacy in Utah.

The Utah Minority Bar Association hosted its Annual Scholarship and Awards Banquet on November 17, 2025. It brought together leaders and attorneys, students, and community advocates committed to advancing inclusion within Utah’s legal profession. UMBA has continued its mission since its founding in 1991 of addressing the concerns and issues affecting racial and ethnic minorities in law.

UCLI was grateful to attend the banquet as a Bronze Sponsor, standing in partnership with UMBA in their impactful work. Christina Jepson and Erik Christiansen of Parsons Behle & Latimer joined UCLI staff and interns at the table, and everyone had a wonderful time throughout the evening. It was an evening for unity, progress, and, most importantly, storytelling. The award recipients gave touching and motivational speeches, many spoke to the responsibility carried by the legal community to advance justice and uplift underrepresented communities.

UCLI was especially honored to celebrate multiple individuals who previously participated in UCLI programs and who were recognized with scholarship awards: Emi Yamazaki, a Summer 2022 UCLI Program Development Intern; Noa Leituala, a 2024 alumnus of the UCLI & Kirton McConkie Pre-Law Fellowship; Gloria Aquino, a 2024 Legal Inclusion Fellow, and Naomi Botchway, a 2024 Legal Inclusion Fellow. As alumni continue to grow and be recognized by UMBA, it has been a proud moment for UCLI.

One of the most memorable moments of the evening was the powerful keynote address delivered by former UCLI Fiduciary Board Member Sadé Turner, who was honored by UMBA as the Distinguished Lawyer of the Year. She shared personal reflections: “If you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go far, go together. The adversity that we face in 2025 is minor compared to that which our UMBA ancestors faced. We owe it to the founding members to keep ourselves and the generations to keep going, to not panic, to not get caught up in the whipsaw, to stand firm in protecting individual freedoms, to vigorously defend the independence of the Utah judiciary, to vigorously defend its members from retaliatory political pressure.” Her words reminded everyone in the room why UMBA does what it does and continues its efforts to build a more representative legal community.

UMBA presented the following awards to recognize exceptional service, leadership and commitment:

• Juneteenth Fundraiser Award – Parsons Behle & Latimer
• Law Firm of the Year – Holland & Hart LLP
• Pete Suazo Community Service Award – Prof. Michalyn Steele
• Jimi Mitsunaga Excellence in the Law Award – Adam L. Crayk
• Corporate Counsel of the Year Award – JP Tarbutton
• Friend of UMBA Award – Barbara Melendez
• Judge Raymond Uno Lifetime Achievement Award – Judge Suchada P. Bazzelle
• Distinguished Lawyer of the Year / Keynote Speaker – Sadé Turner

Each of the awardees shared impactful remarks filled with gratitude, emphasizing mentorship, persistence, and community support as well. The banquet was uplifting, motivational, and a reminder that, together, attorneys can better provide service and support to their community. Many voiced their appreciation for an event where emerging and established leaders who shape Utah’s legal community could be celebrated.

Recognition for scholars such as Emi, Noa, Gloria, and Naomi also underlined the importance of collaboration between organizations like UCLI and UMBA in supporting pathways into the profession. 

UCLI would like to extend its thanks to the Utah Minority Bar Association for providing such a meaningful and beautifully organized banquet, to all of the sponsors and partners who helped make the evening possible, to the award recipients and speakers for sharing their wisdom and leadership, and to the UCLI alumni who continue to inspire our mission.

The Utah Center for Legal Inclusion (UCLI) could not accomplish its mission without the dedication of community members who volunteer their time and expertise, and without the generous donors and foundations who provide vital financial support.

For the fourth consecutive year, UCLI is honored to receive a grant from the B.W. Bastian Foundation. The Foundation works to build community and understanding by supporting both local and national institutions, with a particular focus on the arts and educational outreach. It places a strong emphasis on programs and organizations that advance equality, uphold individual rights, and promote inclusion for the LGBTQ+ community. UCLI and the B.W. Bastian Foundation share a common vision of a legal profession that is welcoming and inclusive of LGBTQ+ individuals, and UCLI is deeply grateful to be among the Foundation’s 2025 grant recipients.

Like the B.W. Bastian Foundation, UCLI is committed to preserving and enhancing the rights, equality, and fair treatment of members of the LGBTQ+ community. Thanks to this grant, UCLI will continue its LGBTQ+ outreach through the PLEDGE Program (Promoting Legal Education to Diverse Groups Everywhere). Over the past year, these funds have supported networking events for LGBTQ+ law students in Utah and Continuing Legal Education (CLE) opportunities for attorneys focused on LGBTQ+ inclusion. In 2026, this grant will enable UCLI to continue hosting networking events for LGBTQ+ law students, expand CLE offerings on related topics, and provide direct support for an LGBTQ+ participant in the 2026 Pre-Law Fellowship program.

We are grateful to continue this important work and extend our heartfelt thanks to the donors who make it possible. Thank you to the B.W. Bastian Foundation for your meaningful contributions to our community and your generous support of UCLI’s mission.

 

The Utah Center for Legal Inclusion (UCLI) is delighted to recognize Workman Nydegger as an Advocate Sponsor for the UCLI Sustaining Sponsorship. As a UCLI Founding Sponsor at the Diamond level in 2020, this firm has played an important role in shaping UCLI’s vision and reach from its inception and now continues its impact. Workman Nydegger is an intellectual property law firm in Salt Lake City that provides a range of prosecution and litigation services. Many of its founders and partners have a background in STEM, and the organization has attracted many professionals with backgrounds in science and engineering who can also provide services in IP law. Workman Nydegger has established extensive partnerships domestically and internationally, providing services for over 82,000 U.S. patent matters and more than 25,000 trademark applications across over 180 countries worldwide.

Beyond the impressive work it does in the legal sphere, Workman Nydegger is deeply committed to giving back and fostering meaningful change within the community. The firm recognizes that true success extends beyond the courtroom and is reflected in the positive influence it has on individuals, organizations, and the broader community. Through consistent involvement and support, Workman Nydegger upholds the core values of integrity, service, and collaboration. The company has supported many community organizations, some of which include the J. Reuben Clark Law Society, the Make-A-Wish Foundation’s Wishing Place, the Utah Bar Association’s “And Justice for All” campaign, Utah Minority Bar Association, Utah Women in Technology, and many others. These partnerships highlight Workman Nydegger’s dedication to strengthening the legal profession, advancing innovation, and creating opportunities for growth and connection across industries.

Dana Tangren, president and managing shareholder of Workman Nydegger, places great importance on remaining aware of the challenges surrounding inclusion within Utah’s legal community. Supporting organizations such as UCLI reflects one of Workman Nydegger’s core values: actively working to make the legal field more welcoming, representative, and inclusive. Dana asserts that contributing to UCLI not only allows the firm to give back but also serves as a reminder of the importance of understanding the issues of inclusion and making the workplace one where everyone feels valued and respected. On a personal level, he shares UCLI’s core value of recognizing the dignity of all people, and his commitment to this belief has inspired the firm to pursue these goals in their own culture and community efforts. Workman Nydegger strives to ensure that everyone is actively involved and feels valued within Utah’s legal community. Dana hopes that by sponsoring UCLI, their reputation will inspire others to look towards similar goals; he shares his hope that “we take it seriously that people feel that their value and dignity are important.” 

One unique initiative that Workman Nydegger offers is an internship program for undergraduate students who are interested in the legal field and the firm’s mission. This internship, hosted every fall and spring, offers opportunities for attorneys to engage with students from various undergraduate universities through the program, which focuses on mentorship. The firm believes that by fostering these connections with undergraduate students and promoting inclusivity through their internships, attorneys are able to reflect on their own roots and contribute to the development of future legal professionals. Gerrit Winkel, a shareholder at Workman Nydegger, has spearheaded this internship program for the past year and has worked hard to make it an opportunity where students feel supported and valued. He shares that his personal measure of success is when students have a positive experience and speak highly of their involvement. Despite initial challenges in advertising its internship program, Workman Nydegger’s proactive engagement with local universities has yielded impressive results, growing from a single applicant a few years ago to 20 in its most recent application cycle. 

Workman Nydegger’s interns have had a great experience with the program and have stated that they cannot gain the learning experience from this internship anywhere else. One current intern, Francesca Levitas, states “Being a STEM major, [the law is] a field that isn’t really talked about … everything that I’ve learned isn’t something I would traditionally learn in school.” The interns also noted that the onboarding process was very well organized and executed through multiple attorneys who helped them understand what the internship would look like. The mentoring program consists of pairing individuals based on their major to attorneys specialized in the field. Intern Talmage Gibby states that the attitude from the attorneys he works with is  “very much like I’ll catch you when you fall, show you what to do, and move you forward.” Both Workman Nydegger interns are very appreciative of the mentorship opportunities and learning experience gained through the internship. 

This internship initiative goes hand in glove with UCLI’s programming that creates pathways for students of all backgrounds while promoting belonging in the legal community. As Gerrit shares, “the legal field can be a threatening environment and you can feel like you’re competing with everybody… The most important part of having an inclusive workplace is just treating people kindly and making sure they are comfortable.” Gerrit also emphasized that his own faith tradition has guided him to be kind and inclusive toward others. The firm’s values and ongoing commitment to inclusion are evident through the incredible people and programs they cultivate, and UCLI is proud to partner with Workman Nydegger to continue to provide programming that will support students across Utah in their pursuit of the law through the Sustaining Sponsorship.   

Firms interested in becoming Sustaining Sponsors can join UCLI in its mission to promote fairness and opportunity within Utah’s legal community. Sustaining Sponsors play a vital role in supporting programs that provide mentorship, educational opportunities, and outreach to underrepresented individuals in the legal field. To learn more about sponsorship opportunities and how your firm can get involved, please visit UCLI’s Sustaining Sponsorship webpage or contact us directly at . Your partnership helps create a more inclusive and connected legal profession for future generations.

The Utah Center for Legal Inclusion’s (UCLI) final seminar for the Pre-Law Fellowship program was held on November 8th at the J. Reuben Clark Law School in Provo, Utah. This marks the official end of the 2025 Pre-Law Fellowship. The Fellowship aims to support people seriously interested in the study of law, and includes an enrichment series of nine seminars on topics related to law school, the legal field, and law school applications, as well as access to attorney mentors and private law school consultation. The final event of this program was a highly anticipated event for the UCLI Pre-Law Fellows, where they could celebrate all their efforts this past year. 

Upon arriving at the law school, students had the opportunity to communicate with each other and actively participate in fun activities through an icebreaker activity where Fellows could write wishes and notes to the other members of their cohort. Next, Professor Dane Thorley led the mock law class focused on civil procedure. Prior to the event, a case had been sent out via email to all of the participants to read to prepare for this experience, and the Fellows were fully immersed in the experience – engaging with the material just as law students would in an actual classroom. The session even included the classic “cold calls,” giving participants a realistic glimpse into the rigor and interactive nature of a law school course.

As the next portion of the program, students attended a comprehensive Law School Review session led by Dean Anthony Grover, who provided valuable insight into the law school application and preparation process. During this session, students learned about key topics such as financing legal education, selecting the law school that best aligns with their personal and professional goals, maintaining a competitive GPA, and effective strategies for studying for the LSAT. This review served primarily as an informational and preparatory discussion, offering students practical advice and guidance to help them plan for their future legal studies.

Following Dean Tony Grover, students had the opportunity to explore the law school with guidance from law students Macy Smith, Noa Leituala, and Keni Reed. The tour highlighted key areas of the building, including the courtroom, the library, and other academic spaces that play an important role in the law school experience.

Afterward, these same students held a law student panel, answering any questions the Fellows had to ask about law school, the 1L year, religious requirements at BYU Law, etc. Following the law students, keynote speaker Shubham Shah spoke about his experiences in law school and his transition from being a law student to an attorney. Shubham shared his experiences from living around the world, which contributed to his understanding of other cultures and people and informed his legal practice. His speech was truly inspiring, particularly for students who may feel underrepresented in the legal field or uncertain about whether they will find belonging in law school.  

The event ended with the graduation ceremony. Each Fellow received their 2025 Pre-Law Fellowship diplomas, then captured individual and group photos to commemorate their achievements. To conclude the event, participants enjoyed light refreshments and took time to celebrate together, offering congratulations for one another’s hard-earned achievements. UCLI extends its sincere gratitude to its friends at BYU Law for hosting the seminar and giving up precious weekend time to address the Fellows, as well as the other speakers whose efforts made this event possible.

UCLI also acknowledges with appreciation the generous support of its 2025 Fellowship Program sponsors: the Litigation Section of the Utah State Bar, the B.W. Bastian Foundation, and the Utah Bar Foundation. Their continued partnership and commitment to advancing access to and inclusion within the legal profession have been instrumental in sustaining and enhancing the impact of the Fellowship.

The UCLI Pre-Law Fellowship program offers an invaluable experience for aspiring law students to deepen their understanding of the LSAT and the law school journey. Fellows receive personalized mentorship and guidance from practicing attorneys, gaining firsthand insight into the legal profession and practical advice on strengthening their law school applications. Although the program requires commitment and dedication, the rewards are well worth the effort. Applications for the 2026 Fellowship Program are now open and will close on November 30, 2025. For those eager to expand their legal knowledge, connect with mentors, and take meaningful steps toward law school, this is an opportunity not to be missed.

The Utah Center for Legal Inclusion (UCLI) is driven by a mission to expand opportunity, foster belonging, and build a stronger legal community for all. These goals can only be achieved through the generosity and partnership of volunteers, legal professionals, and philanthropic organizations that believe in this shared vision.

UCLI is honored to be a first-time recipient of support from the Henry W. & Leslie M. Eskuche Foundation. Established to advance Henry and Leslie Eskuche’s legacy of generosity, the Foundation seeks to enhance quality of life by supporting initiatives in education, health, human services, and the arts. Its guiding philosophy emphasizes compassion, lifelong learning, and meaningful impact – all values that strongly align with UCLI’s work across Utah’s legal and educational landscapes.

With this grant, UCLI will continue its PLEDGE Program (Promoting Legal Education to Diverse Groups Everywhere), which provides mentoring, guidance, and scholarship opportunities to students from elementary school through law school. This support enables UCLI to open doors for Utahns from all backgrounds to pursue legal education and professional success.

UCLI is deeply grateful to the Eskuche Foundation for its investment in education and inclusion, and for its commitment to creating lasting change in the community. Together, we are helping build pathways toward a more inclusive and informed future for Utah’s legal profession.

UCLI is excited to announce that our applications for UCLI’s Winter Internship and Ambassador Program are open and currently accepting applications. Both programs are anticipated to run from January 12, 2026 to April 23, 2026. The two programs are aimed towards undergraduate and recently graduated students in Utah that are interested in pursuing a career in law. 

The requirements and deadlines for both are listed below:

UCLI Pre-Law Internship 

UCLI is seeking dedicated interns who are passionate about making the legal space more inclusive. They will have the opportunity to work on multiple initiatives, they will have the opportunity to specialize in one or more of the following focus areas: Social Media Content Creation and PLEDGE Programming. 

General responsibilities for interns include supporting UCLI staff in their duties, and raising awareness and support for UCLI’s programs and initiatives. More information about the role can be found at this link.

The intern role requires 10 hours per week for the duration of the internship, and includes a stipend of $1,200 upon successful completion. Another exciting opportunity with the internship is that each intern will be completing a UCLI Strategic Initiative Project (SIP). This is a project that allows the intern to lead an independent project that can contribute impact for UCLI. The deadline to apply for the internship is on November 12, 2025 at 11:59. Link to apply is included here.

UCLI Ambassador Program

UCLI’s Ambassador Program is a formal volunteer program for undergraduate students and recent graduates who are passionate about law and creating opportunity. The time commitment for the Ambassador Program is a minimum of 25 hours throughout the semester, with flexible hours for completion. Ambassadors don’t receive financial compensation, but do  receive opportunities for professional development and mentorship, as well as participating in impactful initiatives within Utah’s legal community. To learn more about the role, please click here. The deadline to apply for the ambassador program is December 1, 2025 at 11:59 p.m. Link to apply is here.

Both roles are amazing opportunities for undergraduate and recently graduated students to engage with UCLI’s mission and goals, while furthering their knowledge of the legal field. Depending on your schedule and the time you have available to commit to UCLI, you can select the  program that best fits your needs. Both offer unique opportunities for those interested in law and create space for fairness, opportunity, and inclusion in Utah’s legal profession.

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.