DU Animal Law Program

If you've ever wanted to do more for animals—but weren't quite sure where to start—this wonderful new program may be for you.

Applications are now open for the inaugural Animals Forward Executive Certificate, a new program from the University of Denver Sturm College of Law, designed to help people become more effective advocates for animals.

Whether your passion is farmed animals, wildlife, companion animals, sanctuary work, public policy, education, or nonprofit leadership, Animals Forward brings together practical tools, expert insights, and an incredible community of people committed to creating positive change.

Participants will learn from some of the most respected voices in animal protection, including Jessica Scott-Reid, Jo-Anne McArthur, Lori Gruen, and DU Animal Law Program Director Justin Marceau, along with a range of leading advocates, attorneys, and changemakers.

We are genuinely excited about what this program can offer those looking to deepen their impact and help shape a better future for animals.

Applications are now open for the Fall 2026 cohort.

If this sounds like something that speaks to you, please take a look at www.animalsforward.org

Please feel free to share with anyone you think might be interested.

University of Denver opens applications for Animals Forward Executive Certificate

Applications are open for the first executive education initiative designed to train the next generation of animal advocates, policymakers, and movement leaders.

The University of Denver Sturm College of Law is launching Animals Forward: Advancing Interspecies Justice, a new Executive Certificate designed to empower the next generation of animal advocates and changemakers.

Whether you're involved in animal welfare, wildlife protection, sanctuary work, public policy, education, conservation, or nonprofit leadership, this program offers a unique opportunity to learn from some of the most respected voices in animal protection.

The new program will bring together some of the most influential voices in animal protection with guest speakers including award-winning advocate and journalist Jessica Scott-Reid, We Animals founder Jo-Anne McArthur, leading philosopher and scholar Lori Gruen, and Animal Law Program Faculty Director, Professor Justin Marceau, who said:

"Animals are at the center of some of the most pressing legal, ethical, environmental, and social challenges of our time. This program is designed to provide participants with the knowledge, strategies, and connections needed to create lasting change."

Applications are now open for the inaugural Fall 2026 cohort on

www.animalsforward.org

Join us in building a stronger future for animals.

Upcoming Event
Lunchtime Animal Law Career Talk with Frances Chrzan
Oct. 15 @ 12PM (Zoom)

Join the Animal Law Program for a lunchtime career discussion with Frances Chrzan!

Frances earned her BA at Indiana University–Bloomington and her JD from Lewis & Clark Law School. She is certified in animal law, served as Editor-in-Chief of Animal Law Review, and upon graduation she moved to Washington, DC, to engage in federal policy. Frances began her federal policy career advocating for animals used in experiments, and currently works on food system reform and farmed animal protection as Senior Federal Policy Manager at Mercy for Animals.

During this talk, Frances will discuss her animal law experience, her current work with Mercy For Animals, and how you can get involved! Please register here:

Welcome! You are invited to join a meeting: Lunchtime Animal Law Career Talk with Frances Chrzan. After registering, you will receive a confirmation email about joining the meeting. Join the Animal Law Program for a lunchtime career discussion with Frances Chrzan! Frances earned her BA at Indiana University–Bloomington and her JD from Lewis & Clark Law School. She is certified in animal law, served as Editor-in-Chief of Animal Law Review, and upon graduation she moved to Wash...

The Colorado Supreme Court has selected the Nonhuman Rights Project v. Cheyenne Mountain Zoo case for oral argument at Courts in the Community to be held at The University of Colorado Law School in Boulder, Colorado on the morning of
October 24, 2024. Find more information here:

www.nonhumanrights.org

Visit our booth at the Luvin Arms Animal Sanctuary Fall Fest 2024! Tickets at www.luvinarms.org

The Universe and Human Stupidity: Proving Einstein Wrong about Changing Our Relationships to Animals and Plants
Oct. 8 @ 5:30PM (Denver Law, Room 155)

What is the disconnect between the planet's loss of 60% of animals in the last 50 years and the human species? And how could efforts in legalizing nature's rights reverse course and reconnect humans to the ecosystems that are a part of? In this talk, Kai Huschke will discuss the state of law regarding animals and ecosystems as a whole, the broader realities of law and economics, the role of the individual, especially aspiring attorneys, and what the future could hold if paradigm systems change is fully ushered in.

Kai is the Executive Director for the Community Environmental Legal Defense Fund (CELDF). CELDF has been a pioneer in the rights of nature movement, challenging the legitimacy of corporate rights, and elevating local self-government. Kai is a seasoned community organizer and movement specialist with 16 years of experience. He teaches, presents, and writes extensively on movement building, community rights, rights of nature, and the intersection of culture and law.

Vegan food will be provided beginning at 5:30pm and the talk will begin at 6pm. Please RSVP here:

udenver.qualtrics.com

Join the Animal Law Program for a morning of birding at Barr Lake State Park! We will walk around identifying and learning about Colorado's birds, including their conservation challenges and successes. Learn more by reaching out to [email protected]

Today, we join advocates nationwide in raising awareness about the harsh realities of puppy mills. These mass-breeding facilities prioritize profit over animal welfare, often resulting in inhumane conditions and suffering for countless dogs.

Rather than buy from a puppy mill, choose to adopt from shelters and rescues where animals are given a second chance at a happy life. Adopt don't shop!