
The Utah Center for Legal Inclusion (UCLI) is proud to announce the 2025–2026 recipients of the Christine M. Durham Fellowship—an honor awarded annually to one law student from the University of Utah’s S.J. Quinney College of Law and one from BYU’s J. Reuben Clark Law School.
Named after Justice Christine M. Durham, former Chief Justice of the Utah Supreme Court and current UCLI Co-Chair, this prestigious fellowship recognizes law students who demonstrate an unwavering commitment to justice, inclusion, and equity within Utah’s legal profession.
Each fellow receives a stipend of up to $1,500, which can be applied toward tuition, housing, food, or other living expenses. In addition to financial support, Durham Fellows collaborate closely with UCLI’s staff and Leadership Council to enhance programming for law students across the state.
We are thrilled to introduce one of this year’s distinguished fellows:
Alexa Brown – J. Reuben Clark Law School
Alexa Brown is a JD/MPA candidate at Brigham Young University and a proud first-generation Latina student. She earned her undergraduate degree in Economics from the University of Utah, where she first discovered her passion for public service and community engagement.
Alexa brings a strong background in public policy and legal advocacy. She has interned with Senator Mitt Romney, World Trade Center Utah, Wilkinson Barker Knauer LLP in Washington, D.C. (specializing in technology and regulatory law), and the Office of General Counsel for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Mexico City.
Alexa aspires to build a legal career that uplifts underrepresented communities and expands access to justice. She is deeply committed to mentoring, creating inclusive spaces, and advancing equity in the legal field. Outside of her professional pursuits, Alexa enjoys cooking Colombian and Mexican food, practicing yoga, and spending quality time with her family.
We extend our heartfelt congratulations to Alexa and her co-fellow from the S.J. Quinney College of Law (to be announced soon). We are inspired by their achievements and excited to support them as they lead the charge in shaping a more inclusive legal profession in Utah.
Sinndy Rios – S.J. Quinney College of Law
Sinndy is a rising second-year law student at the S.J. Quinney College of Law at the University of Utah. She was born in Chiquimula, Guatemala, and grew up in West Valley City, Utah. Sinndy graduated with an Honors Bachelor of Science in Political Science and Sociology from the University of Utah. During her time at the U, Sinndy found a passion for advocating for undocumented immigrants and increasing access to higher education. As a result, she served as a lead presidential intern for higher education at the U. Upon graduating, she worked for three years with the Office of the Vice President of Student Affairs, where she helped work on strategic projects that promoted student success and belonging on campus.
Sinndy is currently a legal intern at Western Governors University and will intern for Justice Jill Pohlman at the Utah Supreme Court this fall. Sinndy is attending law school to help the underserved and undocumented immigrant population. She is most proud of being the first in her family to attend law school and have the opportunity to pursue a career that can uplift and support her family and her community.