2023-24 first-gen association leaders

With more than 60 first-generation college graduates currently earning their J.D. at the School of Law, we are pleased to share that 100% of them are receiving aid.

This cohort is currently supported by more than 20 scholarship funds, including the First-Start Scholars Program established by 1982 alumna Kathelen V. Amos and the Daniel P. Amos Family Foundation. This initiative has grown from first-generation students in the 2019 J.D. entering class receiving a scholarship to every first-gen J.D. student getting aid for the third year in a row. 

The School of Law is redefining what it means to be a great national public law school by offering a world-class, hands-on, purpose-driven educational experience with a pioneering commitment to accessibility and affordability, according to Dean Peter B. "Bo" Rutledge.  

Some recent statistics supporting this statement include:

  • #1 Best Value Law School for four of the last six years (National Jurist, 2018-23).
  • Top-20 Law School (U.S. News & World Report, 2023-24).
  • Nearly 99% Ultimate Bar Passage rate (Class of 2020).
  • Almost 95% employment rate for full-time, long-term, bar pass required jobs within 10 months of graduation (Class of 2022).
  • 18 clinics and externships, with 94% participation (Class of 2023).
  • More than 50% reduction in aggregate annual student borrowing compared to 2013.
  • Extremely competitive tuition and fees (the lowest among the Top-20 law schools ranked by U.S. News & World Report).

 

Pictured above: 2023-24 First-Generation Student Association leaders: (l. to r.) Alumni Relations Chair Caitlyn Watson, President Jake Wood and Vice President Devan Hammack. Not pictured: Secretary J’dia Jones.