March 13, 2025 — In a significant move to address Harris County's burgeoning legal demands, the Harris County Commissioners Court voted 3-1, with one abstaining, to request that state lawmakers create five additional civil district courts. Judge Beau A. Miller, presiding judge of the 190th Judicial District Court, championed the initiative to expand the county's civil courts.
Judge Miller invited UHLC Student Bar Association President Duncan Reedyk and the two other SBA presidents from South Texas College of Law and Texas Southern University’s Thurgood Marshall School of Law to each give a one-minute speech at the February 28 Commissioners Court meeting before the vote. Reedyk was instrumental in getting all three local SBA presidents to participate.
“Bringing all three Houston law schools together was crucial, not only for the greater good of the Houston legal community but also to bolster the proposal’s significance before the Commissioners,” Reedyk said. “A unified front, with UHLC, STCL, and TMSL speaking together, sent a far more powerful message than just one or two law schools advocating alone.”
Photos provided by Duncan Reedyk
SBA President Duncan Reedyk
What made you decide to be a lawyer?
DR: From a young age, I was fascinated by the role of rules and laws in shaping the world around us. I quickly realized that those who understood the system, its regulations, structures, and, perhaps most notably, its loopholes, had greater flexibility and access to opportunities. At the same time, those without that knowledge were often disadvantaged. Seeing this disparity sparked my interest in the law—not just as a system of governance but as a tool that, when properly wielded, can uplift individuals and communities.
What led you to get involved with the Student Bar Association?
DR: I've always been energetic and outgoing, drawn to leadership and service. As an Eagle Scout, I found fulfillment in being a resource for others and working to make a tangible difference. That same drive led me to serve as president of the Student Bar Association at UHLC. In that role, I've worked to bridge the gap between students and administration, ensuring that our concerns are not just heard but acted upon. Like the law itself, student governance is about advocacy—ensuring people have the knowledge, resources, and support to navigate challenges and succeed. For me, being a lawyer is an extension of that commitment.
What made you choose UHLC?
DR: I chose the University of Houston Law Center because of its reputation for academic excellence, its strong ties to Houston's dynamic legal market, and its commitment to providing practical, real-world legal training. Houston is one of the country's largest and most diverse cities, home to a thriving legal community with opportunities in big law, public interest, government, and corporate practice—and UHLC is at the center of it all.
Beyond its location, UHLC stood out because of its student-driven culture. From the moment I stepped on campus, I could see that this was a place where students don't just learn the law but actively shape their law school experience. Whether through advocacy, leadership, or community engagement, UHLC fosters an environment where students are empowered to make a difference—not just in their careers but in the profession as a whole.
That emphasis on practical learning, professional development, and student leadership is what made UHLC the right choice for me.
What has been the most rewarding aspect of law school?
DR: The most rewarding aspect of law school has been the opportunity to serve, advocate, and build community—both within UHLC and beyond. As SBA President, I've had the privilege of working alongside my peers to strengthen student programming, expand professional opportunities, and ensure that student voices are heard at every level of decision-making. Seeing tangible improvements in student life and knowing that my work has made law school a little easier for others has been incredibly fulfilling.
Beyond leadership, law school has also been rewarding because of the intellectual challenge and growth it fosters. Every class, case, and debate pushes me to think critically, refine my arguments, and develop a more nuanced understanding of the law's role in shaping society. Through externships (currently with the State Relations team at Baylor College of Medicine), student advocacy, and experiences like my involvement in the Commissioners Court proposal, I've been able to take what I've learned in the classroom and apply it to real-world legal and policy issues, which is precisely why I came to law school in the first place.
Most of all, the relationships I've built—with classmates, professors, and mentors—have been invaluable. Law school is rigorous, but it's also a shared journey, and the camaraderie, support, and friendships I've gained along the way have made every challenge worthwhile.
What is your favorite space in the John M. O'Quinn Law Building? Where do you study?
DR: My favorite space in the Law Center has to be the Roof Terrace—when the weather cooperates, of course! There's something about having a quiet, open-air space to step away, get some fresh air, and reset that makes it a perfect place to study or take a quick break from the demands of law school.
That said, being SBA President means a lot of my time is spent in meetings, planning, and working with students and administrators, so my most frequent "study space" has become the SBA Office. It may not be as scenic as the Roof Terrace, but it's where I can juggle my responsibilities while still squeezing in study time when needed. It's also a hub for student leaders, making it a dynamic and engaging space that reminds me why I love being a part of UHLC.
What advice do you have for an incoming/prospective student?
DR: Seize every opportunity that comes your way. Law school is full of open doors of opportunity—don't close them before you've even tried to walk through. You might discover a passion for an area of law you never considered, build relationships that shape your career, or gain experiences that push you beyond what you thought you were capable of.
Be kind to yourself. Law school is a challenge—there will be days when you feel exhausted, overwhelmed, or uncertain. In those moments, remind yourself why you started this journey. You belong here.
Finally, never doubt yourself. We all have more potential than we realize, and when you put your mind to something, you will accomplish more than you ever thought possible. You're here for a reason—trust in yourself and the process, and don't be afraid to take on the challenges ahead.
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