Advocate 2017

Advocate AVE MARIA SCHOOL of LAW

MAGAZINE | 2017

Advocate AVE MARIA SCHOOL of LAW MAGAZINE

| 2017

Yenly Dominguez ‘18, Abiel Ors ‘17, Bibiana Potestad ’17, Nina Llerena ’17, Andrea Phillips ‘17

Meredith Lunde ’19, Dee-Ann Enniss ‘19

On the Cover: Antonette Hornsby, Class of 2017, standing at the Ave Law Veterans Wall of Honor with children Layla and Brady Photo by Brian Tietz

The Blessed Virgin Mary has many titles, though from a lawyer’s perspective, none more important than “Most Gracious Advocate.” Ave Maria School of Law’s Advocate takes its inspiration from this title and from the recognition that lawyers are at their core, advocates.

Students at Welcome Fiesta B avemarialaw.edu

Daniel Whitehead ‘17

DEAN’S LETTER SIDEBARS MEET SBA’S NEW PRESIDENT A SUCCESS STORY IN THE MAKING LSAT PREP PARTNERSHIP INSIGHT FROM OUR DEAN OF ADMISSIONS AVE LAW QUICK FACTS SPOTLIGHT ON: HUMAN RESOURCES IN MEMORIAM LIFE LESSONS FROM AVE LAW’S DOG SAVE-THE-DAVE – THE HONORABLE NEWT GINGRICH EVENTS SAYING GOODBYE TO THE CLASS OF 2017 HONORING OUR VETERANS PLANNED GIVING

2 3 6 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 22 24 30

CAMPUS NAMING OPPORTUNITIES AVE LAW’S BOARD OF GOVERNORS THE IMPORTANCE OF BAR PREPARATION FACULTY HIGHLIGHTS A WORD WITH FOUNDING PROFESSORS COVER STORY: HOPE FLOATS WHERE ARE THEY NOW? KEEPING IN TOUCH

32 33 34 36 38 40 45 49

EDITORIAL DIRECTOR/WRITER: Kristy Kryszczak DESIGN: Gwen Frederickson PHOTOGRAPHY: Reagan Rule, Tony Zollo, Brian Tietz, Ed Levy, Stan Murzyn, Tabitha Canalda, Ave Law Student Ambassadors PRINTER: Presstige Printing Thank you to our generous proofreaders and each individual who participated in an interview for this issue.

Ave Maria School of Law Advocate 1025 Commons Circle • Naples, Florida 34119 • Phone: (239) 687-5300 • www.avemarialaw.edu Licensed by the Florida Commission for Independent Education, license number 4007. Fully accredited by the American Bar Association. A copy of the official registration and financial information may be obtained from the division of consumer services by calling toll-free within the state. Registration does not | 2017 imply endorsement, approval, or recommendation by the state. http://www.freshfromflorida.com/Divisions-Offices/Consumer-Services 1-800-435-7352.

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A Word from our Dean Dear Friends of Ave Maria School of Law: I am so proud of this issue of our Advocate. To me, it embodies the essence of our school. Starting with the cover featuring our alumna, Antonette Hornsby with her children Layla and Brady, to the back cover depicting Antonette’s late husband, CW3 Brian Hornsby, who willingly gave his life in service of our great nation while piloting a UH-60 Blackhawk helicopter in Afghanistan, this issue captures the character of our Ave Maria Law community. We love God, we love our country, we love our families, we seek to serve others and we seek to serve ideals greater than ourselves.

Turn to page 38, there you will find an interview with Professor Mollie Murphy and Professor Richard Myers. They have been with our school from day one. As individuals, they are extremely accomplished.

Professor Murphy was the valedictorian of her undergraduate class, and Professor Myers graduated #1 in his Notre Dame Law School class. As a married couple, they raised an extremely impressive family, and they excel each day in our classrooms.

The article on Driver, our “Law Dog,” cracks me up. If you have ever met Driver, you understand. He is the embodiment of pure love, loyalty, and goodness. Driver, in so many ways, really does represent how strong we are as a school—we love each other and we are loyal to each other.

Our “In Memoriam” page honors the lives of two deeply spiritual and great individuals. I was truly blessed to rub shoulders with Ambassador Michael Novak. He was an intellectual giant and did as much to further Catholic education and our Catholic faith as anyone in our country. I am a much better person because of his example, and I will always remember his gentleness, wit, and deep, deep faith.

On June 30, 2017, our Ave Maria Law community suffered a tragic loss with the passing of Mary Adah Malavolti. Mary Adah worked in our Library as a Library Assistant. She earned the Dean’s Excellence Award and distinguished herself each day with her extraordinary work ethic and competence, spirituality, and her sincere care for our students. We are all better for having had Mary Adah in our lives. I miss her, and I speak for our community when I say, “Thank you Mary Adah, thank you for all that you did for our beloved school.”

This past year we celebrated our Founder, Tom Monaghan’s 80th birthday with a bang, and we hosted Dr. Charles Krauthammer for an unforgettable evening (pages 17 – 19). This year we look forward to Newt Gingrich, and his insights and thoughts on February 17, 2018 (page 15).

The stories on our alumni in this issue are particularly interesting. We have wonderful graduates truly making a difference in our world, as lawyers, but most importantly as great people.

You will notice throughout this issue two themes: our Catholic faith, and our respect for Veterans. They are both core characteristics of our school.

I want to thank you for taking an interest in, and supporting, Ave Maria School of Law. The new 1L class that just started comes in with the best credentials we have seen in years. We are excited about the future, and we are committed to taking our Lady’s law school to its full potential.

Lastly, I want to thank Kristy Kryszczak, our Director of Marketing and Communications/Editorial Director, and creator of this magazine.

God Bless,

Kevin Cieply President and Dean 2

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Sidebars Brandy Shafer ‘17, Brittney Davis ‘17

Brandy Shafer ‘17, The Honorable Judge Steele, Brittney Davis ‘17

Brittney Davis ‘17, Brandy Shafer ‘17, The Honorable Judge Steele, Michelle Hurvitz ‘17, Charles Demchak ‘17

ST. THOMAS MORE TRIAL COMPETITION CHAMPIONS! This year the St. Thomas More Trial Competition was held at the Collier County Courthouse, with the Championship round taking place on our campus at St. Thomas More Commons in the Moot Court Room. The competition was presided over by The Honorable John E. Steele, U.S. District Judge (MD FL), and scored by members of the Ave Law Faculty – Professors Scott Daniels, Kirk Miller and Mark Bonner. The trial was of a criminal case on charges of possession with intent to distribute heroin, and included a psychiatric defense. The trial team winning the Championship was Brandy Shafer ’17 and Brittney Davis ‘17; Finalists were Michelle Hurvitz ’17 and Charles Demchak ‘17. Best Oralist was awarded to Brittney Davis.

MENTAL HEALTH & WELLNESS WEEK Ave Maria School of Law led a school wide initiative to bring awareness to health issues in the legal profession.

Sponsored by the Student Bar Association, a week of mental health activities and de-stressors were accessible to raise awareness of the importance of your mental and physical health.

17TH ANNUAL ST. THOMAS MORE ORAL ADVOCACY COMPETITION Congratulations to all of the first year law school finalists from the Seventeenth Annual Saint Thomas More First-Year Oral Advocacy Competition: Christopher Fiore, Meredith Lunde, Katherine Cook, Eve Kosciuszko

Daniel Pardo ’19, Meredith Lunde ‘19, Bibiana Potestad ’17, Brandy Shafer ’17, Naomi Hatton ’17, Bartlomiej Milewski ‘18

Congratulations to Eve Kosciuszko who was announced the winner! A special thank you to the Members of the Bench for joining us: The Honorable Sheri Polster Chappell, The Honorable Douglas N. Frazier, and The Honorable Mac R. McCoy.

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Sidebars

Belle of the Ball Kathleen Mullally ’18, Sarah Prosser ’18, Jessica Bermudez, Stephanie Williams ‘18

Victor Bermudez ’18, Professor Mark Bonner, Naomi Hatton ‘17

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VOLUNTEERING AT AVE LAW The Student Bar Association hosted the Annual Barrister’s Ball on Saturday, March 11, 2017 at the Naples Bay Resort and the theme for the evening was Black Tie Masquerade. Students, faculty and staff enjoyed the beautiful views overlooking the water and danced the night away. The Student Bar Association worked many hours to plan and execute this great event.

Ave Law at Equestrian Center of Naples

Ave Law at Special Olympics

There were four special awards announced during the evening.

CONGRATULATIONS TO THE WINNERS: Sterling Earhart Community Service Award: Meredith Lunde ‘19 Student Organization of the Year: Phi Alpha Delta Professor of the Year - First Year: Professor Kirk Miller

Ave Law working with Habitat for Humanity

Welcome 2017-2018 SBA Members

Professor of the Year Upperclassmen: Professor Mark Bonner CLASS OF 2017 SUPERLATIVE WINNERS: Mr. Ave: Ehren Frey Ms. Ave: Naomi Hatton Mr. Congeniality: Cam Colledge Ms. Congeniality: Bibiana Potestad Most Likely To Succeed: Antonette Hornsby Best Q&A: Brittney Davis Most Likely to Become a Law Professor: Nicole Staller Most Likely to Become a Supreme Court Justice: Lauren Holcombe Best Co-Counsel: Brandy Shafer Most Likely to Object to a Witness’ Name: Chuck Demchak Most Likely to Open Their Own Law Firm: Kelsey Blikstad Most Likely to Live in the Library: Maria Contreras

2017-2018 STUDENT BAR ASSOCIATION EXECUTIVE BOARD AND SENATE PRESIDENT Sarah Sulsona ’18

3L SENATORS Bartek Milewski ’18

2L SENATORS Meredith Lunde ’19

VICE-PRESIDENT Daniel Pardo ’19

Sarah Prosser ’18

Alexis Touras ’19

Kelly Sifford ’18

Zoey Touras ’19

SECRETARY Courtney Brevard ’18

Stephanie Williams ’18

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A Woman in Leadership Sarah Sulsona New SBA President Sarah Sulsona with fellow Ave Law students. L to R: Bartlomiej Milewski ‘18, Sarah Sulsona ’18, Daniel Pardo ’19, Stephanie Williams ‘18

Sarah Sulsona is a third year student at Ave Maria School of Law. She grew up in Wesley Chapel, Florida, and is now the second woman elected as our Student Bar Association President for the 2017-2018 school year.

Why did you choose to attend Ave Maria School of Law? After attending a large university while receiving my undergraduate degree, I knew that I wanted to attend a smaller institution for law school. I applied to Ave Law because it was a faith-based institution that had taken the time to reach out to me before I even applied. After getting accepted, I could tell immediately that Ave was devoted to the success of its students. When Dean Cieply called me personally to answer any questions that I had about the school, I knew that Ave Law was different than the other law schools where I had applied.

I have always been a homebody. I lived at home throughout undergrad and was thinking about attending the same law school as my friend so that I knew someone. My family 6

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encouraged me to tour each school that I was accepted to before making a decision, which led me to Ave Maria School of Law. The atmosphere at Ave and the community of Naples was unlike other schools that I visited because it was not a typical “college town.” Its goal wasn’t just bar passage, but was truly the educational and professional achievement of its students. I loved that Ave was the only law school in the area, and that local firms had created a bond with its students to the extent where they would hire Ave graduates over graduates from other schools. One local attorney told me that he hired a Harvard graduate and an Ave graduate at the same time. The attorney now prefers Ave graduates over graduates from any other Florida school.

Though I initially wanted to go to school with my friend, I knew that her school was perfect for her, but not for me. I chose to attend Ave Maria School of Law because it was my best opportunity for a rewarding career. I knew that I would fit in perfectly with its students and faculty and

could not wait to begin my law school journey there.

Congratulations on your appointment as the Student Bar Association President. What do you hope to accomplish during your time in this position? Why do you feel it’s important to get involved in student groups while in law school?

internship as a 1L, even though the firm was looking for a 2L or 3L. While there, I learned many tricks and skills of criminal defense that I could not get from a classroom.

I believe that the school’s organizations have also helped me prepare for my future as a defense attorney. As a member of the Law Review, I improved my research, writing, and citation accuracy. I was also able to write a Over the last few years, the Student Bar Association Note and provide my opinion on a criminal topic that is has improved tremendously through currently being called into question: its focus on student events and ”When Dean Cieply called the potential unconstitutionality of community development. This year, the lethal injection. This year, I will I hope to continue the advancement me personally to answer any be able to improve my litigation and of the Ave Community with a focus questions that I had about briefing skills while being a member on educational success and alumni of the Moot Court Board. My time the school, I knew that Ave on the SBA, both as a senator last relations.

Currently, the SBA offers mentoring Law was different than the year and as president this year, has helped my problem-solving skills, my to new students, as well as Outlining other law schools where I organization, communication skills, Workshops and educational speakers. and has made me more willing to This year, we hope to extend our help had applied..” assign tasks to others. to students by providing a Success Workshop after the first semester grades come out.

What advice would you give to a prospective student Many students receive their first set of grades and give considering law school? up, believing that they are not cut out for law school. We 1. Don’t pick a school based solely on its catalog and hope to give students tips to improve their work ethic and don’t let other people’s opinions heavily influence your show them that one set of grades does not determine judgement. Every student wants something different their ability to pass law school. out of law school. Make sure you visit the school and see One area that the SBA has not focused on enough is how you will thrive there, not just how other students alumni relations. The Alumni Association at Ave Law puts have done so. on several events throughout the school year, and it is up 2. Try to attend as many open houses as you can. This to the SBA to promote these events to students. This year, is the best way to get to meet fellow classmates, the SBA is teaming up with the Alumni Association for the upperclassmen, and an array of faculty and staff who 3rd Annual Golf Classic, and we are also inviting alumni are all eager to answer your questions. You also get to to join us at several events, including the Community see more of the school that may be closed off during Service Project. As president, I hope to establish several regular touring times. events throughout the year which include the alumni, 3. Balancing family, school, and a social life is hard during and attend/promote events for the association. We have the first few months of law school, but, despite what already been in contact with several alumni regarding our some say, it is not impossible. Make sure to keep a involvement, and we are thrilled to allow the students schedule and try to give yourself at least half a day more access to fellow graduates and potential employers. each week where you don’t think about school. This will How is Ave Law currently preparing you for your reduce stress and burnout and will help you keep a solid work schedule throughout the semester. career path upon graduation? What are your plans

once you graduate?

After I graduate, I hope to go into criminal law as a defense attorney. With the help of the Career Services Department, I landed an interview at a top defense firm in Fort Myers. My Research, Writing, and Advocacy professor asked what I was planning on doing over the summer, and I briefly mentioned the interview. Without my request or knowledge, my professor then went above and beyond and personally wrote to the firm with his sincere recommendation. With his help, I obtained the

4. The summer before law school, do not stress yourself out by attempting to over-prepare. Many schools recommend reading several preparation materials and there are many websites which recommend a student take a speed-reading course and typing course.

Although all of this is very helpful for a new student, try to pick the main areas that you know you struggle with (such as reading comprehension) and do what you can to improve those skills.

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A Success Story in the Making Kathleen Mullally is a third year student and Cardinal Newman Scholar at Ave Maria School of Law. She grew up in Port Huron, Michigan and completed her undergraduate studies at Ave Maria University. Founder, Tom Monaghan, is an important inspiration to her on this path she has chosen in life.

Kathleen, have you always wanted to be an attorney?

I am from a family of doctors, not lawyers, but grew up wanting to use my skills and abilities to make a concrete difference in the lives of others. Tom Monaghan’s example of generosity has inspired me to work for a good greater than my own and led me to pursue law. His life is a testament to the impact one person can have on the lives of so many others.

You have one year of law school remaining before you graduate. How would you compare your first year to your second year? What are you expecting from this final year?

First year was exciting, diving into the substantive law and being trained to think like a lawyer. Second year allowed me to focus on my interests—I really enjoyed trial advocacy, criminal procedure, and conflict of laws. This final year is an opportunity to round out my education and prepare to succeed in practice.

You are rooted in your Catholic faith and it is one of the reasons you chose to attend Ave Law. Has the school lived up to your expectations in terms of being a faithbased institution where you can regularly practice your faith? How is the school unique in this way?

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Ave Law has allowed me to pursue law not merely as a career, but as a vocation. The curriculum goes beyond preparing students to practice with excellence. It encourages deeper thinking about the role of law in society.

The unique culture at Ave Law has also nurtured my personal growth. I have been very grateful for daily Mass on campus and for the Christian fellowship. Our Chaplain, Monsignor McGrath, brings Christ to campus in a very tangible way.

You were awarded a clerkship, congratulations! Can you tell us a little bit about this opportunity and upcoming experience?

After I graduate, I will spend a year clerking for a federal judge. I am looking forward to refining my research and writing skills, being exposed to many areas of the law, and learning from a great legal mind. Many lawyers who clerked look back on that experience as a highlight of their career, and I am excited to have this cherished opportunity.

What area of law would you like to practice? Where do you see yourself five years from now?

I hope to serve in the future as a federal prosecutor.

This work attracts me because it pairs moral drive and excellent advocacy skills in service of the common good. Five years from now, I would love to be working in this capacity to safeguard human dignity and help our communities flourish.

LSAT Prep Partnership with

BRANDON COHEN

Ave Law has partnered with Brandon Cohen to work with prospective students preparing for the LSAT (Law School Admission Test). Brandon scored a perfect 180 on the LSAT and aims to offer the highest level of standardized test preparation to students. Brandon visits our Naples, Florida campus to conduct tailored LSAT Preparation Workshops over the course of two weekends. Course attendees also have the opportunity to meet with Ave Law staff and current students, as well as go on a campus tour if interested. The final day ends with a reception where attendees have one-on-one time with Brandon, our Admissions team, and Dean Cieply.

It is quite an amazing feat to score a perfect 180 on the LSAT! It’s great that you are devoting your time to training individuals to do their best on this test. How did you prepare yourself for taking the LSAT? Thank you! Mastering the LSAT takes both learning the basic strategies for the question types, as well as understanding the underlying concepts. I took an LSAT prep program near my undergrad that taught me basic strategy, but I was still getting many questions wrong and I didn’t fully understand why. I then spent the next several months going through every practice test multiple times, teaching myself those underlying concepts. Eventually, I began to see all the ins-and-outs of every question and was able to implement that understanding on test day.

When did you decide you wanted to go into business for yourself turning this into your career?

Throughout law school, I tutored for the LSAT part-time.

While I always enjoyed it, I didn’t see it as a full-time career until after graduation. I had a legal job lined up after the bar exam, but there was a gap before it started. Having an idea for a unique approach towards teaching the test, I took this time to formalize my methods and wrote the first version of my course book. By the time I finished, I couldn’t see myself doing anything else but teaching it full-time!

You have come to our campus a few times to teach your course. What do you like best about this unique experience?

Teaching my course on Ave Maria School of Law’s campus has been such a pleasure. Beyond everyone being incredibly nice and helpful – from Dean Cieply, to the Admissions team, to the other staff and students I’ve met – the campus and surrounding area is so beautiful and serene, it really makes you feel “at home.”

In terms of the course itself, I love how accessible this class is to anyone preparing for the test. Between the timing and pricing, this class is an easy choice as either a full prep course or as a supplement to other approaches.

Being able to teach this class has been a great experience and I am eager to continue in October!

What do you enjoy most about your job?

It may sound cliché, but knowing that I have helped people and made a difference in their lives is beyond rewarding.

So many of my students have done such amazing things with their law degrees and I’m honored to have been a part of their journey.

What are the key tips you would share with those getting ready to prepare for the LSAT? The best advice I can give is to take some form of “formal LSAT prep” and make sure to leave at least 3-4 weeks after completion to take multiple timed practice exams.

As mentioned previously, improving on this test takes learning the underlying concepts, question types, and approaches, which cannot be learned in any other setting besides a formal LSAT class. The “formal prep” could be a self-study book, an online course, or a live class (like the one that I teach at Ave Law). However, remember that these courses will only present you with the tools for success. You will need to practice, practice, practice, before you can effectively put them into action!

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Insight from the Dean of Admissions Bibiana Potestad ’17, Claire O’Keefe, Tabitha Canalda ’17

Dean O’Keefe, originally from New York, is an experienced attorney and law school administrator in the areas of admissions, student affairs, academic support and academic advising. She joined Ave Maria School of Law in 2011.

given our mission and ranking as the #1 Devout school, our ideal candidates are those with strong religious beliefs or those who are eager to return to their faith.

What is a typical day like for you as the Dean of Admissions?

For me, I am always interested in the personal statement.

The majority of the application is factual, so I look to the personal statement as a way to learn about this applicant as an individual. It’s their opportunity to tell me something about themselves that I am unable to glean from the application itself. It helps me to learn what is important to them, what they hope to achieve or accomplish or what they feel has been their biggest accomplishment or obstacle to overcome. I am always impressed with applicants who have given of their time to help others, as I think it says a lot about them. Given our profession and our mission, I am always struck by those willing to give back.

There really isn’t a typical day in Admissions, which is one of the reasons I love working in this area. The law school admissions cycle dictates what we do on any given day.

For instance, in the Fall, we are likely traveling around the country visiting schools and meeting with prospective students. If not on the road, we’re in the office meeting with prospective students and their families, touring them around our beautiful campus and introducing them to our fabulous community of students, faculty and administrators. We may also be planning our many open house and on campus events, such as our LSAT prep program.

During the Spring, we are in the middle of the file review process, so most days are spent looking through our applications, interviewing prospective students and meeting with those who pop in to visit. We are also planning for and holding our Spring on-campus events, such as open houses, the Newman Academy weekend, LSAT prep program and scholarship dinners.

During the summer, we are finalizing the class, calling and emailing our admitted students and getting ready for Orientation.

Our pace and focus is always changing, which makes it interesting and fun!

How would you describe an ideal candidate for Ave Maria School of Law? Our students tend to be very different. They can contrast in age and place in life — some are right out of college, but we also have students who are embarking on this journey after raising families or managing successful careers.

Many are from Florida, but we also have a national pull, so backgrounds can vary widely. With all that said, I think our ideal candidate is someone who is driven to pursue a legal career as a vocation...as something more than a job, but instead a calling to help others and to make the world a better place. We are a good fit for someone who excels in a close-knit environment and appreciates the support and encouragement that a small school can offer. Of course, 10 avemarialaw.edu

Can you provide insight on what stands out for you when reading applications?

The other standout in applications are any misspellings or reference to a school other than Ave Maria Law! That tells me that this candidate is careless and or hasn’t proofread their application, neither of which is a good attribute for someone going into the professional world as an attorney.

What advice would you share with an admitted student preparing for his/her first year at Ave Law? Work hard and work smart. Be ready to work as hard as you ever have and be ready to challenge and push yourself. Law school is not easy, but it is doable. Students should be open to learning new things, always have an open mind and be flexible. You never know what might spark your interest, and, at times, preconceived ideas will hold you back and limit your opportunities.

Don’t be afraid to ask for help. Law school is tough and is unlike any other educational experience. While you may have been very successful in college or graduate school, this is different. It’s okay to ask for help and it is much better to do it at the first sign of difficulty than to wait until it escalates and the semester moves forward. It is much harder to play catch up than it is to get help. Check your ego at the door!

What are five special qualities you feel are existent in the Ave Law community?

Our mission | Our sense of community | Faculty Small size | Location

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FAMILY-FRIENDLY CAMPUS

STUDENT ORGS

NAPLES RANKS ON TOP U.S. SPORTS & ADVENTURE VACATION LIST

2,358 HOURS OF VOLUNTEER LEGAL SERVICE

BY AVE LAW STUDENTS ALUMNI ARE EMPLOYED IN

42 STATES

AND INTERNATIONALLY preLaw

MOST DIVERSE LAW SCHOOL

2016

BEST

LAW SCHOOLS FOR THE

DEVOUT

2017

The Princeton Review

BEST 169 LAW SCHOOLS 2017

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FEDERAL CLERKSHIPS CLASS OF 2017

3RD TIME’S A CHARM: RANKED #1 MOST DEVOUT LAW SCHOOL IN THE U.S. IN 2014, 2016, AND 2017

2ND TIME AROUND:

RANKED THE PRINCETON REVIEW BEST LAW SCHOOL

3 FACULTY MEMBERS

SERVED AND RETIRED AS U.S. ARMY JAG OFFICERS

BUILT-IN FAMILY:

ON-CAMPUS CHAPLAIN, MONSIGNOR MCGRATH AND HIS GOLDEN RETRIEVER, DRIVER CAMPUS IS CONTIGUOUS TO A LOCAL ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

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NUMBER OF ACRES ON OUR VINEYARDS, NAPLES CAMPUS 75 DEGREES AVERAGE TEMPERATURE IN NAPLES

$0 AMOUNT OF TUITION PAID BY VETERANS QUALIFIED FOR THE YELLOW RIBBON PROGRAM

4 VETERANS

PARKING SPACES

4 MARRIED COUPLES SERVING ON FACULTY

60 UNDERGRAD INSTITUTIONS OF MEMBERS OF CLASS OF 2020

16 YEARS

AVERAGE AGE OF OUR STUDENTS

#1

NAPLES RANKED HAPPIEST AND HEALTHIEST CITY

AVE LAW COMMUNITY HAS ATTENDED MARCH FOR LIFE

2016

MEN’S SOFTBALL CHAMPIONS

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Spotlight on: Melissa Gamba Human Resources Melissa Gamba brings

more than 17 years of experience in Human Resources to Ave Maria School of Law. Melissa received a BFA from Virginia Commonwealth University, and her Masters in Human Resources from Cornell University. She is currently working toward receiving her J.D. from Ave Law. She is a member of Collier HR, the Society for Human Resources Management, and the Association of Title IX Administrators.

She holds both SHRM-SCP and SPHR certifications.

You wear many hats in your current job position at Ave Law. What do you enjoy most about your position as a human resources executive?

I love working with people. I know it sounds cliché, but I truly enjoy leveraging employees’ strengths to increase productivity and team engagement. People often view Human Resources as a transactional function where we complete payroll or manage employee benefits. That’s important, but there’s so much more to it. I approach Human Resources as a strategic function where we focus on getting the right person into the right role and translate that into the accountable and measurable attainment of our organizational goals.

What traits would make someone an ideal candidate and fit for the Ave Law personnel team as faculty or staff?

No doubt, it’s mindset. When our faculty and staff think outside of the box and work collectively on creative ways to advance a first-class educational experience for our students, our mission becomes actualized.

You received your Masters in Human Resources from Cornell University last year. Congratulations! This year you have decided to embark on obtaining your Juris Doctor degree. Why law school? How has your experience been attending the law school where you work?

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Cornell was an incredible experience.

The ILR program exposed me to HR executives from around the world. It was amazing to learn how HR is strategically executed at global conglomerates such as Coca Cola, Procter and Gamble and American Express. I decided to embark on a Juris Doctor in order to advance, professionally, in higher education especially in the areas of Title IX and Clery Compliance. Every student has a right to an education free of sexual assault and violence. To be an expert and advocate of these civil rights is very personal to me.

I am blessed to experience Ave Law from both a staff and student perspective. It has given me a greater appreciation for the rigor of law school and enlightenment of the student experience. I love seeing our professors “in action.” After having worked with them for a few years, seeing them teach provides me with a whole new perspective and appreciation for their teaching styles, breadth of knowledge and advocacy of the law.

Do you find it easier to adapt to the schedule and rigor of law school since you’ve recently finished achieving your master’s degree?

It’s definitely a balancing act. But I have grown comfortable organizing my time around work, studying, reading and writing. One of the biggest challenges is finding time to relax, exercise and spend time with my family. It’s critical to strike that work/study/life balance. I’m not sure if it’s funny or sad to share that I am now dreaming about Torts!

What do you love most about Ave Law? The amazing education we provide. We give a great deal of one-on-one guidance and support to our students; something that larger institutions don’t tend to do. Our faculty and staff are phenomenal. We are small, but mighty in terms of academic rigor, support and our commitment to student achievement and post-graduate success.

In Memoriam

Always With Us Remembering

Mary Adah Malavolti

The late Mary Adah with her library team, L to R: Ulysses Jaen, Rebekah Skiba, Mary Adah Malavolti, Alla Sullivant

Mary Adah Malavolti was a special gift to Ave Maria School of Law. She was a person deep-rooted and passionate in her faith. She was well read and a wonderful asset to the library team during her time here at the law school.

She always took the time to stop and have a thoughtful conversation with those around campus. Gifted artistically with the ability to play the piano and sing, Mary Adah will remain a part of our Ave Law Community in our daily prayers. We are grateful to have had the opportunity to share life with Mary.

Remembering

Ambassador Michael Novak

Ambassador Michael Novak was one of the most influential Catholic theologians and thought leaders of our time. A respected scholar, novelist, professor, diplomat and journalist, Ambassador Novak was an esteemed lecturer at Ave Maria School of Law, and a treasured friend. It was with profound sadness that we had to mourn his passing. He remains in our thoughts and prayers and is greatly missed.

Tom Monaghan and Dean Cieply with the late Ambassador Novak

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Meet

Driver McGrath: Life Lessons from Ave Law’s Dog

We feel very blessed to have such a special companion as a part of the Ave Maria School of Law Community. Driver is the beloved Golden Retriever living on campus with his master, Ave Maria School of Law’s Chaplain, Monsignor McGrath.

Driver enjoys living life to the fullest on our Vineyards campus! He resides in one of the villas, an on-campus housing option.

He lives by the motto of loving unconditionally and being respectful and loyal to others.

Driver fits right in with the mission of our school.

Driver is always willing to play fetch with his tennis ball. He is open and friendly to everybody, making each person he meets feel special.

Driver is the first on the scene to console others when necessary. He is reliable and non-judgmental. He will stay by your side as long as he is needed.

At any given time, you may find Driver out-and-about on campus. It’s one of his favorite parts of the day, greeting everyone who crosses his path.

Nothing will make you smile more than being greeted by Driver’s happy face and wagging tail. Driver teaches us that a friendly demeanor goes a long way.

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AVE MARIA SCHOOL OF LAW has the distinct pleasure of hosting THE HONORABLE

NEWT GINGRICH

50th Speaker of the United States House of Representatives, author and Fox News contributor SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 17, 2018 • 5:00 p.m.

THE RITZ-CARLTON BEACH RESORT, NAPLES 280 VANDERBILT BEACH ROAD, NAPLES, FLORIDA Speaker Gingrich will be providing insights about the Trump White House and the new political conservative agenda. This is a very special evening that you will not want to miss!

Newt Gingrich is well-known as the architect of the “Contract with America” that led the Republican Party to victory in 1994 by capturing the majority of the U.S. House of Representatives for the first time in forty years. After he was elected Speaker, he disrupted the status quo by moving power out of Washington and back to the American people. Under his leadership, Congress passed welfare reform, the first balanced budget in a generation, and the first tax cut in sixteen years. In addition, the Congress restored funding to strengthen defense and intelligence capabilities, an action later lauded by the bipartisan 9/11 Commission.

Today Newt Gingrich is a Fox News contributor. He is a Senior Advisor at Dentons, the world’s largest law firm. He is also a Senior Scientist at Gallup. From May 2011 to May 2012, Newt Gingrich was a candidate for the Republican nomination for President of the United States, winning the South Carolina and the Georgia primaries.

As an author, Newt has published twenty-seven books including 14 fictions and nonfiction New York Times bestsellers. Newt and his wife, Callista, host and produce historical and public policy documentaries.

All proceeds benefit the Ave Maria School of Law Scholarship Fund.

TICKET INFORMATION (All ticket sales are final. No refunds.): VIP PLATINUM TICKETS include: • Exclusive VIP Cocktail Reception and Photo with The Honorable Newt Gingrich • Lecture with Premier VIP Seating • Three-course wine dinner • Seating is very limited • $1,000 per person PATRON GOLD TICKETS include: • Lecture with Priority Seating • Three-course wine dinner • Seating is limited • $600 per person SPONSORS:

Newt launched the Center for Health Transformation in 2003, and continued there in a leadership role until he stepped down in 2011 to seek the Republican nomination for President of the United States.

Recognized internationally as an expert on world history, military issues, and international affairs, Newt served as a Member of the Defense Policy Board.

He was the longest-serving teacher of the Joint War Fighting course for Major Generals. He also taught officers from all five services as a Distinguished Visiting Scholar and Professor at the National Defense University. Newt was a member of the Terrorism Task Force for the Council on Foreign Relations.

In 2005, Newt co-chaired the Task Force on U.N. Reform, a bi-partisan Congressional effort to reform the United Nations.

To purchase tickets:

gingrich.avemarialaw.edu For more information, please contact Donna Anthus at (239) 687-5403 or email her at danthus@avemarialaw.edu.

Sponsorships available.

His experiences as the son of a career soldier convinced him at an early age to dedicate his life to his country and to the protection of freedom.

Advocate | 2017

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Signature Event with Dr. Krauthammer

Ave Law hosts Legatus on campus

Kathy Love and Dennis Sullivan

EVENTS

Friends of Ave Law Gather in Palm Beach, FL

Courtney Brevard ’18, Dayanna Vasconcelo ‘18

Monsignor McGrath, Dean Cieply

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Ave Law at March for Life

Professors Maureen Milliron and Kirk Miller

An Evening with

Dr. Charles Krauthammer

Ave Law presented a Signature Event featuring Dr. Charles Krauthammer on Saturday, February 4, 2017 to an audience of almost 400 at the Naples Grande Beach Resort. It was a great honor for our school to host Dr. Krauthammer as our Signature Event speaker for a second time. He is one of the most influential commentators in America with incredible depth and knowledge to share with all of us. It was insightful hearing his remarks, especially during the current change in the political climate.

We would like to thank our generous sponsors of the event: Naples Daily News, Mercedes-Benz, WAVV FM Radio, Harmon’s AV, and Life in Naples. Thank you, also, to Rick Borman, our moderator, our student speakers, and our wonderful group of volunteers. Proceeds from the event benefitted the Ave Maria School of Law Scholarship Fund.

Dr. Krauthammer serves as a contributor for Fox News Channel, appearing nightly on its evening news program, Special Report with Bret Baier. His latest book, Things That Matter: Three Decades of Passions, Pastimes and Politics, was a #1 New York Times Bestseller.

Rick Borman w/Dr. Charles Krauthammer

Dru Doehrman, Naomi Hatton ’17, Mitzi Magin

Monsignor McGrath, Vincent Von Zwehl

Professor and Mrs. Fodale, Kelli Cieply, Dean Cieply, Professors Clifford and Lucille Taylor

Joanne Leoni, Jayne McKee

Bill Bradt, David Lee, Claire O’Keefe

John Resnick, Donna Heiser, Dean Cieply

Advocate | 2017

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EVENTS

CELEBRATING

Tom Monaghan

Ladies for Liberty Singing Troupe

Tom Monaghan w/his wife Marjorie

Dancing the night away

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Tony B Band

OUR FOUNDER There are many ways to describe

THOMAS S. MONAGHAN: Devout catholic, devoted family man, entrepreneur and generous philanthropist to name a few. Some would call it fate that he founded Domino’s Pizza, as it was on a pizza delivery route that he met his true love, Marjorie Zybach. When asked what has been one of his major accomplishments, Tom will say his family. He and his wife have four daughters, ten grandchildren and two great-grandchildren.

Our Founder, Tom Monaghan, celebrated a very special birthday on the evening of March 25, 2017. Two hundred of his closest family, friends and colleagues came out to The Ritz-Carlton Golf Resort, Naples to ring in his 80th birthday. We had the opportunity to hear many loved ones share the impact Tom had on their lives.

Guests were entertained by the big band sounds of New Yorker Tony B and his sons, a friend and one of Tom’s favorite bands. The Ladies for Liberty singing troupe, another of Tom’s favorites, flew in to entertain the guests with their Andrew Sisters style of music in the spirit of patriotism. Dave Neill, a close friend of Tom’s and former publisher of the Naples Daily News, was emcee for the occasion.

Tom is a true visionary and we are proud to call him our leader who paved the way for our law school. We would like to thank our generous sponsors, volunteers, Collier County Sheriff’s Honor Guard, and the Ladies for Liberty for being a part of this special Ave Law community event.

Mater Dei Sponsors

Chairman’s VIP Reception Sponsors Celebrating their grandfather

Anonymous donor Joseph and Sue Ellen Canizaro

Garlick Swift and Garry, LLP Dick and Nancy Klaas Leslie S. (Mitzi) Magin

Our Lady’s Sponsors

St. Thomas More Sponsors

First Florida Integrity Bank Barron Collier Companies Mary and Mercy Center at Ave Maria From the many very appreciative employees of: Ave Maria Foundation Ave Maria Radio Domino’s Farms Corp.

Legatus Thomas More Law Center

Mr. and Mrs. Peter Carfagna The Ritz-Carlton, Naples Mr. and Mrs. Edward Staros Fine Wine Sponsor Napa Institute Media Sponsors Gulfshore Life Naples Daily News Ave Maria Radio Life in Naples

Advocate | 2017

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EVENTS

Fourth Time’s a Charm An impressive line-up of nationally recognized speakers presented at the Fourth Annual Ave Maria School of Law Estate Planning Conference, Southwest Florida’s premier CLE Accredited Estate Planning event, held on Friday, April 28 at The Ritz-Carlton Golf Resort in Naples. Aaron Farmer, President of Farmer and Associates, PLLC served as the 2017 Estate Planning Conference Committee Chair. A sincere thank you goes to the entire committee for their year-long efforts in planning for this big day: Aaron Farmer, Committee Chair, Marve Ann Alaimo, Forrest Bass, Preston Came, Kevin Carmichael, Patricia Cingle, Alan Gassman, Jonathan Gopman, Donna Heiser, Jerry Hesch, Gregory Holtz, Ulysses Jaen, Kimberly Delcomyn-Javarinis, Kristy Kryszczak, David Masterson, Amy Owen, Shelley Rhoads Perry, Jim Raley, Fabian Rengifo, Amber Richards, Kimberly Spiker and Richard Smarg.

This year’s program offered an exceptional educational experience to the estate planners, attorneys, trust officers, accountants, insurance advisors, and wealth management professionals attending the conference. Attendees had a unique opportunity to create a conference agenda that responds to their interests and the needs of their specific practices.

The nationally recognized speakers for the 2017 conference were S. Stacy Eastland (Keynote Speaker), Marve Ann Alaimo, Tae Kelley Bronner, Susan Cassidy, Tami Conetta, Joan Crain, Vicki Eskin, Alan S. Gassman, Jonathan E. Gopman, Jerome M. Hesch, Lester Law, Dixon Miller and Suzanne Brown Walsh.

We would like to recognize our generous sponsors who made this conference possible: PCE Valuations, Advisor’s Trust, Northern Trust, CliftonLarsonAllen, Hawthorn, PNC Family Wealth, Bridgeford Trust, Bray Capital Advisors, LLC, Farmer & Associates, PLLC, Kravit Estate Appraisals, Akerman LLP, Leslie Hindman Auctioneers, Pension Planners, BNY Mellon Wealth Management, Abbot Downing Wells Fargo, Cashel Fiduciary Partners, Corporate Valuation Services and Hill, Barth & King, LLC. Thank you to Northern Trust for hosting our Pre-Conference kick-off dinner on April 27, and to Stacy Eastland for being our keynote speaker for the evening.

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Standing Proud at

March for Life The March for Life annual events are symbolic of a fundamental part of our school’s mission — the recognition of the inherent dignity of each person.

This past January, students, faculty, staff and community members congregated on our Naples Vineyards campus to participate in the second annual March for Life Naples walk. We are thankful to all of those who came out in support of this important movement.

Stephanie Williams ‘18

More than thirty Ave Maria School of Law students, alumni, staff and faculty traveled to Washington D.C.to participate in the March for Life, the largest pro-life event in the world held on Friday, January 27. The Ave Law group was led by Monsignor McGrath, Ave Law’s Chaplain, along with Claire O’Keefe, Associate Dean of Admissions, Professor Brian Scarnecchia and Associate Dean of Career Services and Alumni Affairs, Jennifer Lucas-Ross.

In conjunction with the March for Life, Ave Maria School of Law attended the Law of Life Summit, the annual pro-life action conference held in Washington, D.C., spearheaded by Royce Hood, an alumnus of the law school. Pro-life leaders from around the country came together at the Law of Life Summit with Ave Maria School of Law students, faculty, staff and alumni to create measurable and achievable objectives for defending the sanctity of human life.

Professors Mark Bonner and Kevin Govern

Ave Law in Washington, D.C.

Ave Law Marches for Life in Naples

Advocate | 2017

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EVENTS

Saying

AVE MARIA SCHOOL OF LAW CELEBRATES COMMENCEMENT 2017

On Saturday, May 13, the Class of 2017 walked across the stage to receive their diplomas. Among the highlights of the event was an inspirational speech by our Commencement Speaker and Honorary Degree recipient, Reverend Mitch Pacwa, best known for his appearances on the Eternal Word Television Network (EWTN). We were honored to have Father Mitch Pacwa participate in our day of Commencement celebrating the Class of 2017. We were encouraged by his speech given he is a well-known scholar who has spoken at many conferences and churches around the world.

This year, Ave Maria School of Law also recognized two special individuals who have touched the Ave Law community as Honorary Degree recipients - Mr. Joseph Ricketts, founder of TD Ameritrade, and the late Ambassador Michael Novak.

Andrea Phillips ‘17 was chosen by her class to be this year’s student commencement speaker. Andrea was an exemplary student, having been a Dean’s Delegate and Student Ambassador. The Class of 2017 was a diverse and accomplished group of young men and women that will leave a profound mark on the history of their alma mater.

COMMENCEMENT EVE

On Friday, May 12 leading up to Commencement, Ave Law hosted our Baccalaureate Mass at St. Agnes Catholic Church celebrated by The Very Reverend Robert Kantor, Ave Maria Law Chaplain Monsignor Frank McGrath, and local Naples area priests. Following the Mass, a New Alumni Reception and Pinning Ceremony took place on our campus in St. Thomas More Commons.

“We’re taking the gifts that were given at this law school, the gifts that were given to us by God, and we’re going to take those and we’re going to go out in the world wherever we end up and we’re going to bloom.” —Andrea Phillips ‘17

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Goodbye “You are entering the world with a great set of tools.” —Father Mitch Pacwa

“I’ve come to know many, if not all, of you. I stand here proud in what you’ve accomplished.” —Dean Cieply Nahirobi Peguero Luciano ’17, Michelle Rawana ‘17

Father Mitch Pacwa

Professor Jamie Sammon, Dean Cieply

Professors Eugene Milhizer and Eric Fleetham

Marta Sokolowska’s family showing support

Tom Monaghan, Joe Ricketts, Dean Cieply

Baccalaureate Mass at St. Agnes

THANK YOU, CLASS OF 2017, for the warm surprise of presenting the school with a special gift of an Angelus bell, which is installed in the courtyard of St. Thomas More Commons.

Advocate | 2017

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Honoring Our Veterans

On December 7, 2016 we honored our country’s veterans by renaming our law library the Veterans Memorial Law Library to ensure that those who fought for us and protected our freedoms are never forgotten. It was especially significant for us to dedicate and bless the library on the 75th Anniversary of the Remembrance of Pearl Harbor Day. We also unveiled our Veterans Wall of Honor at the dedication, a permanent display in the Veterans Memorial Law Library entry hall. On this wall the names of our nation’s fallen heroes, veterans and those currently serving the armed forces are prominently displayed as a lasting legacy.

The Collier County Sheriff’s Honor Guard conducted the Presentation of Colors at the dedication, followed by a blessing and dedication by Most Reverend Frank J. Dewane, Bishop of the Diocese of Venice. Our special guest speakers included our Chairman of the Board and Founder Tom Monaghan, Admiral Henry F. White, Jr., Rear USN (Ret.), Former Executive Director and Chief Operating Officer of the American Bar Association and a member of the Board of Governors of Ave Law, and Sean Lux, a member of the Class of 2018, U.S. Air Force Veteran and Co-Founder of the Collier County Honor Flight. The Ladies for Liberty singing troupe joined us for our memorable day.

We would like to take this time to thank each and every one of our Founding Members who have donated to our library, and to those who have donated to the Veterans Wall of Honor. We are most grateful and blessed to have you as a part of our community.

save the date and join us for the Second Annual Veterans Memorial Celebration, December 7, 2017, Please

Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day at the Ave Maria School of Law campus. For more information contact Amber Richards, 239-687-5341 or arichards@avemarialaw.edu.

Remember a loved one on the Veterans Wall of Honor

You can honor a veteran with a plaque on the Ave Maria School of Law Veterans Wall of Honor located in our Veterans Memorial Law Library. Each plaque can be designated with the name, rank and military branch of your loved one for a donation of $2500, with all proceeds benefitting our scholarship fund. For more information, contact Sharon Sparrow, Leadership Gifts Officer at 239-687-5344 or ssparrow@avemarialaw.edu 24 avemarialaw.edu

“It’s obvious Ave Law has a very strong commitment to veterans and to military history. The program is phenomenal. It is designed to appreciate and honor people who have provided time and their life to military service.

And the program offers a tuition-free legal education, which if you think about it is pretty incredible.”

—Bruce Barone, a Veterans Memorial Law Library Founder

Ave Maria School of Law is committed to honoring our veterans Our Veterans Memorial Law Library Founders were a crucial part of making this law school vision a reality.

We sincerely thank each and every one of you.

We are grateful to our Veterans Memorial Library Founders Joe and JoAnn Andronaco

Leslie S. (Mitzi) Magin

Shera and Casey Askar

Dian Jennings Mayo

Bruce and Nancy Barone

William and Susan Lenhart McIntyre

Michael C. Brown

Antonio C. and Suzanne W. Rea

Kevin and Kelli Cieply

Judi and George Schwartz

Frank and Maura Corvino

Peter and Caroline Striano

Lou DiCerbo, II

Mark and Sally Tanner

The Fedeli Family

John and Marilyn Thyen

Thomas B. Garlick

Vincent and Patricia Trosino

Mr. and Mrs. Daniel J. Hall

RADM and Mrs. Henry F. White Jr.

Don and Charlene Lamberti

Three Anonymous Donors

Patricia A. and William E. LaMothe Foundation

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Honoring Our Veterans

“All of us here are of a mind to honor veterans. We want veterans at our school.”

—Dean Cieply

Facets attributing to making the law school a special home for veterans: • Veterans can receive full scholarships to attend law school free of charge. There is no limit to the amount of scholarships offered to veterans who qualify for the yellow ribbon program.

• On-campus housing is available for students and their families.

• Ave Law’s campus lies contiguous to an elementary school.

• Veterans parking is available throughout campus.

• A Veterans Advocacy Center is located in the library, providing resources for veterans to research veteran rights and benefits.

• In December 2017, Ave Law will launch a Veterans Friends & Family video project to honor loved ones who served our country that will live in our library and on our website.

• The law school will continue to host an annual event every year honoring our nation’s veterans, highlighting local veterans in the Florida region.

Ave Law has earned the 2017 Military Friendly School designation by Victory Media. Ave Law is proud of our students and alumni who are veterans, as well as three retired Army JAG officers on our faculty including our President & Dean, our Founder, Thomas Monaghan, a Marine Veteran, and several members of the Board of Governors who are also veterans.

IN THE SPIRIT OF

GIVING BACK Edward V. Staros is the Vice President and Managing Director of The Ritz-Carlton Resorts of Naples. We are honored to have Mr. Staros as a member of the Ave Maria School of Law Board of Governors. He has been a long-time supporter of the law school. Ave Law hosts many of our signature events on Mr. Staros’ properties.

Ed Staros

My name is and I have been on the Board of Governors for Ave Maria School of Law for three years. Having a deep respect for Tom Monahan, plus having two friends who are and were on the Board of Governors prior to myself, I was introduced by my friends Dick Klaas and Tom Garlick to an open position on the Board.

Prompted by knowledge that Ave Maria School of Law had an open board position I shared with Dick Klaas my interest in possibly using my business knowledge to help Ave Maria School of Law as a board member if the board was so inclined. That mutual interest prompted a meeting with the board, and I was happily voted in.

Since I have been on the Board I have enjoyed participating and sharing my prospective. I believe being on the Board adds balance to my life, as I truly enjoy coaching and mentoring young talent, let it be for the company I work for or through the many philanthropic organizations where I volunteer my time.

Recently, I was asked by a colleague, “What advice would you share with the current law students or recent graduates as they begin their careers postschool?”

My answer is… Stay focused on your moral compass as you leave the nest of school and family.

Find out how you can honor a veteran at Ave Law. Please consider becoming one of our Veterans Memorial Law Library Founders or remembering a loved one with a plaque on our Veterans Wall of Honor.

For more information, please visit our website: www.avemarialaw.edu/veterans Contact Donna Heiser at 239-687-5405 or dheiser@avemarialaw.edu.

For Admissions information, please contact info@avemarialaw.edu or 239-687-5420.

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• For those who are married, express your love to your spouse every day and thank them for putting up with you as you were intensely studying for the bar exam.

• Express your love to your family (mother/father/ brother/sister) for being there for you as you transition in becoming an attorney of distinction.

• Love your work and your new fellow employees by treating the new team at whatever firm you work for as “extended family”.

Ed Staros with Tom Monaghan

• Be proud of what you have accomplished and never let your moral compass be compromised. With that said, let me leave you the best piece of advice that my father shared with me, “Throughout your life give more than you receive”.

My thoughts on our Veterans Wall of Honor: Having grown up in Pensacola, Florida less than one mile from the Pensacola Naval Air Base, most of my friends in elementary, middle and high school came from families associated with the military. Consisting of mostly Navy, however, since the Pensacola base was one of the largest naval air training bases in the world, several of my friends’ parents were in both the Air Force and helicopter training as well.

With all the military training in conjunction with the Vietnam War, many of my post high school friends and/ or their brothers were being drafted to go to war. You may or may not know or remember, but this was a time when all high school graduates (less those individuals with legitimate disabilities) were drafted on a lottery system, that’s right…. a lottery that was televised throughout the nation all 365 days (dates) out of a lotto device as to who was to be drafted by birth dates.

As you know from living during that time frame or your history books, the Vietnam War was not popular and was not supported by the majority of Americans both young and old. During the evening of the televised draft, every eligible 18 year old and older was glued to the television to watch the birthday lotto. The way it worked was each of the 365 birthdates represented all eligible men born on that date. For example, if the first date pulled was November 1st, then all eligible men born on November 1st of any year were drafted prior to going to the next date pulled, then the third date and so on until all 365 dates were pulled.

For those who don’t know the story, it seems unbelievable in today’s world; however, this is how the mandatory draft worked. The first year of the draft went up to the first 150 +/- dates pulled, meaning if your birthdate was in the first 150 +/- dates pulled, you were drafted unless medically ineligible or you were already in college or graduate school and you kept a grade C or 2.0 plus average or higher.

The second year the dates went higher as the Vietnam War escalated. The birthdate numbers went in the low 200 range, only to go up again the third year to the mid200 range. My number was 126, meaning that I would have been drafted in years 1, 2 and 3. However, since I

was already a freshman in college and maintaining a good grade point average, I, and others like me, were deferred through graduation. At that time, my number 126 would be re-activated for one full year based on how many soldiers were needed that calendar year.

Upon graduation, our President, Richard Nixon, was trying to be re-elected. While the Vietnam War had become “extremely” unpopular, it is believed that the fourth year draft was artificially lowered to a low needed number for the draft. The purposely lowered number has not been verified, however, the draft number for 1972 (the fourth year of the lotto draft) only made it up to the mid-seventies and therefore, my 126 number was never triggered.

The reason I am sharing this story is to pay tribute to Lieutenant Joseph Gales Greenleaf, who was a fighter pilot in squadron 114, who became MIA (missing in action) and pronounced dead on April 14, 1972 during a bombing mission at the DMZ (demilitarized zone). During the bombing run, Joseph’s F-4 was hit by anti-aircraft fire and was observed to continue its dive until impact, no ejections were observed. The crash occurred one mile south of Cam Lo Village, South Vietnam.

At the time, Joseph was married to Marcia Gail Broxson of Pensacola, Florida. Marcia was my best “female” friend in high school as we both graduated together from Pensacola High School, class of June 1968. With that said, the Veterans Wall of Honor at Ave Maria School of Law is such a beautiful memorial for those who served, as well as those who died serving or went missing in action and were never found.

In the case of Vietnam (my generation), 58,220 soldiers were killed, making the ultimate sacrifice and breaking the hearts of countless mothers, fathers, wives, husbands, brothers, sisters, nieces and nephews, as well as all the other family members and friends.

I am honored to be a member of the Board of Governors for Ave Maria School of Law. I encourage all families who have or had a loved one in the Armed Forces to consider a gift honoring their service.

May God bless them all.

Ed Staros

Advocate | 2017

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Honoring Our Veterans

A DAUGHTER HONORS HER FATHER’S MEMORY Nancy Kapp

is the President and Chief Executive Officer of The Renaissance Companies, an organization that fosters the creation of sustainable neighborhoods. We feel blessed to have met Nancy when she visited our campus to honor her father, a World War II veteran. Nancy dedicated a plaque on the law school’s Veterans Wall of Honor housed in the Ave Maria School of Law Veterans Memorial Law Library.

It was a very touching tribute watching you honor your father, SSG Calvin G. Turkington, 8th Air Force.

Would you mind sharing with our readers one of the fondest memories you have of your father?

Well, since I was only 4 years old when he was killed in action over Germany, I don’t have many, only one. The day he left me at the boarding school for his deployment overseas, where I had been sent at the age of two and a half, since my Mother was also working for the government out of town. I was standing at the top of the stairs with one of the nuns and he was at the bottom--leaving and crying. We were both crying. That is all I ever had of him, that I recall.

What made you decide to honor your father through Ave Maria School of Law? We are certainly glad you did and are thrilled to have you as a part of our community.

Well, as mentioned above, I was literally raised by the nuns from 2 ½ until 6 years of age at St. Pat’s Academy in Momence, Illinois, so it was almost a natural fit---a coming home if you will—when I learned about Ave Maria Law and the Wall of Honor. As a Naples resident, it just felt “right place, right time.”

You are a co-founder of Honor Flight Chicago. This allows for Chicago-based World War II veterans to visit their memorial in Washington, D. C. What do you feel you have learned from spending time with veterans?

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It is what I have lived by and what I practice every day. It’s also known as “wing walking” and as I think of it now, I was, and I am, walking on my father’s wings.

The most important thing that I have learned from Honor Flight Chicago is that all of these veterans were very special people in fighting for our freedom and for their homeland. Most of them, at the time, were just kids. My father was actually called “the old man” since he was 28 at the time he was drafted. I learned this from one of his crew members who my daughter found in Sun City, Arizona in 2008. She had discovered that he had been buried at Margraten Cemetery in the Netherlands. I originally had been told that he was MIA. All of the vets that came home from the war went back to work without any fanfare and were expected to just pick up where they had left off, and they did exactly that. The Honor Flight brought back many memories, good and bad, but every single vet that has gone on an Honor Flight has said that “it was one of the best days of his/her life”. My Father was with me on every trip I took to the WWII Memorial, I am sure of it.

I believe that Honor Flights across this country have helped spark the respect and pride that most Americans feel for our military, so it has contributed more than just a trip to a Memorial.

You take the time to give back to your community and you have worked diligently to make yourself a success. What advice would you give to our current law students and recent graduates as they prepare for their lives post-graduation?

The only words I give to my grandkids and anyone else that asks is “perseverance and determination” (PAD) are the keys to success. Anyone with common sense, basic intelligence, the desire to do well and not afraid to work hard and try what everyone else says “can’t be done”, because it is easier to say that than to make it happen, will be successful utilizing PAD. It is what I have lived by and what I practice every day.

It’s also known as “wing walking” and as I think of it now, I was, and I am, walking on my father’s wings.

A Philanthropist Leslie S. (Mitzi) Magin has been a

positive force in the social services and education arenas for over 30 years. She is an outstanding example of a philanthropist who has touched the lives of many and who has made a true difference in her community. An advocate of Catholic education and a philanthropic community leader, Mitzi currently serves on the Ave Maria School of Law Board of Governors. She also recently became an Ave Maria School of Law Veterans Memorial Library Founder.

Donna C. Heiser, CFRE, APR, Chief Advancement & External Affairs Officer at Ave Law, spoke with Mitzi recently and shared a glimpse into the life of this extraordinary woman.

Mitzi, thank you very much for your support of the law school. You are very well known in the Naples community as a very generous supporter of philanthropy. When did you become so involved in the community and why is it important to you?

I was raised to believe that it is very important to be involved with and to give back to one’s community. It is our responsibility, really, to contribute whatever gifts and talents we may have been blessed with to help to make our communities, our citizens and our nation the best they can be.

at Heart Why did you decide to join the Ave Law Board of Governors?

How would you describe your experience thus far?

Serving on the Board of Governors has been extremely informative and a very positive experience. I have learned a lot and have been particularly impressed with my fellow board members who come from all walks of life. Members of the Board of Governors at Ave Maria School of Law are exceptionally capable individuals who have been quite successful in their respective businesses and communities. I feel quite honored to be a part of such a distinguished group.

As a founder of our Veterans Memorial Law Library, why did you feel it was important to give to this particular initiative?

All of the funds we raise by becoming founders of the Veterans Memorial Law Library help to provide legal scholarships for veterans. By providing them with a full scholarship to Ave Law, we can honor our veterans and give them the opportunity to earn their law degree and hopefully, a successful future career.

What would be a key piece of advice you would share with our young students about the importance of their legal careers?

I feel that the veterans deserve our help and that it is vitally important for our future lawyers to be advocates of the Constitution and the law and to uphold it. We are facing tremendous challenges in our country and the need for moral lawyers who will advocate for traditional values, rather than obstructionists who seek to undermine the government. Ave Law has never been more important or essential.

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HELP YOUR FAMILY AND MAKE A

STRATEGIC INVESTMENT IN AMERICA Dear Friend, Have you ever wondered how you could help your family and make a strategic investment in the future of America? In the 16 years since Ave Maria School of Law was founded, you have come to realize the vital role we are playing in the fight to recognize and restore the value of life, the sanctity of marriage and the need to defend our founding principles. Our graduates have already made significant impacts, not only as defenders of the rights of others, but as lawmakers, as members of the judiciary who interpret laws, and as industry leaders. Nothing is more important in preserving our nation, its values and our Constitutional principles than the urgent need to educate those who will faithfully lead us in our cultural renewal.

Your gifts have helped us begin to score big wins in those battles. But did you know there are many types of investments that can be made in Ave Maria School of Law that cost you nothing now and some that can actually provide immediate financial and tax benefits to you and your family? A simply instituted and inexpensive planned gift can provide you with peace of mind, knowing that after you are gone your planned gift will become a legacy of your faithfulness to uphold the truths of our faith and this Nation’s founding principles.

Jeff McManus, Planned and Leadership Gifts Officer, Ave Maria School of Law

Jeff McManus, JD, Planned and Leadership Gifts Officer, Ave Maria School of Law

MAKE A PROVISION FOR AVE MARIA SCHOOL OF LAW IN YOUR WILL OR TRUST One visit to your attorney to prepare or modify your Will or Trust can provide for an estate gift that will assure Ave Maria School of Law can continue educating faithful leaders who will act as change agents in the fight to restore our culture and values. Simply ask your attorney to make a provision for a BEQUEST to Ave Maria School of Law for a gift of cash or stock, or a percentage of your estate, or a gift of real estate. The language is as simple as: “I hereby give , devise and bequeath (fill in) percent (__%) of my total estate, determined as of the date of my death, to Ave Maria School of Law, a non-profit organization located at 1025 Commons Circle, Naples, FL 34119, Federal ID #38-3519708 , for Ave Maria School of Law’s area of greatest need.” (or for a stated specific purpose) Myth: I am afraid that if I put Ave Maria School of Law in my Will, I won’t later be able to change my mind and remove the provision if my circumstances change.

Truth: Actually, a charitable gift designated in a Will or Trust is easily revocable should you change your mind by 30 avemarialaw.edu

signing a simple amendment document.

Myth: I can’t make a meaningful gift right now because I need all my income to meet my own needs.

Truth: Planned giving provides a way to make a meaningful gift now without using the income or assets you need for ordinary living expenses.

Other simple ways to leave an estate gift to Ave Maria School of Law that cost you nothing now include: • Designate Ave Maria School of Law as a full, partial or contingent beneficiary of your RETIREMENT ACCOUNT (IRA, 401(k), 403 (b) or pension) • Name Ave Maria School of Law as a beneficiary of your LIFE INSURANCE POLICY As we move into retirement, two matters often are at the forefront of our thoughts. One relates to our financial security and the other relates to the disposition of our estates when we pass away. If we have been devoted supporters of a charitable organization during our lifetimes, often that estate planning includes the continued support of a charity through an estate gift.

CREATE A LIFETIME OF INCOME, GET A TAX DEDUCTION AND BENEFIT AVE MARIA SCHOOL OF LAW Several types of Planned Gifts can help you achieve both a level of financial comfort and provide for a charitable gift upon your passing. One of these gifts is a Charitable Gift Annuity. Here are some of the benefits to you of a Charitable Gift Annuity:

$70,000 to Ave Maria School of Law for a Charitable Gift Annuity. At age 82, she was able to receive:

• You receive fixed payments at advantageous payout rates for the rest of your life

• She also received an income tax deduction of $52, 028 (28% tax bracket)

• You receive an income tax deduction for the charitable portion of your gift • A large portion of your payments will be tax free • You will advance the mission of Ave Maria Law School with your gift How Does It Work?

Here is an example of how a Charitable Gift Annuity benefitted, perhaps, someone similar to you. Elizabeth, age 82, bought some stock a number of years ago which appreciated significantly in value over the years. She was looking for security and sought a fixed income that would not change with market fluctuations. Elizabeth, a longtime supporter of Ave Maria School of Law, heard about the Charitable Gift Annuity program we offer. She was able to transfer $100,000 worth of stock that had a basis of

IRA ROLLOVER- PAY NO INCOME TAX ON REQUIRED MINIMUM DISTRIBUTION AND BENEFIT AVE MARIA SCHOOL OF LAW You may be looking for a way to make a big difference in support of our mission by affirming those human and moral truths that safeguard human freedom. If you are age 70 ½ or older, you may also be interested in reducing the income taxes from your IRA withdrawals each year. An IRA charitable rollover is a way to achieve both objectives.

Benefits of an IRA Charitable Rollover • Avoid taxes on transfers up to $100,000 to Ave Maria Law School • Satisfy your required minimum distributions (RMD) without increasing your taxable income • Make a gift that is not subject to the 50% deduction limits on charitable gifts • Immediately support the students and programs at Ave Maria School of Law

• An annual payout at the rate of 7.2%, or $7,200 per year, FIXED FOR LIFE, of which $3,996.31 is TAX FREE. (Effective payout rate is 10.6%)

• A partial bypass of her $30,000 capital gain may save Elizabeth an additional $2,341 • Elizabeth can elect to receive her payments monthly for life • Elizabeth was also pleased to know that when she passes away, a sizeable residual gift would be available to Ave Maria School of Law to advance the mission she supported during her lifetime, with no probate fees and no estate taxes resulting from the gift Charitable Gift Annuities are also available for joint lives, guaranteeing a lifetime fixed payout for both annuitants.

Please contact me to find out how a single or joint life Charitable Gift Annuity might help you achieve your financial and estate planning goals.

Ave Maria School of law is unique in the world of legal education. We are educating conscientious lawyers to lead in the cultural renewal America needs. Let your planned gift become a legacy of your belief to uphold the truths of our faith and our Constitutional principles. Thank you and may God bless you.

Please contact me or your IRA administrator to learn more about making a gift from your IRA to Ave Maria School of Law. Jeff McManus, JD Phone: 239-250-3536 Email: jmcmanus@avemarialaw.edu or Donna Heiser, CFRE, APR, Chief Advancement & External Affairs Officer, Ave Maria School of Law Phone: 239-687-5405 Email: dheiser@avemarialaw.edu This educational illustration is not intended as legal or tax advice. Please consult your tax advisor about your specific situation. The payout rates for Charitable Gift Annuities are dependent on the age of the annuitant.

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CAMPUS NAMING OPPORTUNITIES These naming opportunities offer you a meaningful way to support Ave Maria School of Law while honoring and commemorating someone or something important in your life. The following is a partial list of naming opportunities for your consideration.

CREATE A LASTING LEGACY You can create a legacy to insure that the good work of Ave Maria School of Law will continue into the future. Planned or deferred gifts from your estate can also provide support for scholarships, legal clinics, named gifts and campus enhancements. To learn more about making a gift through your estate, please contact us.

FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT: Donna Heiser, CFRE, APR Chief Advancement and External Affairs Officer Ave Maria School of Law 1025 Commons Circle Naples, FL 34119 239-687-5405 dheiser@avemarialaw.edu

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STRUCTURE

DONATION ESTABLISHED REMAINING AMOUNT AMOUNT AMOUNT

Campus Law Clinics Veterans Law Clinic Veterans Advocacy Center Commons Administration Dean’s Executive Wing Faculty Wing West Hall East Hall Villas Information Technology Training Center Administration Lobby Athletic Field Courtyard and Patio Large Classroom Military Service Appreciation Plaza Welcome & Reception Areas Library Group Study Conference Rooms

Faculty and Student Lounges Bookstore Classroom Computer Lab Veterans Memorial Law Library Founders Reception Area History Wall Seminar Rooms Confessionals Offices Student Organization Offices Vineyards Blvd., Pine Ridge and Vanderbilt Signage Exterior Signage Offices (small) Commons Fountain Chapel Pews Altar Kitchen and Snack Bar Judges Bench Rare Book Cases Veterans Memorial Wall of Honor Plaque Attorney and Audience Tables Tables- Moot Court Room Study Carrels Computer Workstations Awards and Faculty Scholarship Cases

$5,000,000 1 $4,000,000 4 $4,000,000 1 $1,000,000 1 $1,500,000 1 $1,500,000 1 $750,000 1 $750,000 1 $750,000 1 $750,000 1 $200,000 8 $150,000 1 $100,000 1 $100,000 1 $100,000 1 $100,000 2 $100,000 1 $100,000 3 $50,000 4 $50,000 2 $50,000 3 $50,000 1 $50,000 6 $50,000 1 $50,000 100

1 4 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 8 1 1 1 1 2 1 3 4 1 3 1 6 1 75

$30,000 1 $25,000 3 $10,000 2 $10,000 10 $10,000 4 $10,000 3

1 2 2 10 4 3

$5,000 6 $5,000 36 $5,000 1 $5,000 4 $5,000 1 $5,000 1 $2,500 1 $2,500 3 $2,500 Many $1,500 5 $1,500 3 $1,500 18 $1,500 20 $1,000 3

6 36 0 3 0 1 0 3 Many 5 3 15 20 3

CAMPUS BEAUTIFICATION

DONATION ESTABLISHED REMAINING AMOUNT AMOUNT AMOUNT

Bench Tree Study and Meditation Garden

$1,500 $500

$20,000

10 Many 2

10 Many 2

Ave Maria School of Law

Board of Governors MR. PETER A. CARFAGNA

MR. THOMAS S. MONAGHAN

MR. KEVIN CIEPLY

LIEUTENANT GENERAL RICHARD F. NATONSKI

Chairman and CEO, Magis, LLC

Chairman of the Board and Founder, Ave Maria Foundation

President and Dean, Ave Maria School of Law

THE HONORABLE PATRICK J. CONLIN Michigan 22nd Circuit Court (Retired)

Retired U.S. Marine Corps, Commander of the Marine Corps Forces Command

MRS. CATHY RUSE

Senior Fellow for Legal Studies at the Family Research Council

MOST REVERAND FRANK J. DEWANE The Bishop of the Diocese of Venice in Florida

MR. RONALD J. RYCHLAK

MR. JAMES WILLIAM FENNESSEY

President and CEO, Fennessey Buick, Inc. (Retired)

Mississippi Defense Lawyers Association, Professor of Law, University of Mississippi School of Law

MR. THOMAS B. GARLICK

MR. MICHEL SAADEH

MR. RICHARD KLAAS

MR. EDWARD V. STAROS

MRS. MITZI S. MAGIN

ADMIRAL HENRY F. WHITE, JR.

President and CEO, Vineyards Development Corporation

Managing Partner, Garlick, Swift & Garry, LLP

Vice President and Managing Director, The Ritz-Carlton Resorts of Naples

Partner, Klaas Capital Group Catholic Education Advocate and Philanthropic Community Leader

HIS EMINENCE ADAM CARDINAL MAIDA Archbishop Emeritus of Detroit

Rear USN (Ret.), and Former Executive Director and Chief Operating Officer of the American Bar Association

MR. JAMES P. WHITE

Professor Emeritus of Indiana University and Consultant Emeritus, American Bar Association

Welcoming Lieutenant General Richard F. Natonski to the Ave Law Board of Governors LtGen. Richard Natonski retired from the U.S. Marine Corps in 2010 as commander of the Marine Corps Forces Command. He began his military career in 1973. As a platoon commander, he participated in noncombatant evacuation operations in Cambodia and South Vietnam in 1975. As a battalion commander, he led humanitarian relief efforts in Cuba and Somalia, and as a colonel he commanded a Marine Expeditionary Unit in the Mediterranean Sea and Persian Gulf. As the Commanding General of Task Force Tarawa during Operation Iraqi Freedom, he captured key bridges in An Nasiriyah and along the way rescued members of the Army’s 507th Maintenance Company. As a major general, he led the 1st Marine Division through counterinsurgency operations in the Al Anbar Province, the Second Battle of Fallujah, and the first Iraqi National Election in 2005. His staff leadership positions included serving as an Observer to the United Nations Truce Supervision Organization in the Middle East, Deputy Director in the National Military Command Center, and Deputy Commandant for Plans, Policies, and Operations at Headquarters Marine Corps.

LtGen. Natonski earned his B.A. from the University of Louisville. He was an honor graduate from several military schools, attended the NATO Defense College in Rome, Italy, and completed a senior executive program for national and international security at Harvard University.

His personal military decorations include the Navy Distinguished Service Medal (with gold star), Defense Superior Service Medal, Legion of Merit, Defense Meritorious Service Medal (with oak leaf cluster), Meritorious Service Medal, Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal (with two gold stars), Army Commendation Medal, and Combat Action Ribbon.

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The Importance of Bar Preparation We took the time to sit with our Director of Bar Preparation,

Christopher Buscaglia. He’s been a game-changer for Ave Law and is leading quite an important program at the law school.

Do you have a specific game plan you suggest to students studying for the bar exam?

Although every student is different and has different study habits, experience suggests to me that every student must establish a study routine. This requires that each student recognize the importance of every study day between the end of their final exams for the semester and the first day of the bar exam.

Each day is precious. If one is wasted, that time cannot be retrieved. Every day must be planned in advance. There are at least a couple ways to accomplish this. First, the bar companies have a detailed syllabus that guides students in establishing a study routine. Second, here at Ave Law we have a Supplemental Bar Prep Program that runs parallel to the commercial bar prep programs. This Program is intended to supplement and enhance the commercial programs by directing students’ efforts toward the most highly tested subjects/areas on the bar exam. Our Supplemental Program also has a detailed syllabus that further directs students in establishing an efficient study routine.

It has been said that you have patience and a special dedication to tutoring students one-on-one. What made you decide to take this path in your career and what is one of the favorite aspects of your job?

Our Supplemental Bar Prep Program also includes individual tutoring of students. Many students are hesitant to discuss specific issues in a group setting. Some students may be having difficulty in a particular area that is not addressed by the commercial bar companies or by our Supplemental Program.

These students benefit from one-on-one instruction. Now that we have hired an Assistant Director of Bar Preparation in the person of Holly Paar, we have effectively doubled our tutoring resources. Consequently, any student requesting tutoring will receive tutoring.

What is the best piece of advice you would give to students preparing for the bar?

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If I had to give one piece of advice to a student preparing for the bar exam it would be this: before you walk into that room to take the bar exam, make sure that you did everything humanly possible to prepare yourself for the exam. You never want to say these words: “If only I had studied harder....”

Holly Paar

received her J.D. from Ave Maria School of Law in 2017. We were lucky enough to have Holly join the Ave Law staff shortly thereafter, as the Assistant Director of Bar Preparation. She jumped right in to her role of preparing recent law school graduates for the most important exam of their careers.

Congratulations on all of the recent achievements in your life: graduating from Ave Maria School of Law with your Juris Doctor degree, passing the Florida Bar Exam, and joining the Ave Law staff as a full-time Assistant Director of Bar Preparation. How was the adjustment from being a student at Ave Law to becoming a part of the teaching/mentoring staff for one of the most important programs?

Brittney Davis ’17, Holly Paar ‘17

Because I was given support and a warm welcome by faculty, staff, and students, the transition was easy. I quickly jumped into my part of the Ave Law team! I recognized the amount of work that was waiting for me, as our recent graduates were beginning their preparation for the July 2017 Bar exam.

Overall, the adjustment was easy and comfortable thanks to the wonderful faculty, staff, and students here at Ave Maria School of Law.

How did you approach studying for the bar exam and what do you feel contributed to your success?

I began preparing for the bar exam on the first day of my 1L year of law school, which ultimately contributed to my success on the exam. I completed 100% of my commercial bar preparation three weeks ahead of schedule. It was tough, but possible. With the three weeks of additional time, I used that time to focus on my weaker areas and answer thousands of additional multiple-choice questions.

I also went to all of Professor Buscaglia’s workshops, including his seven-day Bar Prep Boot Camp. I found these to be vital to my success, not only because the instruction was helpful, but because I was able to identify areas that needed more of my attention. In addition, I made weekly appointments with Professor Buscaglia where he would go over multiple-choice questions, review essays I wrote, and clarify difficult areas of the law.

What are some of the aspects you enjoy most about your new position?

Hands down: helping and supporting Ave Law graduates. I find satisfaction in supporting and assisting others while they face and conquer what seems like an unsurmountable task. When I met Professor Buscaglia, I was impressed by his knowledge of the law and the way he was able to communicate effectively with students. I am blessed to work under Professor Buscaglia and to be a part of his remarkable program. Our goal is to help students be successful on bar exams across the country, and I thoroughly enjoy being a part of the process.

What advice would you give to recent law school graduates getting ready to prepare for the bar exam?

My advice to Ave Law graduates is to invest 110% into your bar preparation each and every day. While the days seem long, the weeks are short. Truthfully, the start of bar preparation begins 1L year. Torts, Contracts, Real Property, Federal Civil Procedure, and Criminal Law are all part of the 1L curriculum and are all guaranteed to be tested on the bar exam. It is essential to invest time into mastering these subjects early to reduce stress during bar preparation. It is necessary to attend Bar Prep Boot Camp, workshops, and final review. Studying for the bar exam is grueling, but it is a short time that impacts a student’s career.

My advice would be to understand the material during school, because after final exams are over, there is a bigger hurdle ahead: The Bar Exam. Advocate | 2017 35

Faculty New Book Featuring Essays by Ave Maria School of Law Professors and a member of the Board of Governors “The Persecution and Genocide of Christians in the Middle East” (Angelico Press 2017) is a searing expose of this under-reported war on Christians waged by the Islamic State.

The book of thirteen essays was edited by Jane F. Adolphe, an Associate Professor of Law at Ave Maria School of Law in Naples, Florida, and an expert on international human rights with the Holy See’s Secretariat of State, Relations with States; along with Ronald J. Rychlak, a Professor of Law at the University of Mississippi and a member of the Ave Law Board of Governors.

• “Using the Torture Act Against the Persecution of Christians” by Mark Healy Bonner, a professor at Ave Law, who specializes in international human rights, outlines how the Torture Act, signed by President Clinton in 1994, provides legal means for the United States to send offenders to prison, even when the torture occurs abroad. It was recently used successfully to convict and imprison a defendant in the U.S. for torturing people in Liberia. This act can be used against those who torture Christians in the Middle East. The Constitution authorizes Congress “to define and punish piracies and felonies committed on the high Seas and Offences against the Law of Nations.”

• The Dean and President of Ave Maria School of Law, Kevin Cieply addresses, “International Criminal Law” in his essay, which details how the trials of Nazi war criminals after World War II laid the groundwork for the International Criminal Court based in The Hague, which hears crimes of genocide, crimes against humanity and war crimes. In the Middle East, the situation is critical as non-Muslims in Syria and Iraq are being slaughtered, sexually violated, displaced and tortured. Combating ISIS should be a priority of the International Criminal Court, Cieply writes.

• Professor Jane Adolphe explores “Sexual Violence as a Tactic of Terror: The Plight of Christian Women and Girls” and why many victims are reluctant to speak out because of religious norms and stigma and fear they 36 avemarialaw.edu

will be rejected by their communities. It offers a case study on the enslavement of Christian schoolgirls in Nigeria by Boko Haram, which has waged a relentless war against Christians.

• Professor Kevin H. Govern of Ave Law, whose expertise is International and Comparative Law, lays out how international law to protect Christians is evolving in “International Humanitarian Law: Five Dynamics.” These are: cyber security and its role in censorship on freedom of religion and speech; the fragmentation of states, particularly in the Middle East; the impact of massive waves of migration on religious freedoms; global economic strains; and enduring human development challenges that are part of the environment shaping overall U.S. foreign policy as well as other nations around the globe.

• Professor Rychlak, who serves on the Ave Law Board of Governors and the Advisory Board for the Catholic League for Religious and Civil Rights, points out how the International Criminal Court has failed in its efforts to find justice for Christians persecuted by ISIS in “Persecution of Christians in the Middle East: The Failed Promise of the International Criminal Court.”

The ICC was founded when the Rome Statute of the International Criminal Court was established, but because neither Syria nor Iraq recognizes its authority it has not been able to combat the genocide of Christians

by ISIS.

SPOTLIGHT ON FACULTY The faculty at the Ave Maria School of Law are renowned for their teaching and research.

Many are national leaders in the fields of law and religion. Additionally, Ave Maria School of Law faculty bring a range of perspectives to their teachings.

“The reputable experience of the professors and the smaller class sizes lend a prestige to Ave that is unique.” — Eve Kosciuszko, Class of 2019 Professor Richard Myers

Photos from the Class of 2020 Honor Code Commitment Ceremony Professor Mollie Murphy

Professor Brett Brosseit Professor Brian Scarnecchia

Professor Mark Bonner

“I have found great academic success in an individualized academic environment, which provides small class sizes and an opportunity to cultivate relationships with professors. Law school is a challenging experience, and having a relationship with your professors will help in an insurmountable way.”

— Daniel Pardo, Class of 2019

Professor Eric Fleetham

Professor John Raudabaugh

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Faculty

Here from

Professors Richard Myers and Mollie Murphy are two of the most well respected individuals at Ave Maria School of Law. They are both Founding Professors of the law school, and they happen to be married to each other. Since they are very significant to our school and community, we wanted to be able to share a look into their background and insightful ways.

Touching on the fact that you are Founding Professors of this law school, why do you feel this school was important to establish? You are still teaching at the law school and years have passed. Have your opinions changed as to why this law school is so essential?

We were teaching at the University of Detroit Mercy Law School in the 1990s. In the years after Pope St. John Paul II’s apostolic exhortation on Catholic universities (Ex Corde Ecclesiae), there was a lot of discussion at that time about the nature of Catholic universities and Catholic law schools. Eventually in 1998, we joined with several colleagues there (Steve Safranek, Joe Falvey, Laura Hirschfeld, and Michael Kenney) and proposed the idea of a new Catholic law school to Tom Monaghan. In light of the cultural ferment of that era, we all thought there was a need for a law school that emphasized academic excellence and professionalism and that did so in light of the wisdom of the Catholic intellectual tradition. We agreed to leave Detroit and moved to Ann Arbor in 1999 to work on planning and beginning Ave Maria School of Law. We taught in Ann Arbor for almost a decade and then moved to Naples when the law school moved there in 2009.

It seems to us that there is an even more pressing need for such a school today. There are many challenges in the broader culture and within the legal profession. A Catholic law school that educates professionals who’ve been formed by exposure to the natural law heritage that is associated with Catholic thought has much to contribute.

What do you both enjoy most about teaching? Do you like the fact that you are able to work together at the same school?

We both enjoy the intellectual challenges of the law and teaching. We also particularly enjoy working with our students and challenging them to develop their skills and to develop an appreciation for the opportunities that the legal profession affords.

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Prior to teaching, you have had experience working as practicing attorneys. Having this experience must translate well in class for your students when assisting with direction their lives may take after Ave Law. When did you decide that teaching was the path you wanted to pursue in the field of law?

We both had opportunities to clerk for federal court of appeals judges before we began practicing law.

When we worked at Jones Day, we had the opportunity to work with some of the top lawyers in the country.

Those experiences (as judicial clerks and as practicing lawyers) helped form our identities as professionals and we frequently draw from those experiences in our teaching and in our discussion with our students.

Richard: I developed an interest in an academic career from my time as a law student. I often found myself in the library reading law review articles and books. I decided then to pursue an academic career and always had that in mind when I worked as a judicial clerk and as a practicing lawyer. I had the good fortune to work with lawyers who had been law professors and this furthered my interest in a teaching career.

Mollie: I started teaching just after we were married and moved to Cleveland. I had not seriously considered teaching as my profession, but several friends had recommended it and I was curious. I developed a love for teaching that has continued to this day.

Professor Myers, it has been said that you are a serious athlete when not professing the law. Would you be willing to elaborate on this point?

I wouldn’t say that I am a serious athlete. I am a serious sports fan. I did play golf in high school and college, but I wasn’t nearly good enough to think seriously about that as a career. When I was in practice and when our children were young, I played very little golf. I spent a lot of time watching my children play various sports and had a lot of fun coaching them in baseball, basketball, soccer,

the Beginning

Professors Murphy and Myers with Antonette Hornsby ’17 and her children

Professor Myers with his son and Monsignor McGrath

and golf. When we moved to Florida, I had my first real opportunity to play consistently in nearly 30 years and I have played quite a bit since we moved here. Fortunately, two of my children play golf and so we have enjoyed spending time together on the golf course.

law school. We have been blessed with six wonderful children (Michael, Patrick, Clare, Kathleen, Matthew, and Andrew). Being a parent is a great responsibility and a great source of joy. We have worked very hard to raise children with the faith and values that our parents instilled in us. As parents, you become aware of your many failings. Any good we have done as parents has been through the grace of God.

You both had an exceptional education background.

Professor Myers, you graduated #1 in your class from Notre Dame Law School. That doesn’t come easy. Professor Murphy, you were Valedictorian at St. Mary’s College. How do you translate some of your success to the students you currently mentor?

We offer our students a lot of advice about how to succeed and in so doing we draw from our own experiences as students and our experiences in working with students with diverse backgrounds and learning styles. The things that helped us as students— hard work, organization, a passion for excellence, and a willingness to learn from criticism and failure—are still important to students today.

How did the two of you meet? You seem to be the perfect example of family values. You raised your terrific family in a Catholic environment.

We met at the beginning of our second year of law school at Notre Dame. That was the best part of law school for both of us. We were both from large families and we had a lot in common. We both grew up in Ohio and shared a commitment to the Catholic faith. We became best friends and married several years after

Professor Murphy, in the most positive way, you’re known around campus as “Machine Gun Murphy.” Can you tell us about this nickname?

It would probably be better to ask the students about this, but my understanding is that the nickname comes from my practice of calling on many students, sometimes in “rapid fire” fashion. I try to engage as many students as possible in classroom discussion. My style is an effort to bring out the best in my students, to instill in them an appreciation for precision and a striving for excellence.

Having been on-board from when it all began, what would you say you appreciate most about Ave Maria School of Law? We took a risk to help start a new Catholic law school. There have been many challenges along the way, but we are still committed to the mission of Ave Maria School of Law. We have been privileged to have this opportunity, we are grateful to those who helped found the school, and to the students we have taught over the years who have made teaching such a joy.

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Dean Cieply, Antonette Hornsby ’17, Glenn Hornsby, Donna Hornsby, Layla Hornsby, Brady Hornsby

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Hope Floats It was always a dream of Antonette Hornsby’s to attend law school. It was something she discussed frequently with her husband. Antonette’s husband, Brian Hornsby, was a highly decorated soldier whose life tragically ended when his helicopter was shot down in Afghanistan while supporting Operation Enduring Freedom. Years later, knowing her husband would be proud, Antonette made her law school dream a reality, and, in 2017, graduated from Ave Maria School of Law at the top of her class, Summa Cum Laude. Chief Warrant Officer Brian D. Hornsby’s legacy now lives in the Ave Maria School of Law Veterans Memorial Law Library on the Veterans Wall of Honor.

We are thrilled you agreed to be our cover story for this year’s Advocate.

It truly means a great deal to the law school community. Congratulations on receiving your Juris Doctor this year and taking the bar exam.

Those are two amazing feats. How do you feel?

I feel a mixture of emotions. From May to the end of July, it’s been a bit of a roller coaster ride. Although I thoroughly enjoyed the entire law school experience and all of the challenges that it entailed, I was excited to finally close that chapter of my life. After graduation, I had one weekend to bask in the glory of that accomplishment before I had to turn to the bar exam. My time spent studying for the bar was every bit as difficult as I expected it to be. I walked out of the exam feeling panic, relief, and fear. Now that I’ve had a moment to take a step back and breathe a little, I’m just excited, relieved, and maybe a little nervous of what the future holds.

You’re highly regarded within the law school community. You were a star student at the top of your class, very successful on the Moot Court Team, all while raising two young children, Layla and Brady.

How did you manage this balance and law school successfully?

Lots of help! Once upon a time I was the type of person who took great pride in doing things on my own, being independent, self-sufficient, etc. That all changed when I

got married and I eased up on the reins. After Brian died, those old personality traits reared their ugly little heads and I once again thought that I had to do everything on my own in order to survive. After I was able to catch my breath, I realized that attempting to go to law school without any help would be a recipe for disaster. I quickly learned to let go of my pride and started taking advantage of all my resources. I shared my plans with my family, including Layla and Brady, and made sure everyone was on board with what to expect for three years. I leaned heavily on my family to help with Layla and Brady and to make sure that both kids continued to thrive at home and in school, while I focused on my own academic goals. I let go of the mommy guilt and accepted that I was going to miss some dance recitals, trick-or-treating, and other activities.

On the school front, I did everything that you’re expected to do, such as making my own outlines, working hard, having regular meltdowns, and studying late. My free time was limited, and I simply didn’t have the luxury of joining multiple clubs or holding a bunch of leadership positions. It wasn’t possible. Rather, I focused on my clinical work, internships, and Layla Hornsby judicial clerkship. I also made the most of my moot court experience by competing and honing my advocacy skills while taking on an executive board position during my second and third year.

Your husband Brian was a true hero who lost his life serving our country. Shortly after graduation, you paid tribute to your husband by donating a plaque in his name on the law school’s Veterans Wall of Honor.

You wanted to incorporate a part of Brian’s legacy with the law school. What are some of the things you like to share when talking about the memory of your husband?

Ironically, I often share how Brian never liked to call attention to himself as a soldier. It would make him feel uncomfortable when people tried to stop and thank him for his service. He was just a quiet guy who thought he had the best job in the world. If he was traveling and had the option of wearing civilian clothes instead of his uniform,

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Glenn Hornsby w/son Brian

Antonette and Brian Hornsby w/children Layla and Brady

he would opt for the civilian clothes. It was his way of not calling attention to himself. He was humble, and I loved that quality about him. To the people who didn’t know him, he seemed quiet. To those who knew him, he was hilarious and loved to talk. He was a witty and charming guy who had a great laugh. He was also an excellent pilot who took his job seriously. Even though he was the head instructor pilot, he didn’t let his pride or ego get in the way of his ability to learn or teach. He respected those who shared his desire to be the best and his respect for the profession.

Your husband joined the Army in 1998 and began as a military policeman. His ultimate dream was to become a pilot, which he did. What did your husband love most about his military duty?

It wasn’t complicated for him. He loved to fly. Brian was one of those few lucky people who grew up to do exactly what he dreamed of doing when he was a young kid.

While I was busy changing my major in college, he was in flight school already living the dream. Brian loved being a Blackhawk pilot and all of the challenges and prestige that his job involved. He told me on more than one occasion that he felt lucky to be getting paid to do what he loves to do. He never missed an opportunity to be on a mission if someone else didn’t want it. He just wanted to be in the air. He also valued the relationships he had with his fellow pilots, his crew chiefs, and the other soldiers who made his missions possible. Brian also enjoyed the adventure and excitement of flying Blackhawks. Brian flew missions in Honduras, Germany, Palestine, Israel, Iraq, Romania, and Afghanistan, to name a few. He escorted President George W. Bush in Palestine, flew Vice President Joe Biden when he visited Iraq, and was the pilot for General Raymond T. Odierno, the senior U.S. military commander in Iraq at the time. He flew countless other missions carrying U.S. navy seals and other military men and women. There’s no doubt that he knew his job was dangerous, but he never let it distract him from doing what he loved—flying.

Antonette and Brian Hornsby on their wedding day

Brady to forget how much Brian adored them or to ever think that they don’t have a father. Additionally, Layla and Brady attend an annual Grief Camp every Memorial Day weekend. I encourage them to take this time to openly talk about Brian and find comfort with other military children who have lost parents. During this time, Layla and Brady are also able to visit Arlington National Cemetery where Brian was laid to rest. I think as the years go by, we’ll find new ways to honor his memory and to find joy in celebrating his life. For example, last year I flew up to Arlington to lay Brian’s wreath for Christmas as part of the Wreaths Across America event. I found the entire wreath laying process healing, and I expect that as the kids grow older, they will want to join me for this annual event.

You continue to have a great relationship with Brian’s parents. Do you spend time together often as a family? This must be a wonderful way to keep Brian’s memory alive.

Absolutely. Brian’s parents are a big part of our lives here in Florida. I moved to Florida after Brian died to be close to Brian’s parents. It was important for me that Layla and Brady grow up learning about their father from people who knew and loved him the most. I also wanted to give the kids as much support as possible. Brian used to say that “you need to set yourself up for success” when thinking through future plans, and I guess that’s what I tried to do. Brian’s parents and the rest of the giant Hornsby family help me with the kids and share their memories about Brian in an effort to preserve his memory.

What are your plans for the future now that the bar exam is behind you?

You have done a beautiful job of preserving your husband’s memory. What are some of the ways you make this work, especially for your children?

There are a lot of unknowns for me right now. Maybe I should feel scared or worried that I’m not entirely sure about my next step, but I’m okay with not knowing what’s going to happen next. I embraced my clinical experiences, volunteer work, moot court work, internships, and judicial clerkship during my time in law school, so I have a good idea of where my interests lie. At the same time, I’m open to any new opportunity that comes my way. One thing is certain: I will definitely be staying in the southwest Florida area.

I, along with Brian’s family, talk about Brian to the kids in an effort to keep his memory alive. I never want Layla or

Why did you decide to attend Ave Maria School of

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“

Brian was just a quiet guy who thought he had the best job in the world.

�

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Brian D. Hornsby with his fellow soldiers

Law? What advice would you share with prospective students considering law school?

You seem extremely positive, grounded and strong.

What is the most important piece of life advice that you would share with others?

There were a number of factors that attracted me to Ave Maria School of Law. Because I was on my own with I’ll preface anything I say with the understanding that I’m Layla and Brady, I needed a law school that was going still learning and likely have plenty of years to go before to give me the best opportunity for success. This meant I’m in the habit of doling out tidbits of wisdom. That being that I needed to attend a school close to my support said, one piece of advice would be that sometimes you network. Ave Law was near my in-laws and its location have to shift your perspective and use a wider lens. was a huge factor in my decision. The What I mean by this is that it’s okay school also had a reputation of offering to dream, to be ambitious, and to good networking and internship strive for excellence. But when things opportunities in the community. don’t turn out as planned, it’s also Additionally, Ave offered a generous okay to be gentle and flexible with scholarship opportunity. Finally, my oneself. In fact, I would go so far as faith is especially important to me, and to say that it could be detrimental to I appreciated the school’s faith-based spiritual growth and success if you approach to the law. In particular, I was cling to the past and try to control the attracted to the Human Trafficking uncontrollable. I’m a perfectionist and Law Clinic. I rationalized that if there like to be in control of my life, so this was ever an opportunity for me to lesson was a hard one for me to learn. live out my belief system and care I’ll probably need to be knocked over for others, then working with human the head a few times with this lesson trafficking victims offered a good before I fully grasp it. Hopefully, each starting point. As far as advice goes, time, it will be less painful. Lack of Antonette Hornsby w/her son Brady I would encourage any prospective control in our lives can be just as much law student to do their research before deciding to go to of a source of comfort as it can be a source of frustration. law school. If they don’t come from a family of attorneys Rather than despairing in failures or disrupted plans, I (I didn’t), then I would encourage them to speak to a would encourage the person who finds him or herself in couple of different attorneys and learn about their daily that situation to take a moment to regroup and shift his professional lives. I would encourage all prospective law or her perspective. After the dust settles, there may be school students to take a moment and consider how they new opportunities and paths that were not visible before. can use a law degree to not only better their own lives, but also the lives of others.

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Where Are They Now? a much more harmonious and relaxing environment to study. The most impactful lessons for me, however, were the opportunities presented to view the legal profession on a deeper moral level while still receiving the basic foundational teachings required by the ABA. It is such a unique perspective that you don’t truly appreciate until you are in practice with clients and is something only Ave Maria Law is able to offer.

What do you enjoy most about working as an attorney?

Jaime Hewitt

received his Juris Doctor degree from Ave Maria School of Law in 2014. He is licensed to practice in the United Kingdom, New York and Florida and is the title attorney at Sandcastle Title, LCC in Naples specializing in real estate transactions and community association law.

He is the acting-President of Shy Wolf Sanctuary and Education Center in Naples. He currently serves as the President of the Ave Maria School of Law Alumni Association.

What was one of the most impactful lessons you learned from your Ave Maria School of Law experience when you were a student?

My experiences at Ave Law were a little different than most students’ experiences, as this was my second time going through law school having studied and practiced in the United Kingdom as a Barrister for four years before moving to the U.S. What immediately struck me about the school and campus was the welcoming nature of the staff, faculty, and current students which created

Being a real estate attorney, I get to see the happy side of the legal profession. My practice in the U.K was largely civil based and for a large part of the time I practiced there I represented banks during the financial crisis and got to see the un-happy side of the law. I think no matter what area of practice you enter in, and no matter whether it’s on the happy or un-happy side, being an attorney gives you the opportunity to help people when they need it.

Fundamentally, I think that is the reason why most people choose to enter the legal profession, and for me, being able to help people move in to their first home or move up the property ladder is always a rewarding experience.

You have been very involved and supportive of the law school upon graduation. You currently serve as the President of the Ave Law Alumni Association.

Why is it important for you to dedicate your time in this particular way? What do you enjoy most about staying in touch with other alumni and members of the school?

Ave Law, in particular, and the U.S. in general, has a much greater sense of community and patriotic pride than the U.K. and it was important for me to integrate myself in to that culture as part of the transition process from one side of the Atlantic to the other. I tried as much as possible, while going through law school, to be involved with as many on-campus and community organizations as time would allow. I also extended my legal and community Jaime Hewitt continued on page 46...

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Where Are They Now? Jaime Hewitt continued...

involvement to non-profit organizations, Florida Bar young lawyer chapters, and young professional networking groups to widen my prospects post-graduation. Continuing my involvement with Ave Law after graduation was a nobrainer, giving back to my alma matter and helping as many current students be successful only serves to increase the standing of the school in the eyes of the local community as well as the national legal community which in turn helps all alumni.

The legal community, especially in Naples, is a very closeknit group. As Ave Law positions itself for future growth, maintaining relationships with alumni is a great way to increase business opportunities via referrals, as well as ensuring that as the school moves forward more alumni are aware of these advancements and are willing to lend their time to the school. I believe that Ave Law is unique in the creation of a ‘family’ amongst staff, faculty, and students and that ‘family’ shouldn’t and doesn’t end at graduation and any part that I can play in the continuation and furtherance of that is a worthwhile endeavor.

Witnessing the gratitude of the bar exam takers because we are able to offer a fantastic support network of alumni and faculty on test day is just one small way engaged alumni can make a difference in setting Ave Law apart from other Florida law schools.

What advice would you share with recent law school graduates starting out on their career path in the field of law?

It is somewhat cliché to say, but finding a mentor that can help guide you through the early days of your career is vital. Law school is a great learning tool for how to conduct research and how to draft documents, but largely, the practical side of daily life as an attorney with things like where to file a motion or who to speak to at the clerk’s office is left up to the newly minted attorney to discover on their own.

Having a wide circle of connections in the local community, whether it be Naples, or where you plan to move to after law school is also vitally important. The legal profession is still very much founded on who you know not what you know and entering practice with numerous referral sources and contacts in the community is a fantastic launch pad to a profitable career, not to mention that having such a solid base within the community is a perfect way to find your first legal position or that next step up the legal ladder.

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Laura Hale with Presley Davis ‘18

LAURA HALE received her Juris Doctor degree

from Ave Maria School of Law in 2003 as a member of the inaugural class. Laura was Ave Maria Law’s first president of the Lex Vitae Society from 2001-2002 and the recipient of the St. Ives Award and the National Association of Women Lawyers—Outstanding Law Graduate Award in 2003. In addition, Laura has a Master of Science in Education from Franciscan University of Steubenville and a Bachelor of Science in Psychology from Florida State University. She is currently a Hearing Officer and General Magistrate in the Twelfth Judicial Circuit Court of Florida, working primarily in the family law division.

Why did you choose to attend Ave Maria School of Law? Looking back, it has been an interesting journey as I never planned to attend law school at all. The person most surprised by my attendance at Ave Maria Law was me! I always say that if I had made a list of 100 life goals at that time, law school would have been number 101. I spent the first nine years of my professional life in Southwest Florida in the field of social work and children’s mental health. My next career goal was teaching at the elementary level, so I entered graduate school at the University of South Florida then transferred to Franciscan University of Steubenville to finish a master’s in education. The transfer was motivated primarily by a strong desire to surround myself in the Catholic culture offered at Franciscan.

Not long before I graduated from Franciscan, my mother sent me a newspaper article about this new Catholic law school getting started in Michigan.

Very casually and non-committal at first, I started researching it. As I gathered information, I became increasingly impressed with what I saw. The quality of the faculty, the administration, the commitment to the integration of Catholic teaching with the study of law — and to get to be on the ground floor of it all — was an exciting and unique opportunity. I would never have taken the final step to attend, however, without the unexpected yet abiding conviction that developed within me to head in the direction of Ave Maria Law. In retrospect, it was one of the best decisions I have ever made.

that I have ever known and we all have that shared Ave Maria experience. Most importantly, observe very closely those individuals that demonstrate a combination of legal skill, ethics, and humility and glean as much as you can from them. These traits are invaluable and will make you a better and wiser legal professional.

How did Ave Law prepare you for your career path?

During my time at Ave Maria Law, I had to work harder than I had ever worked in my entire life. I credit the professors and administration for creating a supportive environment with very high expectations. My first job after law school was in the Court Counsel Office of the Twelfth Judicial Circuit where I had to research all varieties of legal questions for the court, which were basically real-life versions of those far out law school hypotheticals. The workload was never ending and it involved a ton of writing, but I was prepared. In addition, the professors and administration at Ave Maria showed me, by example, that I am not a lawyer for part of the day and a Catholic for the other part, rather, my professional life and my faith life co-exist at all times to define me as a person and a lawyer.

What advice you would share with a law school graduate just starting out?

What do you enjoy most about your current position as a Hearing Officer/General Magistrate?

Simply put, don’t worry! The hectic pace of graduation and taking the bar exam can be incredibly stressful and overwhelming. Be patient, as you may not reach your ideal job right away, maybe not even in the first five years or more. Everything career-wise will all come together in its own time. Law school graduates are driven, hardworking, and ambitious. We tend to be naturally inclined to plan very specific life and career goals; however, I think it is important to leave a piece of yourself open to prayerful guidance and the unexpected. Post-law school life may not go the way you envision, but those alternate paths may take you to the best and highest use of your God-given talents. Sometimes your skills need to be refined in work that does not feel like the perfect fit, but that work may have a valuable future purpose. Cultivate positive relationships with your colleagues, contacts, and mentors. The connections you make from these relationships will help you navigate the early years of your professional life and could be integral in your future path. Reach out to Ave Law alumni for support, even if you have never met them. My classmates in the inaugural class are some of the most talented, wonderful people

In my current position with the court, I interact a lot more with the general public and attorneys in the courtroom.

This is my favorite part of the job as I am constantly learning how to manage a courtroom, how to facilitate a hearing, and very importantly, how to communicate with all types of litigants and attorneys in (hopefully) an effective, respectful, and professional manner. In family court, even a narrowly focused hearing can become emotional and potentially volatile quickly, so my job is to know and follow the law, keep parties on track, and ensure that everyone has the opportunity to be heard.

Litigation with pro se parties can be very unpredictable, but if parties are treated with dignity and respect and leave the courthouse feeling like they have been heard, then the court system will work effectively to do what it is there for, which is to resolve disputes and allow parties to continue on with their lives.

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Where Are They Now?

What was the most important thing you feel you learned through your Ave Maria School of Law experience?

I learned how to read, write and think like a lawyer.

What advice would you share with current law students as they prepare for their careers following law school?

NICOLE RANDAZZO received her Juris

Doctor degree from Ave Maria School of Law in 2012. She’s currently an Associate at Squire Patton Boggs law firm.

Nicole focuses her practice on all aspects of commercial real estate transactions, with particular emphasis on retail real estate matters. Prior to this position, Nicole served as in-house counsel for multi-branded international retailers. Nicole also represents investors, developers and private businesses throughout the U.S.

Why did you decide to choose Ave Maria School of Law as your law school path?

I chose Ave Maria School of Law because of the culture.

When I visited the campus for an accepted students’ day event, it was clear that Ave Law was the kind of place where while still competitive, the students helped each other learn in true Catholic tradition. The professors were genuine and clearly cared about the students and their success. This turned out to be very accurate. The professors always had their doors open to me when I had questions or needed help understanding a principal of law.

48 avemarialaw.edu

I would tell students to take advantage of every opportunity that comes their way. If there is a mock interview session, sign up and participate in mock interviews with practicing attorneys. It will improve your skills and make real interviews easier. Participate in internships, externships and clerkships so that you can not only learn practical skills you will use after graduating, but also so you will get to see what areas of law you do and don’t enjoy. When you are at those internships, learn as much as you can and do your best to impress everyone.

You never know who may offer you a job or recommend you to a colleague that may be hiring. Establish great relationships with your professors. Many of them have practiced in the public and private sector, and they have great real-world advice. Several professors have been mentors to me. Finally, listen to advice from everyone, especially attorneys that have been practicing for many years. Even if you don’t put their advice to use, you will likely learn something (even if it’s something you aren’t going to do).

What do you enjoy most about your current position?

What made you decide to go into real estate law?

I really enjoy negotiating, both because of my interest in the retail real estate environment and because of the business relationship aspect. The retail real estate world is a somewhat small community where you interact with a lot of the same parties on a regular basis. I initially thought I would be a litigator because I enjoyed being in the courtroom. Negotiating is similar, but it moves more quickly and is more amicable. Instead of a winner/loser type scenario, you have two parties that are (mostly) pleased with the outcome. Real estate law kind of chose me. My family owned commercial properties, and I helped with leasing them. This made me an attractive candidate to my first internship. Once I started negotiating leases, I was hooked, and the rest is history!

Keeping in Touch Jennifer Lucas-Ross, Associate Dean of Career Services and Alumni Affairs, is responsible for all administrative functions of the Career Services Office. Ms. Lucas-Ross offers individualized counseling services to students and alumni. She is also responsible for reaching out to employers, coordinating the law school’s recruitment programs, and producing public interest opportunities for students. Ms. Lucas-Ross is licensed as an attorney in Florida. Prior to joining Ave Maria School of Law, she worked as a sole practitioner concentrating on civil litigation. Her professional background includes experience in management, academic support and teaching. Ms. Lucas-Ross earned her J.D. from Nova Southeastern University Shepard Broad Law Center. She completed her undergraduate studies at LaSalle University in Philadelphia, PA, where she earned a degree in English.

You oversee Alumni Affairs and Career Services for the law school.

What do you love most about your role?

CLASS OF 2017

Ana S. Mendieta, Esq. opened her own law firm, The Mendieta Law Firm, PLLC, with a focus on U.S. Immigration law.

CLASS OF 2016

Shea Hasenauer is an Associate Attorney at Cole Law Group, PC, Brentwood, TN.

I love seeing the students develop and move from law student to practicing professional. My favorite experience in my role is watching a student graduate, begin their career, and then asking them back to mentor our current students. Every time they allow me to share in their success is a delight. Since taking over Alumni Affairs, I have also been able to see the further progress of our alumni. They are so talented and a deeply caring and receptive alumni community.

Having gone through law school earning your J.D. and practicing as an attorney at one point in your life must be helpful in mentoring students and alumni, since you were once in their shoes. What is the best advice you would give to current students pursuing internships, and to new alumni starting out on their legal career path?

Having a plan is essential, but keep your heart open. I believe that our profession is a calling. And as such, sometimes we are called down a path we didn’t see when we first began this journey.

CLASS OF 2012

Maria Berrette and Shaina Zuppke opened their own firm, Berrette & Zuppke Attorneys At Law, LLC, in Ft. Myers, FL.

For more information or to share your news and accomplishments, please contact Jennifer Lucas-Ross, Esq. at jlross@avemarialaw.edu or 239.687.5351.

Ave Maria School of Law (school page) Ave Maria School of Law Alumni (Official) AveLinks Ave Law Career Services

@AveMariaLaw

CLASS OF 2012

Ernest A. Ricci, Esq. is a shareholder and attorney at The Boatman Law Firm, PA, in Naples, FL.

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Be sure to register your charity as “Ave Maria School of Law” on Amazon so that our law school can receive a donation from a portion of your purchases. The Amazon Smile Foundation will donate up to 5% of the purchase price from a customer’s eligible Amazon Smile purchases. It’s easy to do and will help to further the mission of Ave Law. Simply visit the Amazon home page, click on Amazon Smile and register Ave Maria School of Law as your preferred charity.

preLaw

MOST DIVERSE LAW SCHOOL

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BEST

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The Princeton Review

BEST 169 LAW SCHOOLS 2017

Brian D. Hornsby (dec.), Chief Warrant Officer in the Army (see story on page 40)

AVE MARIA SCHOOL OF LAW 1025 Commons Circle Naples, Florida 34119 avemarialaw.edu