News

The Utah Center for Legal Inclusion (UCLI) is unable to accomplish its aims without the community volunteering their time and expertise and without incredible donors and foundations who support our work financially.

For the third year running, UCLI is privileged to receive a grant award from the B.W. Bastian Foundation. The B.W. Bastian Foundation strives to build community and understanding by supporting local and national institutions, specifically supporting the arts and educational outreach. They place a strong commitment on programs and organizations that benefit, encourage, and preserve the rights of individuals and promote equality for the LGBTQ+ community. The B.W. Bastian Foundation supports organizations who wholeheartedly embrace the principle of equality. UCLI and the B.W. Bastian Foundation share a common vision for a legal profession that is more inclusive of LGBTQ+ individuals, and UCLI is honored to be one of the recipients of their grant awards in 2024.

Like the B. W. Bastian Foundation, UCLI is dedicated to preserving and enhancing the rights, equality, and fair treatment of the members of the LGBTQ+ community. Thanks to this grant, UCLI will be able to continue its LGBTQ+ outreach initiative with the PLEDGE Program (Promoting Legal Education to Diverse Groups Everywhere). In 2023, these funds allowed us to continue to support networking events for LGBTQ+ students at Utah’s law schools, provide CLE offerings to attorneys on the topics of LGBTQ+ inclusion, and create a handbook that allows for better community engagement. In 2024, this grant award will facilitate the continuation of networking events for LGBTQ+ law students, allow us to provide additional CLE offerings to attorneys on relevant topics, as well as offer direct student support for an LGBTQ+ student in the 2025 Pre-Law Fellowship program. 

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

The Utah Center for Legal Inclusion (UCLI) is thrilled to announce that Ramzi Hamady has joined our Board of Directors. An accomplished attorney with a passion for justice and equity, Ramzi brings a wealth of experience and dedication to UCLI’s mission of promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion within Utah’s legal profession.  

Ramzi is an Associate at Ray Quinney & Nebeker, where he practices in the Family Law and White Collar Crime sections. Since earning his J.D. from the University of Utah’s S.J. Quinney College of Law in 2017, he has built a distinguished career in law, demonstrating a steadfast commitment to serving clients with integrity and excellence. Prior to joining Ray Quinney & Nebeker in 2021, Ramzi worked as a Trial Attorney with Utah Juvenile Defender Attorneys and as an Associate at JLJ Law Group and The Salt Lake Lawyers. His diverse professional background also includes a Judicial Externship with Judge Michele Christiansen at the Utah Court of Appeals, a fellowship with the S.J. Quinney Center for Law & Biomedical Sciences, and a Legal Internship with the Rocky Mountain Innocence Center.  

Ramzi is deeply committed to advancing inclusivity and empowering underrepresented communities. A Past President of the Utah Minority Bar Association, he has also served as a panel member for the ACLU Legal Advisory Panel and previously contributed to UCLI as a panel member. His professional accolades include being named a “Rising Star” in Family Law by Mountain States Super Lawyers (2023-2024) and serving on the Utah State Bar’s Family Law Executive Committee.  

As a leader and advocate, Ramzi’s insights and expertise will be instrumental in shaping UCLI’s vision and advancing our programs. Please join us in welcoming Ramzi Hamady to the UCLI Board of Directors. We are excited to work alongside him to create a more equitable legal profession in Utah.

Ramzi Hamady, Associate at Ray Quinney & Nebeker

The Utah Center for Legal Inclusion (UCLI) extends its heartfelt gratitude to Matt Connors as he concludes his tenure as UCLI’s Tax and Accounting Advisor. His invaluable contributions and dedication to our mission have been instrumental in advancing our goals. We deeply appreciate his and his team’s accounting expertise and willingness to assist with all tax and financial matters year after year.   

Reflecting on his time with UCLI, Mr. Connors shared: “I have greatly appreciated my association with the other board members and UCLI staff. The UCLI board and staff is comprised of so many high-caliber individuals, and it has been a great learning experience for me to interact with them in this way. Thank you all for enriching my life through the UCLI cause.”

Beyond his service to UCLI, Mr. Connors is a distinguished professional with an exceptional breadth of expertise. As a Managing Director at Rocky Mountain Advisory, he leads the firm’s business and intellectual property valuation practice, providing expert witness services in complex commercial litigation disputes and equity securities valuation. His extensive experience includes testifying in federal and state courts on multiple occasions, solidifying his reputation as a trusted authority in economic damages and business valuation. Mr. Connors’ expertise encompasses areas such as intellectual property and intangible asset valuation, as well as damages assessment. He has skillfully prepared and rebutted expert opinions in these domains, ensuring the highest standards of precision and reliability. His practice also includes post-transaction financial reporting, fraud investigation, and analysis of solvency issues—critical areas that underscore his multifaceted skill set. Mr. Connors holds numerous prestigious credentials, including Accredited Senior Appraiser in Business Valuation, Certified Public Accountant, Accreditation in Business Valuation by the AICPA, and Certified Fraud Examiner. These qualifications reflect his unwavering commitment to excellence and integrity in his field.  

As we bid farewell, we celebrate Mr. Connors’ enduring impact on UCLI and the broader professional community. His wisdom, expertise, and generosity will be deeply missed. We wish him the very best in his ongoing endeavors and know that his contributions to his field and the organizations he supports will continue to be profound. Thank you, Mr. Connors, for your dedication and service. You will always be a cherished member of the UCLI family.

Matt Connors

The Utah Center for Legal Inclusion (UCLI) extends heartfelt gratitude to James (Jamie) Sorenson for his outstanding leadership as a UCLI Fiduciary Board Member and member of the Founding Board of Directors for the organization. During his tenure on the UCLI Board, Jamie also served as the Co-Chair of the Organizational Inclusion Committee. Jamie has been instrumental in advancing UCLI’s mission to diversify Utah’s legal profession and foster greater inclusion. Reflecting on his service, Jamie shared, “UCLI has been so important to me because I love its core belief in the fundamental dignity and equality of all people. The work to diversify the Utah legal profession to reflect our community opens doors for groups who have been underrepresented, and I have loved being a part of that effort.”

Jamie is one of Utah’s distinguished and engaged legal professionals. He joined Ray Quinney & Nebeker upon graduation from The George Washington University Law School in Washington D.C. While in law school, Mr. Sorenson interned with the United States Department of Justice, Tax Division. Jamie is a member of the firm’s Bankruptcy and Creditor’s Rights and Litigation sections. His practice is concentrated in creditor’s rights and commercial and bankruptcy litigation. Jamie also has experience representing plaintiffs and defendants in actions involving preference, fraudulent transfer, and avoidance actions. Jamie currently serves as President of the University of Utah’s Alumni Board of Governors and as a member of the University’s Board of Trustees.  He has previously served as President of the Asian Utah Chamber of Commerce, as the President of the Utah Minority Bar Association, Chair of the Bankruptcy Section of the Utah State Bar, and as an ex officio member of the Utah State Bar Commission. Jamie has been recognized in Mountain States Super Lawyers (2016-2018, 2023-2024) in the category of Bankruptcy: Business and as a Rising Star. He has been voted by his peers as one of Utah’s “Legal Elite,” as published in Utah Business Magazine (2013-2015, 2018-2023).

Jamie’s thoughtful leadership and dedication have left a lasting impact on UCLI. As we bid him farewell, we extend our deepest thanks for his service and wish him continued success in all his endeavors.

James Sorenson, Shareholder at Ray Quinney & Nebeker

Jamie, top left, with the UCLI Founding Board of Directors in October 2016

Jamie presenting at the first annual UCLI Fundraiser Luncheon, March 2022

On Thursday, November 7, 2024, the Utah Center for Legal Inclusion hosted a LGBTQ+ social for law students. This was a wonderful opportunity for LGBTQ+ students, lawyers, professors, and allies to come together, connect, and celebrate our community.

Dr. Daniel G. Aaron, the only LGBTQ+ faculty member at the S.J. Quinney College of Law, gave an uplifting speech that resonated deeply with everyone and that focused on how we can build unity across differences. He reminded the students that, as an LGBTQ+ community, they can “still have that fight and grit while also being empathetic. You all have the chance to enter the legal profession and advocate for LGBTQ+ people. Just by being an LGBTQ+ lawyer or ally, you can make a difference and represent a unity that many people need. Plus, you can use your voice to lift up those who might not otherwise be heard.”

 The students were touched by his words, and some shared thoughts like, “This event was so needed for many of us!” and, “I’m really happy to see everyone together in one space!”

 This event was focused on ensuring that everyone feels included, no matter their race, gender, gender or sexual identity, or socioeconomic background. One student put it beautifully: “If we don’t share our perspectives, we allow people to become intolerable.” It was a heartwarming reminder that together, we can create a more welcoming and supportive community! We are very grateful for Brandon Mark and the LGBT and Allied Lawyers of Utah (LALU) for supporting the event, for Mary Ann Davies and the Disability Law Center for providing a great venue for the evening, and for the B.W. Bastian Foundation, whose generous funding allows UCLI to create LGBTQ+ focused programming.

S.J. Quinney law students showing their support for their LGBTQ+ friends and allies!

Students and lawyers listening to Dr. Dan’s powerful speech.

Dr. Dan imparting wisdom on how to be more empathetic and understanding.

On Friday, November 15, 2024, from 2:15 to 3:15 pm, the Utah Center for Legal Inclusion (UCLI) co-hosted a breakout session titled Cross-Cultural Competencies for Lawyers, Lessons from Practitioners with International Clients. This session was held at the Fall Forum in the Wyoming Conference Room at Little America. It attracted attorneys seeking to refine their skills in working with international clients and navigating the complexities of cross-cultural legal practice.

The session was moderated by Clifford Blair, a member of his firm Kirton McConkie’s International Section, who advises both domestic and foreign businesses and nonprofit organizations on international business and trade, specializing in data privacy compliance. Clifford guided the discussion, offering a framework for lawyers seeking to develop cultural awareness in their legal practices.

The panelists shared their perspectives on the importance of understanding cultural differences in international business and law. A recurring theme throughout the discussion was the need for patience and preparation when working across cultures. One panelist emphasized that negotiations with clients from different cultures may initially seem challenging but could ultimately lead to better results if approached collaboratively. “It may take some time to reach the final solution,” they explained, “but with open communication, you might arrive at an even better outcome.” The conversation also centered on the necessity of preparation. One panelist stressed, “You can’t just wing it,” explaining that cultural research, including understanding body language, customs, and history, is vital for successful cross-cultural interactions. The panelist noted that sometimes, non-verbal communication speaks louder than words, making cultural awareness even more important.

Peter Phippen, Vice President of Sales and Global Sourcing at Newcorp International, shared his insights from the international business world. He spoke about the importance of attorneys in supporting cross-border business relationships but also noted that attorneys could sometimes be a disadvantage if not attuned to the unique cultural and legal contexts in which they are operating. “There are roadblocks and red tape that can often be cleared up when we meet face-to-face,” Peter explained, recalling how many business negotiations could be stymied by reliance on emails and virtual communication. He encouraged attendees to build personal connections, saying, “It’s essential to carve out time and money to meet face-to-face, especially when dealing with international clients.” He also emphasized the critical role of attorneys in international business, especially regarding visas, immigration issues, and cross-border legal requirements such as land ownership and taxation. However, he also highlighted a potential “love-hate relationship” with attorneys, as business clients sometimes feel frustrated with the pace of legal processes, particularly when deadlines are tight.

The discussion then shifted to the concept of relationship-building in international business. One panelist pointed out that in many non-Western cultures, business deals are often forged outside the meeting room, in more informal settings. “In many parts of the world, business doesn’t happen in the boardroom,” they explained. “It happens over meals, over conversations outside the office.” This underscores the importance of understanding the role of informal settings in international business dealings, particularly in cultures like China.

The panel also explored the challenges of overcoming biases in international business. One panelist shared their personal experience in dealing with cultural biases, both in legal documents and interpersonal interactions. “It’s essential to check your biases constantly,” they said. “Even after years of experience, I’m still learning how to address my own biases.”

The importance of cultural competence extends to diverse cultural groups within the U.S. as well. As one panelist pointed out, Utah itself is home to a wide variety of cultural backgrounds and languages. “We need to challenge ourselves to get to know someone different from us,” they urged the audience. “Just ask someone where they’re from, listen to their story. It can make a big difference.”

The session concluded with a powerful message on the value of building lasting, respectful relationships in the legal field, both internationally and domestically. The panelists urged attorneys to see cultural competency as an ongoing process, one that requires openness, patience, and an ongoing commitment to learning and understanding.

A special thank you to Clifford Blair for moderating, the panelists for their insightful contributions, and the Utah World Trade Center for their partnership in organizing the event. We also express appreciation to Silver Sponsor Maschoff Brennan and Bronze Sponsors Ballard Spahr and the Utah Association for Justice, who made this CLE series possible. We also appreciate the support of our series partner the Utah State Bar CLE office and all those who attended. We look forward to seeing you at future UCLI CLE events!

The entrance of the Utah State Bar Fall Forum 2024.

The Wyoming Conference room at the Little America filled with Attorneys and professionals at the Fall Forum.

UCLI intern, Monique Alires, had the opportunity to meet the panelists and attend a discussion on cross-cultural competencies for lawyers, featuring lessons from practitioners working with international clients, hosted in collaboration with the Utah World Trade Center.

Growing up between Miami, Guatemala, and the United States, Sabrina Ruiz-Monroy—UCLI’s new Associate Director—understands firsthand the transformative power of mentorship. Having experienced both the challenges of adapting to a new culture and the impact of a caring teacher who supported her progress in English, Sabrina’s journey reveals how mentorship can redefine a young person’s trajectory.

At just nine years old, she moved to the United States, struggling with an accent and adapting to a new environment. A teacher who recognized her potential not only helped her improve her English but also introduced her to the local Boys and Girls Club. That early mentorship became a cornerstone of Sabrina’s passion for creating opportunities for underrepresented communities.

This passion ultimately led her to an internship with UCLI. Reflecting on her time as an intern, Sabrina describes that it was UCLI’s unique approach that drew her in. Unlike other organizations, UCLI creates a comprehensive mentorship pipeline that spans all levels—from elementary schools to law students and attorneys. “I had experienced the power of being lifted by my community, and I wanted to make that accessible to others,” she explains.

As an intern, Sabrina eagerly took on the challenge of designing and implementing projects that embodied UCLI’s mission of equity and inclusion. Inspired by her own childhood experiences, she forged a partnership between UCLI and local schools, specifically serving economically disadvantaged students. “I was so grateful that I was part of an organization that welcomed my ideas,” she says. “I presented my ideas for the project and UCLI made it a reality!” Sabrina worked on publicity, contacted contributors, gathered materials, and organized UCLI’s first-ever school drive. This initiative not only provided resources for students in need but also deepened her understanding of inclusion. 

“Inclusion means caring for the community as a whole while never losing sight of the individual,” she reflects. For Sabrina, the experience underscored the importance of ensuring every voice and perspective is valued—especially in fields like law, where understanding a client’s unique background is essential to providing accurate representation.

Now stepping into her new role as Associate Director, Sabrina is determined to further UCLI’s mission of creating a more inclusive legal sphere in Utah. She envisions inclusion as a mosaic: “For me, inclusion is the belief that differences are pieces that create a whole,” she says. “Inclusion is the promise that there is room for every story, every voice, every unique strength, and every dream. But inclusion isn’t just making room—it’s extending the invitation,” she emphasizes.

Sabrina’s journey, marked by resilience and a deep commitment to equity, is a reminder that, as she says, “inclusion is seeing others not as strangers, but as common humanity.” UCLI is thrilled to welcome Sabrina to the team and can’t wait to see the incredible impact she will make in advancing UCLI’s mission of equity and inclusion.

With Veterans Day this month, the Utah Center for Legal Inclusion (UCLI) wishes to honor those who have served our country and continue to make a difference in their communities. This year, we spotlight Engels Tejeda, a veteran, attorney, and advocate for inclusion in the legal field.

Engels’ journey from the Dominican Republic to becoming a partner at Holland & Hart is inspiring and a testament to the unique strengths veterans bring to the legal profession. His path was shaped by hard work, mentorship, and the values instilled in him through his military service. Today, Engels gives back through initiatives like the Utah Law Student Mentoring Program, which connects diverse law students with career development opportunities and support. His story, which you can read more about here, is a reminder that veterans enrich our community through service in and out of uniform.

At UCLI, we are committed to celebrating the contributions of veterans in law and advocating for inclusion across all sectors. If you know a veteran in the legal community whose story deserves to be shared, we encourage you to reach out to . Your contribution will help us continue this critical conversation and honor the service of our veterans.

On Friday, November 8th, UCLI held its annual Pre-Law Symposium, drawing around 100 students from across the state to Brigham Young University’s J. Reuben Clark Law School for a day of inspiration, learning, and connection. The symposium aimed to provide students with valuable insights into beginning a legal career, including navigating the application process, preparing for the LSAT, accessing funding opportunities, and hearing from practicing attorneys. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to BYU Law for hosting this impactful event and to the many attorneys, professionals, and volunteers who made it an exceptional learning experience for aspiring legal professionals.

The day began with a delicious kolache breakfast and numerous networking opportunities, with representatives from the University of Utah’s S. J. Quinney College of Law, AccessLex, the Utah State Bar, and ACE Test Prep. Barbara Melendez, Director of Belonging at BYU Law, then opened the symposium with powerful remarks about the legal profession. “Law is more than a career; it’s a privilege,” she counseled the students. She emphasized the pressing need for diverse perspectives in the legal field, inspiring attendees to see their unique backgrounds as strengths.

A panel discussion on preparing for law school followed, led by Dean Anthony Grover, Dean of Admissions at BYU Law, and Director Isabel Moreno, Director of Admissions at the University of Utah Law. The admissions leaders offered practical advice and encouragement, with Director Moreno reminding students, “There’s a law school for everyone!”

The symposium also featured insights from five attorneys from diverse backgrounds, including Wayne Latu of Quinn Emmanuel, Jiro Johnson of Salt Lake Legal Defenders, Lisa Bohman of BYU Legal Counsel, and Grace Acosta of Trujillo Acosta Law. The panel shared candid advice about the realities of practicing law. Grace Acosta provided a memorable moment, quipping, “You come over to my house, you’ll think—that’s a nice house, that’s a nice car—but you need to know what it costs!”

The keynote address by Michalyn Steele, the Marion G. Romney Professor of Law at BYU, left a lasting impression on attendees. Drawing from her experiences as a Native American woman overcoming barriers in the legal profession, she encouraged students to persevere. “Other people will underestimate you,” she urged. “Don’t you be the one to clip your own wings. You have the audacity to hope—dare to dream.”

Throughout the day, students attended sessions tailored to their needs. Workshops included a lecture on financial resources for law school by Justin Zieman of AccessLex and an LSAT preparation session by Brent Dunn of ACE Test Prep. Students also participated in a mock law class taught by Professor Kif Augustine-Adams, gaining a taste of the law school experience. The day concluded with a panel of current law students from BYU and the University of Utah, who provided a behind-the-scenes look at the challenges and rewards of law school life.

This year’s symposium set a new record for student registration and received overwhelmingly positive feedback. One student shared, “As a DACA recipient, I felt heard and hopeful about law school. I was unaware of the resources available for someone like me. I wish others knew about this.” Another noted, “I walked into the symposium today doubting my ability to pursue law school. However, after hearing the inspiring and motivational words from everyone, I feel that I can do my dream of law school.” A third attendee remarked, “[The symposium was] life-changing. It inspired me and also made me want to go to law school even more.”

This event’s success was made possible by the collective efforts of our community. We thank the dedicated speakers, attorneys, law students, and professionals who shared their time and wisdom, as well as each member of the planning committee. To the students who attended, thank you for bringing your enthusiasm and aspirations—we are honored to support your journeys and can’t wait to see the incredible impact you will make in the legal field. Finally, a warm thank you to this year’s sponsors who made this event possible: 

Access Lex

Anderson & Karrenberg

Intellectual Property Section of the Utah State Bar

Maschoff Brennan

SF Firm

Stowell Crayk Ogden

Utah State Bar

The Utah Center for Legal Inclusion is excited to welcome its newest member to the Fiduciary Board, Joshua Gifford! Joshua will serve as UCLI’s Tax/Accounting Advisor, replacing Matt Connors who will step down at the end of 2024 after many years of valuable service. 

A proud native of Sugar House in Salt Lake City, Joshua grew up in a loving family with two brothers and two sisters. He attended Highland High School and went on to earn both a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Accounting from the University of Utah. Joshua began his career as a Tax Associate at Tanner LLC and eventually transitioned to Rocky Mountain Advisory as a Senior Associate and is now a manager. He describes this experience as both challenging and rewarding. With his versatile skill set as an accountant, Joshua’s expertise includes business valuation, fraud investigation, dispute analysis, and much more.

 Joshua first discovered the Utah Center for Legal Inclusion while helping with their tax return reviews at Rocky Mountain Advisory. When the opportunity to join the Fiduciary Board came up, he jumped at the chance. Joshua remarked, “I think UCLI is a vital cause, and I’m excited to support its mission to promote diversity, equity, and inclusion in the legal community.”

 Above all his professional achievements, Joshua considers his greatest achievement to be his beautiful wife and their two wonderful daughters, ages 4 and 7. The Utah Center for Legal Inclusion is proud to announce Joshua Gifford as the newest member of the Fiduciary Board and are grateful for his willingness to serve in 2025.