Detroit Mercy Law-Docket 2022

Please send information to: Communications Office University of Detroit Mercy School of Law

651 E. Jefferson Avenue Detroit, MI 48226-4386 law@udmercy.edu

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DETROIT MERCY LAW MISSION STATEMENT

University of Detroit Mercy School of Law is a diverse, urban Catholic law school in the Jesuit and Mercy traditions. We seek to educate the complete lawyer through a dynamic curriculum that integrates theory, doctrine, and experiential learning; provides unique global perspectives through transnational educational opportunities; and emphasizes ethics and service to others.

Visit Detroit Mercy Law on the web: law.udmercy.edu

Donald B. Taylor, Ph.D. University President

Jelani Jefferson Exum Dean & Philip J. McElroy Professor of Law

Jennifer Rumschlag Associate Dean of Institutional Outcomes and Communications

Grace Henning Docket Editor

Kari Jenkins Publication Design

Dave Frechette Photographer

Photo Credit: Matthew La Vere

M FROM D E EAN J S E S LAN AG I JEFFE E RSON EXUM

My first year as Dean of Detroit Mercy Law has been immensely rewarding and I do not doubt that it will continue to be so in the coming year. It has been my honor to watch our students, faculty, administration, and staff work together to sustain a community I am proud to lead. This year has not been without its challenges, but I have seen all our community members rise above these challenges to continue to provide excellent legal education to all of our students.

In this issue of the Docket, we reflect on our Jesuit and Mercy traditions. Detroit Mercy Law recognizes the importance of lawyers in shaping society, and through our program of education, we educate lawyers who are dedicated to advancing justice. Shaped by faith, rooted in compassion, and dedicated to justice, the Jesuit and Mercy traditions influence our students and graduates to be service-minded professionals no matter where their careers may take them.

We highlight our new faculty members who bring a wealth of knowledge and dedication to impactful scholarship to our school. We celebrate the accomplishments of our faculty who are always striving to enhance the academic excellence of Detroit Mercy Law.

You will read about alumni and students who are living out our Jesuit and Mercy mission in a variety of settings—in large law firms, community organizations, courthouses, prosecutors’ offices, and our clinics.

We highlight our recent graduates who have secured positions across the US and Canada and continue to make us proud. We remember those we have lost in our community, each of whom leave an inspiring legacy.

I am excited to continue to work with you all as we teach and serve our students.

Jelani Jefferson Exum Dean & Philip J. McElroy Professor of Law

"Everything is in place to take the next step to be the university of choice for metro Detroit and beyond."

MEETTHE NEW PRESIDENT

DONALD B. TAYLOR, PH.D.

Dr. Donald B. Taylor joined University of Detroit Mercy as the 26th president on July 1, 2022. Taylor brings nearly 30 years of higher education leadership experience to Detroit Mercy. Most recently, Taylor served as president of Cabrini University, a private 2,100-student Catholic university near Philadelphia. Prior to that, he spent 12 years in leadership roles at Benedictine University, a private Catholic university located near Chicago.

As the first in his family to attend college, he understands the transformative potential of education. He earned a Bachelor of Science in Education and a Ph.D. in Cell and Molecular Biology from the University of Memphis and worked as a research scientist in the biomedical sciences early in his career. “I’m a scientist by training,” Taylor said. “I like solving problems.”

Prior to his first day as president of Detroit Mercy, Taylor conducted a “listening tour” and completed several campus visits, including one at the School of Law’s Riverfront campus. He sees room for growth in several areas, many of which involve Detroit Mercy becoming more thoroughly embedded in metro Detroit. Taylor plans to call on students, staff, faculty, and alumni to live the Detroit Mercy mission through service.

“This institution has made tremendous strides,” he said. “Everything is in place to take the next step to be the university of choice for metro Detroit and beyond. When you think of Jesuit and Mercy institutions nationally, you think of Marquette, Boston College, Xavier, College of Saint Mary, and Georgian Court University, to name a few,” he said. “We should be on that level.”

Securing resources, promoting the vision, communicating University priorities, and urging people to think more entrepreneurially are his first steps. Then, he says, the University community has to take a hard look at what it can give up. “I will be asking people to do more things,” he said, “and they can’t do them on top of what they are doing now. We have to determine what we should stop doing.” Taylor knows this is a bold agenda, but he believes the University is on the right trajectory.

Excerpted and edited from The Bold Vision of Donald Taylor by Ron Bernas, published in Spiritus, Spring 2022.

CELEB ONE RATING WITH

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N JELAN

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ON EXUM

Detroit Mercy Law celebrates one year under the leadership of Dean Jelani Jefferson Exum. During her first year, she led us to accomplish notable achievements through progress on her vision priorities.

The vision priorities set by Dean Jefferson Exum are making a positive impact.

EXPANDED support for academic success and bar preparation services for students throughout the curriculum.

ENHANCED reputation through increased promotion of faculty scholarship and development of unique programming.

ENGAGED our network of a lumni to collaborate on programs and opportunities that serve our social justice mission and dedication to DEI.

NOTABLE ACHIEVEMENTS OF DEAN JEFFERSON EXUM’S LEADERSHIP INCLUDE:

EXTERNAL RECOGNITION

Detroit Mercy Law achieved recognition in the published ranking category by the US News & World Report through improvements to our peer reputation, student credentials, acceptance rate, employment rate, and bar passage rate.

MISSION-DRIVEN LEADERSHIP

Dean Jefferson Exum created dean-level leadership positions for the following areas to enhance the missioncentered work of educating the complete lawyer

• Faculty Research & Development

• Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, & Belonging

• Institutional Outcomes & Communications

NEW PROGRAMS

Academic Success & Bar Passage Program

We launched The Power of One, a data-driven incentive program to support graduates with financing and passing the bar exam.

Diversity Pipeline Program

We partnered with AccessLex to provide one-year deferred admission and scholarship money to promising, underrepresented candidates whose initial applications would have otherwise been denied. Students complete a preparation program to increase their chances of good outcomes in law school.

Read more about this program on page 25.

Arts & Entertainment Law Clinic

We launched the Arts & Entertainment Law Clinic. Students provide pro bono legal services to musicians, independent filmmakers, writers, artists, photographers, and other creatives under the supervision of Melissa Eckhause, Assistant Professor of Law, and Matthew W. Bower, Partner at Varnum LLP.

Read more about this program on page 17.

Current Events in Law Series

We hosted a series of virtual panels that brought together legal scholars and experts to discuss law and policy on current events. Topics included reproductive rights, climate change, global politics, and indigenous law.

RECRUITMENT OF NEW FACULTY & RETURN TO IN-PERSON LEARNING

Dean Jefferson Exum guided us through our return to in-person learning. We look forward to new scholars and administrators joining us as we welcome all students back to campus this fall.

Read more about our new faculty on pages 10-11.

FUNDRAISING & SCHOLARSHIPS

Dean Jefferson Exum’s fundraising success is surpassing prior years. During her first year, she raised over 12% more than the most recent oneyear high of the past five years.

Dean Jefferson Exum supported the pilot transformation of the Stewart & Lysaght Scholars Award to financially support exceptional Canadian & American Dual JD students who identify as Black or Indigenous, who have strong interests in transnational law and social justice, and aspire to pursue transnational social justice careers following graduation.

Read more and meet the scholars on pages 12-13.

Dean Jefferson Exum is a nationally-recognized expert in sentencing law and procedure. She joined Detroit Mercy Law in 2019 as the Philip J. McElroy Professor of Law and became Dean in 2021.

Throughout this past year, she provided commentary on topics of national conversation to help the Detroit Mercy and wider Detroit community understand the legal impacts. She continues to publish and has discussed her work on criminal procedure, sentencing, and constitutional law in several media outlets. She received the Geraldine Bledsoe Ford Award from the Women Lawyers Association of Michigan in recognition of her work and continued commitment to diversity, inclusion, and social justice. Michigan Lawyers Weekly selected her as a member of the "Influential Women of Law" Class of 2022.

LIVING OUR JESUIT & MERCY TRADITIONS

University of Detroit Mercy School of Law, founded in 1912, is the only cosponsored Jesuit and Mercy law school in the United States. Our program of legal education, shaped by our history and mission rooted in Jesuit and Mercy traditions, is infused with a unique set of charisms for educating the complete lawyer.

We recognize the importance of lawyers in society and the responsibilities inherent in educating new lawyers. Our Jesuit roots inform our commitment to academic excellence, caring for the whole person, service, and leadership. Our Mercy ways reinforce these values and virtues and further emphasize a commitment to compassion, justice, and inclusion of all people.

OUR JESUIT & MERCY FOUNDING INFLUENCES

ORIGINS

Detroit Mercy’s crest represents both the Jesuit and Mercy traditions. The left side of the crest portrays two wolves at a pot, symbolizing the generosity of the Loyola family (Ignatius of Loyola is the founder of the Society of Jesus). After all the family and the workers were fed, even the wild animals had the pot to lick. The motto of the Jesuits, “Ad Majorem Dei Gloriam” (For the Greater Glory of God), is located above the wolves and pot. The date 1877 refers to the founding of University of Detroit by the Jesuits.

On the right side of the crest is a white cross, which is the symbol of the Religious Sisters of Mercy, who founded Mercy College of Detroit in 1941. The three canettes are taken from the coat of arms of the Archdiocese and the City. The open book is the traditional symbol for a college. Upon the open pages is inscribed Mercy College’s motto: “Maria, Sedes Sapientiae” (Mary, Seat of Wisdom).

St. Ignatius of Loyola was born in 1491 to Spanish nobility. While recovering from a serious battlefield injury, he discovered a calling from God that led him on a journey of spirituality and education. With several companions, he founded the Society of Jesus in 1540, which quickly became devoted to integrating education and spiritual discernment.

Catherine McAuley was born in 1778 in Dublin, Ireland. After receiving a large inheritance from an elderly couple she served, she built the House of Mercy in 1827, which provided shelter for homeless women, healthcare for poor women, and education for young, disadvantaged girls. The Sisters of Mercy were officially established as a religious order in 1831 in Dublin.

UNIVERSAL APOSTOLIC PREFERENCES OF THE SOCIETY OF JESUS

UNIVERSAL APOSTOLIC PREFERENCES OF THE SOCIETY OF JESUS

Showing the way to God

Showing the way to God

Walking with the excluded Journeying with the youth

Walking with the excluded Journeying with the youth

Caring for our common home

Caring for our common home

SISTERS OF MERCY CRITICAL CONCERNS

Immigration Anti-Racism

Women

Nonviolence

The Earth

ACADEMIC EXCELLENCE & SCHOLARSHIP

Our Jesuit and Mercy traditions inform our commitment to excellence in teaching and scholarship. Through our program of legal education, we educate the complete lawyer. Students are exposed to t heory, doctrine, and experiential learning. We create a space for students to grow as individuals and prepare them for a future where they will make a difference serving clients and their community. Our expert faculty, dedicated to both excellence in teaching and scholarship, challenge students to think critically about legal issues and their impact on society and to examine and appreciate their role as future lawyers and leaders in their communities.

INTRODUCING OUR NEW FACULTY

Aman McLeod , Associate Professor of Law

B.A. Amherst College

J.D. University of Michigan School of Law

Ph.D. University of Michigan

“I wanted to work at a law school that was focused on meeting the needs of students and that served populations of students who traditionally had not had access to an education in the law—Detroit Mercy Law does both.”

Professor Aman McLeod joins the faculty at Detroit Mercy Law after almost two decades in academia, most recently teaching at the University of Idaho in the Political Science department and at the College of Law. He has authored numerous book chapters and articles focusing on a wide range of topics, including judicial behavior and judicial selection. Professor McLeod served as a consultant for the American Bar Association and advised the West Virginia state legislature on judicial selection reform. Prior to joining academia, he worked as a contract attorney at several law firms.

• Courses: Local Government Law, Constitutional Law, Professional Responsibility, First A mendment

• Most Recent Publication : Caperton v. A.T. Massey Coal Co.: A Ten-Year Retrospective on its Impact on Law and the Judiciary. 124 W.Va.L.Rev. 67 (2021)

Akunna Olumba , Assistant Professor of Law

B.S.E. University of Michigan

J.D. Florida A&M University College of Law

LL.M. University of Florida Levin College of Law

M.S.T Wayne State University Mike Illitch School of Business Administration

Professor Akunna Olumba is an expert in business law and taxation. She has experience as an adjunct professor at Florida A&M University College of Law. Additionally, Professor Olumba founded a business development firm and a federal tax legal practice. She has extensive experience assisting in the research and editing of books and articles focused on taxation law.

• Courses: Applied Legal Theory & Analysis, Estates & Trusts, Sales

• Upcoming Publication : Hail Mary: Can Cryptocurrency Save the Marijuana Industry’s Lost Deductions? (forthcoming)

“I am looking forward to the students, more specifically being able to shape their understanding of the law, and ultimately shape the lawyers they will become.”

“I believe a well-rounded law student graduates with practical experience. Mentoring students throughout their clinical experience in a supportive environment is my favorite part of being a law professor.”

Samantha Stiltner, Veterans Law Clinic Director & Assistant Professor of Law

B.A.S. Campbell University

J.D. University of Illinois Chicago College of Law

Professor Samantha Stiltner joins Detroit Mercy Law with many years of experience working and teaching in the area of veterans law. She was a staff attorney and program manager for The Veterans Consortium Pro Bono Program in Washington, D.C. Additionally, Professor Stiltner was a staff attorney at the University of Illinois Chicago School of Law Veterans Legal Support Center & Clinic. She is a VA Accredited Attorney and is admitted to practice in the Court of Appeals for Veterans Claims.

• Courses: Veterans Law Clinic, Advanced Veterans Law Clinic

Christopher Trudeau , Visiting Associate Professor of Law

B.A. Michigan State University

J.D. Western Michigan University Thomas M. Cooley Law School

Professor Christopher Trudeau joins Detroit Mercy Law as a Visiting Associate Professor of Law from University of Arkansas, Little Rock, William H. Bowen School of Law where he is an Associate Professor of Law. Professor Trudeau has also taught at the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences where he was an Associate Professor of Medical Humanities & Bioethics. Before joining the faculty at University of Arkansas, he taught for a decade at Western Michigan University Thomas M. Cooley Law School. Professor Trudeau previously practiced labor and employment law and complex business litigation. He developed a pro bono legal program to assist patrons at the Christo Rey Community Center in Lansing, Michigan.

• Courses: Applied Legal Theory & Analysis, Property

• Most Recent Publication : Learning From the Past: A Retrospective Analysis of Informed Consent Forms on Clinicaltrials.gov Before the Revised Common Rule, 46 Law & Psychology Review 189 (2021-22)

Conley Wouters , Visiting Assistant Professor of Law

B.A. University of Illinois, Urbana

M.A. Brandeis University

Ph.D. Brandeis University

J.D. Cornell Law School

“I tell my students that we’re not going to learn how to write; our goal is to develop each of the foundational skills that are required to successfully practice law. This holistic approach to lawyering aligns with the Jesuit commitment to educating the whole person.”

“What excites me most about joining Detroit Mercy Law is the ability to connect with a diverse group of law students, many of whom are going to be future Michigan lawyers.”

Professor Conley Wouters is an expert in legal writing, research, and analysis. He has experience teaching law at Suffolk University Law School and teaching English and writing at Brandeis University. Professor Wouters additionally has experience handling complex commercial litigation, immigration and asylum applications, and Title IX complaints. He has presented multiple times on the topic of legal story telling.

• Courses: Applied Legal Theory & Analysis, Environmental Law & Literature

Read more about our faculty on pages 33 - 35

MEET OUR NEW FELLOWS & SCHOLARS

Detroit Mercy Law recognizes incoming students for their excellence and potential through scholarships each year and welcomes donations of time and financial support from alumni and friends to help us in our mission of educating the complete lawyer.

DEAN’S FELLOWSHIPS are awarded to incoming students who have demonstrated excellence prior to law school through academics, leadership, professionalism, and service.

The STEWART & LYSAGHT SCHOLARSHIP, named in honor of the co-founders of the Canadian & American Dual JD Program, supports exceptional Dual JD students each year.

The HENRY H. TARRANT AWARD FOR BLACK STUDENT EXCELLENCE is named in honor of the first known Black graduate of Detroit Mercy Law, who graduated in 1922.

The PHILIP J. McELROY SCHOLARSHIP is awarded to an incoming law student in honor of the late distinguished graduate’s lifelong commitment to education.

SPONSOR A STUDENT

Help support future Detroit Mercy Law fellows and scholars by funding one, two, or all three years of a student’s legal education.

Contact Julie Hein, Director of Development, heinja@udmercy.edu to learn more.

Donate to the School of Law udmercy.edu/donate/law

Payton Armstrong

Dean’s Fellow

B.S., Political Science, Wayne State University

Armstrong is interested in pursuing civil rights law and international law. She chose Detroit Mercy Law because of her connection to the mission. She looks forward to continuing her education in the city of Detroit.

Jared Colthurst

Stewart & Lysaght Scholar

B.A., Criminology, University of Windsor

Colthurst looks forward to joining the law school communities at both Windsor Law and Detroit Mercy Law as a student in the Canadian & American Dual JD program. He plans to help others recognize societal inequities and to better support victims of sexual assault.

Craig Luca

Dean’s Fellow

B.S., Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Michigan State University

Luca worked as a Patent Analyst and Patent Classification Specialist prior to law school. He looks forward to using his background to advance new ideas and innovation.

Zahara Madahah

Henry H. Tarrant Scholar

B.A., English, University of Michigan-Dearborn

Madahah worked as a police officer in the Detroit Police Department. She is a recipient of the DPD’s Women in Blue Officer of the Year Award and the Detroit City Council’s Spirit of Detroit Award. She looks forward to continuing her commitment to the city of Detroit and its residents.

Briyhan Martin

Dean’s Fellow

B.S., Pharmaceutical Science, University of Michigan

Martin plans to use her foundation in health sciences to help those who have suffered because of injustice in the medical system. Originally from Detroit, she attended a Jesuit high school in Atlanta, Georgia. She was drawn to Detroit Mercy Law because of the Jesuit influence.

Maxim Musyj

Transnational Law Fellow

Philip J. McElroy Scholar

B.A., Law and Politics, University of Windsor

Musyj is interested in emerging fields of technology law. He plans to practice securities litigation in the areas of digital assets and blockchain. He led the planning of a food drive in the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic that delivered 2 million pounds of food to those in need.

Carelis Rios-Santiago

Dean’s Fellow

B.A., Political Science, Eastern Michigan University

Rios-Santiago is passionate about social justice and plans to bring empathy and compassion to her practice of law. She is interested in pursuing housing law issues to help Detroiters stay in their homes.

Analise Robinson

Dean’s Fellow

Henry H. Tarrant Scholar

B.A., Criminal Justice, Grand Valley State University

Robinson plans to use her law degree to bring justice to those who have been wronged. She was inspired to pursue the law because of many influential figures and hopes to be influential to others in the future.

Rachel Schulte

Intellectual Property Law Fellow

B.S., Physics, Eastern Michigan University

Schulte has experience as a Patent Classification Specialist working with private companies that perform contract work for the United States Patent and Trademark Office. She plans to use her background in STEM to be a patent attorney.

Stephanie A. Thomas

Henry H. Tarrant Scholar

B.S., Psychology, Howard University

Prior to pursuing law school, Thomas held a position with the US Federal Government. She is a Detroit native and looks forward to advocating for others in the city.

MENTORS

Thank you to our alumni who served as mentors to our 2021 fellows and scholars for contributing your time and talent.

Amanda Brithinee '20

Mickey Chichester '07

Rebecca El Badoui '20

Jailah Emerson '20

Yafeez Fatabhoy '18

Kristin Fernandez '19

Katherine Ganick Christy '21

Jewel Haji '19

Kristina Joseph '14

Stephen Kim '97

Deanna Kossaras '13

Hon. Denise Langford Morris '82

Khadijah McFadden '19

Sam Niskar '20

Aaron Pattison '20

Hon. Kristina Robinson Garrett '10

Hon. Marlena Taylor '09

Nolan Yaldo '11

If you are interested in helping recruit and mentor future students, please contact the admissions team at lawadmissions@udmercy.edu.

SERVICE

Our Jesuit and Mercy traditions inform our commitment to service.

Through our program of legal education, we show students that the legal profession is a service profession and that it is a privilege to serve clients and community, especially those who are often neglected. Our alumni’s careers are rooted in service with public interest organizations, law firms, government offices, the judiciary, and businesses in the US, Canada, and beyond.

SERVING VICTIMS & SERVING OUR COUNTRY

KUMAR PALEPU JD '10 US Air Force, Judge Advocate Macomb County, Assistant Prosecutor

Kumar Palepu '10 serves the community and victims as both an officer and a civilian. His career path with the military and criminal justice system has given him the opportunity to make a career out of making a difference.

"I’m proud of the work I do on behalf of victims. I’ve never been happier."

He started his journey of service following his undergraduate education by enlisting in the United States Army. “I was stationed in Germany and deployed to Kosovo. It was an experience that gave me a perspective on the definition of hardship which made the rest of my life easier.” After four years, Palepu was honorably discharged and thought that he was done serving in the military.

Originally from Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, Palepu began looking into law schools in 2007, when his father read an article about Detroit Mercy Law’s commitment to implementing courses that simulated real-life practice experiences. This influenced him to apply to Detroit Mercy Law, and he decided to move to Detroit for law school.

“One of the biggest advantages that Detroit Mercy Law has is its location. Living in Detroit, studying in Detroit, and having access to the courts is so convenient for students looking for internships.”

Palepu began working with the Metropolitan Justice Center of Southeast Michigan in Wayne County during his 2L year, which led to a job as a state defender after he graduated and passed the Michigan Bar Exam.

“Cutting my teeth in Detroit at the Frank Murphy Hall of Justice gave me an unbelievable amount of experience. Practicing one year in Detroit is often considered as practicing several years anywhere else,” he explained. “I kept track of everything I did in the defender ’s office and when I applied at the Macomb County Prosecutor’s Office, I was concerned that they may not believe the volume of work I included on my resume.”

Palepu began working at the Macomb County Prosecutor ’s Office in 2014. He has spent his time there serving victims of crimes and fighting for justice. “I’m most proud of the four years I worked in the child protection unit vertically prosecuting the physical and sexual abuse of children,” Palepu said. “There is a tremendous amount of time, effort, and training that is necessary to try cases involving child sexual assault.”

In 2018, he was distracted by an aircraft landing at Selfridge Air National Guard Base, which is by his office in Mt. Clemens. “I missed the people you meet when serving in the military and thought to myself that I would like to know what it was like on the base.”

He took his oath and attended boot camp in 2019 to become a member of the US Air Force Judge Advocate General’s Corps, while maintaining his civilian job. “Over the past few years, the military has been focused on sexual assaults. I wanted to join because I thought my experience trying sexual assault cases would be valuable in the US Air Force.”

As a civilian, Palepu is now responsible for 15 assistant prosecutors who handle cases before 19 judges in 10 district courts located throughout Macomb County. He is Chief of District Court for Macomb County, Chief of Hate Crimes, and a Veterans Treatment Court Liaison.

VETERANS LAW CLINIC SERVES THOSE WHO HAVE SERVED

The Veterans Law Clinic at Detroit Mercy Law is proud to serve those who have bravely served our country. Students participating in the Veterans Law Clinic represent military veterans and their families in disability cases and related matters. Students primarily practice before the Department of Veterans Affairs to obtain veterans benefits for service-connected disabilities.

$4.4 million+

Since the clinic began operating in 2007, over $4.4 million in retroactive benefits have been secured.

$250,000+

This year, the clinic has already recovered over a quarter of a million dollars in retroactive benefits for veterans in the Detroit community.

$95,000

A veteran served by the clinic this year, a Purple Heart recipient who had been applying for benefits for many years, finally received an award of around $95,000 in back pay for his service-connected PTSD.

$22,000

A Vietnam veteran, who started his claim 15 years ago, received the last missing piece of his benefits this year, which was over $22,000. This veteran turned around to donate a portion of his back pay to the clinic.

$19,000

Another veteran, who suffers from service-connected schizophrenia, received over $19,000 in back pay this year. This veteran had been applying for benefits for over 45 years.

SERVING CLIENTS & SERVING COMMUNITY

CARINA KRAATZ DUAL JD '09 Kitch Drutchas Wagner Valiutti & Sherbrook, Principal

Carina Kraatz '09, a principal at Kitch Drutchas Wagner Valiutti & Sherbrook, is a registered patent attorney. In addition to leading the firm’s intellectual property practice, she has received multiple awards for her pro bono service to the Detroit community.

"Through my pro bono practice, I discovered that what we as attorneys may consider a small task can help to change a person's life. An attorney has the ability to step into a pivotal part of a person’s life and make a tremendous difference in their trajectory for the better."

Kraatz, a graduate of the Canadian & American Dual JD program, experienced the impact of pro bono service through the clinical programs at Detroit Mercy Law. “I was encouraged to participate in the legal clinics. Not only did these legal clinics expose me to different areas of law, but they also allowed me to directly help those in need— people needing immigration assistance or neighbors needing third-party dispute resolution services,” she explained.

“My experience at Detroit Mercy Law’s legal clinics inspired me to volunteer at a local non-profit while in law school. During my time volunteering at this non-profit, I helped someone with their asylum application. Seeing the look on that person’s face when their application was granted is something that I will never forget and is by far one of the most rewarding legal experiences I have ever had.”

During the pandemic, Kraatz assisted in the transition of the Detroit Bar Association’s Detroit Legal Services Clinic from in-person to virtual. “Due to in-person limitations, the Clinic is now able to virtually provide advice and counsel services to more pro bono clients on a regular basis.”

Kraatz received the Pro Bono Award from the United States Bankruptcy Court for the Eastern District of Michigan in 2019. From 2019 through 2021, the Detroit Bar Association has recognized her commitment to pro bono work, and in 2021, awarded her the Committee of the Year Award for her contributions to access to justice for those in need during the pandemic. Most recently, she was appointed to the Detroit Bar Association Board of Directors and received the 2022 Pro Bono Service Award.

“I continue my pro bono legal work to this day knowing that even if clients do not express their gratitude outright, I have still made a difference in their life.”

ARTS AND ENTERTAINMENT LAW CLINIC SUPPORTS LOCAL CREATIVES AND CULTURAL RICHNESS OF DETROIT AND OFFERS STUDENTS EXPANDED IP LAW CLINICAL PROGRAM

Detroit Mercy Law launched the Arts and Entertainment Law Clinic at the start of the fall 2022 term. This expansion of the clinical program is aligned with the School of Law’s Jesuit and Mercy traditions of service learning, access to justice, and educating the complete lawyer.

From murals to music and more, the Arts and Entertainment Law Clinic, in partnership with the City of Detroit’s Office of Arts, Culture, and Entrepreneurship, seeks to enhance the cultural richness of Detroit by providing pro bono legal services to creatives, including musicians, independent filmmakers, writers, artists, and photographers. The clinic, combined with existing patent and trademark clinical programs, provides students with access to a comprehensive intellectual property law practice experience.

The Arts and Entertainment Law Clinic is the only clinic of its k ind in the state of Michigan. “This clinic will fill a gap that artists need. Michigan lost its only pro bono arts and entertainment law organization in 2019,” explained Melissa Eckhause, Assistant Professor of Law and director of the clinic.

Professor Eckhause has over a decade of experience representing music and film producers, Fortune 500 companies, start-ups, entertainment professionals, and professional athletes.

The clinic seeks to empower artists by educating them about their legal rights and advocating on their behalf. “It’s about preserving space for creatives to be expressive and ensuring our local creatives are not being taken advantage of and that they receive fair compensation for their creative property, which historically has disproportionally impacted women and minorities,” commented Eckhause.

“I look forward to being a part of this historic and important clinic,” commented Matt Bower, a partner with Varnum LLP and a member of the firm’s corporate and intellectual property practice groups, who will co-direct the clinic as an adjunct instructor. Bower has extensive experience in a broad range of intellectual property matters including copyright protection and licensing, publicity rights, publishing, public art, and fair use.

Specific client projects may include filing copyright registrations, preparing clearance reports and fair use analyses, drafting and commenting on music agreements, personal services agreements, location agreements, and image releases, and advising on defamation and publicity matters.

This expansion of the clinical program enhances the School of Law’s commitment to educating the complete lawyer. Students now have access to a comprehensive intellectual property law clinical offering. In addition to the copyright work through the Arts and Entertainment Law Clinic, Detroit Mercy Law offers a transnational patent clinic and trademark clinic, both of which are certified by the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO).

“Detroit Mercy Law is a leader in the clinical IP field. The addition of the Arts and Entertainment Law Clinic to Detroit Mercy Law’s innovative program of clinical education positions us well to serve Detroit’s burgeoning creative community,” said Nicholas Schroeck, Associate Dean for Experiential Education and Associate Professor of Law. “By adding copyright expertise to our existing intellectual property clinics, which cover patents and trademarks, our students will gain valuable legal skills and practice experience while providing legal representation to clients who would otherwise be without.”

Left to right: Katerini Zaikos, Alessia De Gasperis, Chris Tower, Kailee Corcoran, Professor Melissa Eckhause, Matthew Bower (Varnum LLP), Nate Roy, Klayvon Hermz. Not pictured: Sharon Canete Munoz, Alexa Cohen

Each year, Detroit Mercy Law students provide over 35,000 hours of pro bono legal services to residents of Detroit and the surrounding communities.

LEADERSHIP

Our Jesuit and Mercy traditions inform our approach to leadership.

Through our program of legal education, we train responsible, discerning, ethical leaders for our communities. We graduate alumni who set forth to make a difference by using their education and voices of power to serve, inspire, and help others.

PUBLIC SERVANT LEADERSHIP HON. KRISTINA ROBINSON GARRETT JD '10 Michigan Court of Appeals, Judge

Judge Kristina Robinson Garrett '10, who serves on the Michigan Court of Appeals, spoke to the incoming class at Orientation about serving others as leaders in the legal profession.

“You are starting your legal career today,” Robinson Garrett said. “It is a privilege to serve and represent others. Going to law school is a privilege. Your role in the legal profession is a privilege,” she told the incoming class.

Robinson Garrett built a career as a public servant leader. She began her career as General Counsel for the Wayne County Sheriff’s Department. Prior to her appointment to the Michigan Court of Appeals, she served on the 36th District Court of Michigan. While a district court judge, she presided over various specialty courts including Street Outreach Court Detroit, Mental Health Treatment Court, Drug Treatment Court, and Veterans Treatment Court.

In her remarks to the incoming class, she spoke about leadership through service, civility, and professionalism. "You have a commitment to service without prejudice and integrity without compromise. Never compromise what you think is wrong and what you know is right. No matter what you do or where you are, civility and professionalism remain at the highest importance."

“You are now affiliated with Detroit Mercy Law and with that comes the responsibility of upholding the reputation of the school. Our great reputation is only maintained through you upholding it. You should wear that banner with honor,” she said to the class.

“You won’t always agree with faculty members and your classmates, but you always have to respect each other,” she explained. “You’re not just classmates, you are colleagues now, and you want to respect each other as colleagues. You will always be connected as members of the Detroit Mercy Law community.”

STUDENT LEADERS

LEADING BY EXAMPLE

ZENNA ELHASAN JD '04 Kresge Foundation, General Counsel

"It’s very rare that you graduate from law school and have an opportunity to oversee and lead major development projects in the city that you love,"said Zenna Elhasan '04. Currently, Elhasan serves as General Counsel for the Kresge Foundation in Detroit; however, she has been leading and serving since she graduated from Detroit Mercy Law almost two decades ago.

Elhasan credits her education at Detroit Mercy Law for forming her into a servant-leader. “Detroit Mercy Law allowed me to participate in law clinics and externships to get real life experience in practice that enhanced my learning and challenged me as a law student. This provided me with the opportunity to not only learn academics but also learn important leadership and service skills that translated into my career after law school.”

“My first year of law school, I was appropriately overwhelmed by the sheer amount of reading, assignments, and work. Over the course of my first year, I learned to manage my time. These lessons in time management will serve me well for a lifetime.”

Elhasan explained that being a leader is not only about delegating, but also doing work with her team. “I believe a great leader is one who influences those around them to become better at what they’re doing. I have led by the principle of never asking others to do what I wouldn’t do myself.”

During her time at Detroit Mercy Law, Elhasan had the opportunity to meet leaders who would influence her for years to come. "I met some of the most prominent leaders in the field through taking courses, attending learning opportunities hosted by the law school, and networking through the incredible alumni group. These connections helped me discover my first job out of law school."

Being a leader for Elhasan is not only about having influence on others, but also being open to learning from other leaders and those she is leading. “I have had the good fortune of learning how to lead and make decisions from some of the best mentors and managers over the course of my career,” she said.

“I have learned to build on the strength of others and acknowledge their skills, values and contributions. There is so much joy in lifting others and leading them, or at least helping lead them to the success they want to achieve. I believe greatly in empowering others and giving them the ability to contribute to decision making.”

2022 VIVERE EX MISSIONE AWARD

FATMEH CHEAIB

Each year, University of Detroit Mercy presents the VIVERE EX MISSIONE “TO LIVE OUT THE MISSION ” award to four graduating students, including one graduating law student, who best exemplify the mission of Detroit Mercy and demonstrate a commitment to academic excellence.

Fatmeh Cheaib received the 2022 award for her leadership of the Immigration Law Association and Arab American Law Students Association.

2022 AGERE EX MISSIONE AWARD

TONISHA WILLIAMS

Each year, University of Detroit Mercy presents the AGERE EX MISSIONE award to one staff member who best exemplifies the mission of Detroit Mercy and demonstrates a commitment to academic excellence.

Tonisha Williams is the 2022 recipient. Her work in t he clinical program is critical to the excellent service provided to clients and educational opportunities provided to students.

2022 SPIRIT AWARDS UNIVERSITY OF DETROIT MERCY ALUMNI ACHIEVEMENT

The Detroit Mercy Alumni Achievement Spirit Awards were established to recognize the University’s distinguished graduates from each of its colleges and schools who have excelled in their chosen professions, demonstrated outstanding leadership in their work, and devoted themselves in service to the larger community. Award recipients reflect the University’s mission of excellence and service and bring pride to their alma mater.

Patricia D. Kennedy-Scott '78 Regional President (Ret.) Kaiser Foundation Health of Ohio School of Law

COMPASSION & JUSTICE

Our Jesuit and Mercy traditions inform our commitment to justice.

Through our program of legal education, we instill in our students and alumni compassion and respect for all voices, especially those that are often muted. We produce justice-seeking attorneys, who recognize the dignity and worth of all people and pursue careers in all areas of the law.

UPHOLDING JUSTICE FOR ALL HON.

SHALINA KUMAR JD '96

US District Court, Eastern District of Michigan, Judge

Judge Shalina Kumar '96 was sworn in as a federal judge for the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Michigan in December 2021. She is the first person of South Asian descent to be nominated to the federal court in Michigan.

Kumar describes justice in her courtroom as "being treated fairly, with dignity and respect, and having the law applied to the facts of the case in a fair and impartial manner."

After a class trip to Washington, D.C. as a teenager, Kumar was hooked on learning about the law. Kumar began her career as a lawyer as a civil litigation attorney. “My work in litigation as a lawyer provided me with great experience and insight for my role as a judge,” she explained.

Kumar says that her experience working as a trial attorney has impacted her perspective on being a judge. “More than anything, I simply appreciate good lawyering, being on time, being prepared, and being knowledgeable of the facts and the law.”

She began her career on the bench in the Oakland County Circuit Court in 2007. In 2018, she was appointed Chief Judge of the Oakland County Circuit Court by the Michigan Supreme Court and was reappointed to the position in 2020.

"I am very fortunate to have spent the last fifteen years serving the public," she said. "It is a great honor to serve the people who appear in my court, and I take the role of a public servant very seriously. I work for the people; they do not work for me."

To Kumar, there is no one quality that makes a good judge. “Some of the necessary qualities are patience, compassion, preparedness, being well-versed in the law, and above all, a good temperament.”

VOICE FOR JUSTICE FELLOWSHIP

Detroit Mercy Law strives to teach students to be both skilled practitioners and compassionate professionals. The Voice for Justice Fellowship program expands our long-standing tradition of service to the community and provides students the opportunity to succeed while making a difference in the community.

Students who receive Fellowships spend approximately eight weeks as summer interns for non-profit organizations that serve or advocate for the poor, disadvantaged, marginalized, or under-represented of society. Since 2003, the Voice for Justice Fellowship Program has funded more than 100 law students to serve locally and throughout the world.

VIRTUAL EXPUNGEMENT CLINIC

On June 23, 2022, five students and five alumni assisted in a virtual expungement eligibility clinic serving the Sault Tribe, who are located in Sault Saint Marie, Chippewa County, in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula.

Rebecca Simkins Nowak, Director of Clinical Operations and Outreach, planned and coordinated the clinic with Judge Jocelyn Fabry, Chief Judge of the Sault Tribe, the Sault Tribe’s Advocacy Resource Center, and other members of the Sault Tribe.

“I’m so happy people are getting assistance with the expungement process, which can be confusing and daunting,” said Judge Fabry. “Even if just one person gets a conviction that’s been haunting them for years expunged, it’s huge.”

“The most rewarding part of working in the clinic was getting the opportunity to build genuine connections with a diversity of clients, to learn about the barriers they face as a result of their criminal records, and to work towards overcoming these burdens through the expungement process,” said Naime Sayde, a 3L in the Canadian & American Dual JD Program who worked with Director Nowak all summer to help put together expungement clinics.

Since the clinic, Nowak and students have been processing applications to set aside convictions on behalf of tribe members.

“Our legislature is tasked with creating laws and the appropriate punishments for those laws. When someone has completed their sentence but is still burdened with a felony or misdemeanor on their public record, they’re being unfairly punished further,” explained Rebecca Zarras '21, one of the alumni volunteers who first volunteered with the original traveling expungement clinic in 2019. “I volunteered with the Detroit Mercy Law expungement clinic because I wanted to do my part to help people move forward in their lives.”

“How wonderful that you and your students are doing this work to better the lives of others who have convictions hanging over their head and who don’t have the money to get the help they need,” said a clinic client.

Andrew T. Pace , 3L

Mohammed , 4L

ACCESS & INCLUSION

Our Jesuit and Mercy traditions inform our commitment to access and inclusion.

Through our program of legal education, we provide access to a profession where it is necessary for all voices to be heard. Both the Jesuits and Sisters of Mercy have long traditions of increasing opportunities and access through education for those on the margins of society. Influenced by this commitment to access, Detroit Mercy Law is proud of our heritage of enrolling racial and ethnic minorities, women, and people of various religious traditions, including those with no religious affiliation, in our earliest classes and remains committed to increasing access to legal education for those who have been historically excluded. Many of our students and alumni are first-generation law students and attorneys.

QA &

WITH NASHARA PEART DUAL JD '18

Miller

Canfield, Associate JD Bridges Foundation, Executive Director

Nashara Peart '18 is dedicated to increasing access to legal education for Black students across Canada. She serves as the Executive Director of the JD Bridges Foundation, a foundation focused on increasing access for prospective Black law students. A graduate of the Canadian & American Dual JD Program, she is licensed to practice in both Michigan and Ontario. She currently works as an attorney in the Litigation and Dispute Resolution Group at Miller Canfield in Detroit.

"In a society where racial injustices and biases, and the way they permeate culture, societal structure, and longstanding institutions, are coming to the foreground, law schools have the power to inject our world with conscious, well-balanced, change makers who can make our communities the equitable and fair places they should be. Gone are the days when it is acceptable for law schools to be places only for the elite. There are few other places as well equipped as law schools to create the change that diverse communities—and society in general—needs."

How did you get involved with the JD Bridges Foundation?

I am so excited about the work that the JD Bridges Foundation is doing. I was approached by Kayla Smith Campbell, a great friend of mine and fellow University of Windsor alumna, about a vision she had to create a scholarship program that would provide funds to prospective Black law students. She and I had previously served on the board for the Black Law Students Association of Canada, sister organization to the National Black Law Students Association, so it was no secret that we were both passionate about increasing the number of Black students in Canadian law schools and advocating for a more diverse legal profession in general. When Kayla shared her vision with me and invited me to be Executive Director of the organization, I immediately agreed to partner with her because I instantly knew the kind of impact a scholarship program like this could make on students’ lives and educations.

How does the JD Bridges Foundation support students?

This year was our first scholarship cycle, and we were able to award 20 scholarships worth $2,500 each to students all across Canada. These students will not have to worry about the often-overwhelming cost of applying to law school and will be able to apply widely enough to increase their chances of acceptance. Not only that, but we’ve matched students with mentors who will support them through drafting personal statements and submitting law school applications. We’ve already built strategic partnerships with law firms and other organizations to support Black students long term. There’s no question that the legal profession continues to be one where diversity is lacking, but through the JD Bridges Foundation, we’re doing our part to change that reality so the profession looks more like the diverse populations we serve.

How would you describe the importance of access and inclusion for law schools?

Without question, representation matters. It’s not simply a cliché. I f law schools do not focus on access and inclusion, most of the communities that attorneys serve will remain underrepresented in the profession. That means that most individuals who come in contact with the law in any way will never be able to seek help from someone who understands their unique point of view or life experiences, much less someone who looks like them or shares the same cultural values. The societies we live in are not monolithic, and the attorneys who serve those communities shouldn’t be either. Increasing access and inclusion should be a key objective for all law schools. Anyone who is a part of a law school community and does not see that is hampering the progress of what could be one of society’s most powerful institutions.

NEW DIVERSITY PIPELINE PROGRAM

Detroit Mercy Law partnered with AccessLex Institute, a nonprofit that advocates for access and affordability in legal education, to offer a post-baccalaureate applicant preparation program. The program provides oneyear deferred admission and scholarship money to promising, underrepresented candidates whose initial applications would have otherwise been denied, and increases students’ chances of good outcomes in law school. This year, six students enrolled in the program. Upon successful completion of the program, students will receive admission to the incoming class of 2023, a renewable 20% of tuition scholarship, a $3,000 stipend from AccessLex, and a Helix Bar Review course upon graduation.

The program is free of charge to students. Students dedicate about 10 hours per week during the deferred year to program activities and receive exposure to foundational law school concepts and skills, including lessons in firstyear law school subjects, case briefing, course outlining, exam writing, and financial budgeting. Students also complete an online Kaplan LSAT prep course and retake the LSAT.

MEET THE INCOMING CLASS OF 2022

Detroit Mercy Law welcomed 219 students from a wide range of backgrounds to the incoming class of 2022 at Orientation—136 US JD students and 83 Dual JD students from 63 undergraduate institutions across the US and Canada with a variety of degrees in liberal arts, criminal justice, business, and STEM. VIEW

Each year at orientation, we conduct an anonymous demographic survey to learn more about the entering class and how our students self-identify. With this year’s response rate of 95% , the survey provides an almost complete representation of the incoming class.

80% First-Generation Law Students

Many of our students are the first in their families to attend law school. It is our privilege to introduce our students to the legal profession.

59% Women

youtube.com/watch?v=Zb4YxIRgPSo

More women are represented in the incoming class than other genders, which is consistent with nationwide law school enrollment.

47% Racial/Ethnic Diversity

While only 24% of the 2022 entering class fit the US Census definition of racial or ethnic minorities, this classification hides the true diversity that exits within our community. The US Census classifies Canadian students, nearly half our student body, as foreign nationals, and does not allow students to further self-identify. The US Census definitions do not allow students to selfidentify as Arab-American/Arab-Canadian/Middle Eastern.

CONTACT

lawadmissions@udmercy.edu

law.udmercy.edu/admissions/contact-us

9% LGBTQIA+ Community

Representation of students who identify as LGBTQIA+ has been increasing at Detroit Mercy Law.

15+ Religious Preferences

Detroit Mercy Law welcomes students from all faith traditions and backgrounds. The incoming class includes students from a wide range of religious traditions, including those with no religious affiliation.

SUPPORTING ALL ASPIRING LAW STUDENTS

Detroit Mercy Law welcomes applications from all qualified candidates who seek a legal education. Applications are accepted online through the Law School Admission Council (LSAC) website at lsac.org. There is no fee to apply to Detroit Mercy Law.

New students are required to receive a bachelor's degree before entering law school and must have taken the Law School Admission Test (LSAT) within the past five years.

Detroit Mercy Law is dedicated to helping applicants put together the strongest application possible. In addition to our admissions counselors working directly with future law students, we partner with LSAC and AccessLex to help applicants improve their application and chances of being admitted to law school.

LSAC offers LSAT preparation tools. Recognizing that some students may not be able to afford the subscription cost, LSAC offers fee waivers to law school candidates who are financially under-resourced.

AccessLex offers the LexScholars program. This no-cost program helps people from underrepresented racial, ethnic, and socioeconomic groups in the legal field improve their application, LSAT score, and chance of being admitted to law school.

WHY DO STUDENTS CHOOSE DETROIT MERCY LAW?

90% OF 2021 GRADUATES SECURED LEGAL EMPLOYMENT

The Detroit Mercy Law graduating class of 2021 secured an overall employment rate of 90 percent in legal positions. Graduates secured positions with law firms, the judiciary, businesses, and government and public interest organizations across the US and Canada.

GRADUATE EMPLOYMENT RATE SURPASSES NATIONAL AVERAGE

Each year, Detroit Mercy Law supports graduates with securing employment and reports the employment outcomes of graduates as of ten months following graduation to the American Bar Association (ABA). For the graduating class of 2021, Detroit Mercy Law surpassed the national average for securing full-time, long-term legal employment. According to the ABA employment summaries, 88 percent of 2021 Detroit Mercy Law graduates secured full-time, long-term legal employment, compared to 83 percent of 2021 law graduates nationwide.

The Detroit Mercy Law employment outcomes include graduates of the Canadian & American Dual JD Program—the only comparative program of its kind in North America in which students earn two law degrees in three years. Students earn a JD from both Detroit Mercy Law and Windsor Law and graduate eligible to be licensed in both the US and Canada.

Graduates pursuing licensure in Canada are required to complete post-graduation experiential training, which is similar to an apprenticeship, before they are admitted to practice law. For the 2021 Dual JD graduates, 97 percent secured articling, Law Practice Program, or attorney positions to fulfill the post-graduation experiential training requirement, and some will pursue licensure on both sides of the border.

MEET OUR 2021 GRADUATES LARGE LAW FIRMS

Graduates secure positions with large law firms, often prior to graduation through on-campus interviews in partnership with the Career Services Office. Students typically interview the summer before their second year of law school, work as a summer associate between their second and third years of law school, and join the firm as an associate the following year.

COMMUNITY IN PRACTICE

Nadine Dabaja '21 Associate, Clark Hill PLC Detroit, Michigan

Nadine Dabaja '21 practices labor and employment law. "I enjoy the opportunity to educate employers and their workforces about discrimination, sexual harassment, and ethics, she said. "I value the people aspect of the practice–forming relationships with clients and being entrusted with solving their problems is another thing I enjoy most about my practice."

Dabaja came to Detroit Mercy Law because of the community and opportunities offered for students. She now finds similar connections with fellow attorneys and her clients. "I am always equipped with what I need to address client concerns and am constantly learning from some of the most skilled and experienced professionals in the area."

SMALL & MID-SIZE LAW FIRMS

Many law school graduates nationally and from Detroit Mercy Law work in small and mid-size law firms. Many of these employers hire through on-campus interviews and job postings in partnership with the Career Services Office.

PRACTICING TEAMWORK

Kathryn Donaldson Salter '21

Associate, Leitner, Williams, Dooley & Napolitan, PLLC Nashville, Tennessee

Kathryn Donaldson Salter '21 finds working at a law firm provides her with the right environment to become the best lawyer possible. "I love the collaborative, team environment my job provides. Strategizing with colleagues and utilizing each lawyer’s unique talents makes work enjoyable."

Salter practices insurance defense. "The unique challenges of each situation make every day interesting and gives me the opportunity to learn about different industries, businesses, and individuals."

"Detroit Mercy Law set me up with the practical skills that I needed to flourish as a first-year associate. To walk in on my first day, be handed a case file, and know where to start was a relief and gave me the confidence I needed to start my career."

INSPIRING INTERACTIONS

Jocelyn Flemons '21 Associate, Miller Cohen, PLC Detroit, Michigan

Jocelyn Flemons '21 practices labor and employment law. "I was inspired to pursue labor and employment law by the many experiences I had prior to law school when I worked as a teacher."

She enjoys the small firm environment. "Authentic and genuine interactions have always been important to me because I know we get our best growth and ideas through authentic interactions and collaboration with others," she said.

Flemons chose Detroit Mercy Law based on instinct. "I am happy to say my instincts did not lead me astray. The legal network I tapped into at Detroit Mercy Law is phenomenal. By the time I graduated, I had personal relationships with attorneys and judges across the state of Michigan."

HIRE A DETROIT MERCY LAW STUDENT OR RECENT GRADUATE

Employers are encouraged to connect with the Career Services Office early about hiring needs for the strongest applicant pool. Many students secure summer employment during the preceding fall, and many recent graduates secure legal employment prior to graduation.

cso@udmercy.edu

JUDICIAL CHAMBERS

Graduates secure judicial clerkships in the US and Canada.

A PASSION FOR LEGAL RESEARCH & WRITING

Katherine Ganick Christy '21

Judicial Clerk, US Department of Justice Cleveland, Ohio

Katherine Ganick Christy '21 secured her clerkship through the Attorney General’s Honors Program. "I decided to pursue a judicial clerkship because of my interest in legal research and writing that developed over the course of my time at Detroit Mercy Law," she said.

"Detroit Mercy Law’s commitment to ensuring that students have the necessary legal research and writing skills upon entering the legal field was crucial to my success as a new attorney. I had ample opportunity to practice my skills in various contexts while at Detroit Mercy Law through membership on the Law Review, in upper-level writing courses, and during clinical courses."

A BEHIND-THE-SCENES LOOK AT THE LAW

Ryan Markesic '21

Judicial Clerk, Court of Appeals Vancouver, British Columbia

Ryan Markesic '21 enjoys applying the law from a neutral perspective and learning from experienced jurists. "The opportunity to learn from judges who interpret and apply the law on a daily basis provides a unique opportunity not available in private practice. I get a behind-the-scenes experience and learn daily from judges who have been practicing longer than I have been alive."

"With the rise of globalization and the interconnectedness between Canada and the US, it was a no-brainer to pursue my legal studies in the Canadian & American Dual JD program," Markesic explained. "The Dual JD program is a rigorous academic program that prepares you for the workload and mental fortitude required to succeed as a judicial clerk."

HIRE A DETROIT MERCY LAW STUDENT OR RECENT GRADUATE

Employers are encouraged to connect with the Career Services Office early about hiring needs for the strongest applicant pool. Many students secure summer employment during the preceding fall, and many recent graduates secure legal employment prior to graduation.

cso@udmercy.edu

BUSINESS & INDUSTRY

Graduates secure positions outside of traditional law practice that combine their prior experience with their legal education.

ENGINEERING CREATIVITY

Luke Popiel '21

Intellectual Property Manager, General Motors Detroit, Michigan

Luke Popiel '21 combines his engineering experience and legal education in his current role as an Intellectual Property Manager at General Motors.

"Detroit Mercy Law taught me the legal principles required for my current role and also improved my public speaking skills. Since joining GM’s IP team, I have been presenting to groups that range in size, but the biggest group consisted of approximately 200 attendees. At Detroit Mercy Law, each day, I had to ensure I was ready to be called upon to answer a question in front of the entire class about a given case."

A CALLING TO HEALTH CARE

Ali Ibrahim '21

Clinical Risk Manager, Ascension Detroit, Michigan

Ali Ibrahim '21 uses his law degree every day as a clinical risk manager for a large healthcare system. He started his career as a registered nurse before transitioning to law school. "Healthcare is a calling. Healthcare is a different kind of service," he explained.

"I am aware of how complex things can get. My clinical background helps me when I have to investigate a safety event and my legal education allows me to keep things within the framework of regulations while complying with the various laws."

GOVERNMENT/PUBLIC INTEREST

Graduates serve their communities in government and public interest positions.

UNTANGLING THE LEGAL MYSTERY

Mariah Herfi '21

Assistant Public Defender, St. Clair County Public Defender Office Port Huron, Michigan

Mariah Herfi '21 spends almost every day in court, despite originally never wanting to be a litigator. "It wasn’t until my final year that I began to change my mind. Detroit Mercy Law gave me opportunities to explore what it is like to be in a courtroom and I realized I shouldn't close off job opportunities only because I never pictured myself in front of a judge."

"I wanted to use my legal degree to help those who may not have the resources to get the legal help they need. The world of law is a mystery to a lot of people, and I want to make sure there are lawyers out there willing to be patient and understanding in untangling that mystery for clients."

"I had professors who were passionate about helping those in need through the knowledge of the law, and that passion was certainly not lost on me," she explained. "I am honored to serve the community and that is a lesson I learned from my professors and Detroit Mercy Law as a whole."

NEW HIRES & PROMOTIONS

Layla Berry, Assistant to the Dean

Berry joined Detroit Mercy Law in June 2022. Her prior experience includes working in the Wichita State University system and Wichita Public Schools.

Michael Bird , Reference & Serials Librarian

Bird joined Detroit Mercy Law in August 2022. His experience lies in reference and instruction in legal research.

Brittney DuBose , Assistant Registrar

DuBose joined Detroit Mercy Law in November 2021. Her background is in human resources and secondary education administration.

Megan Glinski , Assistant Director, Law Financial Aid

Glinski joined Detroit Mercy Law in March 2022. She holds a M.Ed. in Higher Education Administration and possesses over a decade of experience in financial aid and higher education.

Kurt Godfryd , Associate Dean, Finance and Operations

Godfryd was promoted in March 2022. He oversees building operations and manages the law school budget.

Courtney Griffin , Assistant Dean, Diversity, Equity, I nclusion, and Belonging

Griffin joined Detroit Mercy Law in September 2022. As a member of the leadership team, she works across departments to advance DEIB.

Grace Henning , Director, Admissions and Communications

Henning was promoted in March 2022. She focuses on admissions for the US JD program and strategic communications.

Ieisha Humphrey, Assistant Dean, Student Affairs

Humphrey was promoted in July 2022. She joined Detroit Mercy Law in February 2022 as Director of Student and Faculty Services. She brings years of experience supporting law student success.

Daniela Iacoban ,

Assistant Director, Career Services

Iacoban was promoted in June 2022. She is the frontline support for the Career Services Office.

William Ketchum , Head of Public Services, Law Library

Ketchum joined Detroit Mercy Law in August 2022. His experience lies in immigration and bankruptcy law.

Gene LaPouttre , Director, Graduate Employment, Career Services

LaPouttre joined Detroit Mercy Law in August 2022. He brings over 20 years of experience in career services, including his prior position at the University of Detroit Mercy Center for Career & Professional Development.

Aimee Lloyd ,

Administrative Assistant, Student Services Lloyd joined Detroit Mercy Law in August 2022. She brings many years of experience in office administration.

Nora Mullin , Administrative Assistant, Admissions a nd Communications

Mullin joined Detroit Mercy Law in May 2022. She brings many years of experience working with C-suite executives and project management.

Jennifer Rumschlag , Associate Dean, Institutional Outcomes and Communications

Rumschlag was promoted in July 2022. She oversees admissions, financial aid, career services, communications, and external reporting.

FACULTY PROMOTIONS

Melissa Eckhause, Assistant Professor of Law

B.A. University of Wisconsin

J.D. University of Detroit Mercy School of Law

LL.M. University of California, Berkeley School of Law

Professor Eckhause joined the Detroit Mercy Law faculty as a Visiting Assistant Professor of Law in 2020. In 2022, she was promoted to Assistant Professor of Law. Her research lies at the intersection of technology, intellectual property law, and art, and focuses on the rights of visual artists, musicians, and other creators in the digital age.

Cristina

D. Lockwood, Professor of Law

B.A. University of Michigan

J.D. Wayne State University Law School

Professor Lockwood joined the Detroit Mercy Law faculty in 1995. In 2022, she was promoted to Professor of Law. Her scholarship focuses on legal writing and legal research. She has many years of litigation experience and taught as an adjunct at Detroit Mercy Law before joining the faculty full time.

Elizabeth Sherowski, Assistant Professor of Law

B.A. University of Notre Dame

J.D. The Ohio State University College of Law

Professor Sherwoski joined the Detroit Mercy Law faculty in 2020 as a Visiting Assistant Professor of Law. In 2022, she was promoted to Assistant Professor of Law. She is a nationally recognized expert in learner-focused pedagogy and has written and presented extensively on making legal education more transparent, accessible, and accountable to students.

Stephen

Wilks, Associate Professor of Law

B.A. Queen’s University

M.S.W. Faculty of Social Work, University of Toronto

J.D. Queen’s University

LL.M. Osgoode Hall Law School, York University

Ph.D. Osgoode Hall Law School, York University

Professor Wilks joined the Detroit Mercy Law faculty in 2019. He was granted tenure in 2022. His crossdisciplinary research interests explore themes of governance and regulation within transactional spaces.

FACULTY APPOINTMENTS

Karen McDonald Henning, Associate Dean of Academic Affairs & Associate Professor

of Law

B.A. Trinity College

J.D. University of Pennsylvania

Dean Henning joined the Detroit Mercy Law faculty in 2008. She was appointed Associate Dean of Academic Affairs in 2022. Her scholarship principally focuses on the remedies available for violations of constitutional rights.

J. Richard Broughton, Associate Dean of Faculty Research and Development & Professor of Law

B.A. Hampden-Sydney College

J.D. Widener University

LL.M. Georgetown University

Dean Broughton joined the Detroit Mercy Law faculty in 2009. He was appointed Associate Dean of Academic Affairs in 2016 and served in that role until 2022. In 2022, he was appointed to be the first Associate Dean of Faculty Research and Development.

FACULTY RETIREMENTS

Peggy Costello, Associate Professor of Law & Director of the Veterans Law Clinic, retired after 15 years of teaching at Detroit Mercy Law. Professor Costello was instrumental in establishing the Veterans Law Clinic in 2007, which since its inception has helped Detroit-area veterans secure over $4.4 million in back benefits. In 2022, she was honored by the State Bar of Michigan as one of the recipients of the Champions of Justice Award.

FACULTY EMERITUS

Jacqueline P. Hand, Professor of Law, was granted the rank of Professor Emeritus. Throughout her over 40 years as a professor, Hand distinguished herself as an engaged teacher, accomplished scholar, and committed participant in the law school and in legal professional organizations. Professor Hand uplifted the mission of Detroit Mercy by taking an interest in the development of her students as professionals committed to service to others.

FACULTY PUBLICATIONS

Julia Belian

Associate Professor of Law

Grandmother Law, 99 U. Det. Mercy L. Rev. 253 (2022)

J. Richard Broughton

Associate Dean of Faculty Research and Development & Professor of Law

Activist Extremist Terrorist Traitor, 96 St. John’s L. Rev. (forthcoming 2022)

Jelani Jefferson Exum

Dean & Philip J. McElroy Professor of Law

Where Black Lives Matter Less: Understanding the Impact of Black Victims on Sentencing Outcomes in Texas Capital Murder Cases from 1973 to 2018, 66 St. Louis U. L.J. 677 (2022) (with David Niven)

Addressing Racial Inequities in the Criminal Justice System Through a Reconstruction Sentencing Approach, 47 Ohio N.U. L. Rev. 557 (2021)

Presumed Punishable: Sentencing on the Streets and the Need to Protect Black Lives Through a Reinvigoration of the Presumption of Innocence, 64 How. L.J. 301 (2021)

Troy L. Harris

Associate Professor of Law

International Construction Arbitration Handbook (2022 ed.)

“Weak” Legal Pluralism and the Eighteenth-Century English Ecclesiastical Courts, J. Legal Hist. (forthcoming 2023)

Cristina D. Lockwood Professor of Law

Successful Legal Analysis and Writing: The Fundamentals (5th ed. 2022) (with Christopher D. Soper)

Legal Ethics, in ICLE , Michigan Basic Practice Handbook ch. 22 (6th ed. 2022)

“The Presence of Justice”: A Call to Expand the Humanitarian Exception in ABA Model Rule of Professional Conduct 1.8(e), 36 Notre Dame J.L Ethics & Pub. Pol’y 65 (2022)

Patrick Meyer

Director, Kresge Library & Professor of Law

This Article Contains 400 Calories: A Critique of, and Call for Expansion to, the Menu Labeling Requirements of Section 4205 of the Affordable Care Act, 56 Ind. L. Rev. (forthcoming 2023)

Deborah Paruch Professor of Law

Attorney-Client Privilege and the Work Produce Doctrine in Michigan (2d ed. 2022) (with Fatima M. Bolyea)

Nicholas J. Schroeck

Associate Dean for Experiential Education & Associate Professor of Law

Introduction: Water Law, 101 Mich. Bar J., no. 6, June 2022, at 19 (with Ross Hammersley)

Elizabeth Sherowski

Assistant Professor of Law

An Inclusive Model for New Lawyer Licensing , 51 Capital University Law Review (forthcoming 2023)

Measuring Impact: A Supportive and Inclusive Definition of Legal Writing Scholarship, 2 Proceedings: Online J. Legal Writing Conf. Presentations, no. 1, 2021, at 22

Cara Cunningham Warren Associate Professor of Law

International Law in Context (forthcoming Dec. 2022)

View our Faculty Publication page law.udmercy.edu/faculty-staff/recent-publications

FACULTY ADVANCING THE MISSION

Cristina D. Lockwood, Professor of Law, “The Presence of Justice”: A Call to Expand the Humanitarian Exception in ABA Model Rule of Professional Conduct 1.8(e), 36 Notre Dame J.L Ethics & Pub. Pol’y 65 (2022)

ABSTRACT

The American Bar Association amended Model Rule of Professional Conduct 1.8(e) to allow attorneys to give gifts to indigent pro bono clients. Although an important step that increases access to justice for the most vulnerable, it is too restrictive. People with meritorious claims but modest means are often forced out of the judicial system because they cannot afford basic necessities during protracted litigation. As states begin contemplating whether to adopt the new ABA amendment, this paper urges them to consider a broader humanitarian exception. Specifically, states should adopt a rule that allows attorneys to give or loan money to any existing litigation client in a financial emergency for basic necessities so that the client can withstand litigation.

In support of this broader humanitarian exception, the paper initially establishes that it is the law profession’s responsibility to provide meaningful access to justice, and that this ideal is not being met. It then chronicles the history of Rule 1.8(e), pointing out that lawyer

financial assistance for living expenses was allowed until the ABA ended the practice. It also categorizes the varying amendments to Rule 1.8(e) that a few states have adopted that allow attorneys to help clients stay in the system. It then highlights the problem of corporate defendants, mainly insurance companies, that draw out litigation because they have a financial incentive to do so, and why third-party consumer finance with its exorbitant interest rates and high fees is not a viable substitute for attorney financial assistance.

Throughout the paper comparisons are made to other model rules of professional conduct that address similar, and often more severe, conflict concerns. These rules, which often benefit lawyers, regulate as opposed to ban the situation that could lead to a conflict. Thus, the proposed broader humanitarian exception regulates attorney financial assistance to clients for living expenses. It is based on state variations to Rule 1.8(e) and previous proposals by the drafters of the Restatement and Model Rules. It is limited to address conflict concerns but broad enough to allow practicing lawyers to follow their natural humanitarian instincts, fulfill their roles as protectors of all clients’ interests and of an equitable legal system, and not risk disciplinary action as many have, and would be willing to do, to help a client in need.

JAMES T. BARNES SR. MEMORIAL FACULTY SCHOLAR AWARD

Stephen Wilks, Associate Professor of Law, is the 2022 recipient of the James T. Barnes Sr. Memorial Faculty Scholar Award. Each year, a full-time faculty member is chosen to receive this award based on scholarship, teaching excellence, and public service.

Professor Wilks’s research interests explore themes of governance and regulation within business and transactional spaces. He teaches Cross Border Sales and Financing, Business Organizations, and Secured Transactions in Detroit Mercy Law and Windsor Law’s Canadian & American Dual JD Program.

In addition to managing teaching responsibilities that have him instructing almost 100 students, Professor Wilks has published four articles and two book chapters over the past two years and is working on two more manuscripts he plans to complete this year.

He was also chosen for this award because of service to the School of Law and the wider University community on many committees that benefit all.

Judge Arthur J. Tarnow (1942-2022)

Story by Gary Maveal

Portrait by Artist Carole Kabrin ( “Ya Gotta Have a Sense of Humor”)

The City of Detroit and our Law School lost a legend with the passing of US District Judge Arthur J. Tarnow in January 2022.

As an adjunct faculty member at Detroit Mercy Law in 1970 and from 1980 to 2009, Judge Tarnow was known to most students in his Criminal Procedure courses. He was preeminent in the field, having long served as director of the State Appellate Defender Office in Detroit before entering private practice in criminal defense and post-conviction remedies. Judge Tarnow was well-known for his dry sense of humor in the classroom, but even more so for instilling in students an appreciation of the important work of representing the indigent accused.

After appointment to US District Court for the Eastern District of Michigan in 1998, Judge Tarnow created and taught a seminar for several years, The Role of the Judiciary in Contemporary Society.

Several law alumni who had the opportunity to serve as Judge Tarnow’s law clerks cherish special lessons from the experience. Rita Foley '99 recalled his abiding concern for the wellbeing of others, be they litigants, his staff, or the homeless on the street. Patricia Selby '06 was similarly impressed by his genuine humanity and humility as a federal judge. A third alum, Richard Rockwood, also clerked for Judge Tarnow and sadly passed away in 2008. Judge Tarnow’s work enhanced the education of a generation of our law students. The Law School is sincerely grateful for his contributions.

Browne C. Lewis (1962-2022)

Story by Grace Henning

Browne C. Lewis, Dean of North Carolina Central School of Law, passed away on June 2, 2022. Dean Lewis was a member of the Detroit Mercy Law faculty from 2003 to 2007. In 2005, she was awarded the James T. Barnes, Sr. Memorial Faculty Scholar Award, an award given each year to a faculty member in recognition for their excellence in scholarship and teaching and public service.

Dean Lewis was an accomplished legal scholar and attorney whose contributions to the field will be felt for many years to come. She was dedicated to advancing justice and supporting law students and young lawyers who will continue her legacy of excellence.

In an interview in March 2022 with Attorney at Law Magazine, Dean Lewis said “The key value I want to imprint on the law school is overcoming the impossible through hard work, perseverance, and tenacity. It is important to overcome adversity and realize that you can accomplish any goal even if you do it in bite-sized pieces. I’m one of 12 children from a family in a small country town in Louisiana. I grew up knowing that you have to persevere, overcome adversity, and keep pushing forward. Likewise, NCCU School of Law is one of only six HBCU law schools in the country. We’re the underdog pushing forward.”

Dean Stephen A. Mazurak (1944-2022)

Story by Nickolas Kyser

This is not intended to be a definitive appraisal of Stephen Mazurak. It’s one person’s reminiscence of a friend. Steve and I joined the faculty of University of Detroit School of Law in 1980. Also arriving that year were Leon Lysaght, Jacquie Hand, Lea Vaughn and Karen Spector. Unlike the others on that list, Leon was not new. He had been at University of Detroit for several years and was returning after several years with the University of Windsor Faculty of Law.

Steve was never given to blow his own horn. One measure of this is that I never knew until I read his obituary that he had been Phi Beta Kappa, or that he was valedictorian of his law school class.

At some point early in our teaching careers, Steve and I became aware that we were both fond of the Muppets and particularly of Statler and Waldorf, the two old geezers in the balcony. At many a faculty meeting, there would come a point when one of us would turn to the other and ask, “Why do we always come here?” The other would of course reply, “I guess we’ll never know. It’s like a kind of torture to have to watch this show.”

In our second semester, Dean Carl Selinger announced that he was leaving to become dean at West Virginia, and the faculty had to choose an acting dean for 1981-82. Steve was elected despite his recent arrival at University of Detroit, and I served with him on the search committee that brought Bernard Dobranski to the school. After eight deans in the previous twelve years, Bernie’s 12-year tenure was a time of stability. In 1996, Steve was once again selected acting dean, largely because he was seen as the person who could best build bridges. This time, Steve became the permanent dean, serving until 2002. Steve’s second term as dean led to his meeting Cynthia Zane, then the dean of the College of Health Professionals at Detroit Mercy. To make a long story much too short, Steve and Cynthia lived happily ever after and formed one of the loveliest blended families anyone has ever seen.

After stepping down from the deanship, Steve returned to teaching labor law and contracts. I had the pleasure of sharing a contracts class with him in a year when each of us was on leave for a semester. Like just about everyone else who knew Steve, I will miss him greatly.

REMEMBRANCE

With deepest sympathy to the family and friends of alumni who passed away from July 20, 2021 to August 5, 2022

DEAN D. ALAN '78

JOHN W. ANHUT '51

JOHN N. ATKINSON '54

GARY M. BRADENBURG '78

RANDALL D. BRYANT '71

HOWARD J. BUECHE '51

THOMAS J. CAVANAUGH '72

CLARENCE R. CHAREST '77

MICHAEL JAMES CONCANNON '92

WILLIAM J. COYLE '65

BRUNO F. DOMZALSKI '79

JOHN D. FAIRCHILD '62

JAMES R. GANNON '57

FREDERICK K. GEISSLER '76

EUGENE A. GORETA '69

JOHN R. HARRISON '54

JAMES J. HAYES '80

EDWARD J. HOORT '75

TERRENCE E. KEATING '63

JACK E. KERR '51

THOMAS P. KLIBER '83

RICHARD W. KOCHANSKY '70

ANDREW P. KWYER '93

ARTHUR H. LANDAU '68

BRIAN LAVAN '65

JAMES W. LAVIGNE '70

THOMAS R. MCASKIN '73

H. KEITH MILLER '67

CHARLES B. MOSIER '57

MARY KATHERINE NORTON '80

CHRISTINE D. OLDANI '75

CAROL P. PATTON '83

ANGELO A. PENTOLINO '53

MARISA C. PETRELLA '83

RANDOLPH P. PIPER '73

JOHN J. POVLITZ '51

EUGENE T. QUAIL '63

BLAISE A. REPASKY '73

ROBERT JOSEPH RHEAD '66

ROBERT J. RILEY '75

GEORGE H. RUNSTADLER '73

ROBERT A. SAJDAK '77

WILLIAM F. SCHELL '73

WILLIAM D. SHAILOR '81

JAMES SHARKEY '58

JOSEPH M. SNOW '75

BOLESLAUS I. STANCZYK '57

TIMOTHY FRANCIS STOCK '62

BERNARD E. STUART '58

JAMES A. SULLIVAN '66

WILLIAM A. SUTHERLAND '94

RICHARD M. THOMAS '80

RUDOLF F. UHLAR '77

DANIEL M. VIOLANTE '49

DANIEL F. WALSH '58

WILLIAM J. YOB '77

I AM THRILLED TO BEGIN MY SECOND YEAR AS ALUMNI BOARD PRESIDENT.

It is is my pleasure, along with the Board of Directors, to represent the more than 9,000 Detroit Mercy Law alumni around the globe and connect with our many friends and supporters.

The Alumni Board has had many successes over the past several years, including: creating and endowing the Detroit Mercy Law Alumni Board Endowed Scholarship; creating the Alumni Council–a board of recent Law School alumni; ensuring that programs and services provided to our alumni meet their current needs by revising Alumni Board By-Laws, Committee Structure, and Membership; and hosting our annual networking event: Erin Go Law, which was so special this past year as it provided an opportunity for our community to reconnect in-person after “seeing” each other virtually for far too long.

The Alumni Board looks forward to continuing to build upon these successes, and we hope you will join us in this mission.

Throughout the coming year, the Alumni Board will lead several initiatives designed to raise funds as we continue to invest in the future of legal education at Detroit Mercy Law. A financial investment in current students will help mitigate their debt and provide tangible support as they navigate their future. We hope you will share your experiences by engaging with admitted students to encourage their choice of Detroit Mercy Law, serving on job-related panels, or mentoring current students.

We sincerely hope you will join us at an event, program, or lecture in-person this academic year. The presence of alumni and friends means so much to the school. The members of the Alumni Board are here to serve you, and I invite you to join us for the exciting year we have ahead.

The Board and Council are looking forward to the upcoming year, and we are hoping to see many of you at events in and around the Law School.

Kyle R. Dufrane '98 President Detroit Mercy Law Alumni Board

2022-2023 DETROIT MERCY LAW ALUMNI ASSOCIATION BOARD OF DIRECTORS

KYLE R. DUFRANE '98 PRESIDENT

HON. MICHAEL J. RIORDAN '90 PRESIDENT EMERITUS

GREGORY G. THIESS '79 VICE PRESIDENT

AHNDIA MANSOORI '18 CO-SECRETARY

KRISTIN E. FERNANDEZ '19 CO-SECRETARY

KR ISTOFFER BUTLER '19

REBECCA EL BADAOUI '20

YAFEEZ S. FATABHOY '18

BERN ARD J. FUHS '06

MARCO GATTI '10

JEWEL HAJI '19

KENNY HEMLER '07

HON. TERRANCE A. KEITH '84

JON MONTEVILLE '21

CHRISTINA NASSAR '10

MYLIKA RADFORD '13

KORY STEEN '18

JAMES E. TAMM '85

MACIE D. TUIASOSOPO GAINES '13

MATTHEW L. VICARI '90

ADAM M. WENNER '11

MARK A. WISNIEWSKI '90

JUSTIN ZATKOFF '14

2021-2022 ALUMNI COUNCIL

MICHAEL “MICKEY” CHICHESTER JR. '07

DEJA DAVIS '21

AHMAD S. MAZLOUM '19

ASHLEY M. POPIEL '20

2022-2023

DETROIT MERCY LAW ASSOCIATION OF BLACK LAW ALUMNI

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

HON. TERRANCE A. KEITH '84 PRESIDENT

JESSICA HOLMES '15

SECRETARY

DESIREE MARKS '13 TREASURER

MIKYIA AARON '15

HON. MARYLIN ATKINS '80

KYRA BOLDEN '14

FALLON BOOTH '14

JOSEPH BROWN '62

PONCE D. CLAY '15

DARWYN FAIR '79

ROBBIE GAINES '15

MICHELE HALL-EDWARDS '84

KRENISSA HICKS '16

HON. SHANNON A. HOLMES '98

DEREK HURT '84

MARCEL HURT '92

RYAN JACKSON '17

KYMBERLY KINCHEN REEVES '09

EDWINA KING '10

JONATHAN KIRKLAND '15

MELISSA KOPRIVA '16

ASHLEY MCBRIDE '16

JAMEL NELSON '09

ERICA POWELL BELL '08

MYLIKA RADFORD '13

HON. KRISTINA ROBINSON GARRETT '10

NISHAWN SPILLER '17

AISHA J. THOMAS '13

CLARENCE TUCKER '87

MACIE D. TUIASOSOPO GAINES '13

WITH THE GENEROUS SUPPORT FROM AN ARRAY OF DETROIT MERCY LAW ALUMNI, the Association of Black Law Alumni (ABLA) was able to mark a major financial milestone when we were advised the David Williams II and Gail Carr Williams Scholarship had exceeded the amount needed to be included among the law school’s endowed scholarships. It is a significant step along the journey towards our $1,000,000 goal. The accomplishment is yet another thread to be stitched into the tapestry of Detroit Mercy Law in the continuing hope another student will find the path to the North Star of opportunity. Obtaining endowed status demonstrates how the ABLA, together with the Alumni Board and scores of others who support our cause, continue to work to ensure Detroit Mercy Law is a hallmark for diversity and inclusion, and our doors of opportunity remain accessible and affordable for Black students. Vital to our success is providing two invaluable resources: mentors to undergrad students when they begin to weaken and scholarships to ease the monetary load attached to every new graduate as they pursue a legal career. Our goal is not just for the benefit of Black law students; it is, rather, to actively augment the collective efforts of Detroit Mercy Law in the active recruitment and engagement of all law students and alumni in the crusade for equal justice. Working together, we at Detroit Mercy Law can do great things.

Hon. Terrance A. Keith '84 President Association of Black Law Alumni

ABLA: TOGETHER WE RISE

To engage with or to obtain more information about the ABLA, the first affiliate of the Detroit Mercy Law Alumni Association, please email detroitmercylawabla@gmail.com.

CLASS NOTES

1960s

Thea Rossi Barron '64 has been volunteering to tutor adults in southeast Washington, D.C. to help them earn high school diplomas and now teaches English as a Second Language at a senior center in Alexandria, Virgina.

William D. Booth '62 was named to the list of Best L awyers for 2023 by Best Lawyers in America.

Patrick A. McDonald '61 has an active law practice i n downtown Brighton, Michigan which focuses on labor arbitrations in resolving employer union grievances. He recently celebrated his 50 th year as a permanent Deacon for the Catholic Church and serves at St. Patrick’s Parish in Brighton.

1970s

Maura D. Corrigan '73 was recently honored by the Phi Alpha Delta Law Fraternity International as they launched the Maura D. Corrigan Lifetime Service Award in her honor. She was the first woman ever admitted to PAD in September 1970. Her law school fraternity brothers sent her to the National Convention as their representative in hope to persuade the fraternity to admit women. They voted overwhelmingly to change the Constitution and allow women members.

Kathleen Bogas '75 was ranked number 2 in the 202 2 class of Michigan Super Lawyers.

Deborah Gordon '76 was ranked in the top 10 in the 2 022 class of Michigan Super Lawyers.

James Hiller '73 sold his supermarkets in 2015 and h as returned to a boutique law practice of food-related business advisory.

Lawrence Korolewicz '79 was selected by his peers for inclusion in The Best Lawyers in America 2023.

Jerome Pesick '78 was named to the 2022 class of M ichigan Super Lawyers.

Pat Sherran '75 retired after over 11 years as a judge on the Franklin County Court of Common Pleas, including three years as the Court’s Administrative Judge. He currently serves as one of two judges on the Ohio Court of Claims.

1980s

Mark Allard '85 was named a Lawyer of the Year by Best Lawyers.

Sharon S. Almondrode '81 was named to the 2022 c lass of Michigan Super Lawyers.

D. Jennifer Andreou '85 was named to the list of Best Lawyers for 2023 by Best Lawyers in America.

Michelle Friedman Appel '81 was the 2022 recipient of the Ruth Bader Ginsburg Champion of Justice Award given by the Jewish Bar Association of Michigan (JBAM) at their annual awards banquet.

Matthew J. Boettcher '87 was named to the list of Best Lawyers for 2023 by Best Lawyers in America.

Michael S. Bogren '82 was reelected to serve as Chairman at Plunkett Cooney where he is a partner and was named to the list of Best Lawyers for 2023 by Best Lawyers in America.

Leo Bowman '81 was named by Governor Gretchen Whitmer to the state’s Retirement Board.

Charles W. Browning '81 was named to the list of Best Lawyers for 2023 by Best Lawyers in America.

Laura Eisenberg '81 was named to the 2022 class of Michigan Super Lawyers.

Beth S. Gotthelf '85 recipient of the National Association for Surface Finishing (NASF) Award of Merit. The award was presented during the National SUR/FIN Manufacturing & Technology Conference and Trade Show held recently at the TCF Center in Detroit.

Patrick Hickey '84 was named to the 2022 class of Michigan Super Lawyers.

Mary E. Kenyon '82 is the Founder and Executive Director of Valley Meals and More, a Colorado non-profit dedicated to enhancing the wellness of older adults by delivering over 85 meals daily, allowing older residents to age in place safely, independently, and with dignity.

Mark S. Kopson '85 was named to the list of Best Lawyers for 2023 by Best Lawyers in America.

Scott K. Lites '85 was named to the 2022 Class of “Go To Lawyers” for business law by Michigan Lawyers Weekly and was named to the list of Best Lawyers for 2023 by Best Lawyers in America.

David M. Moss '84 was named to the list of Best Lawyers for 2023 by Best Lawyers in America.

Faye Alexander Nelson '80 was honored as a 2022 Michiganian of the Year by The Detroit News.

Kenneth C. Newa '89 was named to the list of Best Lawyers for 2023 by Best Lawyers in America.

Michael B. Peterman '86 was named a Lawyer of the Year by Best Lawyers.

Marisa Claudia Petrella '83 was awarded the Monsignor Charles J. Malloy Lifetime Achievement Award, the highest honor given by the Catholic Lawyers Society of Metropolitan Detroit.

Claudia Rast '86 featured panelist during the (virtual) Michigan Cybersecurity Conference on January 21, 2022. The topic was “The Power of a Functioning Incident Response Plan.”

Brian J. Renaud '82 was selected by his peers for inclusion in The Best Lawyers in America 2023.

Mary Catherine Rentz '81 was named to the list of Best Lawyers for 2023 by Best Lawyers in America.

James P. Spica '84 was named a Lawyer of the Year by Best Lawyers and to the 2022 class of Michigan Super Lawyers.

Matthew J. Stanczyk '86 was named to the list of Best Lawyers for 2023 by Best Lawyers in America.

James E. Tamm '85 was named to the 2022 class of Michigan Super Lawyers.

Julie Teicher '82 was named to the 2022 class of Michigan Super Lawyers.

1990s

David C. Anderson '98 was named to the 2022 class of Super Lawyers.

Susan E. Cohen '92 was named to the 2022 class of M ichigan Super Lawyers.

A. Vince Colella '93 was named to the list of Best L awyers for 2023 by Best Lawyers in America.

Curtis Cusinato '91 is the 2022 recipient of the Dual J D Distinguished Alumni Award.

Rita Foley '99 transferred to the St. Petersburg, F lorida Hearing Office as an Administrative Law Judge with the Social Security Administration.

Lorne Gold '94 was named to the 2022 class of M ichigan Super Lawyers.

Shelly Lee Griffin '93 joined the Insurance Coverage Practice Group of Plunkett Cooney.

Sahera Gumma Housey '94 was appointed by the M ichigan Supreme Court to the Michigan Continuing Judicial Education Board.

Ven Johnson '96 was named to the 2022 class of M ichigan Super Lawyers.

Stephen Kim '97 is the 2022 recipient of the Dual JD Transnational Leader Award.

Maureen H. Kinsella '99 was appointed by G overnor Gretchen Whitmer to the 6th Circuit Court of Oakland County.

Mark C. Knoth '92 was named to the 2022 class of M ichigan Super Lawyers.

Shalina Kumar '96 was confirmed by the US Senate to serve as a federal judge on the US District Court for the Eastern District of Michigan. She is the first Indian-American to serve as a federal judge in Michigan.

Joseph Lavigne '96 was named to the 2022 class of M ichigan Super Lawyers.

Jason Long '99 was selected Treasurer of the Real Property Law Section of the State Bar of Michigan.

Jeffrey S. Matis '94 was appointed the Chief Judge of the Oakland County Circuit Court.

Mark A. McConnell '93, chief justice of the 18th District Court of Westland, was named President of the Wayne County District Judges Association for 20222023.

Claudia D. Orr '91 was named to the list of Best Lawyers for 2023 by Best Lawyers in America.

Cheryl Rousseau '95 recently celebrated 25 years as the Director of the Office of Recipient Rights with Genesee Health System, a system designed under Michigan law to protect the legal rights of individuals with mental disabilities.

Michael Sawicky '94 will celebrate his 16-year a nniversary as a magistrate in the 47th District Court in Farmington Hills, Michigan on October 1, 2022.

David R. Stechow '96 was named to the list of Best L awyers for 2023 by Best Lawyers in America.

Craig S. Thompson '93 was named a Lawyer of the Year by Best Lawyers.

Michael Turco '91 was named to the 2022 class of M ichigan Super Lawyers.

Dana M. Warnez '96 was awarded The Jean L. King Leadership Award, in honor of the fearless Attorney Jean Ledwith King, a pioneer of self-determination for females, and in recognition of the visionary leadership and efforts towards the advancement of women in the legal profession.

2000s

Demetra Arapakis '01 became Equity Partner and Executive Committee Member of Foley & Mansfield PLLP.

Jonathan Burleigh '07 was appointed treasurer of t he board of directors of Lighthouse, Michigan. He is an attorney with Bodman PLC.

Kimberly Ross Clayson '06 was named partner at Jaffe Raitt Heuer & Weiss P.C. where she works in the firm’s insolvency and reorganization group.

Susan Dabaja '04 was appointed to the Michigan 3rd Circuit Court for a partial term by Governor Gretchen Whitmer.

Alison Duffy '08 joined Dickinson Wright’s Troy office as an associate attorney specializing in probate litigation.

Sarah Rain '07 was named of counsel at Jackson L ewis P.C. in Indianapolis, Indiana. She was previously an attorney for a national labor union.

Heidi Reinhart '05 is the 2022 recipient of the Dual J D Distinguished Alumni Award.

John Roan '07 was named Managing Attorney for t he Tennessee office of Robertson, Anschuts, Schneid, Crain and Partners, PLLC, a national full-service creditors’ right and real estate law firm.

John T. Schuring '06 was named a Lawyer of the Year by Best Lawyers.

Julianne Cassin Sharp '01 leads the Immigration Practice Team at Miller Canfield Paddock and Stone, PLC. She continues to hold a Band 1 Chambers and Partners ranking in Immigration Law. She is a 2022 Graduate of Leadership Detroit Class XLII. And she is Executive Committee Treasurer of the Michigan Chapter of the America Immigration Lawyers Association (AILA).

Hope Shovein '03 was named a Lawyer of the Year by Best Lawyers.

2010s

Kimberly Crank Browning '11 was named to the 2022 class of Ones to Watch by Best Lawyers in America.

Ponce D. Clay '15 received the Comcast Rise Detroit G rant.

Javon David '13 was named to Oakland County’s 2 022 Class of 40 Under 40 and was elected shareholder at Butzel Long.

Charity Dean '15 was named one of Crain’s 100 Most I nfluential Women for 2021.

David R. Drwencke '15 founded a criminal justice l aw firm DRD Law in downtown Chicago.

Jennifer Dukarski '10 named to Michigan Lawyers Weekly’s “Go-To Intellectual Property Lawyers” list.

Christopher Dutot '13 was named to the 2022 class of Ones to Watch by Best Lawyers in America.

Kristina Robinson Garrett '10 was appointed by Governor Gretchen Whitmer to serve on the Michigan Court of Appeals (District 1).

David P. Glenn '11 was named to the 2022 class of Ones to Watch by Best Lawyers in America.

D’Antae D. Gooden '18 was named to the 2023 class of Ones to Watch by Best Lawyers in America.

Vanessa Guerra '16 was honored as Volunteer of the Year by the Saginaw Bar Association.

Jason Hoskins '13, current Southfield City Council Member, was named to the Michigan Chronicle 40 Under 40 class of 2022.

Eric S. Hydorn '19 was named to the 2022 class of Michigan Super Lawyers Rising Stars.

Michael Kelly '11 was appointed to the role of 12th Judicial District Court magistrate in Jackson County, Michigan.

Ashley MacMartin '11 started a new position as Di rector ERM Governance and Policy Framework at Cross River Bank.

Zachary Morgan '17 was named to the 2022 class of Ones to Watch by Best Lawyers in America.

Tanya M. Murray '17 was named to the 2023 class of Ones to Watch by Best Lawyers in America.

Vivian Ntiri '17 is the 2022 recipient of the Dual JD Emerging Leader Award.

Frank Paolini '12 was named partner at Neal Berber Eisenberg in Chicago. He is in the private wealth services practice group.

Chelsea E. Pasquali '12 was named to the 2022 class of Ones to Watch by Best Lawyers in America.

Yalda Riahi '10 joined the board of directors at ventureLAB, a leading Canadian innovation hub. She is the General Counsel to Micom Group of Companies, a Vaughn based global designer and manufacturer of life safety and building automation systems.

Nicholas W. Siewer '14 was recently certified as a Fi re Investigation Technician (IAAI-FIT ®) by the International Association of Arson Investigators, which is one of the most respected accreditation organizations for fire investigators.

Blaine Veldhuis '14 was named to the 2022 class of Ones to Watch by Best Lawyers in America.

Dina Zalewski '12 was elected Shareholder at Sommers Schwartz in March 2022, her practice focuses on medical malpractice, representing injured plaintiffs.

2020s

Anthony Cimini '22 joined Strobl Sharp PLLC as an associate attorney.

Joseph Kusmiak '21 joined Butzel Long as associate attorney.

Judge Denise Langford Morris Retires

Judge Denise Langford Morris '82 retired from the bench in 2022. She served on the Oakland County Circuit Court for 30 years. Judge Langford Morris was the first African American to serve as an Oakland County judge since the court’s inception in 1848. She previously served as an assistant US attorney, civil division, and an assistant Oakland County prosecutor. She was additionally a trial attorney in private practice specializing in insurance defense. She worked for the Michigan Department of Social Services as a protective services worker while attending Detroit Mercy Law.

During her tenure on the bench, Judge Langford Morris presided over thousands of civil, business, family and criminal cases, including jury and bench trials. She managed every aspect of the cases assigned to her from filing to post judgment in an AAA-bond-rated county of over 1.2 million people.

In 2019, a portrait of Judge Langford Morris was commissioned to be hung in the halls of Detroit Mercy Law. This was the first portrait of a woman and of an African American to be hung in the law school. The group of students who led the initiative to get Judge Langford Morris’s portrait did so because of her inspiration to young attorneys and dedication to the legal profession.

University of Detroit Mercy School of Law

651 East Jefferson Avenue Detroit, MI 48226-4349

UPCOMING

EVENTS

OCTOBER 25, 2022

McElroy Lecture on Law and Religion

MAY 12, 2023

Commencement

WINTER 2023

DeWitt C. Holbrook Lecture on Social Justice

Patrick A. Keenan Appellate Advocacy Tournament Final Round

Detroit Mercy Law Review Symposium