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Humans of UCLI: Tyson Udy

By Humans of UCLI, News

Tyson Udy

 

 

UCLI is excited to feature Tyson Udy. As a member of UCLI’s first Ambassador cohort in 2025, Tyson made meaningful contributions to many of UCLI’s initiatives, including the Back-to-School Drive and community outreach efforts. Now preparing to begin his journey as an incoming 1L at Temple University Beasley School of Law, Tyson is forging his own path in the legal profession while carrying forward a commitment to service and leadership. Reflecting on his experience with UCLI, Tyson shared: “UCLI provided me with amazing networking and educational opportunities to help me improve my applications, prepare for my legal education, and find a career pathway that fits my goals.” UCLI is proud to celebrate Tyson’s accomplishments and look forward to seeing all that he will achieve in law school and beyond.

Tyson has been involved with the following UCLI Pre-Law programs:

  • Pre-Law Ambassador Program

Strong & Hanni Hosts UCLI Fellows for Law School Application Seminar

By News

 Last week on June 19th, the Utah Center for Legal Inclusion held its fifth Pre Law Fellowship Seminar, graciously hosted by Strong and Hanni in Salt Lake City. For this seminar we focused on law school applications, specifically focusing on resumes, letters of recommendation, and other statements, allowing the UCLI  Fellows to have a better understanding of what makes an application to law school stand out.

We started the day out with guest speaker, Sir Williams, a consultant from Spivey Consulting who flew out from Chicago. Sir engaged the UCLI Fellows, Ambassadors, and intern, with a presentation on law school applications. The presentation was information dense, but filled to the brim with important content that any prospective law student needs to know. Sir summarized what your application should look like in three simple words: “Clear, Concise, Compelling”. As Sir gave detailed specifics such as font size and page margin guidelines, he also reiterated throughout his presentation that one thing that should never be on a law school application is anything from high school; “Your resume should start in college, and go till now”.

Following Sir’s presentation, we held a panel discussion with some members of Strong and Hanni. Camila Lenker, a 3L BYU law student summering on the civil litigation team; Eli Leggett, an insurance defense team member as well as aviation and construction lawyer; and Jesse Davis, a commercial litigator with experience in business and real estate law. This panel was moderated by UCLI Summer Intern, Sam Hill, who asked the panelists several questions ranging from how to manage work-life balance, to why each of them got into the law. One of the first questions asked was “what motivated you to choose a career in law”, and Eli answered with blunt honesty; “I was a bartender and thought ‘I want an in-ground pool and maybe [law] was the answer’”. Conversely, Camila answered that she got into it from doing mock trial and loving the feeling of being in a courtroom. The panel ended with the question “What is the biggest tip you can give students going into law school?” Camila gave the advice of “keep trying, take the LSAT at least twice”. Eli provided his insight “It’ll buff”, and advised participants to take a deep breath and pause in challenging moments. Jesse made it simple, sharing that the importance of discipline and reinforcing how valuable LSAT prep courses are.

After the panel discussion concluded, we were joined by a former UCLI Fellow (from the very first cohort in 2024), Bubba Walker, who just wrapped up his 1L year at the University of Oregon School of Law. Bubba provided the Fellows with modern and grounded advice, which alleviated some of the pressure. Bubba talked about what it’s like going to your first class, and how his classmates were in suits and ties while he was dressed casually, and how despite appearances or knowledge, it wasn’t long till everyone was on the same page, concluding, “Everyone is in the same boat”.

We wrapped up the seminar with a workshop for students to work with their attorney mentors on their resumes and personal statements, implementing the suggestions from Sir’s presentation in real time.

Overall the seminar was a success, informing students what to look out for on their law school applications, providing a first hand experience in a big law firm like Strong and Hanni, and getting students excited about their careers in law school. UCLI is grateful to Strong and Hanni for hosting us, and for the lawyers that agreed to speak to the fellows and ambassadors, as well as for Spivey Consulting and Sir Williams for making time to give our students the boost they may need. We also thank all of the mentors and attorneys for creating an informative seminar.

 

UCLI Fellows and Ambassadors on the balcony of Strong and Hanni overlooking Salt Lake City.

 

UCLI Associate Director, Sabrina Ruiz-Monroy and UCLI Fellows and Ambassadors engaging in discussion over what makes a good application to law school.

 

Sir Williams from Spivey Consulting engaging with UCLI Fellows and Ambassadors on resumes, letters of recommendation, and other addenda.

 

Strong and Hanni panelists, Jesse Davis, Camila Lenker, and Eli Leggett (left to right),answering panel questions about what their career pathway looked like.

Congratulations to the 2026–2027 Christine M. Durham Fellows!

By News

The Utah Center for Legal Inclusion (UCLI) is proud to announce the 2026–2027 recipients of the Christine M. Durham Fellowship. This fellowship is 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 in honor of Justice Christine M. Durham, former Chief Justice of the Utah Supreme Court and current UCLI Co-Chair, this fellowship recognizes law students who demonstrate a strong commitment to advancing justice, inclusion, and equity within Utah’s legal profession.

Each fellow receives a stipend of up to $1,500, which may be applied toward tuition, housing, food, or other living expenses. In addition to financial support, Durham Fellows work closely with UCLI staff and the Leadership Council to strengthen programming and expand opportunities for law students across the state.We are thrilled to introduce this year’s outstanding fellows:

 

Fagasoaia-Iliganoa Leituala 

Noa is a rising second-year JD candidate at BYU Law. Growing up in San Antonio, Texas, he quickly learned the value diverse perspectives bring to both the workplace and the larger community. Noa is a former UCLI Pre-Law Fellow and credits UCLI’s mentorship, expertise, and professional engagement with helping navigate the first crucial steps in his legal career. Drawing on his background and leadership positions in the BYU Law Student Body Association, Minority Law Student Association, and Pacific Islander Law Student Association, he works to expand opportunities for future law students. Through this fellowship, Noa will help advance UCLI’s mission by connecting students with mentors, strengthening pathways into the legal profession, and fostering a more inclusive legal community throughout Utah. He hopes to pay forward UCLI’s investment in him by helping the next generation of students find belonging and opportunity in the law. 

Fagasoaia-Iliganoa Leituala

Sakina Steflik 

Sakina is a student at the University of Utah S.J. Quinney College of Law and a Utah native. Her interest in law grew from experiences listening to people’s stories, whether as a journalism student or as a Victim Assistance Mentor at the Utah County Children’s Justice Center. At S.J. Quinney, she is involved in organizations focused on inclusion and student support. As a first-generation law student, Sakina works to make the legal profession more accessible to students and communities without existing legal connections.

Sakina Steflik

UCLI Meadowlark Mentoring Initiative Closing Social: A Day of Fun and Goodbyes

By News

On May 22, 2026, UCLI and Meadowlark Elementary School held its Meadowlark Mentoring Initiative Closing Social. Celebrating on a high note to the end of the school year, the Meadowlark Mentoring Initiative has been a resounding success for both attorney mentors and students. 

As one of the long-standing initiatives of UCLI, the Meadowlark Mentoring Program provides a valuable opportunity for six-grade students in Mr. John Arthur’s class to engage with attorneys on an individual basis to grow their personal and professional skills. Students are able to build confidence in their writing skills and develop skills to achieve success beyond the classroom. Attorneys volunteer as mentors to meet with students in short, focused sessions designed to support personal growth.

To celebrate the end of the school year, UCLI staff, attorney mentors, and Ambassadors joined students for an afternoon of field games, activities, and a final round of kickball. The event concluded with donuts, laughter, and plenty of memorable moments. In a surprising turn of events, UCLI staff, attorney mentors, and Ambassadors managed to defeat the highly competitive sixth-grade students in kickball, a first victory since the program began.

While the end of the school year brings a bittersweet farewell, UCLI is excited to see the positive impact these students will continue to make in their schools, communities, and future careers. We are grateful for our continued partnership with Mr. Jon Arthur and Meadowlark Elementary School and look forward to another successful year of mentoring.

The end-of-year social served as a celebration of the relationships built throughout the year and reinforced UCLI’s commitment to being a lifelong resource for students as they pursue their goals and reach their full potential.

UCLI staff, attorney mentors, and Ambassadors stand for a final group photo with Mr. John Arthur and his sixth grade students.

 

UCLI’s Associate Director, Sabrina Ruiz-Monroy gives final remarks about the success of the Meadowlark Mentoring Initiative for the year.

 

Mr. John Arthur, Jascha Clark of Parr Brown Gee & Loveless, Andres F. Morelli from Parsons Behle & Latimer, and James Cardon Leota, UCLI Ambassador and former Pre-Law Fellow, walk off with smiles on their faces after winning kickball.

2026 Sustaining Sponsor: Intermountain Health

By News

The Utah Center for Legal Inclusion (UCLI) is delighted to recognize Intermountain Health as a 2026 Sustaining Sponsor at the Advocate level. As a UCLI Sustaining Sponsor, Intermountain Health demonstrates commitment to expanding access, strengthening professional connections, and helping shape a more inclusive legal profession across the state.

Intermountain Health is a powerful example of what intentional leadership, empathy, and care can look like within Utah’s legal community. Sustaining Sponsors give foundational, ongoing support that allows UCLI’s work to grow with long-term impact. Rather than supporting a single event or initiative, Sustaining Sponsors invest in programs that make systemic change possible. Intermountain Health has stepped meaningfully into that role not only through sponsorship activities, but also through active participation in other UCLI initiatives. Intermountain has shown that inclusion is not a one-time experience, but a long-lasting commitment embedded into organizational culture.

Intermountain Health has been a committed partner of the Utah Center for Legal Inclusion since UCLI’s founding, demonstrating consistent leadership in advancing equity within the legal profession. Intermountain’s legal team has participated in the UCLI Certification Program year after year, taking its goals seriously and creating meaningful impact across their organization. As a Sustaining Sponsor, Intermountain continues to invest in the growth of education and mentorship initiatives, with their attorneys actively volunteering and supporting students throughout the state. Their long-standing involvement reflects a deep commitment not only to supporting UCLI’s mission, but to shaping a more inclusive and connected legal community in Utah.

One of the most impactful projects Intermountain Health has led is the Utah Legal Inclusion Fellowship. Originally created by Intermountain Health in partnership with UCLI and Kirton McConkie in 2022, the Fellowship was designed to expand professional and practical growth opportunities for law students who may not have had access to robust support systems throughout their academic career. Intermountain Health’s involvement with the program adds another layer to the traditional internship or summer experience. Fellows have the opportunity to work directly with Intermountain’s in-house legal department, gaining exposure to legal practice within one of the largest health systems in the region. From health law and regulatory compliance to transactional, litigation, and employment matters, students get to see firsthand how legal supports expansive healthcare operations in the Intermountain West.

Collectively, Intermountain Health’s initiatives represent more than a professional development program. Their role in the legal community has helped create a meaningful bridge between education and practical legal experience. Several past fellowship recipients now reflect on how this partnership helped cultivate their legal skills and individual talents, and strengthened the future of legal leadership within Utah.

For Gabrielle Anguiano, a 2023 Fellow, Intermountain Health mentorship and hands-on training were essential in shaping her future career. During her journey, she shadowed in-house counsel, received extensive contract training, and worked on meaningful projects that strengthened her legal skillset. She said of her experience, “[I was given] training with contracts which I felt was really relevant to the kind of work that I do now.” Further, the collaborative and welcoming environment within Intermountain’s legal department expanded her understanding of healthcare law while reinforcing her confidence as a developing professional.

For Kricia Tauilili, a 2023 Fellow, the Fellowship’s scholarship component relieved financial pressures as she navigated law school with limited resources. The stipend allowed her to more fully cultivate her academic and professional pursuits while also maintaining personal balance in her life. Her time shadowing Intermountain’s legal teams, including HR attorneys and contract specialists, offered clarity and direction in shaping  her own legal interests. Being a part of this program not only strengthened her career direction but also heightened her sense of belonging within the profession. Kricia said, “It was a huge blessing to my husband and I. We were both in school and taking loans out to finish. We didn’t know how my investment [in my legal education] would play out once I had graduated. The scholarship took a lot of pressure off as a student.”

The journey of Gloria Aquino, a 2024 Fellow, reflects the Fellowship’s long-term impact. With a background in healthcare, she was drawn to the unique professional opportunity Intermountain Health offered to study the intersection between law and medicine. Her summer included legal research, writing, and consistent shadowing with Intermountain Health in-house counsel. Gloria feels the mentorship and professional access she gained during the Fellowship led to her continued success, and ultimately to additional summers in the program and a full-time role at Kirton McConkie following graduation. In Gloria’s words, “The experience changed my life and opened doors that I didn’t know could be opened for me. Through mentorship and guidance, I am a more confident and competent law student.”

The experiences of these amazing Fellows underscores how impactful Intermountain Health’s engagement has been. Support from the legal community is both meaningful and necessary to the development of emerging lawyers within Utah. By introducing opportunity for robust exposure in real-world professional environments, Intermountain is not simply supporting students but investing in Utah’s legal pipeline and modeling what intentional partnership can accomplish. UCLI is grateful for Intermountain Health’s continued support and leadership.

Organizations inspired by this work are encouraged to explore how they, too, can support UCLI’s mission. Firms interested in becoming Sustaining Sponsors or expanding their involvement are invited to connect with UCLI to learn more about partnership opportunities and the impact they can make.

2026 Sustaining Sponsor, Intermountain Health.

2024 Fellowship recipient, Gloria Aquino.

 

2023 Fellowship recipient, Gabrielle Anguiano.

2023 Fellowship recipient, Kricia Tauilili.

Humans of UCLI: James Cardon Leota

By Humans of UCLI, News

James Cardon Leota

 

UCLI is excited to highlight a former UCLI Pre-Law Fellow and Ambassador and an incoming law student to Howard University: James Cardon Leota.

James states, “UCLI has been instrumental in helping me see law school not just as an individual goal, but as part of a larger commitment to justice, equity, and community impact. Through UCLI’s support, mentorship, and encouragement, I have felt more prepared, more connected, and more confident in my ability to enter the legal profession with purpose. As a first-generation student pursuing law, UCLI helped make the path feel more visible and attainable.”  

James has been involved with the following UCLI Pre-Law programs:

  • Pre-Law Ambassador Program
  • Pre-Law Fellowship
  • Pre-Law Symposium

Congratulations to the 2026 UCLI Bar Review Scholarship Recipients

By News

The Utah Center for Legal Inclusion (UCLI), in partnership with the Young Lawyers Division of the Utah State Bar and with the support of community sponsors, is proud to congratulate the recipients of the 2026 UCLI Bar Review Scholarship.

This scholarship supports graduating law students preparing for the July 2026 Utah State Bar Exam, helping offset the significant costs associated with bar preparation and registration. Awards ranging from $250 to $1,150 are granted based on financial need, demonstrated community involvement, and each recipient’s potential to make meaningful contributions to Utah’s legal community.

This year’s recipients represent both the S.J. Quinney College of Law and the J. Reuben Clark Law School. Each has shown a strong commitment to serving their communities and advancing the legal profession in Utah. Please read more about this year’s recipients below.

2026 UCLI Bar Review Scholarship Recipients:


Elle Breckenridge

Elle Breckenridge  is a Kansas City native and recent JD recipient from the University of Utah S.J. Quinney College of Law, having earned her undergraduate degree from the University of Illinois. Deeply passionate about food security and environmental sustainability, she began their professional career working with Kanbe’s Markets to expand fresh food access. Building on this dedication to public service, Elle currently serves as the O’Hara Natural Resources Fellow at the Utah Attorney General’s Office, Department of Natural Resources. In this role, she continues to blend her legal education with her passion for protecting natural resources and her community.

Elle Breckenridge

Taj Carson

Taj Carson is a first generation lawyer. He was born and raised in eastern North Carolina, where he attended North Carolina State University earning his B.S. in Business Administration. Subsequently, he moved to Utah and completed his J.D. at Brigham Young University, J. Reuben Clark School of Law. Taj plans to serve his community as a government attorney specializing in criminal justice/prosecution.

Taj Carson

Abby Forrest

Abby Forrest, a soon-to-be-graduate of the S.J. Quinney College of Law, will be pursuing Utah’s new alternative pathway to licensure. She has found her place in estate planning and probate litigation with Lieberman Siebers & Wood. She helped jumpstart SJQ’s estate planning pro bono clinic and will be serving on the Young Lawyer’s Division committee for Wills for Heroes. As a mother of two law school babies, she also helped found SJQ’s Parents and Caregivers Club. When she’s not at the office or giving horsey rides, she spends her time digging in dirt (gardening). 

Abby Forrest

Margaret Gibson

Margaret Gibson is a Juris Doctor candidate at the University of Utah S.J. Quinney College of Law, where she focuses on juvenile justice and international law. Originally from Charleston, South Carolina, she began her career as a Title I middle school teacher, teaching seventh grade and supporting students in underserved communities. During law school, Margaret has continued her commitment to service through work in child welfare, education policy, and international human rights. She has contributed to legal research and advocacy addressing issues affecting vulnerable populations and plans to pursue a career in public interest law following her graduation in May 2026.

Margaret Gibson

Ashlynn Hall

Ashlynn Hall is a law student at the University of Utah’s S.J. Quinney College of Law, where she will graduate with her J.D. in Spring 2026. During law school, she served as Executive Articles Editor of the University of Utah Law Review, worked as a teaching assistant and research assistant, and completed a judicial externship with the Utah Supreme Court. Ashlynn has especially enjoyed volunteering with the Pro Bono Initiative and serving as a Court Appointed Special Advocate. After graduation, she plans to practice civil litigation in Salt Lake City. 

Ashlynn Hall

Corben Lamb

Corben Lamb is a first-generation law student at the S.J. Quinney College of Law. He is developing strong research, writing, and problem-solving skills and also speaks Spanish. Outside of school, Corben is a husband and a first-time father to his six-month-old son, enjoying life with his growing family and everything that comes with it. 

Corben Lamb

Bron Spencer Lore

Bron grew up in Ogden, and attended Weber State with plans of becoming a police officer. Near the end of his undergrad, he changed trajectory and aimed instead at law school. Being the first lawyer from his family this was a big step for him, but thanks to the constant support from the community and his family, he was able to thrive. The experience he treasured most at SJ Quinney was being SBA President, helping students in any way he possibly could. He hopes to pass along this support, and help others find their way where they can thrive similarly. 

Bron Spencer Lore

Andie Madsen

Andie Madsen recently graduated from the S.J. Quinney College of Law with her Juris Doctorate and plans to sit for the Utah Bar this July. Afterwards, she will clerk for the Utah Supreme Court and then the 10th Circuit. She plans to become an environmental lawyer working to protect the places she cares deeply about. 

Andie Madsen

Audrey Meyer

Audrey Meyer is a recent graduate from the S.J. Quinney College of Law. During her time at law school, she led the Pro Bono Initiative’s family law clinic and started the estate planning clinic, helping low income community members navigate their divorce, custody, and probate cases. She also served as President of the Women’s Law Caucus her 2L and 3L years. In her spare time, Audrey enjoys hiking with her dog and trying new restaurants in Salt Lake City. 

Audrey Meyer

Emily Pellegrino

Emily Pellegrino, a Pittsburgh native, earned her Bachelor of Science in Marketing from the University of Utah before pursuing her Juris Doctor at the S.J. Quinney College of Law. At SJQ, Emily serves as the Executive Social Justice Editor for Utah Law Review and is actively involved in the Women’s Law Caucus, the Public Interest Law Organization, and the Ski and Snowboard Club. Upon graduation, she plans to pursue a career in public interest law with a focus on immigration and civil rights, committed to advocating for underrepresented communities and expanding access to justice for all. Outside of her academic career, Emily enjoys skiing, backpacking, fly fishing, reading, and sewing.

Emily Pellegrino

Makena Rauch

Makena Rauch is a 3L at the University of Utah S.J. Quinney College of Law. She is the current Chair of the Federal Bar Association Law Student Division Board and the President of the S.J. Quinney FBA Chapter. Originally from Idaho, she earned dual degrees in Political Science and Criminal Justice from Marshall University in Huntington, West Virginia.

Makena is dedicated to fostering an inclusive legal community. She serves as the Past President of Pride Law Caucus and is a former board member of LGBTQ+ and Allied Lawyers of Utah (LALU). She is also a member of the Federalist Society and previously served as Treasurer of the Minority Law Caucus. Passionate about pro bono work, she seeks opportunities to assist underserved communities and finds purpose in providing meaningful legal support to those in need. Her professional interests center on antitrust law, where she champions fair competition and works to ensure competitive prices for consumers and businesses. She is also engaged in policy work that aims to shape legal frameworks for a balanced and equitable marketplace.

Outside of law school, Makena thrives in the mountains, whether biking, camping, or hiking. A former Division I college golfer, she carries the discipline and strategic thinking from the sport into her legal career and remains committed to leadership, advocacy, and public service so that diverse voices are heard in the legal profession. 

Makena Rauch

Camden Reese

Camden Reese is a law graduate preparing to sit for the Utah Bar. He is committed to advancing fairness and integrity within the legal system, with a particular interest in government defense work. During his legal studies, Camden developed strong analytical and advocacy skills while engaging in experiences that reflect his dedication to public service. He plans to build a career focused on ethical practice and meaningful impact within the legal profession. Camden is grateful for the support of organizations like UCLI that help reduce barriers for aspiring attorneys and strengthen the future of the legal community. 

Camden Reese

Lindsey Richards

Lindsey Richards recently graduated from BYU Law School and is beginning a career in criminal law with a strong interest in prosecution and justice reform. She is passionate about promoting fairness, accountability, and meaningful change within the criminal justice system through public service. During law school, Lindsey developed a commitment to thoughtful legal advocacy and ethical leadership. She looks forward to serving in a clerkship with the Utah Court of Appeals, where she hopes to continue building the legal skills and experience that will support her long-term career in prosecution and public service. 

Lindsey Richards

Adriana Sanchez

Adriana Sanchez is a first-generation college graduate and a rising attorney committed to public service. A native Spanish speaker, she learned English as a second language and went on to earn her undergraduate degree from the University of California, Los Angeles. Prior to law school, Adriana worked as a social worker, supporting survivors of domestic violence and underserved communities. She is currently completing her legal studies at the University of Utah, where she has focused on advocacy and community-centered legal work. Adriana is passionate about using the law to expand access to justice and empower vulnerable populations. 

Adriana Sanchez

Lois Salas Mora

Born in Mexico and raised in Kentucky, Lois Salas Mora developed was born in Mexico and raised in Kentucky. Thus, she grew up with a strong commitment to serving immigrant communities. She earned her undergraduate degree in International Relations from Brigham Young University and later attended BYU Law School. During law school, she worked with the BYU Community Legal Clinic and served as President of the Immigration Law Society. Lois is passionate about immigration and family law, particularly in supporting the Hispanic community. Outside of her professional interests, she enjoys going on walks and reading. 

Lois Salas Mora

Ligia Valencia

Ligia Valencia is a first-generation law graduate from BYU Law. She grew up in Missouri, then moved to Hawaii for her undergraduate degree, and then moved to Utah to pursue a law degree. During her time in Hawaii, she loved getting to know the different cultures and realized the hardships with the law her classmates had to face to attend school. This ignited a desire to learn more about the law in general. During her time at BYU Law, she gained a passion for immigration law, knowing this would help those in her local community. 

Ligia Valencia

Sydney Wilson

Sydney Wilson is a Utah native who has long dreamed of becoming an attorney. After attending high school in Stansbury Park, Utah, she attended BYU, served a mission for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints in Brazil and Georgia, and completed her Bachelor’s Degree in History in 2023. After finishing at BYU, she attended S.J. Quinney College of Law at the University of Utah, graduating in 2026. Sydney hopes to pursue a legal career in litigation and will be working at the boutique firm Hoggan Lee Hutchinson after taking the Utah bar.

Sydney Wilson

Guo Yu

Guo Yu (Alex) is a recent BYU Law graduate and a first-generation law student. She immigrated to the United States from China at age fourteen and later studied Legal Studies at UC Berkeley, where she attended on a full scholarship. Her educational path required persistence and independence, and it shaped her interest in law as both a profession and a way to make opportunity more accessible to others.

During law school, Alex served as President of the Asian Pacific American Law Students Association and gained international legal experience through internships with MoFo and Baker McKenzie in Tokyo. Those opportunities strengthened her interest in building a career in international and cross-border legal work. Fluent in Mandarin, Japanese, and English, Alex hopes to serve clients whose needs reach across countries, cultures, and communities. Alongside her legal studies, she independently initiated and completed a Chinese-language legal access tool designed to make Utah’s legal resources clearer and more approachable for non-English-speaking residents seeking legal support.

Guo Yu

UCLI and YLD commend these outstanding students for their hard work, dedication, and impact. We look forward to seeing the positive influence they will bring to Utah’s legal field as they take this important next step in their careers!

Farewell to the 2025-2026 Christine M. Durham Fellows

By News

The Utah Center for Legal Inclusion extends its heartfelt gratitude and farewell to the 2025–2026 Christine M. Durham Fellows, Alexa Brown of Brigham Young University J. Reuben Clark Law School and Sinndy Rios of the University of Utah S. J. Quinney College of Law.

Over the past year, UCLI has had the privilege of working alongside two truly outstanding law students who have exemplified what it means to give back to the legal community. Through their service and dedication, Alexa and Sinndy have made a lasting impact on both pre-law and law student communities across Utah.

Throughout the Fellowship, both students played key roles in supporting UCLI programming. They contributed to the planning and organization of events, shared their experiences and insight as panelists, and served as mentors to aspiring law students. Their involvement in initiatives such as the annual Pre-Law Symposium helped create meaningful opportunities for students to learn and feel supported in their preparation for law school.

Their commitment to advancing fairness within the legal profession reflects the very purpose of the Justice Christine M. Durham Fellowship. Moreover, as they now prepare to enter their third year of law school and begin focusing on the transition into the legal workforce, we are confident that they will continue to do incredible things. Their passion and work ethic will undoubtedly shape the future of the legal field in meaningful ways.

We are deeply grateful for all that they have given to UCLI and to the broader community. It has been a joy to witness their contributions and achievements over the past year.

Thank you, Alexa and Sinndy, and we wish you both continued success in all that lies ahead!

 

Alexa Brown – J. Reuben Clark Law School

 


Sinndy Rios – S. J. Quinney College of Law

UCLI Pre-Law Fellowship Seminar at the Disability Law Center

By News

The Utah Center for Legal Inclusion proudly hosted its fourth Pre Law Fellows Seminar at the Disability Law Center in Salt Lake City, in partnership with And Justice for All. This engaging seminar held on May 15th provided Fellows with a full day of learning, connection, and candid conversations about public interest law, professional development, and well-being in both law school and in the legal field.

The day began with a brief welcome and get-to-know-you activity before transitioning into a panel moderated by Associate Director Sabrina Ruiz Monroy. Fellows had the opportunity to hear from a group of phenomenal attorneys at the Disability Law Center, including Katie Cox, Nate Crippes, Mitchell Roundy, and Angel Tirado. Each panelist shared insights into their work in disability rights, civil rights advocacy, and general public service, while also offering practical advice and thoughtful reflections during an interactive question and answer session. As Angel Tirado shared with the fellows, “At the end of the day, please remember you will be just fine, I truly promise you that.” Nate Crippes also offered candid advice, noting, “Know that you want to go to law school for certain before going because I will not lie to you, it is hard, but it is one hundred percent worth it when you know your why.”

Following the panel, Fellows participated in a networking presentation led by UCLI staff, focused on professional etiquette and building meaningful connections in the legal profession. The seminar continued with lunch and a hands-on mock interview activity, where Fellows practiced their interviewing skills both in groups and one-on-one with attorneys and Pre-Law Fellowship mentors. This provided valuable real time feedback and helped Fellows build confidence in their professional development.

The day ended with a powerful and open conversation led by BYU Law mental health specialist Abigail Scoma. She spoke candidly about the realities of law school, the pressures law students may face, and the importance of prioritizing mental health. Fellows were encouraged to seek support early, redefine what balance meant to them, and develop sustainable habits for success both in law school and beyond.

Overall, the seminar was an incredibly meaningful and comprehensive experience that brought together skill building and honest dialogue. UCLI is grateful to the Disability Law Center, And Justice for All, BYU Law staff, and all participating attorneys and mentors for creating such an impactful day for the UCLI Pre-Law Fellows.

Disability Law Center Attorney, Angel Toledo and UCLI Fellow, Kukua Quansah.

 

Summer Ambassadors Ryan Calvert and Beatrice attend the Pre-Law Fellowship Seminar.

 

UCLI Fellow Maximus Garcia Olazabal and Disability Law Center attorney Mary Anne Davies participate in a mock interview session, reviewing strategies to strengthen interviewing skills.

 

UCLI Fellows Kimley Morlant, Asia Reid, and Valeria Pozos, along with UCLI Ambassador Eduardo Rios and Disability Law Center attorney Nate Crippes, participate in group mock interviews during the seminar.

Donor Spotlight: Jennifer and Scott Huntsman Family Fund

By News

The Utah Center for Legal Inclusion (UCLI) is guided by a mission to expand opportunity, cultivate belonging, and strengthen Utah’s legal community for everyone in the state. Advancing this work depends on the dedication and generosity of volunteers, legal professionals, and philanthropic partners who share a commitment to these values.

 

UCLI is grateful to receive support for the first year ever from the Jennifer and Scott Huntsman Family Fund. This grant was administered by the Community Foundation of Utah at the recommendation of the Jennifer and Scott Huntsman Family Fund – CFU. By connecting charitable giving with initiatives that create meaningful impact across the state, the Community Foundation of Utah plays an important role in supporting stronger Utah communities, and UCLI appreciates its partnership in this process. As this grant was pledged during UCLI’s Fundraiser Luncheon campaign, it was subject to a double match – making its impact even greater. 

 

This funding provides valuable general operating support for UCLI’s efforts throughout Utah’s legal educational landscape. Flexible support of this kind allows UCLI to maintain and expand initiatives such as the PLEDGE Program (Promoting Legal Education to Diverse Groups Everywhere), which offers mentoring, academic guidance, and scholarship opportunities to students from elementary school through law school. It also helps advance UCLI’s broader mission of increasing access, opportunity, and connection within the legal profession.

 

UCLI sincerely appreciates the support of the Jennifer and Scott Huntsman Family. Together, we are helping create a more inclusive, engaged, and informed future for Utah’s legal community.