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September 2023

Heritage Honored: UH Law Center's new installations celebrate legal legacies

Art at the Law Center

Sept. 27, 2023 — The University of Houston Law Center debuted three new installations celebrating the significant achievements of its African American and Hispanic law graduates and faculty. The Michael A. Olivas and Augustina H. Reyes portrait, the Royce and Carol West African American Law Heritage Wall of Honor, and the Ezequiel Reyna Jr. and Livia Reyna Hispanic Law Heritage Wall of Honor were unveiled during a September 22nd ceremony with the honorees and their friends and family at the John M. O’Quinn Law Building.

Academics and artists to explore the intersection of art, law and social justice at University of Houston Law Center conference on Sept. 22

Art at the Law Center

Sept. 19, 2023 — Government officials, lawyers, academics and art experts will gather at the University of Houston Law Center to discuss the importance of championing social justice in the areas of creative expression, law and community.

Alumni Spotlight: UHLC Alumna Nicole Nathan Gibson ‘95 honored by Jung Center for her volunteer work with the Anti-Defamation League

Nicole Nathan Gibson

September 13, 2023 — University of Houston Law Center alumna Nicole Nathan Gibson (J.D. ’95) was recognized by The Jung Center at the 2023 spring benefit for her work supporting diversity and inclusion.

University of Houston Law Center empowers tomorrow’s legal minds with Aspiring Lawyer magazine

Cover

Sept. 07, 2023 — The University of Houston Law Center has released its second issue of Aspiring Lawyer, an online magazine that offers insights, resources and advice for individuals interested in a legal career.

Alumni Spotlight: UHLC Alumna Aletsey Hinojosa ’22 reflects on her journey from law school to Government Honors Attorney with the DOL

Hinojosa

September 6, 2023 — University of Houston Law Center alumna Aletsey Hinojosa (J.D. ‘22) has become a Government Honors Attorney, serving with the U.S. Department of Labor, Office of the Solicitor

August 2023

Freedom of expression clashes with equal access in 303 Creative SCOTUS, experts decode the decision

Emma Myles

Aug. 30, 2023 — In an annual U.S. Supreme Court update presentation hosted by the University of Houston Law Center, legal academic experts discussed key cases from the latest term including 303 Creative LLC v. Elenis and its interplay between First Amendment freedom of expression and LGBTQ+ access to services offered by businesses.

Alumni Spotlight: State Bar of Texas awards UHLC alumna Emma Myles ‘23 with intellectual property diversity scholarship

Emma Myles

August 30, 2023 — University of Houston Law Center alumna Emma Myles (J.D. ‘23) has received the 2023 Diversity Scholarship from the Intellectual Property Law Section of the State Bar of Texas.

UH Law Center welcomes incoming students with engaging orientation activities, fostering professionalism and community service

Incoming University of Houston Law Center students gather for the professionalism dinner at the UH Hilton during orientation week.

Aug. 23, 2023 — The University of Houston Law Center welcomed its incoming class of 1Ls with a week of activities.

Alumni Spotlight: UHLC Alumna Iliana Karaoglan ’14 named counsel in Weil’s M&A practice in New York

Iliana Karaoglan (J.D. ’14)

August 23, 2023 — University of Houston Law Center alumna Iliana Karaoglan (J.D. ’14) was promoted to counsel earlier this year at Weil, Gotshal & Manges LLP in New York.

UHLC’s Journal of Health Law & Policy increases visibility 10-fold through enhanced outreach efforts

HJHLP

Aug. 09, 2023 — The University of Houston Law Center’s student-run Houston Journal of Health Law & Policy is coming off a banner year of implementing new marketing, promotion and publication initiatives that exceeded expectations.

UHLC alumni at Shook law firm win asylum case for mother fleeing gender-based violence

UHLC alumni at Shook law firm

Aug. 07, 2023 — A pro bono team at the Houston office of Shook, Hardy & Bacon LLP comprised of four University of Houston Law Center alumni recently secured asylum for a Nigerian mother and her four non-citizen children.

UHLC Alumnus Steven Lien ’22 achieves dream of public service as Government Honors Attorney at the U.S. Department of Homeland Security

UHLC Alumnus Steven Lien ’22

August 01, 2023 — University of Houston Law Center alumnus Steven Lien (J.D. ‘22) has become a Government Honors Attorney, serving as Assistant Chief Counsel at the U.S. Department of Homeland Security.

July 2023

ConocoPhillips donates $25,000 to the UH Law Center Pre-Law Pipeline Programs

Panelists discuss the challenges of the U.S. immigration system for the LGBTQ+ community during the UHLC Immigration Clinic CLE on “LGBTQ+ Immigrant Representation.”

July 26, 2023 — The Pre-Law Pipeline Programs at the University of Houston Law Center has received a $25,000 donation from ConocoPhillips, one of the world’s leading exploration and production companies.

Legal experts stress need for LGBTQ+ immigration pro bono representation, holistic approach during UH Law Center CLE

Panelists discuss the challenges of the U.S. immigration system for the LGBTQ+ community during the UHLC Immigration Clinic CLE on “LGBTQ+ Immigrant Representation.”

July 24, 2023 — Community advocates, policymakers and legal experts joined the University of Houston Law Center Immigration Clinic for a discussion on how to assist the LGBTQ+ community navigate the U.S. legal system

Honoring a legal legacy: Family establishes Donn C. Fullenweider Scholarship to support UH Law Center students

Donn C. Fullenweider (J.D. ’58)

July 19, 2023 — The Fullenweider family, friends and colleagues funded a scholarship in memory of Donn C. Fullenweider, an alumnus of the University of Houston Law Center.

Experts say systemic racism is impacting juvenile justice institutions, preventive measures needed

 Zealous Advocacy Conference presenter James Bell joins three generations. From left are UHLC Professor Ellen Marrus, Bell and Rifqa Sa'Aadat. In the row below is Dr. Malikah Marrus.

July 17, 2023 — National social justice advocates James Bell and Michael Harris shed light on the issue of structural racism in institutions and its impact on youth during the Zealous Advocacy Conference at the University of Houston Law Center this June. Bell and Harris joined

UHLC health law professor Koch named Faculty Fellow by Elizabeth D. Rockwell Center on Ethics and Leadership

July 14, 2023 — Valerie Gutmann Koch, Co-Director and Assistant Professor of the Health Law & Policy Institute at the University of Houston Law Center, has been selected as a 2023-24 Faculty Fellow. The award is presented annually by the Elizabeth D. Rockwell Center on Ethics and Leadership at the Hobby School of Public Affairs to UH faculty to pursue “research projects on ethics and/or leadership.”

Alumni Spotlight: UHLC Alumna Christina Ramos ’23 named an Equal Justice Works Fellow

July 10, 2023 — University of Houston Law Center alumna Christina Ramos (J.D. ‘23) has received a 2023 Equal Justice Works Design-Your-Own Fellowship, a competitive nationwide, two-year postgraduate legal fellowship for public interest lawyers.

Student Spotlight: UHLC 2L Daphnie Escobedo selected among eight Federal Magistrate Judges Association Fellows

July 06, 2023 — Daphnie Escobedo, a rising second-year University of Houston Law Center student, has secured a Federal Magistrate Judges Association (FMJA) fellowship for the 2023-2024 academic year.

UH Law Center Professor Kellen Zale named Fulbright Research Chair

Associate Professor of Law Kellen Zale

July 05, 2023 — University of Houston Law Center Associate Professor Kellen Zale has been awarded a prestigious Fulbright Canada Research Chair in Comparative Canada-U.S. Studies.

Land use, housing disparities in neighborhoods worsen climate inequality, says Georgetown professor

July 03, 2023 – Sheila Foster, Professor of Law and Public Policy at Georgetown explored the topic of climate justice at a recent webinar hosted by the Environment, Energy & Natural Resources Center at the University of Houston Law Center.

June 2023

University of Houston constitutional law expert available for comment on SCOTUS decisions

Chandler

June 30, 2023 — Seth Chandler, Law Foundation Professor of Law at the University of Houston Law Center, is available for commentary on the recent Supreme Court rulings on LGBTQ+ rights, and affirmative action.

Alumni Spotlight: UHLC alumna Rochelle Garza '13 appointed to U.S. Commission on Civil Rights

Garza

June 30, 2023 — Rochelle Garza '13, former Democratic nominee for Texas Attorney General and Texas Civil Rights Project President, was sworn in this spring as one of the newest members of the U.S. Commission on Civil Rights.

Constitutional law expert Berman discusses SCOTUS decision on affirmative action in higher education

Alumni Board

June 29, 2023 — In a 6-3 ruling today, the Supreme Court struck down affirmative action in college admissions.

UH Law Center’s annual meeting honors alumni, faculty and student success

Alumni Board

June 23, 2023 — The University of Houston Law Center celebrated its graduates and its accomplishments during the 2023 Law Alumni Association Annual Meeting & Celebration held recently in The John M. O’Quinn Law Building.

UH Law Center alumni named Judges of the Year by TACTA

June 22, 2023 — The Texas Association of Civil Trial and Appellate Specialists recently recognized two University of Houston Law Center alumni during an annual awards ceremony.

Natalie Luera elected Student Bar Association President at UH Law Center

June 21, 2023 — University of Houston Law Center 1L Natalie Luera has been selected as the Student Bar Association President for the 2023-24 academic year.

Hispanic Bar Association of Houston honors UH Law Center Professor Thompson with Lifetime Achievement Award

Sandra Guerra Thompson

June 15, 2023 — University of Houston Law Center professor Sandra Guerra Thompson recently received the Lifetime Achievement Award from the Hispanic Bar Association of Houston in recognition of her work as an engaged educator, a leading scholar, and a community champion.

National security law expert urges resilience in the face of climate threats

Speaker Image

June 14, 2023 — Kristen Eichensehr, Director of the National Security Law Center at the University of Virginia Law School, said that preparation is key to mitigating the threats of climate change, during the 7th Annual North American Environment, Energy and Natural Resources Conference this spring.

UH Law Center recognized by AMA for 75th anniversary marketing campaign

75th Campaign

June 14, 2023 — The University of Houston Law Center was named a finalist in the 2023 American Marketing Association’s Houston Crystal Awards.

UH Law Center Professor Trujillo inspires high school students through leadership-focused community outreach

 The Women of Color in Leadership Forum hosted by St. John's School Unity Council welcomed panelists, from left, Elizabeth Trujillo, Kiran Verma, student Mackenzie Rice, Hélade Scutti-Santos and Brenda Rangel. Photo courtesy of St. John’s School.

June 13, 2023 — University of Houston Law Center Professor Elizabeth Trujillo shared her career experiences and leadership fundamentals with students during the St. John’s School Unity Council Women of Color in Leadership Forum in April.

Student Spotlight: UH Law Center student Nurain Ali wins national Susman Godfrey Prize

University of Houston Law Center student Nurain Ali

June 05, 2023 — University of Houston Law Center 1L Nurain Ali has been awarded the prestigious 2023 Susman Godfrey Prize. Nominated by professors, Ali was recognized for her leadership capabilities of integrity, perseverance and diligence fashioned by unique trials.

Launch of AI is a gold rush and needs guardrails, say experts during HBA panel at UH Law Center

 The HBA panel on AI included, from left, Perla Villarreal, Peter N. Salib, Aly Dossa, Dwight Silverman and George Earle. Photo courtesy of the HBA.

June 01, 2023 – University of Houston Law Center professors joined experts in the field of technology and media to discuss the intersection of big tech and free speech as part of the Houston Bar Association President’s Speaker Series.

May 2023

New UH Law Center facility commended for its sustainability by U.S. Green Building Council

Diana Saldaña, United States District Judge for the Southern District of Texas in Laredo, delivers the commencement speech for the 2023 UH Law Center graduation.

May 31, 2023 — The University of Houston Law Center’s John M. O’Quinn Law Building has received national recognition for being an environmentally-friendly structure. The U.S. Green Building Council awarded the Law Center with a Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) Silver Certification, receiving 55 points.

UH Law Center’s JCAP program recognized by Houston Lawyer for serving the community, training lawyers

Diana Saldaña, United States District Judge for the Southern District of Texas in Laredo, delivers the commencement speech for the 2023 UH Law Center graduation.

May 31 , 2023 — The Juvenile and Children’s Advocacy Project (JCAP) was featured in the Houston Lawyer in the March/April issue for its work in juvenile justice reform. Recognized as a nonprofit making a difference in the community, JCAP was regaled for its representation of youth in the courtroom, community outreach and the sealing of juvenile court records.

Leading national trial lawyer Mundy '88 champions Texas conservation efforts

Diana Saldaña, United States District Judge for the Southern District of Texas in Laredo, delivers the commencement speech for the 2023 UH Law Center graduation.

May 23, 2023 — Environmental lawyer and University of Houston Law Center alumnus Jeff Mundy ’88, was named as one of the Top 100 in 2023 by the National Trial Lawyers, marking his third year among the ranks. His passion for environmental conservation has propelled him to the forefront of environmental and conservation efforts in Texas

UH Law Center commencement speaker Judge Saldaña encourages graduates to change the tone of the profession to make it a kinder, more generous, more patient bar

Diana Saldaña, United States District Judge for the Southern District of Texas in Laredo, delivers the commencement speech for the 2023 UH Law Center graduation.

May 23, 2023 — The University of Houston Law Center’s graduating class of 2023 marked one of the Law Center’s most diverse classes yet.

In Celebration of Asian American Pacific Islander Heritage Month: Meet the three student leaders at the helm of the Business/Tax, Health, and International law journals at UH Law Center

University of Houston Law Center Dean Leonard M. Baynes accepts the HBA President’s Award for outstanding committee leadership. Photo by Deborah Wallace, Barfield Photography.

May 22, 2023 — Samuel Kuang, Lizzy Do, and Julia Tape, all 2Ls, Asian American, and first-generation law students at the University of Houston Law Center, share their unique academic paths to law school, the benefits of attending UH Law Center, goals as editors-in-chief, and advice to students.

UH Law Center raises $445,000 during ‘Bold & Bright’ Gala night

University of Houston Law Center Dean Leonard M. Baynes accepts the HBA President’s Award for outstanding committee leadership. Photo by Deborah Wallace, Barfield Photography.

May 19, 2023— The University of Houston Law Center and the University of Houston Law Center Alumni Association presented the 46th Annual Law Gala & Auction with the theme “Bold & Bright.” Nearly 400 UH Law Center alumni, faculty, and friends attended, adorned in vibrant colors from Cougar red, canary yellow, fierce fuchsia and lively lime.

UHLC Dean Baynes and committee co-chairs receive Houston Bar Association Award for outstanding service

University of Houston Law Center Dean Leonard M. Baynes accepts the HBA President’s Award for outstanding committee leadership. Photo by Deborah Wallace, Barfield Photography.

May 18, 2023 — The Houston Bar Association recognized University of Houston Law Center Dean Leonard M. Baynes and his fellow HBA Law & Media Committee co-chairs with the President’s Award for outstanding committee leadership.

UH Law Library encourages students, faculty to “check out” new services

Library Vending machine

May 16, 2023 — The University of Houston Law Library is implementing innovative solutions such as a book vending machine, open periodical shelving and self-checkout machines.

Three UH Law Center specialty programs make Top 10 in U.S. News 2024 rankings

Building

May 12, 2023 — Several University of Houston Law Center specialty programs are among the best in the nation, according to results of the 2023-2024 U.S. News & World Report annual list of Best Law Schools released this week.

Countdown to commencement: UH Law Center graduation set for May 13

Grads

May 11, 2023 — The University of Houston Law Center is celebrating its upcoming 2023 commencement ceremony on Saturday, May 13 at the Fertitta Center.

UH Law Center remembers former Fifth Circuit Judge Fortunato Benavides ‘72 and his trailblazing career

UH Law Center remembers former Fifth Circuit Judge Fortunato Benavides ‘72 and his trailblazing career

May 11, 2023 —Judge Fortunato Pedro Benavides, often referred to as “Pete” by family and friends, died on May 5 in Austin, Texas.

May 11, 2023 —Judge Fortunato Pedro Benavides, often referred to as “Pete” by family and friends, died on May 5 in Austin, Texas.

Houston Bar Association honors UH Law Center dean and alumnae for leadership

 The Houston Bar Association Law & Media Committee co-chairs, including University of Houston Law Center Dean Leonard M. Baynes, will be honored with the HBA President’s Award for outstanding committee leadership at the annual dinner on May 11.

May 08, 2023 — University of Houston Law Center Dean Leonard M. Baynes, alumna Ann Ryan Robertson and alumna Anne Chandler will be recognized for their achievements in the legal profession at the 2023 Houston Bar Association Annual Dinner on May 11.

Alumni Spotlight: Goldman Sachs promotes UHLC alumna Fragoso-Moore to Vice President role in Consumer and Digital Finance

Olivia Fragoso-Moore (B.A. ’13, J.D. ’17)

May 08, 2023 – Olivia Fragoso-Moore (B.A.’13, J.D. ’17) is excited about her new role as Vice President and Counsel in Consumer and Digital Finance at Goldman Sachs.

Student Spotlight: UH Law Center student Wawrzyniak wins State Bar of Texas writing competition

Zach Wawrzyniak

May 04, 2023 — Zach Wawrzyniak, University of Houston Law Center 3L, was awarded first place by the State Bar of Texas in the Law Student Writing Competition in insurance law.

UH Law Center skills lab named in honor of alumnus, litigator Robert Talaska ‘88

May 04, 2023 — The University of Houston Law Center hosted a ceremony this spring semester for the dedication of the Robert J. Talaska Advocacy Skills Lab.

Legal experts say pandemic has led to further spike in internet-driven child trafficking

May 03, 2023 — Government and legal experts stressed prevention and education as weapons to fight the increase in child trafficking. More than 350 attended the “Human Trafficking 101: Understanding Human Trafficking of Children,” online event organized by the University of Houston Law Center’s Immigration Clinic.

UH Law Center’s John M. O'Quinn Law Building earns 2023 interior design award

May 1, 2023 — The John M. O’Quinn Law Building recently received the Higher Education Award of Merit at the 2023 International Interior Design Association (IIDA) Southwest Chapter Design Awards ceremony on April 20.

April 2023

Dean’s Awards honor accomplishments of UH Law Center faculty, staff and students

Deans award recipients

April 28, 2023 — The University of Houston Law Center recently hosted its annual Dean’s Awards Ceremony recognizing the achievements of faculty, students and staff. UH Law Center Dean Leonard M. Baynes and Assistant Dean for Student Affairs Monica Mensah co-hosted the event at the John M. O’Quinn Law Building on Friday, April 21.

Experts explore growing threats to North American energy security at upcoming University of Houston Law Center event

Keynote speaker

April 20, 2023 — Industry and academic leaders will discuss the increasing political, climatic, and criminal risks to the North American energy supply during the University of Houston Law Center’s 7th Annual North American Environment, Energy, and Natural Resources Conference on Thursday, April 27.

UH Law Center named a ‘Go-To Law School’ for securing Big Law jobs

Building

April 19, 2023 — The University of Houston Law Center has been selected by Law.com as a 2023 Go-To Law School, an annual ranking of the nation’s top 50 law schools based on the percentage of J.D. graduates hired as associates by Big Law.

Artist Rick Lowe’s new artwork reflects shifting community boundaries on display at the UH Law Center

zamora essays

April 14, 2023 — Using color and collage, Rick Lowe explores the way that communities surrounding the University of Houston were made geographically and divided into wards in his new artwork, The Line.

UH Law Center shines with gold in national collegiate marketing competition

zamora essays

April 14, 2023 — The University of Houston Law Center’s Communications and Marketing Department received six certificates, including four gold in the most recent Collegiate Advertising Awards.

America’s democracy is being tested, cautions LDF President during UH Law Center’s Rosenberg Lecture

zamora essays

April 11, 2023 — The future of the multiracial, multiethnic democracy of the United States remains an open question, said Janai S. Nelson, the keynote speaker at this year’s Yale L. Rosenberg Memorial Lecture.

UH Law Center former Dean and Professor Stephen Zamora memorialized in a book of essays

zamora essays

April 10, 2023 — Family, friends, faculty, and students of University of Houston Law Center Professor Emeritus Stephen Zamora gathered to launch a new book, “Essays in Honor of Professor Stephen T. Zamora: A Life Between Mexico and the United States.” The book is a collection of 19 essays written by colleagues and friends reflecting on Zamora’s commitment to Mexican law, education, and the promotion of U.S. - Mexico cooperation.

Mississippi Solicitor General shares insights on litigating a landmark Supreme Court case during a Federalist Society talk at UH Law Center

Mississippi Solicitor General Scott Stewart chats with University of Houston Law Center student Sophie Belton during a Q&A hosted by the Federalist Society.

April 07, 2023 — Growing up in California, Scott Stewart did not imagine a career as a lawyer nor working as the lead advocate for the state of Mississippi in the landmark case Dobbs v. Jackson Women's Health Organization before the U.S. Supreme Court.

University of Houston Law Center professors receive grant for collaborative research to organize ‘Sustainability Week’ in Italy

Trujillo

April 06, 2023 — The University of Bologna is providing funding to the University of Houston Law Center to co-host "Sustainability Week" in Bologna, Italy.

Newly admitted UH Law Center students encouraged to set sights high

Professor Emeritus Robert C. Palmer

April 4, 2023 — University of Houston Law Center Dean Leonard M. Baynes welcomed prospective students to campus during the spring Admitted Students Day reception

Alumni Spotlight: Former federal judge Vanessa Gilmore ‘81 finds new passion as arbitrator and mediator

Professor Emeritus Robert C. Palmer

April 4, 2023 — Following more than 27 years of distinguished service as a federal judge, Hon. Vanessa Gilmore quickly acclimated to a new role where she is able to use a similar skill set.

March 2023

University of Houston Law Center mourns the passing of Professor Emeritus Robert Palmer

Professor Emeritus Robert C. Palmer

March 31, 2023 — University of Houston Law Center Professor Emeritus Robert C. Palmer died earlier this month.

Student Spotlight: UH Law Center student Billy Gillis-Harry receives $15,000 Federal Bar Association Scholarship

 University of Houston Law Center 1L Deborah Billy Gillis-Harry

March 29, 2023 — The Federal Bar Association awarded University of Houston Law Center 1L Deborah Billy Gillis-Harry the $15,000 Diversity in the Legal Profession 2023 Scholarship. In her scholarship essay, Billy Gillis-Harry depicted the financial and emotional turmoil caused by battling the U.S. immigration system as she struggled to maintain her legal status.

Alumni Spotlight: Texas Bar Foundation awards Quentin Brogdon ’89 for a zealous devotion to clients, the bar and public

Quentin Brogdon ’89

March 28, 2023 — Quentin Brogdon ’89, partner at Crain Brogdon, LLP in Dallas, was named the 2023 Dan Rugeley Price Memorial Award recipient from the Texas Bar Foundation. Practicing law for over three decades, Brogdon is noted for an unreserved commitment to his clients and the legal practice.

UH Law Center Professor Warren to share expertise as a distinguished visiting energy scholar during a summer session in Vermont

University of Houston Law Center Professor Gina Warren

March 14, 2023 — University of Houston Law Center Professor Gina Warren has been selected as the Vermont Law and Graduate School (VLGS) Distinguished Energy Law Scholar.

Alumni Spotlight: U.S. Representative Crockett ’06 begins first term, credits UH Law Center education

U.S. Representative Jasmine Crockett '06

March 08, 2023 — When U.S. Representative Jasmine Crockett ’06 took her oath of office this year to represent Texas’ 30th Congressional District, she started a historic term in Congress. Crockett is the first African American University of Houston Law Center graduate in the school’s 75-year history to serve in the U.S. House of Representatives.

UH Law Center recognized among Houston Business Journal’s 2023 Diversity in Business Award honorees

Houston Business Journal’s 2023 Diversity in Business Award

March 08, 2023 — The Houston Business Journal has named the University of Houston Law Center an Outstanding Diverse Organization as part of the publication’s annual Diversity in Business Awards. HBJ announced the 2023 honorees in February.

A book is a life raft says criminal justice reform advocate during a Black History Month performance at UH Law Center

Featured speaker Reginald Dwayne Betts (center) is joined by event sponsors (from left) UH College of Education Interim Dean Cathy Horn, UH Law Center Dean Leonard M. Baynes and Bracewell LLP D&I and Community Outreach Director Monica Parker and Bracewell LLP Diversity & Inclusion Committee Chair and Partner Jeff Vaden.

March 07, 2023 — Award-winning author, 2021 MacArthur Fellow and lawyer Reginald Dwayne Betts spoke about the transformative power of reading and explored the prison experience through poetry during his performance “Felon: An American Washi Tale” at the University of Houston Law Center during Black History Month.

UH Law Center delegation attends UH Day at the Capitol

University of Houston Law Center Dean Leonard M. Baynes (center) is joined by UHLC students, from left, Hunter Mitchell, Tyler Brewster, Lizzy Do, Cesar Rivera Infante and LaTheena Thomas in Austin for UH Day at the Capitol on Thursday, March 2.

March 6, 2023 — A group from the University of Houston Law Center went to Austin Thursday to support key legislative priorities that will help advance the university.

AI writing bots will change the lives of students and professionals says University of Houston Law Center scholar Salib

salib

March 01, 2023 — The use of artificial intelligence platforms such as ChatGPT will have widespread implications on education and in professional settings, according to University of Houston Law Center Assistant Professor Peter Salib. While ChatGPT has the potential for abuse and inaccuracies, Salib added that when used properly, it can benefit students and professionals.

February 2023

Environmental expert stresses urgency for sky cleanup at UHLC EENR lecture

Mary Christina Wood, University of Oregon School of Law Philip H. Knight Professor and Faculty Director

Feb. 21, 2023 — Mary Christina Wood, University of Oregon School of Law Philip H. Knight Professor and Faculty Director spoke about the emergency need for cleaning up the atmosphere with natural climate solutions at a University of Houston Law Center EENR lecture.

Student Spotlight: Prestigious law firm Cravath selects UH Law Center 2L as summer associate

Pierre Schlaefli

Feb. 20, 2023 — Pierre Schlaefli, University of Houston Law Center 2L, has been chosen as a summer associate at Cravath, Swaine & Moore LLP in New York.

PreLaw magazine recognizes University of Houston Law Center as a top law school for diversity and trial advocacy

Most Diverse LgoTop Advocacy

Feb. 16, 2023 – The University of Houston Law Center has earned two national rankings in the 2023 Winter issue of preLaw magazine.

Alumni Spoltlight: UHLC alumna Williams ’22 earns third place in national Brown Award for legal writing

University of Houston Law Center alumna

Feb. 15, 2023 — Recognized for Excellence in Legal Writing by the Judge John R. Brown Scholarship Foundation, alumna Kirsten Williams ’22 has vividly reshaped common racism and discrimination misperceptions in an article focused on environmental consequences suffered by minority communities.

Student Spotlight: UH Law Center student Soileau named National Animal Law Competitions semi-finalist

Feb. 08, 2023 — Allie Soileau, University of Houston Law Center 3L, was chosen as a semi-finalist in the 2023 National Animal Law Competitions. Competing in the Legislative Drafting and Lobbying component, Soileau was selected from competitors across the United States and Canada.

UH Law Center student Cowan wins national transactional law competition The Closer

Feb. 08, 2023 — Competing with law students from across the country, University of Houston Law Center 3L William Cowan won the invitation-only transactional law event, The Closer.

Alumni Spotlight: UH Law Center Alumnus Rusk ’14 offers bar study hints, real estate law insights

UHLC alumnus David Rusk ’14

Feb. 07, 2023 — Real estate lawyer David Rusk ’14 was named partner at the multinational law firm Holland & Knight LLP effective this January. An alumnus of both the University of Houston Law Center and the University of Houston, Rusk gives guidance for preparing for the bar and how to pave a path to real estate law.

Offshore wind is growing fast as a solution to meet energy needs say experts at UHLC EENR lecture

Reginald Dwayne Betts.
Photo Credit: Mamadi Doumbouya

Feb. 06, 2023 — The intersection of ethics, economics and law in the evolution of a blue economy and offshore wind development was illustrated by Anastasia Telesetsky, Professor of Law at California Polytechnic State University.

University of Houston Law Center to feature Reginald Dwayne Betts as Black History Month Speaker

Reginald Dwayne Betts.
Photo Credit: Mamadi Doumbouya

Feb. 06, 2023 –– Award-winning author, poet and lawyer Reginald Dwayne Betts will give a solo performance on Thursday, Feb. 16, in celebration of Black History Month at the University of Houston Law Center.

Joseph A. Vail Asylum Law Workshop examines best practices, the judicial role in immigration law

Speaking on the panel “The Judicial Role in the U.S. Immigration Courts: A Unique Perspective” are, from left, Elizabeth Mendoza, William K. Zimmer, Rosemary Vega and Jimmie L. Benton.

Feb. 03, 2023  –– The 2023 Joseph A. Vail Asylum Law Workshop offered insights and strategies from top immigration law experts on the nuances of this ever-changing landscape, instructing hundreds of attendees and raising thousands of dollars to support the University of Houston Law Center’s Immigration Clinic.

UH Law Center mourns passing of former Harris County Judge Shearn Smith ‘51

former Harris County Judge Shearn Smith

Feb. 3, 2023 — Shearn Smith, a 1951 graduate of the University of Houston Law Center, passed away on Tuesday, Jan. 17. He was 95.

January 2023

UHLC Pre-Law Pipeline Scholar Hamaida achieves significant LSAT score improvement

University of Houston Law Center Pre-Law Pipeline Scholar Reem Hamaida

Jan. 30, 2023 — Reem Hamaida, a two-time University of Houston Law Center Pre-Law Pipeline scholar, improved her score with a 27-point increase from low 140s on the initial diagnostic to high 160s on the official LSAT, a record first for the program that was established in 2016

UHLC Professor Thompson interviews member of Exonerated Five at MLK event

Sandra Guerra Thompson and Auyanna Aird interview Dr. Yusef Salaam, a member of the Exonerated Five, during the 2023 Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Celebration

Jan. 27, 2023 — Dr. Yusef Salaam, a member of the Exonerated Five shared his experience of being wrongfully convicted and ideas for improving the criminal justice system with attendees at the University of Houston’s 2023 Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Celebration on Wednesday, Jan. 25.

Lone Star Regional Legal Writing Conference Seeks Presentation Proposals

 Lone Star Writing Conference

Jan. 19, 2023 –– The University of Houston Law Center and Texas Tech University School of Law are accepting presentation proposals for the Lone Star Regional Legal Writing Conference. Deadline to submit proposals using this form is Friday, Feb. 10.

University of Houston Law Center remembers Professor G. Sidney Buchanan

G. Sidney Buchanan

Jan. 18, 2023 — University of Houston Law Center Professor Emeritus G. Sidney Buchanan died Saturday, Jan. 7 at the age of 89 after a long illness.

UH Law Center expands Briefcase program with video series

Dean Baynes

Jan. 18, 2023 — University of Houston Law Center’s new video series focuses on the Bill of Rights, the first 10 amendments to the U.S. Constitution.

Alumni Spotlight: UHLC alumna Doolabh leans into her love of sports through in-house counsel role with baseball’s Phillies

Elina Doolabh ’22

Jan. 12, 2023 — University of Houston Law Center alumna Elina Doolabh ’22 could not be happier in her new role as in-house associate counsel for the Philadelphia baseball team, the Phillies.

Bankrate names UH Law Center best value for environmental law

Jan. 11, 2023 — The University of Houston Law Center was listed in the “Top 9 best value law schools 2022” by Bankrate, which evaluated law schools across the country in four key areas.

December 2022

UH and UH Law Center alumna Fermeen Fazal contributes student organization space

Fermeen Fazal

Dec. 19, 2022 — The Fermeen Fazal Student Organization Flex Room in the University of Houston Law Center’s new John M. O’Quinn Law Building is named for respected attorney and community advocate Fermeen Fazal ‘00.

UHLC antitrust professor reshaping scholarly landscape through presentations and publication

UH Law Center Professor Darren Bush (left) with fellow panelists presenting on “The Goals of Antitrust” during the Lee E. Teitelbaum Utah Law Review Symposium.

Dec. 14, 2022 – The University of Houston Law Center’s Professor Darren Bush has been busy this year bringing antitrust and consumer protection law topics to the forefront through conference presentations and published academic research.

UH Law Center clinic expands to include criminal appeals representation

Dec. 14, 2022 – Beginning this spring semester, criminal appeals will be added to the University of Houston Law Center clinic program.

Houston Law Review’s 27th Annual Frankel Lecture traces the jurisprudence of masculinity in the Dobbs, Bruen, and Kennedy SCOTUS decisions

UH Law Center’s Dean Leonard M. Baynes (center) is joined by (from left) Helen Alvaré, Reva Siegel, Melissa Murray and Daniel Morales at the 27th Annual Frankel Lecture.

Dec. 09, 2022 –– What do the Second Amendment, school prayer, and abortion rights have in common? According to Melissa Murray, a leading scholar in family law, constitutional law, and reproductive rights and justice, read together, they point to the Supreme Court’s embrace of a jurisprudence of a masculinity.

UH Law Center’s IPIL Fall Lecture sponsored by HIPLA explores the relationship between business reputations and trademark law

UH Law Center Associate Dean Greg R. Vetter (IPIL/Houston) and Lee Eubanks (Eubanks PLLC and Houston Intellectual Property Law Association President) join guest speaker James Gibson (Richmond School of Law) during the 29th Annual Fall Lecture.

Dec. 09, 2022 — An intellectual property law expert examined some consequences for trademark law dissociating the connection between reputation and quality during the 29th Annual Fall Lecture hosted by the University of Houston Law Center’s Institute for Intellectual Property & Information Law (IPIL) this November.

Student Spotlight: Mahsa Monshizadegan advocates for human rights in Iran

Mahsa Monshizadegan

Dec. 6, 2022 — In an op-ed article published by The Austin Chronicle, UH Law Center student and Iranian-U.S. citizen Mahsa Monshizadegan spoke out about the unnecessary cruelty currently seen in Iranian leadership.

Take a virtual walkthrough of the newest law school building in Texas

Video showcases John M. O’Quinn Law Building at UH Law Center

Dec. 06, 2022 – The University of Houston Law Center released a video tour highlighting the unique spaces that make up the five-story, 180,000-square-foot John M. O’Quinn Law Building.

UH Law Center celebrates National Pro Bono week

UH Law students attend a pro bono pop-up with local legal service providers during the 2022 Pro Bono week.

Dec. 05, 2022 — The University of Houston Law Center marked the American Bar Association’s annual Pro Bono Week held recently, themed “Law in Everyday Life,” with a host of volunteer opportunities and educational events for students, faculty and staff.

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