American University Washington College of Law

Today, we commemorate Juneteenth, the day that marked the end of slavery in the United States and a pivotal moment in our nation’s ongoing pursuit of freedom and justice.

At American University Washington College of Law, we recognize that the promise of equality requires continued advocacy, education, and action. As we honor those who fought for liberation, we reaffirm our commitment to preparing lawyers who advance justice and strengthen the rule of law for all.

AUWCL Professor Jeremi Duru recently co-authored a children’s picture book with law professor Shani King. Written by two fathers, “You Are My Favorite Story” celebrates the joy and tenderness of fatherhood through a heartfelt story for young readers and their families.

Learn more about the book: https://www.fairsharepublishing.com/yamfs

Watch Professor Duru’s recent television interview: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ll5PQNqQabk

AUWCL proudly congratulates Robert C. White Jr. ’07 on winning the Democratic primary for Delegate to the U.S. House of Representatives. A lifelong Washingtonian and committed advocate for the people of the District, White has dedicated his career to expanding opportunity, increasing housing affordability, and strengthening civic participation. As he prepares for this next chapter of service, we celebrate his accomplishments and are proud to call him one of our own. Read his story: https://tinyurl.com/Robert-White-Jr

American University Washington College of Law Alumni

Congratulations to Asha Scielzo, director of AUWCL’s Health Law and Policy Program, on being named a recipient of the SABA North America - South Asian Bar Association of North America’s Pioneer Award.

A passionate educator, health equity advocate, and national leader in health law, Asha continues to inspire our students and strengthen the legal profession through her scholarship, service, and innovation. We’re proud to celebrate this well-deserved recognition and grateful for the impact she makes every day.

Please join us in congratulating Asha on this outstanding honor!

American Health Law Association

Congratulations to AUWCL Professor Paul Williams for being named a recipient of the Stanford Award for the Advancement of the Common Good for 2026. A recognized expert in peace negotiations and post-conflict constitution drafting, Williams was recognized for his work advancing peace and justice through international law and helping societies transition from conflict to stability.

American University Washington College of Law

Congratulations to Abbe Murphy ’27 on her appointment as director of student membership for the National Plaintiffs’ Law Association’s 2026–2027 Student Leadership Council.

A rising 3L, Abbe has already established herself as a leader in plaintiff-side advocacy. She co-founded and serves as co-president of the AUWCL Plaintiffs’ Law Association, is a senior staffer on the American University Law Review, a member of the WCL Moot Court Honor Society, a research assistant to Professor Elizabeth Beske, and a constitutional law teaching assistant.

This summer, Abbe is a summer associate at DiCello Levitt, where she is gaining experience in class actions, mass torts, and complex litigation. Her appointment to the NPLA Student Leadership Council reflects her dedication to advancing the next generation of plaintiff advocates and strengthening opportunities for law students nationwide.

Congratulations, Abbe, on this well-deserved recognition!

We’re grateful to Professor Steven Shapiro for connecting students with experienced practitioners like Lou Rizzo, whose real-world insights help bring the study of hospitality and tourism law to life. Thank you to Lou and Reger Rizzo & Darnall for investing in the next generation of legal professionals and sharing expertise that prepares our students for practice.

Congratulations to AUWCL students Ally Brown ’27 and Daniela Gómez ’28 on being selected as 2026 Peggy Browning Fellows! This prestigious fellowship recognizes aspiring advocates committed to advancing workers’ rights and workplace justice. Through their summer placements with unions, labor-focused nonprofits, and union-side law firms, Ally and Daniela will gain hands-on experience fighting for fair treatment and stronger protections for working people.

Peggy Browning Fund

Congratulations to K. Catherine Walker ‘21 for being presented the 2026 Joseph Minsky Young Lawyer Award from the American Immigration Lawyers Association (AILA).

Walker’s advocacy for immigrants’ rights began as a student attorney with AUWCL’s International Human Rights Law Clinic, where she represented clients before the Inter-American Commission on Human Rights and worked on behalf of families separated at the U.S.-Mexico border. Since then, she has built an impressive career serving vulnerable immigrant communities as an associate attorney at Grossman Young & Hammond.
WCL Clinical Program International Law at American University Washington College of Law Center for Human Rights and Humanitarian Law Academy on Human Rights and Humanitarian Law