To support the legal journeys of the future leaders of tomorrow, UCLI partnered with Utah State University (USU) to host a Pre-Law Event on October 24, 2024 from 5:00 to 7:00pm. The event was held at the David Haight Alumni House on the USU campus. Dinner was provided, and pre-law students were given the opportunity to connect with lawyers, access pre-law resources, and meet prospective peers in the field.
Cliff Parkinson, Associate General Counsel at Utah State University and UCLI Community Outreach Co-Chair, kicked off the event and then played the UCLI First Generation Outreach video. Kaitlyn Pieper, the Executive Director of UCLI, provided an informative presentation about the inequities that exist in Utah and the legal profession, and highlighted the importance of changing these dynamics. Following her presentation, Melesisi Pau’u, an intern at UCLI, shared her personal journey pursuing a legal education. The evening concluded with a keynote speech from Jacey Skinner, the chair of the Utah State Board of Trustees and the UCLI Advancement Committee Co-Chair. She recounted her experience in law school and offered guidance on navigating the legal field, including where to find resources and how to overcome feelings of imposter syndrome. Pre-law students then heard from various representatives of USU programs, including the Institute of Government & Politics, Transforming Communities Institute’s Access to Justice Program, Pre-Law Society, and Law & Constitutional Studies Program. It was a dynamic evening where students received resources and information on many programs and resources.
Law is one of the least diverse professions in the nation. By partnering with universities like Utah State to host pre-law events, our aim is to inspire students from diverse backgrounds to pursue their dreams. It is essential that all voices and perspectives are heard and represented as we work towards safeguarding justice and driving meaningful change. UCLI is incredibly grateful to Dr. Christy Glass, professor of Sociology at USU and UCLI Tracking Progress Committee Co-Chair, for her leadership and passion in organizing this event. We are grateful to USU’s hospitality and generosity in hosting this event and allowing UCLI to participate.
UCLI partners at the USU event
Jacey Skinner’s motivational address encouraging students to pursue their dreams
Students watch the UCLI First Generation Outreach Video
Melesis Pau’u presents an inspirational keynote about her own journey through higher education
USU Pre-Law Event
