News

On Friday June 14th, UCLI hosted its fourth 2025 Pre-Law Fellowship seminar at Strong & Hanni. Strong & Hanni is one of Salt Lake City’s longstanding, full-service law firms, established in 1888 and based downtown. UCLI is truly grateful for the opportunity they had to use their offices for a seminar and for the law firm’s generosity in providing Fellows with a tour of the firm, as well as hosting a “Life in the Law” panel featuring inspiring attorneys.

The seminar began with an amazing presentation given by Sir Williams, a consultant with Spivey Consulting. With over a decade of experience in law school admissions -most recently as the director of admissions at the University of Wisconsin Law School. Sir has helped navigate many different students in their journey of applying for law school and he provided that same enthusiasm to the Fellows in the meeting. The main topic of the presentation was how Fellows can strengthen their personal and diversity statements in their law school applications. He shared great insights on what to share in a personal statement, for instance, the personal statement is meant to be an interview, a way for the admissions office to know and understand who you are. Some tips he shared for the personal statement included that it must be memorable, informative, and in the student’s own voice. Overall, he shared advice to the Fellows and then spent time with them one on one throughout the duration of the seminar. 

After Sir Williams’ presentation the Fellows had an opportunity to meet with current attorney mentors and law student mentors in small groups. They were able to workshop their personal and diverse statements in these groups, as well as ask many different questions about what it is like working in the legal field and going through law school. This gave the Fellows a chance to share their concerns and receive outstanding advice from people who have walked a similar path. The Fellows were then given a tour of the law firm and met different lawyers in their work environment. This showed the Fellows a glimpse into the work life of an attorney and also provided them with a practical experience of networking with legal professionals. 

The final event of the seminar was a “Life in the Law” panel, featuring Strong & Hanni attorneys Casey Jones, Savannah Jones, and Eli Liggett. Casey Jones focuses on real estate and business transactional matters, Savannah’s practice focuses exclusively on health care, and Eli works on the aviation, construction, and insurance defense teams. All three of these attorneys are outstanding in their respective sections and brought a diversity of background and thought to the panel. They shared insights on their time at law school and how they identified their specific fields of law to work in. When asked for advice on how to be a good attorney in the future, Savannah shared “you can still be a good human while doing what you need to do.” Casey offered the helpful insight:, “leave the ego out the door.”  Eli’s advice was to “ask for help, and say no to nothing. Make sure to utilize the people around you.” Each one of these attorneys gave outstanding advice to the Fellows, making the conclusion of the Fellowship seminar very memorable. 

UCLI would like to again thank Sir Williams and Strong & Hanni law firm for their amazing cooperation. They helped the fellows develop new skills along with building their confidence in their decisions in pursuing a career in the legal field.

Fellows Receiving Advice from a Law Student Mentor

“Life in the Law” Panel, Featuring Strong & Hanni Attorneys Casey Jones, Savannah Jones, and Eli Liggett

A Fellow and Mentor working on a Personal Statement

UCLI and Greenberg Traurig is thrilled to announce our second annual Back-To-School Drive, where we aim to support and uplift students across Utah. Building on the incredible success of last year’s drive, UCLI and Greenberg Traurig is proud to deepen its impact and expand its reach in 2025. This year for the first time, we are partnering with Greenberg Traurig to further the mission of UCLI’s drive. 

We would like to thank everyone who donated last year and allowed for such a success for all our partners, the Boys and Girls Club and Backman Elementary School. We are pleased to announce that our partners for 2025 will be the Boys and Girls Club, Backman Elementary School, and Meadowlark Elementary. Through these efforts, we hope to continue creating impact for these students beyond providing school supplies and work to provide pathways to understanding legal resources within the community and the possibility of a legal career. 

UCLI’s dedicated interns and ambassadors will work to organize school supplies and distribute these supplies during multiple back-to-school events where they will also share resources and information about UCLI to community members. 

Donations will be accepted until August 1st. Please donate to UCLI using this link. Your cash donations go a long way, thanks to the partnership in place with a bulk school supplier. That being said, we know some of  you may have new or lightly used supplies that fall within the categories listed below, and we welcome your drop-off donations as well.A contribution in any form will make a huge difference for a student in need! Feel free to drop off any items at the front desk of the UCLI facilities, which are in the Utah Law and Justice Center, located at 645 S 200 E, Salt Lake City, UT 84111. You may also coordinate item pick-up with UCLI staff at .

Supplies Needed Include:

• Backpacks
• Notebooks
• Pencils/Pens
• Crayons
• Scissors 
• Glue sticks
• Markers/Colored Pencils
• Rulers
• Erasers 

Through the combined efforts of our community, interns, ambassadors, and partners, we hope to make a meaningful impact and empower students throughout Utah. With your support, we can help ensure that more and more children can start the school year prepared, confident, and ready to reach their full potential. 

Again, we would like to thank our partners for this year’s drive: Backman Elementary, Boys & Girls Club of Utah County, Greenberg Traurig, and Meadowlark Elementary.

UCLI executive director Kaitlyn Pieper tables at the Backman Elementary Back-to-School Night in 2024 to give out backpacks to families

Current UCLI Associate Director Sabrina Ruiz Monroy at the Boys and Girls Club drop-off event on August 10, 2024

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

 ACE Test Prep
Wilson Sonsini Goodrich & Rosati Foundation

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.

On Thursday, May 22, 2025, UCLI had the pleasure of honoring the four recipients of this year’s Bar Review Scholarship — Paulina Barboza, Alyssa Hunzeker, Ashley Zulema Whetten Soroa, and Courtney Gamangasso — at a special event hosted by the Utah State Bar Young Lawyers Division.

The Bar Review Scholarship provides financial support to law students taking the July 2025 Utah State Bar Examination, helping to offset costs related to exam registration and preparation. This year’s recipients were selected for their outstanding service and commitment to the community throughout law school. The celebration took place at the beautiful Tracy Aviary in Liberty Park, offering a meaningful setting for the scholars, UCLI staff, interns, and ambassadors to connect with seasoned attorneys who generously shared their insights and legal journeys. The evening also created space for rich networking and mentorship opportunities.

Guests enjoyed the rest of the evening exploring the aviary, home to a remarkable collection of bird species from around the globe — including several endangered species — adding a unique and memorable backdrop to this celebration.

The Utah State Bar Young Lawyers Division plays a vital role in supporting early-career attorneys in Utah. With automatic membership for all Bar members under the age of 36 or within their first 10 years of practice, the Division fosters community, mentorship, and professional growth during a pivotal time in a lawyer’s career.

UCLI is grateful to the Young Lawyers Division for hosting this special event and providing the perfect setting to honor and celebrate our Bar Review Scholarship recipients. We are excited to see each of these scholars move forward, succeed on the bar exam, and continue their legal journeys with the same passion and commitment to service that earned them this recognition.

UCLI Ambassadors, Interns, and Staff gather for a photo.

Utah House Representative and Attorney, Grant Miller, connects and talks with UCLI interns.

The Utah Center for Legal Inclusion (UCLI) is pleased to welcome Jascha Clark to our Board of Directors. Jascha brings extensive experience as an employment attorney and a deep commitment to fostering inclusive, respectful workplaces.

As a partner at Parr Brown Gee & Loveless in Salt Lake City, Jascha provides employers with clear, practical advice and skillfully navigates complex litigation when it arises. His approach goes beyond policies to focus on creating environments where everyone has the chance to thrive.

Jascha’s skilled work has earned him recognition as one of Utah’s Legal Elite and a Super Lawyers Rising Star—peer-nominated honors that reflect the high regard in which he’s held within the legal community.

Beyond his practice, Jascha is actively engaged in mentoring and supporting others in the legal profession. He believes real change requires removing barriers and ensuring everyone has the opportunity to succeed—a philosophy that aligns directly with UCLI’s mission to build an inclusive legal community in Utah.

Reflecting on joining the UCLI Board, Jascha shared:

“Inclusion isn’t something we achieve alone—it’s the work of all of us, and it happens in the conversations we’re willing to have and the bridges we’re willing to build. It requires staying true to our values, even when it’s hard. I’m grateful for the chance to join UCLI in this work and to keep learning, listening, and helping wherever I can.”

We’re honored to have Jascha join our leadership team and look forward to his contributions in building a legal profession that is truly representative, welcoming, and inclusive for everyone.

Jascha Clark, UCLI Board Secretary

On April 22, 2025, UCLI proudly launched its newest initiative, the UCLI Ambassador Program with an orientation held at the Utah State Bar. The Ambassador Program is a formal volunteer program for undergraduate students. It is designed to provide opportunities for future legal leaders planning to join the law field to help support different programs within UCLI such as outreach and community engagement. Throughout the program, Ambassadors are able to gain opportunities to talk with different lawyers across Utah and form valuable connections across different legal fields. 

Led by UCLI staff members, the orientation introduced Ambassadors to the goals, expectations, and responsibilities of their new roles. With this orientation, Ambassadors were able to gain a foundational understanding of the mission of UCLI and how they can contribute in a meaningful way to the work that is undertaken. Our Ambassadors were able to provide insight into what they were interested in gaining from the experience and showed excitement for their future UCLI contributions.

We thank all of our Ambassadors for their passion and dedication and we look forward to the projects, conversations, and connections they will bring forth to UCLI in the upcoming months. This orientation marks the beginning of an important new chapter in UCLI’s commitment in expanding outreach across Utah. The following undergraduate students are the first cohort of the 2025 Summer Ambassadors: Daniele Aldama, Ale Benavides, Maya Hughes, Ella Marie Paligo, Tyson Udy, and Jordan Evans. 

On Tuesday, May 13, UCLI returned to Meadowlark Elementary for another unforgettable afternoon of mentorship, collaboration, and friendly competition. As part of UCLI’s long-standing partnership with the classroom of Mr. John Arthur—affectionately known as “Captain” by his 6th grade class—attorneys, UCLI interns, Ambassadors, and Fellows came together to support the incredible students of Meadowlark Elementary, beginning with what they do best: empowering young minds through writing and mentorship.

The first half-hour was dedicated to speechwriting, where students worked one-on-one with mentors to prepare for upcoming graduation presentations at school. It was great to witness the students’ confidence shine through as they drafted thoughtful, bold speeches.Their enthusiasm and openness to learn were matched only by the joy of their mentors in seeing them grow.

Next came a sweet intermission—literally. Delicious donuts, generously donated by Laura Kyte, associate attorney at Mayer Brown’s Salt Lake City office, gave everyone a well-earned treat and a chance to recharge.

Then came the moment everyone was waiting for: the kickball rematch. With UCLI staff and attorneys ready to redeem last year’s loss, the field was set for a competitive showdown. Despite the adults’ best efforts (and plenty of cheering), the Meadowlark students once again proved unbeatable, delivering a decisive victory and plenty of laughter along the way. Even with the wind whipping and a bit of chill in the air, spirits were high and smiles were everywhere.

UCLI is beyond grateful for Mr. Arthur and his fantastic students, and for the wonderful attorneys who devote time to the Meadowlark Mentoring program each week through the school year. We are excited for the growth and relationships that will be built this upcoming year. There are still ample opportunities for volunteers! If you are interested in participating as a mentor in the 2025-2026 academic year, you may sign up here. If you have any questions, please get in touch with UCLI at .

Thank You Cards Created by Meadowlark Students

Attorney Mentor, Jascha Clark, Holding Up a Thank You Card

Attorney and Staff Mentors Gather for a Photo Alongside Mr. Jon Arthur

Associate Director, Sabrina Ruiz-Monroy, Holds up a Thank You Card

On Friday, May 9, 2025, UCLI hosted the third seminar for the 2025 Pre-Law Fellowship at Parsons Behle & Latimer. Parsons Behle & Latimer, a law firm founded around 140 years ago, is known for its commitment to exceptional service with foundations based in ethics, professionalism, and community engagement. Today, Parsons Behle & Latimer is one of the largest Utah-based law firms with more than 200 attorneys practicing across multiple states. UCLI is grateful to continue its partnership with Parson Behle & Latimer and deeply appreciates the firm’s generosity in hosting this seminar in their offices.

Continuing the momentum from the previous seminars, Fellows were able to engage in another critical aspect of applying to law school through specific parts of the application. Paula Gluzman, the law school admissions consultant from Spivey Consulting Group, led a practical and engaging workshop focused on several critical aspects of the application process. During the workshop, Fellows learned about law school resumes, letters of recommendation, when to consider asking for a letter of recommendation, and when an addendum is appropriately used. After an informative lecture by Paula, Fellows adapted what they learned into their resumes and recommendation letter strategies.

After lunch was provided, Fellows were allowed an opportunity to connect and network alongside UCLI attorneys, some of whom are mentors to a few of the Fellows. During this time, Fellows could talk and work on their resumes or seek to gain an understanding of the law school process from the attorneys who were able to join. 

To continue fostering community amongst the Fellows, a get-to-know-you activity was done that allowed for a bit of fun as well. The seminar concluded with a panel discussion on life in the legal field, featuring attorneys from Parsons Behle & Latimer—Abby Dizon-Maughan, Jazmynn Pok, Emily D. Holt, and Christina M. Jepson—who shared insights into their personal journeys and professional experiences. While the Fellowship focuses on helping participants gain admission to law school, the panel emphasized the importance of also envisioning the impact they can make throughout their legal careers.

UCLI would like to thank everyone who participated in this seminar and contributed their mentorship and insight to support the Fellows and their path in the legal field. We look forward to seeing our Fellows continue to build on what they have learned and prosper during the time in the Fellowship and beyond. We also express a heartfelt thank you to the generous sponsors who make the 2025 Fellowship Program possible:

Utah Bar Foundation

Law School Admission Council (LSAC)

Litigation Section of the Utah State Bar

Bastian Foundation

Fellows Listen Attentively as Guest Attorneys Share Their Experiences

The Utah Center for Legal Inclusion is proud to launch the new UCLI Ambassador Program, a volunteer-based initiative designed to expand outreach and empower future legal leaders. The first semester will run from May to August 2025, aligning with the UCLI Pre-Law Internship time table but providing a distinct and separate opportunity.

This program welcomes Ambassadors for its inaugural summer cohort. Participants will engage in impactful volunteer work such as reaching out to underserved students in elementary, middle, and high schools to share resources and creating social media and digital posts that can reach potential future attorneys across the state. In return, the Ambassadors are able to participate in the UCLI Career & Law Readiness Series as well as networking opportunities with current law students and attorneys. While unpaid, the program offers valuable law school preparation, networking, and leadership experience, with just a 10-hour minimum time commitment per semester. Future terms will follow in the fall (August–December) and winter (January–April) semesters.

By launching this program, UCLI aims to extend its support to more undergraduate students and pre-law individuals while enhancing its reach in schools, communities, and work spaces across Utah.

Summer 2025 Ambassadors 

Please find information about the inaugural summer cohort of UCLI Ambassadors below. 

Daniela Aldama

Daniela Aldama is a pre-law student at Utah Valley University pursuing a career in Forensic Science with a minor in Constitutional Studies. Her passion for justice, legal analysis, and public service has guided her academic and professional journey. In Summer 2024, she was selected for a pre-law fellowship at the University of Utah, where she experienced the rigors of law school and deepened her commitment to a legal career. Originally from Barinas, Venezuela, Daniela volunteers her translation skills with the University of Utah’s pro bono legal program, continuing her dedication to service and her Latin community.

Daniela Aldama

Ella Marie Paligo

Ella Marie Paligo is a Political Science major at Brigham Young University with a Legal Studies Emphasis and minors in Business, Civic Engagement Leadership, and Global Women’s Studies. A Dean’s List and Honors Program student, she is passionate about criminal justice reform and legal equity. Ella has interned with the Provo City Justice Court, the ACLU of Tennessee, and the Sumner County District Attorney’s Office, gaining hands-on experience in legal advocacy and courtroom procedure. She co-founded Operation Second Chance, a reentry initiative that provided 70 incarcerated individuals with job training, resources, and reintegration support. She currently interns for the Utah Prison Education Project. On campus, Ella serves as BYUSA Student Body Executive Vice President, works as a Religious Education Teaching Assistant, and holds leadership roles in the Interfaith Student Association, Political Affairs Society, and Women in Politics. She is a Global Politics Lab Research Fellow, published researcher, editor for campus and national pre-law journals, and a Bluebook Citation Editor for a BYU Law professor. She has been recognized as a Wheatley Institute Scholar, Coca-Cola Scholar, U.S. Senate Youth Program Delegate, and Kennedy Center Peace Advocate. After graduation, Ella plans to earn a J.D. and MBA to pursue a career as a public defender and advocate for criminal justice reform. Originally from Tennessee, she enjoys time with her large family and is excited to serve as a UCLI Ambassador!

Ella Marie Paligo

Jordan Evans

Jordan Evans is a 23-year-old student at Utah Valley University, where they are double majoring in Philosophy and Psychology. Jordan plans to attend law school and has a strong interest in public international law. Driven by a passion for justice, Jordan aims to use the law as a tool to make a positive impact on a global scale.

Jordan Evans

Maya Hughes 

Maya Hughes graduated from Utah Valley University with a Bachelor of Arts degree in History. She has experience in legal research, policy analysis, and constituent engagement through her internship with Congressman Chris Stewart’s Office, as well as research and event coordination skills gained as a research assistant for The Quill Project. Maya looks forward to pursuing her J.D. next year and contributing to UCLI’s initiatives. Outside of academics, she enjoys swimming, reading, and playing the violin.

Maya Hughes

Tyson Udy

Tyson Udy is an undergraduate student at the University of Utah, majoring in Biochemistry with a minor in Psychology. Originally from Nashville, Tyson moved to Utah a few years ago and plans to attend law school in the fall of 2026. He enjoys outdoor activities like hiking and has a deep passion for music. Tyson is particularly interested in pursuing a career in criminal or environmental law and hopes to be actively involved in political advocacy. His lifelong interest in the legal field has grown through personal experiences, and he looks forward to exploring the many ways law can be applied to create meaningful change.

Tyson Udy