Viewbook 2019-2020

DISCOVER

your

CALLING

NAPLES, FLORIDA 2019-2020

Naples, FL 2019-2020

A

Going to law school is a rigorous yet rewarding “time in one’s life. It shapes who you are and the type of lawyer you will be. Given that, who will you trust with the cultivation of your mind?

What anchors their thoughts and grounds their philosophy? At Ave Maria School of Law, we provide full access to a community with high academic standards, rooted in the Catholic intellectual tradition, with the full support of inspiring faculty and staff committed to professional excellence. Making the choice to join the Ave Maria School of Law community is the first step in discovering your calling.

So, are you ready?”

–Kevin Cieply, President and Dean

B

avemarialaw.edu

a note from

AVE MARIA SCHOOL OF LAW’S

CHAPLAIN

A Leap of Faith While Considering Law School As you make your final decision on where your law school home will be, I hope you are considering Ave Maria School of Law. From the moment you arrive on our campus, you realize that Ave Maria School of Law is an environment of kindness. There is a balance of a very focused, hard-working community and a joyful atmosphere. You will find that there is a positive dynamic among staff, faculty and students.

The law students inspire me: they have come here for the purpose of becoming informed and skilled attorneys who are empowered by their faith and love for God. What I cherish most about Ave Maria School of Law is the family-like warmth and professionalism of the faculty, the Dean and staff dedicated to the mission of the school. I would like for you to experience this for yourself. I wish you well in your future endeavors. If you decide Ave Maria School of Law is for you, I look forward to our paths crossing here on Florida’s Gulf Coast.

God Bless You, Monsignor McGrath, Ave Maria School of Law’s Chaplain

Naples, FL 2019-2020

1

we are 2 avemarialaw.edu

AVE MARIA LAW

Naples, FL 2019-2020

3

WHO

we are

AVE MARIA SCHOOL OF LAW HONOR CODE I am a member of the Ave Maria School of Law. I will act honestly, temperately, chastely, and with integrity.

I will guard against dishonesty of purpose and deed.

I will not lie, cheat, or steal, nor tolerate those who do.

I will treat all others with fairness and equality respecting their rights and human dignity.

I will strive to be morally courageous and do what is right regardless of the consequences.

I will take responsibility for my actions and decisions and will hold others accountable for theirs.

I will hold myself to the highest standards of personal and professional conduct, and will encourage others also to do so.

I will obey the law, the rules of professional conduct for lawyers, and this code. I will report to the appropriate authority all violations which I observe or of which I become aware.

I will ensure that these principles guide my performance, behavior, and conduct at all times.

4

avemarialaw.edu

Ave Maria School of Law (Ave Maria Law), Southwest Florida’s law school, offers a high quality legal education with a commitment to professional excellence, rooted in the Catholic intellectual tradition. Inspired by Pope John Paul II’s encyclical Fides et Ratio, Ave Maria School of Law offers a distinctive legal education — an education characterized by the harmony of faith and reason.

AVE MARIA SCHOOL OF LAW MISSION

Formed by outstanding professional training and a distinctive educational philosophy, Ave Maria Law’s graduates are equipped for leading positions in law firms, corporate legal offices, the judiciary, and national, state and local government.

Ave Maria Law offers an outstanding legal education in fidelity to the Catholic faith. We affirm Catholic legal education’s traditional emphasis on the only secure foundation for human freedom — the natural law written on the heart of every human being. We uphold the need for society to rediscover those human and moral truths that flow from the nature of the human person and that safeguard human freedom.

• Standing squarely for life in every stage and leading the charge, nationwide • Our program: legal excellence and moral clarity • Dedicated to reclaiming American values and defending our Constitution

• Educating lawyers with the finest professional skills • Excellence in teaching • Dedication to research and scholarship • Serving the common good • Building a community • Authentic Catholic mission

• Ave Maria Law is fully accredited by the American Bar Association • An independent law school established in 1999 • An educational philosophy that emphasizes the moral foundations of the law, presents insights from the Catholic intellectual tradition, and encourages a broader perspective of the law and its role in society • A curriculum designed to ensure that graduates will be well prepared to practice law in any jurisdiction and employment area • Ave Maria Law has a student body of 270 and 1600 alumni that are drawn from almost every state and several other nations • A successful record of national career placement — Ave Maria Law graduates have secured prestigious judicial clerkships, employment in firms of all sizes around the country, positions with federal and state agencies, and jobs with both domestic and international public-interest employers • Students can enroll in the Ave Maria Law Advantage Summer Start program which begins in mid-May or fall entry which begins in mid-August

Naples, FL 2019-2020

5

ACADEMICS We offer a rigorous and varied academic program, based on the foundation of faith and reason. Ave Maria Law requires 90 credit hours for graduation, including a core curriculum of 74 credit hours and 6 credit hours of experiential courses.

In addition, we fully support our students in preparing for the bar examination by offering intensive courses that focus on test-taking abilities, advanced essay writing and multistate bar exam questions.

1L Overview of Required Classes 1L Fall Semester

Credits

1L Spring Semester

Credits

Civil Procedure I

3

Civil Procedure II

3

Contracts I

2

Contracts II

3

Property I

3

Property II

2

Legal Analysis, Writing, 3 and Research I

Legal Analysis, Writing, and Research II

2

Torts I

3

Torts II

3

Moral Foundations

2

Criminal Law

3

Legal Case Analysis/ Skills Enrichment

1

1L Fall Semester Total: 17

1L Spring Semester Total: 16

Total: 33

Upper Level Required Courses

Credits

Applied Critical Thinking and Legal Analysis* (2L year)

3

Business Organizations

3

Commercial Law

4

Constitutional Law

4

Criminal Procedure

3

Evidence 4 Jurisprudence 3 Professional Responsibility

3

Legal Analysis, Writing, and Research III (2L year)

2

Wills, Trusts and Estates

3

Advanced Legal Analysis-Multistate (3L year)

4

Advanced Essay Writing or Florida Legal Practice (3L year)

2

Third Year Mission Course **

2

6

avemarialaw.edu

Subtotal: 37-40

discover

YOUR CALLING

BAR PREP Ave Maria Law offers an innovative in-house bar preparation program taught and supervised by Professor Christopher Buscaglia, the law school’s Director of Bar Preparation, and Cameron Colledge, Assistant Director of Bar Preparation.

Goal: To adequately train and fully prepare students for the Florida and out-of-state bar examinations.

Program Components: For-Credit Bar Review Courses and a Supplemental Bar Preparation Program Once the commercial bar courses are completed, Ave students can attend a 5-Day final review of the Florida subjects, and a 3-Day final review of the Multistate subjects.

“Your law school journey will require you to work hard and it is truly worth the effort. Take care of yourself mentally and physically because you need the stamina. Respect the process because you truly begin your career when you walk through the door on your first day of school.”

– Maureen Milliron, Associate Dean of Academic Affairs

“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….”

–Chris Buscaglia, Director of Bar Preparation

Naples, FL 2019-2020

7

DISCOVER YOUR CALLING

FACULTY

Our faculty and staff are fully invested in enriching the legal education of our law students.

Their approach is one of vocation as many dedicate their lives to the service of others, to protect the sanctity of life and protect human dignity. Our faculty is experienced in the actual practice of law, so they are lecturing not just from theory, but from real life experience.

“I love teaching at Ave Maria School of Law because the small class sizes allow for much more one-on-one interaction with the students. I also greatly appreciate the students who decide to enroll here because of the mission with its strong focus on morals, ethics, faith and reason, as well as the school’s very supportive family-friendly atmosphere.” – Professor Scott Daniels

8 avemarialaw.edu

3 4 5

served as members of the United States Army Judge Advocate General’s Office (JAG)

“Students here have relationships with our professors. Because our professors really know our students, the depth of the class lecture improves. Students feel comfortable asking questions and engaging in an intelligent dialogue.” – Daniel Pardo, Class of 2019

Since 2008, the doctrinal faculty have produced:

6

have clerked for federal judges

23 book chapters. More than 55 pieces for law-related and other publications, and more than 70 law review articles

LL.M. degrees

Presented or served as panelists at over and civic gatherings

books and more than

75 academic conferences

“When I read in certain law school journals that Ave Law is rated the “most devout” law school in the country, I understand it to mean that our students have the most “fire in their bellies” for advancing the culture of life of any law school student body in the United States. We support that devotion with daily mass said two times a day in our law school chapel by our full-time chaplain, Monsignor Frank McGrath.

In addition, our students not only have opportunities to intern with state and federal judges but also with the Holy See Mission to the United Nations and to work with those in close association with the Holy See in Rome for a semester abroad. Finally, unlike many law schools where students treat each other primarily as competitors, the members of our small student body know each other personally, many live in the same on-campus apartment buildings and tend to form supportive friendships readily. Maybe it’s grace, maybe it’s sunny Florida, but the quality of life here is very good.” – Professor Brian Scarnecchia What advice would you give to students considering law school?

Recognize that you will soon be entering a proud and noble profession, and challenge yourself to commit fully to that end. There will be a lot of “ups and downs” during your law school career, but understand that the pride and satisfaction that you will feel when you walk across the stage to accept your juris doctorate degree is worth every ounce of energy and every minute spent studying and working hard to get there.

–Professor Kirk Miller

Naples, FL 2019-2020

9

“Externships, especially when you aren’t quite sure what area of law you want to practice, are invaluable experiences for many reasons. The exposure to different areas of law is incredibly helpful while trying to figure out what kind of lawyer you want to be.” –Claire Guggemos, Class of 2020

LEGAL INTERNSHIP PROGRAM Ave Maria Law offers students the opportunity to work a full-time legal internship for law school credit through one of our Legal Internship Programs. Students in their final year of law school may be able to apply for placement through these programs designed to immerse students in real world legal settings through hands-on practical experience at one of several organizations.

Students participating in the fieldwork component of a Certified Legal Internship (CLI) may have their own caseloads and appear in court under the supervision of an attorney. Students participating in the United Nations Legal Internship (UNLI) program will gain exposure to the international law and global relations and diplomacy by serving as representatives for their Non-governmental organizations (NGO) at the United Nations.

The DC Legal Internship with Culture of Life Institute (DCCLI) requires students to spend a full semester in Washington, DC, allowing students to gain invaluable experience assisting the work of the United States Congress on issues relating to bioethics.

For more details, please visit our website: www.avemarialaw.edu/ academics/legal-internship-programs/

EXTERNSHIP PROGRAM The Ave Maria Law Externship Program provides law students with academic credit for on-site field experience with legal employers.

Southwest Florida provides opportunities for law students to gain valuable experience as student externs for state and federal court judges, government agencies, and public interest firms.

Students may work as an extern during the summer, fall or spring semesters. During the summer, law students may extern for legal employers throughout the country. Students who take advantage of the Externship Program gain relevant work experience that will serve them well as they search for first year Associate and other entry level positions upon graduation.

10 avemarialaw.edu

Develop The following southwest Florida legal employers regularly participate in Ave Maria Law’s Externship Program: • 20th Judicial Circuit Court • Florida Attorney General – Office of Statewide Prosecution • Florida Department of Children & Families, Children’s Legal Services • Guardian ad Litem • Healthcare Network of Southwest Florida

• Office of Criminal Conflict & Civil Regional Counsel, 2nd DCA • Office of the Public Defender, 20th Judicial Circuit • Office of the State Attorney, 20th Judicial Circuit • The Hertz Corporation • U.S. Attorney’s Office, Middle District of Florida • U.S. District Court for the Middle District of Florida

“As a new student at Ave, I wanted to reach out to prospective externship sites, and be sure I was noticed. I turned to the Office of Professional Development and quickly made use of the professional support they offered. Professional Development helped me tremendously with resumes, cover letters, and writing samples, working with me to make sure these documents stand out from the competition. With the support of Professional Development, I was blessed with a unique opportunity to work under a federal judge who mentored me.”

–Victor Bermudez, Class of 2018

YOUR CALLING EMPLOYMENT OUTCOMES:

• Ave Maria Law alumni are employed in 47 states and internationally.

• Ave Maria Law alumni are represented in state and federal government, private law firms including large international firms, and global corporations.

• Ave Maria Law alumni include honorable members of the state and federal judiciary. Our alumni continue the tradition of teaching and scholarship at various institutions and law schools.

• 80% of the Class of 2018 were employed 10 months post-graduation in a position using their law degree.

PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT The Office of Professional Development works to develop, encourage, and empower our students as they begin the pursuit of their passion for the legal profession. Our mission is in direct alignment with and supports the law school’s vision and mission in fidelity to the Catholic Faith to build a community, serve the common good, educate and develop students who will become lawyers with the finest legal, ethical, and professional skills.

INTERNSHIPS:

• 92% of the 3L class of 2018-2019 held an internship or externship while in law school.

• Dozens of employers each year recruit Ave Maria Law students through our On Campus Recruitment program, including federal District Court and state judges.

• Nearly half of the 1L class of 2018-2019 secured a summer legal internship or externship.

• In the summer of 2019, our students interned for numerous U.S. District Court Judges, state Supreme Court judges, and state Circuit Court judges throughout Florida and the United States.

Serving the Common Good: • Each year, Ave Maria Law recognizes 3L students who complete 50 hours or more of volunteer legal service for organizations such as Legal Aid, Children’s Legal Services, the Public Defender’s Office and various faithbased organizations.

Naples, FL 2019-2020 11

ALUMNI INSIGHT LUCA HICKMAN (Class of 2014)

MARY KANOWSKY (Class of 2016)

LLC

Law Clerk to Chief Administrative Law Judge

Employment: Registered Patent Attorney at Grimes How did your education at Ave Maria Law prepare you for your career?

First, and most importantly, Ave Maria provided a solid, Catholic moral grounding which has informed my legal practice. For example, having such a grounding has helped me “navigate” the various moral/ethical challenges I have faced in my practice.

Second, Ave Maria equipped me with the skills and knowledge needed to excel in my field. I often tell other alumni that I have used things I learned in every class I took at Ave Maria in my practice.

How would you describe your overall experience at Ave Maria Law? In many ways, Ave Maria is still my home. My time at Ave Maria was – at once – amongst the most challenging and rigorous yet fulfilling and enjoyable times of my life. Never before or since have I worked through the night while laughing and surrounded by friends or worked so closely with others as we faced common challenges. My faith also found new fullness and meaning after arriving at Ave Maria. My goal throughout my practice has been to do the very best I can for my clients and my community as a way of giving back in thanksgiving for such precious gifts.

12 avemarialaw.edu

Employment: U.S. Department of Justice,

What are some of the most valuable lessons you learned while attending Ave Maria School of Law? I think that the courses on Natural Law that Ave Maria Law offered greatly shaped my understanding of the law. Additionally, I met lifelong friends who taught me that you can fight through any battle, and face the ups and downs of the legal profession, if you have true friends to help you through it. As Saint Thomas Aquinas said, “There is nothing on this earth more to be prized than true friendship.”

If you were to provide advice to recent law school graduates, what would it be as they look forward on their careers ahead?

Have an end goal in mind, but take chances in applying to your first few jobs, pray, accept rejection gracefully, and listen to constructive criticism. It is vital to stay in touch with professors, past mentors, and even fellow law students; you need a support system and advice as you begin this new profession. And very importantly, take advantage of free continued legal education courses (CLE’s).

KRISTIN DIAZ-GARCIA (Class of 2010) Employment: Associate General Counsel at

JEREMY TEMPLE (Class of 2003)

Arthrex, Inc.

What are some of the most valuable lessons you learned while attending Ave Maria Law?

Employment: Director and Senior

Hard work and dedication can go a long way.

When I was in law school, the financial downturn hit and many employers were not hiring interns for paid positions. I worked for free after my first year (and throughout my second year) trying to gain as much experience as possible. But most importantly, I developed a greater appreciation for the ethics of our profession and how readily that foundation can be compromised.

This does not really become evident until you have been practicing for some time, but advocating for your client as well as others with high ethical standards is critical and helps build trust and loyalty with your client(s) and coworkers alike.

If you were to provide advice to recent law school graduates, what would it be as they look forward on their careers ahead?

When an opportunity presents itself, even if it is out of your comfort zone, take a chance and do your best. Always approach your work product with diligence and put forth your best effort, no matter what. Especially when starting your career, say “yes” to every task, large or small. This is something I practice, even today. Never stop trying to improve or learn something new.

Counsel at LexisNexis

What are some of the most valuable lessons you learned while attending Ave Maria School of Law? One, persistence and determination matters as much as talent and academic success. Even if you get knocked down in school, just get back up, put your head down, do your best, and keep going. You’ll figure it out and make it work, if you are persistent.

If you were to provide advice to recent law school graduates, what would it be as they look forward on their careers ahead?

Try to find out what you enjoy and have aptitude in. Those things are tied together.

You won’t do a really good job at something unless, at some level, you enjoy it. Also, do internships and externships during school if you can. An internship I did at the legal department of Toyota’s R&D center in Ann Arbor during my 3L year was what made my mind up about going in-house, which I did right out of law school.

“Ave Law has changed my life. The J.D. that I earned from Ave has opened many doors for me and given my family a lifestyle that I could not have provided otherwise. I speak with Dean Cieply monthly and I know he gives his all for our alma mater. As I have grown in the legal community both in Lee County and Collier County, Florida, I see the impact the school is making. We are beginning to “take over” the area and as more and more quality attorneys are produced and those who are already out here begin to gain partnerships in their respective firms, the schools notoriety will only continue to grow. It is an exciting time to be an Ave Law graduate.”

–Joshua Molandes, Class of 2014 and President of the Ave Maria Law Alumni Board Association

Alumni are employed in

47

states and internationally

Naples, FL 2019-2020 13

discover FLORIDA’S PARADISE COAST

Located in Naples, the Law School’s twelve-acre campus provides a welcoming environment for legal study and research, participation in clinical programs, legal organizations and on-campus housing. Ave Maria Law is in close proximity to top area law firms, the Collier and Lee County Courts, as well as the Federal District Court in Fort Myers, ideal for gaining experience and employment.

Additionally, students can enjoy an array of amenities and a quality of life associated with one of the fastest-growing metropolitan areas in the United States. The Ave Maria Law campus is conveniently located next to Vineyards Elementary School and Vineyards Community Park, and minutes away from the beaches on the Gulf of Mexico and downtown Naples.

Ranked one of the nation’s most outstanding law schools by The Princeton Review and the best Catholic Law School in the United States for the Devout by The National Jurist’s PreLaw Magazine, Ave Maria Law has enrolled students from 49 states and abroad and from more than 200 colleges and universities.

14 avemarialaw.edu

AVE MARIA LAW UP CLOSE E

C

F

D

H B

A

A Faculty and Administration Building B Veterans Memorial Law Library C Fitness Complex D St. Thomas More Commons E West and East Halls F Villas Law School Housing

G

G Vineyards Community Park H Vineyards Elementary School

Orlando 185 miles

Tampa 155 miles

Fort Myers 30 miles ave maria school of law

Naples

Ft. Lauderdale 110 miles Miami 125 miles

Naples, FL 2019-2020 15

EMBRACING

Health & Wellness Be your best self…for you.

Live your best life…for you.

Ave Maria Moves…you.

Make the best choices…for you.

Ave Maria Law has added its very own Fitness Complex on the school’s twelve and a half acre campus. More than a facility, an entire Mind + Body + Spirit initiative has been launched within the school community: Ave Maria Moves.

A health trend has started on campus and it’s catching on.

The Director of Health & Wellness Heidi Roderick is leading the charge on engagement and involvement. Group classes including Zumba, HIIT (High-intensity interval training) and yoga, as well as running and walking groups, are active on campus.

There’s a direct correlation with exercise and the brain. Exercise will increase the ability to succeed at the highest levels during our students’ law school experience. Just as it took months to build our complex, it takes time to incorporate new habits. Every small step adds up to something great.

For More Details on Ave Maria Moves Initiative Ave Maria Moves Program Website: http://wellness.avemarialaw.edu/ Ave Maria Moves Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/avemariamoves/ 16 avemarialaw.edu

WHY THIS MATTERS

A Discussion with Dean Cieply How was it decided that the law school would build a fitness complex?

Because of the generosity of a benefactor of the law school who wishes to remain anonymous, the law school was gifted $2 million dollars specifically to build a fitness facility. It aligns with our school’s holistic mission bringing not only reason, but faith and wellness into the legal education of our students.

How is this benefitting the law school community?

First and foremost, law school is high stress and the students do not have a lot of time for work-life balance. The law school is providing an opportunity to build healthy habits that will stay with them for a lifetime, well past law school and into their careers as attorneys. A well-rounded program has been launched that targets the mind, body, and spirit. Whether someone wants to take a spin class every day, or a thirty minute walk on the treadmill while reading torts, everyone is accommodated. We’re all individuals with different goals in mind. There are so many studies linking exercise and the brain. The more you move, the more productive you will be in the classroom, and in life.

Ave Maria Law will be a smoke-free campus starting August 2022.

What is the big picture?

When the law school community invests in students’ wellness, productivity rises. There’s a trickle-down effect and it begins to spread in positive ways. Recruiting goes up, study habits strengthen, grade averages improve, bar passage increases, and sick days lessen.

The list goes on. It can only make the community better and stronger as a whole. Health and wellness is a hot topic in all industries. It continues to grow and the movement is not stopping anytime soon.

CHIP PROGRAM The Complete Health Improvement Program (CHIP), founded by the Lifestyle Medicine Institute, was launched and implemented at a law school for the first time in the world at Ave Maria Law. The CHIP program is a research tested, intensive lifestyle medicine intervention solution designed to prevent, arrest and facilitate the reversal of many common chronic diseases.

Talking with Heidi Roderick, Director of Health & Wellness Why do you believe in CHIP? The science behind it proves the program’s success. Also, the results. There are hundreds of testimonials from people like you and me.

Why would you recommend people sign up for CHIP? If you would like to change your lifestyle for the better, lower your risk for disease, lower your blood pressure and cholesterol, or even if your numbers are great, there’s always room to find new healthy habits to incorporate into your lifestyle. We can always learn something new. We all want to feel our best and live a long, healthy life.

Is CHIP a strict vegan diet?

No, it is not. It promotes eating mostly a plant-based whole foods diet. The more your lifestyle reflects this, the better results you will see for yourself. The program also recommends incorporating exercise into your daily routine. This could be ten minutes a day to start, ideally moving up to thirty minutes a day. Your fitness routine could be as simple as a daily walk.

Can one benefit from CHIP by taking small steps to changing their health and wellness rather than a big overhaul?

Small steps lead to big successes. I always like to tell people to look at this as an opportunity to add healthy plant-based whole foods to your diet, rather than looking at it as eliminating foods from your diet and lifestyle. The more of the healthy nutrients you add, eventually the less of the bad stuff you’ll crave. Add in some fruits and vegetables.

Drink more water. Walk for ten minutes. Eat less meat and dairy. Eat less processed food.

HEALTHY MINDS, HEALTHY HEARTS Ave Maria Law hosts an annual Mental Health & Wellness Week on campus. This is a schoolwide initiative that brings awareness to mental health issues in the legal profession. We take mental health seriously, which is why we’ve implemented an entire mind, body, and spirit approach on campus.

“Here at Ave Law, we value mental health. The legal profession suffers from high rates of depression, anxiety, substance abuse, addiction problem, the list goes on. Every year we dedicate a week to raising awareness and teaching students healthy habits.”

– Meredith Lunde ‘19

FITNESS COMPLEX QUICK STATS Total Square Footage

21,740 including the basketball courts and soccer field

Equipment Pulse Fitness for strength and cardio, Schwinn spin bikes

Construction Company Compass Construction, Inc.

On-Site Elements Covered Basketball courts, 3v3 Soccer field (with lights), Spin bikes, Pickleball, Personal Trainers, Group Classes, Tournaments, Showers

Architect Victor Latavish

Naples, FL 2019-2020 17

DISCOVER AVE MARIA LAW UP CLOSE LAW LIBRARY Ave Maria Law is home to the leading resource of legal information in Southwest Florida—Veterans Memorial Law Library is a teaching and learning center for students of Ave Maria Law. Its comfortable reading areas and quiet study rooms provide students and attorneys with an ideal place to conduct their research and study all aspects of the law.

The library is equipped with a state-of-the-art computer lab, multiple charging stations for personal devices, and a multi-use printing station so that students have the means to conduct and share their research with all of the modern conveniences to which they’ve grown accustomed.

With a collection ranging from Classical Philosophy and Canon Law to the latest digital resources, the Veterans Memorial Law Library is uniquely able to prepare the next generation of well-rounded and intellectual lawyers. The library’s print collection alone exceeds 50,000 items; whereas the library’s digital collection, accessible from anywhere, provides students with all of the resources necessary to excel in law school and as practicing attorneys!

Florida Law, Elder Law, Estate Planning, Immigration Law, Legal History and Ethics, Ancient and Medieval Philosophy, and Canon Law are all areas in which our students’ access to the best available catalog is second-to-none. In addition to providing these invaluable resources in print, the library’s digital catalog makes them accessible from anywhere, allowing students to conduct thorough and fruitful research from the comfort of their homes.

18 avemarialaw.edu

Veterans Memorial Law Library is honored to house special collections from Cardinal Egan, The Terry Schiavo Archives, the Sherlock Pro-Life Collection, Judge Robert Bork’s legal history items, and a veterans’ friends and families video archive.

Veterans Memorial Law Library offers the school and community more than its collection—hosting training workshops on technology and the law, emerging legal issues, and how to succeed in law school. The library is managed by three full-time legal librarians and one part-time legal librarian, providing the students with the assistance they require throughout their research process and class preparations. With access to the library through their student ID and one-on-one assistance from educated legal librarians, students will have all of the resources they require to succeed in law school and in their chosen careers after graduation.

“The presence of faith in and out of the classroom adds a profound sense of community to the law school.” –Monsignor McGrath

SPIRITUAL LIFE Ave Maria Law offers many opportunities for significant personal and professional development. While building knowledge and skills for future professional responsibilities, students must take care not to neglect other aspects of their lives, including their spiritual health, particularly their personal relationship with Jesus Christ and the church.

Ave Maria Law is a Catholic law school that welcomes students of all faiths. Though the majority of students are Catholic, many religious backgrounds are represented within the student body. All law students are invited and encouraged to share and nurture their faith during the course of their legal studies. The presence of faith in and out of the classroom adds a profound sense of community to Ave Maria Law and provides students with a rich professional experience in which they can explore the linkages between their personal values and their future professional responsibilities.

During the week students may participate in daily Mass in the law school’s St. Thérèse of the Little Flower Chapel. The Chaplain’s door is open to all students and all are welcome to share in the many celebrations held throughout the year.

In addition, there are many opportunities to support the liturgical life on campus through participation as an Altar Server, Lector at Mass, Adoration Group Member or Rosary Coordinator.

Monsignor McGrath, Ave Maria Law’s Chaplain, and his Golden Retriever Driver, are a mainstay and a very special presence on our campus.

Naples, FL 2019-2020 19

DISCOVER AVE MARIA LAW UP CLOSE

“I chose Ave because it’s the best law school for families. Not only does Ave have on campus family housing, but my husband and I are able to walk our kids to school conveniently located across the street. There are many families on campus and all of our kids play together. Ave has been a blessing for my family.” –Jacqueline Coronel, Class of 2020

20 avemarialaw.edu

“My service at Ave Maria Law gives me the privilege of introducing students to a noble and learned profession. I hope to help them see that their degree will give them tremendous power for good or ill in the lives of others and they must bear that in mind as they endeavor to craft a worthwhile life in the law. I also hope we can enjoy some laughs as we make our way down the arduous road to professional competence.” –Patrick T. Gillen, JD, PhD, Associate Professor of Law

SPOTLIGHT ON MOOT COURT WHAT IS MOOT COURT? Moot Court is a co-curricular activity where students are given an opportunity to take part in simulated court and arbitration proceedings. Unlike other law schools, Moot Court at Ave Maria Law participates in both appellate and trial competitions and arbitrations, which provides a greater opportunity for students to gain experience in both oral arguments and trial work.

BENEFITS OF JOINING MOOT COURT There are many benefits to joining the Moot Court Board in law school. If you feel your public speaking skills need some work, Moot Court is a great place to hone them. These skills will allow you to be marketable when looking for employment opportunities, whether you desire to work for a large or small firm, becoming a Public Defender, or have aspirations to become a district or state attorney.

Moot Court members research their respective sides, write appellate briefs, present oral arguments, present cases before a judge or panel of judges, and learn the basics as to how to conduct themselves in a courtroom setting. Members become increasingly more comfortable formulating arguments and expressing them in front of judges, essential skills for an attorney.

OPPORTUNITIES ABOUND Opportunities for students are endless. Members are granted opportunities to compete in both external competitions, located all over the country including New York and Los Angeles, and to be involved assisting with the logistics or compete as a participant in the internal trial competitions our Moot Court Board hosts each year.

Additionally, members of the moot court board are also provided with several opportunities to fill leadership roles, whether it is managing an appellate or trial team, serving on the leadership board, or as the president of the board itself.

Moot Court members of Ave Maria Law are provided with opportunities to be published in The Gavel, our law journal, where student authors write articles on certain topics concerning current legal and ethical issues in the practice of law.

“The community at Ave is incredible! The faculty and staff work extremely hard to get to know each student individually and help them succeed in all career aspirations.

Upper-classmen are always willing to shed a piece of their wisdom, and fellow classmates support each other. It really is a family working together for the success of everyone.”

–Colleen McInerney, Class of 2020

Naples, FL 2019-2020 21

DISCOVER AVE MARIA LAW UP CLOSE

ADMISSIONS

Ranked one of the nation’s most outstanding law schools by The Princeton Review and the best Catholic Law School in the United States for the Devout by The National Jurist’s PreLaw Magazine, Ave Maria Law has enrolled students from 49 states and abroad and from more than 200 colleges and universities. They range in age and

Tabitha Canalda, Associate

bring diverse backgrounds in career and educational experience. We have a 51%

Director of Admissions and

acceptance rate of those who apply to Ave Maria Law. Alumni of Ave Maria Law are

Veteran Outreach, on the road

now practicing in more than 47 states and several other countries.

meeting students.

STUDENT ENGAGEMENT & CAMPUS LIFE

Student organizations are an important component of the school’s community, offering students an opportunity to grow academically, personally, professionally, and spiritually.

Throughout the academic year these groups sponsor a variety of events, including speakers, debates, community service projects and social events.

There are seventeen organizations which focus on a variety of academic, faith and social activities. Some are chapters of national organizations such as Black Law Students Association, the Federalist Society, the Republican National Lawyers Association and the Veterans Law Student Association. Others reflect the interests of students such as the Women’s Law Association, or the Lex Vitae Society, the law school’s pro-life organization. We also chapter a national law fraternity, Phi Alpha Delta.

The Ave Maria Law Community is comprised of people from across the country and beyond whose paths converge to pursue a common goal. Each person contributes to and benefits from the experiences and perspectives of other members of the community. By providing opportunities for interaction among students, Ave Maria Law ensures a vibrant, professional atmosphere and a constructive law school experience.

Beginning with orientation, students are encouraged to participate in service, spiritual and social activities.

“Students who are open to being involved in the Ave Law student organization community, in addition to their studies, will find it to be rewarding. You learn about your strengths, you learn about your passions, and you make friends you’ll keep for life.”

–Michele Daley Peters, Class of 2020

STUDENT ORGANIZATIONS: Ave Maria Elder Law and Estate Planning Association (AMELEA) Black Law Students Association (BLSA) Environmental Law Society (ELS) Federalist Society (FED SOC) Latino Law Students Association (LLSA)

22 avemarialaw.edu 22

Lex Vitae Society (LEX) Phi Alpha Delta Law Fraternity (PAD) Progressive Animal Welfare Society (PAWS) Republican National Lawyers Association (RNLA) Sports and Entertainment Law Society (SELS) St. Francis Cabrini Immigration Law Society (ILS)

St. Thomas More Society (STMS) Student Bar Association (SBA) Veterans Law Student Association (VLSA) Women’s Law Association (WLA) Co-curriculars: Law Review Moot Court Board

FINANCIAL AID

HOW TO APPLY

We offer a wide range of merit and military based scholarships to assist those who would like to attend Ave Maria Law. Approximately 3/4 of our entering students are awarded scholarships, ranging from $10,000 to a full scholarship.

If you are enthusiastic about attending Ave Maria Law, please apply for admission through our website. For questions, contact our Admissions office directly at (239) 687-5420 or info@avemarialaw.edu.

Tuition for the 2019-20 Academic Year: $39,950

AVE MARIA LAW’S ADVANTAGE SUMMER START PROGRAM

affords students the opportunity to complete two classes over the summer, prior to the start of the traditional fall semester start. This allows for a lighter course load during the first year of law school. This program is available to all incoming students who wish to choose this option. Associate Dean of Admissions & Student Engagement, Claire O’Keefe, shares insight and benefits of the program.

Dean O’Keefe, you’ve seen the summer start classes continue to grow in numbers over the years. What do you think attributes to this uptick?

I feel there are a few reasons for the increase. Our applications are up and we promote the Advantage Summer Start Program quite heavily, as it’s featured prominently in our print and web materials and email campaigns. These applicants understand the tremendous advantage afforded to them by enrolling in a summer start program such as the one we have here at Ave Maria Law. What are a few of the advantages of starting law school in the summer, as opposed to traditionally starting the academic year in the fall?

The advantages are great. These students begin their law school journey with two classes, instead of six. They are a small group (compared with the full fall class size), which promotes camaraderie and support right from the beginning. It’s easier to form study partnerships or groups and it allows a student to ease into law school and feel less overwhelmed, which can result in better grades. Legal Analysis, Writing, and Research (LAWR) is one of the most difficult and time consuming classes in all of law school. Summer start students take the first part of this year-long class with only one other class. While the summer start semester is compressed, it affords the ability to dig in and really focus on legal writing without a great deal of distractions. Summer start benefits are apparent during the traditional 1L year (Aug-May), as the summer students feel a significant advantage over their classmates who start in August. For example, summer starters know how to brief a case, write an outline and take an exam. They feel light years ahead of their classmates, and have one less class in each of the first year semesters. It is important to note that these students have the ability to focus on fall exams without the pressure of finalizing their legal memo for LAWR.

Dean O’Keefe with summer start students, Class of 2022

What is the feedback you receive from students once they’ve completed the summer program and are well into their first year?

Students are overwhelmingly positive about their experiences and are thrilled that they chose the summer start program. Some of last year’s students spoke on a panel to our current summer starts about their decisions and how happy they are to have started law school in the summer. They felt better prepared and more able to handle the rigors of a law school semester.

Naples, FL 2019-2020 23

DISCOVER AVE MARIA LAW UP CLOSE

traditions

24 avemarialaw.edu

• Ave Goes Pink: Breast Cancer Awareness Month

• Dress for Success with Founder Tom Monaghan

• Networking Expos

• Barrister’s Ball

• Christmas Party and Toy Drive

• Beach Cleanup

• Human Trafficking Awareness Days

• Red Mass

• Blood Drives

• Legion of Mary

• Boot Camp

• March for Life in Washington, D.C.

• Dean’s Delegates Program

• March for Life Naples Event

• Deans’ End-of-the-Year Barbecue and Pro Bono Recognition Program

• Mental Health & Wellness Week • Moot Court Competitions

• Patriots Week • Student Orgs Fair • Valentine’s Day Auction Event • Volleyball & Kickball Tournaments • Volunteer Service Projects organized by the Student Bar Association

DISCOVER

your CALLING AVE MARIA SCHOOL OF LAW | NAPLES, FLORIDA

Naples, FL 2019-2020 25

...your JOURNEY STARTS HERE. AVE MARIA SCHOOL OF LAW 1025 Commons Circle, Naples, Florida 34119-1376 (239) 687-5420 • info@avemarialaw.edu • 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 imply endorsement, approval, or recommendation by the state. http://www.freshfromflorida.com/ Divisions-Offices/Consumer-Services, 1-800-435-7352.

Ave Maria School of Law recognizes the inherent value and dignity of all members of the human family. It values equal opportunity and seeks racial, cultural, and ethnic diversity. The Law School does not preclude admission or retention of students or employees on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, gender or gender identity, sexual orientation, age, disability, or status as a veteran or disabled veteran. The Law School maintains its Catholic character but is open to persons of all religious faiths who respect the goals of Ave Maria School of Law and whose conduct does not undermine the Law School’s religious goals or compromise its Catholic identity.

26 avemarialaw.edu