Benchmark Column - May 2009, Volume 1, Number 2

THE THOMAS M. COOLEY LAW SCHOOL

Benchmark

THE THOMAS M. COOLEY LAW SCHOOL ALUMNI NEWS PUBLICATION

C O LU M N MAY 2009 • VOLUME 1 • NUMBER 2

Cooley Graduate Serves Those in Need Cooley Law School Staff Attorney Misty Davis (center) discusses an Access to Justice case with Cooley Law School student Amy Riley (right) and Davenport University paralegal student Adam Kumler.

ONE LAW DEGREE, MULTIPLE USES.

“In the National Diet, we make new laws for Japan every day. While knowing U.S. law doesn’t directly help [when working with Japanese law], a legal education really trained me to have a legal mind and to think logically, theoretically and critically, and I’m able to express myself clearly.”

Hiroe “Ruby” Makiyama (Lawrence Class, 1991)

INSIDE COOLEY OFFERS MORE SUPPORT FOR SOLDIERS RACE FOR EDUCATION: 10-YEAR ANNIVERSARY DISCOVERING THE BENEFITS, CHALLENGES OF E-DISCOVERY ONE LAW DEGREE, MULTIPLE USES THE LAW LIBRARY OF TOMORROW ADVANCING OPPORTUNITIES COOLEY GRADUATE SERVES THOSE IN NEED

Change Service Requested 300 South Capitol Ave. P.O. Box 13038 Lansing, MI 48901

Nonprofit Organization U.S. Postage PAID Lansing, MI Permit No. 241

FEATURE ARTICLE

WELCOME TO THE BENCHMARK COLUMN It is an exciting time at Cooley Law School.

It’s graduation season, the time when another group of talented professionals become part of the exclusive club called Cooley alumni.

Dear Thomas M. Cooley Law School Graduate: It is an exciting time at Cooley Law School. It’s graduation season, the time when another group of talented professionals become part of the exclusive club called Cooley alumni.

Cooley graduates are all over the globe, serving as leaders in law, government, their communities, and countless other fields of endeavor.

In this edition of Column, you’ll find stories about how: • Our school and its graduates are serving in-need populations (Cooley Graduate Serves Those in Need) and (Cooley Offers More Support for Soldiers) • A Cooley graduate is now an elected leader in her native Japan (One Law Degree: Multiple Uses) • The world of law is changing (Discovering the Benefits and Challenges of e-Discovery), and (Advancing Opportunities) The world of Cooley Law School is changing as well. As we continue to provide practical legal education to growing numbers of students from near and far, we take pride in knowing that the quality of our curriculum, faculty, and facilities supports a world-class legal education from our three campuses in Michigan.

At our campus in Lansing, we are ready to embark on an unprecedented expansion that will make the

Thomas E. Brennan Law Library the nation’s second largest law library in physical size (see The Library of Tomorrow).

But we need your help. The $6 million expansion project is dependent on your generous philanthropic support.

To build the Center for Research and Study library expansion, we are asking alumni and friends of Cooley to contribute $3 million as part of our Campaign for Knowledge.

We are off to an excellent start, having already raised more than $1.5 million for the expansion. But there is more work to be done to ensure that Cooley students have access to the library resources that they need, when they need them. As you know, a state-of-the-art law library is one of the most valuable assets of any leading law school. It is a place where the rules of the justice system are found and examined.

I invite you to learn more about the Campaign for Knowledge by calling me at 517-371-5140 ext. 2045, or visiting www.cooley.edu/giving.

Sincerely,

James D. Robb Associate Dean of Development and Alumni Relations robbj@cooley.edu

COOLEY LAW SCHOOL OFFERS MORE

SUPPORT FOR SOLDIERS STATE’S MILITARY MEMBERS STAND TO BENEFIT FROM NEW MICHIGAN JUDGE’S GUIDE TO THE SERVICEMEMBERS CIVIL RELIEF ACT The Servicemembers Civil Relief Act (SCRA) offers special protections to soldiers against civil actions like divorce and foreclosure while they are deployed.

However, varying state laws and interpretations can produce confusion in the law’s application.

A new effort among the Thomas M. Cooley Law School and attorneys with the Detroit office of Honigman Miller Schwartz and Cohn LLP is bringing clarity to SCRA’s application for Michigan’s courts and, ultimately, providing another layer of support to Michigan servicemen and women.

Created by Honigman partner Matthew S. Disbrow and associate Shanta S. Anderson-Williams in the firm’s Labor and Employment Department, the Michigan Judge’s Guide to the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act offers a state-specific view of the SCRA’s application for everything from procedural requirements to general provisions concerning evictions, auto leases, and termination of cell phone service contracts. Cooley graduate Ryan Plecha (Clark Adams Class, 2008) assisted in developing the guide.

“While most judges generally are aware of the SCRA, there often is confusion about its application due to varying state laws and interpretations over the years,” said Disbrow. “The guide references case law from Michigan courts with the purpose of assisting the judiciary and other members of Michigan’s legal community in understanding SCRA and its protections for military personnel and their families.”

Supported by a grant from the Michigan State Bar Foundation, the user-friendly guide will be distributed to every Michigan judge and Friend of the Court office in the state. The full guide, which features a foreword by Michigan Supreme Court Chief Justice Marilyn Kelly, is also accessible at cooley.edu/ethics.

“This document couldn’t come at a better time with thousands of military personnel returning to Michigan from deployment this year,” said Heather Spielmaker, director of Cooley’s Center for Ethics, Service and Professionalism which houses Cooley’s Service to Soldiers: Legal Assistance Referral Program.

Enacted by Congress in 2003, the SCRA was designed to protect the personal interests of servicemen and women at home while they protect the interests of our country abroad.

From left to right: Partner Matthew S. Disbrow of the Detroit office of Honigman Miller Schwartz and Cohn LLP; Heather Spielmaker, director of Cooley’s Center for Ethics, Service and Professionalism; Honigman associate Shanta S. Anderson-Williams; and Cooley graduate Ryan Plecha.

Enacted by Congress in 2003, the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act was designed to protect the personal interests of servicemen and women at home while they protect the interests of our country abroad.

ALUMNI DATABASE The user name will always remain the word alumni. The password changes each term and will be disclosed in the Benchmark Column on the inside front cover. Please call the Alumni Relations Office at (800) 243-ALUM (in the Lansing area, call 517-371-5140, ext. 2038), or e-mail alumni@cooley.edu if you have any problems.

BENCHMARK COLUMN | MAY 2009 | VOLUME 1 | NUMBER 2

FEATURE ARTICLE

Friday, June 5, 2009 Register now at cooley.edu or active.com

SUPPORTING SCHOOLS: COOLEY’S 5K RACE FOR EDUCATION CELEBRATES 10TH ANNIVERSARY AND COMMITMENT TO STRENGTHENING OUR SCHOOLS. The nation’s economic crisis is impacting everyone, including many schools. Programs are being slashed, budgets cut and administrators are looking for any way possible to raise a few extra dollars to help support needed initiatives. Cooley is pleased to offer one way for anyone to support a school – its Cooley 5K Race for Education.

On June 5, hundreds of adults and youth will walk, run, and dash their way along a race course that begins at the Michigan State Capitol and takes participants through the historic downtown Lansing area in support of educational institutions. Celebrating its 10th anniversary this year, the race has become a Cooley tradition, raising more than $70,000 for schools since its inception in 2000. Each year, race participants nominate schools for a drawing, out of which Cooley awards five schools with a percentage of the total race proceeds. In addition,

one educational institution receives the $1,000 Cooley Award.

The Cooley 5K Race for Education is an extension of Cooley Law School’s mission of serving the community, explained race director Terry Carella, who also is Cooley’s director of communications. “The race is an opportunity for the community to gather in support of education, especially at a time when schools need every boost possible,” she said.

Last year, Cooley awarded more than $10,000 to schools. Schools ranging from a community college to elementary schools received funds.

Schavey Road Elementary in Dewitt, Michigan used the extra dollars to support its Kids Program.

“What a surprise,” said Pat Howard, Schavey’s community education director, upon hearing the news that

Terry Carella, Race Director

Q&A What was your motivation for establishing the Cooley 5K Race for Education?

Not surprisingly, I came up with the idea of doing a Cooley race during one of my long runs over 10 years ago. At the time, I did a lot of local 5K runs and really missed doing The Michigan Run, a straight, 3.1-mile run down Michigan Avenue to the Capitol. I thought, “A race downtown would be the perfect way to bring people to the State Capitol, run them around all the Cooley facilities and the historic downtown district – plus significantly help to support education at the same time.

What excites you most about this race?

It’s exciting to me knowing that the Cooley race really has something for everyone. Having run many, many

the school had received funds from the 2008 Race for Education. “The Kids Program is an after-school and summer childcare program for the DeWitt community and we'll be able to use the money toward various activities, including field trips and different artists and acts for the children.”

The race also gives adrenalin-charged runners an opportunity to compete. In addition to overall male and female winners’ categories, the race includes prizes to male and female master’s (ages 40-49) and grand master’s (ages 50 and up) categories. The race is part of the Playmakers Greater Lansing Race Series, a 12-race running series in which runners compete for prizes.

While the race is popular among many mid-Michigan running groups, it also attracts a wide range of partici-

pants including Cooley alumni, students, faculty, and attorneys. Lansing’s own Jef Mallett, creator of the nationally syndicated Frazz comic strip, also has participated in the race festivities.

All race participants, regardless of their speed, are supporting their schools of choice and have an equal chance to win a portion of the race proceeds or the Cooley Award for nominated institutions, Carella explained. Families often walk the 5K course, enjoying the tour of downtown Lansing and neighborhoods on the race route. The event also offers the Kids’ Race around the Michigan Capitol (approximately ½ mile) and the Kids’ Capitol Dash (100 yards).

The 10th anniversary Cooley Law School 5K Race for Education will be held on Friday, June 5, 2009 (register online at cooley.edu or active.com).

QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS WITH COOLEY’S 5K RACE FOR EDUCATION DIRECTOR, TERRY CARELLA

races, anything from 5Ks to marathons and running relays, I’ve lived and learned what kinds of things people want from a race. We have a fantastic race in downtown Lansing. We have a huge, fun party on the Capitol lawn, including the rhythm-and-blues sounds of the Uptown Band, a food spread to please anyone, children’s activities and races, very cool shirts, coveted prizes and awards, and, of course, the excitement of the possibility of winning proceeds for your school of choice.

The Cooley 5K Race for Education will celebrate its 10th anniversary this year; what has surprised you most about this race during the past decade?

I don’t know if I’m surprised, but I know that when I first concocted this idea, there were a number of skeptics on whether or not it would amount to much.

We managed to bring in 200 or more runners and walkers our very first year, which made the Cooley 5K Race for Education one of the largest races in the area at the time. Since that first race in 2000, we have seen the success of the Cooley race grow and grow each year. People look forward to the race and make sure to put it on their calendars.

What do you see in the future for the Cooley 5K? I see the Cooley 5K Race for Education continuing to grow through the years, and we will be able to give hundreds of thousands of dollars to support education through our effort. I’m sure we’ll be able to build up what we do at the race to include other activities, events, and the benefits that Cooley Race participants receive through their support of the race and for education.

You are an experienced runner and are very involved in the running community; what is special about this race from a runner’s perspective?

The most unique and special feature of the Cooley 5K Race for Education is that every participant has the opportunity to win race proceeds for the educational institution of their choice. Other runs are designed to benefit one specific cause. Cooley’s race participants can feel good about knowing that they all have an equal opportunity to truly benefit the school or educational institution that is most near and dear to their hearts.

FEATURE ARTICLE

Faculty Briefs

e-DISCOVERY

Frank C. Aiello, Assistant Professor

D ISC OVE RING THE BENEFITS AND CHALLENGES OF

Presented, “Michigan Model Conservation Easement Revision Project Status Update” at the Heart of the Lakes Center for Land Conservation Policy Member Summit, Dec. 2, 2008, in Lansing, Mich.

Represented, the Six Rivers Regional Land Conservancy with approximately 60 hours of pro bono legal service in Hilary Term 2009.

Ron Bretz, Professor Published, an article, “New Era or Will the High Court Retain Its Radical Ways?” in Dome Magazine, February 2009, online at domemagazine.com.

Lectured, with Professor Jim Peden, Criminal Law Update, Wayne County Criminal Advocacy Program, Detroit, Mich., Nov. 21, 2008.

Spoke, at Lansing Community College’s Constitution Day Symposium, Sept. 17, 2008.

Lectured, on “The Michigan Criminal Justice System” at the People’s Law School, Lansing, Mich., Oct. 21, 2008.

Mark Cooney, Associate Professor Published,”The Runaway Verdict,” in Vol. 88, No. 2 Michigan Bar Journal. 40 (February 2009).

Appointed, to the State Bar of Michigan’s Standard Criminal Jury Instructions Committee.

Mary Phelan D’Isa, Professor Published, “The Removal-Remand Shuffle: Is a Remand Order Based on a Discretionary Decline of Supplemental Jurisdiction Reviewable?” PREVIEW of United States Supreme Court Cases (ABA Div. for Pub. Ed.) Issue No. 5, Vol. 36, Pg. 307, Feb. 23, 2009, 2008-2009 Term.

Published, “What is the Appropriate Standard of Review for Forfeited Error?” PREVIEW of United States Supreme Court Cases (ABA Div. for Pub. Ed.) Issue No.4, Vol. 36, Pg. 247, Jan. 12, 2009.

Derek S. Witte, an e-discovery expert and assistant professor at Cooley Law School’s Grand Rapids campus

THE SMOKING GUN IN AN INCREASING NUMBER OF LEGAL CASES ISN’T A SURPRISE WITNESS, IT’S A DELETED E-MAIL, TEXT MESSAGE, OR VOICE MESSAGE.

Norman Fell, Professor Attended, the 2009 Innocence Network Conference, March 19-22, 2009, in Houston, Texas.

Attended, the National Institute of Justice Post-Conviction DNA Case Management Symposium Jan. 21-23, 2009, in Palm Harbor, Fla. Attended, the National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers “A New Legal Architecture – Litigating Eyewitness Identification Cases in the 21st Century,” March 14-15, 2009, at New York University Law School.

Spoke, on “Wrongful Convictions, Actual Innocence and the Innocence Project,” at The Wrongful Convictions and the Innocence Project Presentation on Jan. 26, 2009, at the University of Michigan Law School.

Spoke, on “Ineffective Assistance of Counsel and the Wrongly Convicted; The Public Defender Clinic,” at The State of Indigent Defense in Michigan on Feb. 26, 2009 at Cooley Law School.

Spoke, on “Criminal Justice and Actual Innocence,” at the Criminal Justice Department Presentation on March 2, 2009 at the University of Michigan Department of Criminal Justice.

Spoke, on “Wrongful Convictions, Actual Innocence and the Innocence Project,” at the Michigan Psychiatric Society Annual Meeting Nov. 14, 2008, at the Center for Forensic Psychiatry in Ann Arbor, Mich.

Named, A Leader in the Law, by Michigan Lawyers Weekly, on March 25, 2009.

Alan Gershel, Associate Professor Appointed, Chair, of the United States Federal Magistrate Judge Merit Selection Committee by Chief Judge, United States District Court, Eastern District of Michigan.

(continued on following pages)

Yet tracing the e-trail of potentially explosive data during the discovery phase of a case can be an overwhelming and costly process. It can also mean the difference in winning or losing a case; consider Clark Hill PLC’s (Detroit office) DaimlerChrysler Motors v. Bill Davis Racing, Inc. (2005 WL 3502172 [E.D. Mich.]), which netted a $6.5 million settlement for Chrysler based on spoliation or destruction of e-evidence.

“It’s a vast sea of data out there in the e-universe, which can often be more retraceable than not,” said Derek S. Witte, an e-discovery expert and assistant professor at Cooley Law School’s Grand Rapids campus. “Many companies and individuals have no idea how long and how deep e-mails, text messages, instant messages, and voice messages can exist in cyberspace. This has a lot of implications for litigation, and the ultimate question is whether e-discovery helps or hinders cases.”

No e-mail is safe from discovery For instance, Witte explained that one e-mail can “live” on a multitude of servers, even after the e-mail has been deleted. “Assume that it will never be totally gone,” said Witte.

The plethora of data, combined with its “staying power,” presents a multitude of legal and IT issues for businesses and individuals, many of whom may never be part of any future litigation but should consider preventative policies to keep potentially reckless e-data from surfacing.

“People can become very informal and unprofessional in all of the new ways there are to communicate, and that is often how missteps are made,” said Witte. In the Chrysler v. Bill Davis case, for instance, the racing company was found guilty of passing confidential information to Toyota based on e-mails sent from the private AOL account of one of Bill Davis’ engineers to a Toyota employee.

BENCHMARK COLUMN | MAY 2009 | VOLUME 1 | NUMBER 2

Many states are now just catching up with the speed and sophistication of e-discovery. In January, Michigan adopted a series of electronic discovery amendments, including a party’s ability to object to a subpoena for e-files based on “reasonable inaccessibility.”

Cooley takes the lead in e-discovery conversation, education Cooley is taking a lead role in educating the legal community – and its students -- about the implications of these new rules.

Witte recently moderated Tackling Michigan’s new E-Discovery Rules and Cross-Examining the Experts, a major panel discussion at Cooley’s Grand Rapids campus for area attorneys and Cooley students, hosted by Cooley and sponsored by Lumen Legal and the Grand Rapids Bar Association. The roundtable featured a slew of experts on the topic, ranging from computer forensic professionals to a trial and litigation attorney.

“It’s about being on the forefront of this growing issue and helping the legal community and Cooley students become very comfortable and skilled in navigating through this area,” said Curt Benson, a Cooley associate professor and panelist. Benson is a member of the Rules Committee responsible for drafting the new e-discovery rules.

Because e-discovery can be a big expense on a case (basic e-discovery activities can carry a $50,000 price tag), e-discovery can pose ethical implications as it may prohibit smaller cases from going to trial.

“Unfortunately, in these economic times, companies don’t want to spend the money on the front-end; yet, if there is ever a legal issue, the costs to comb through mountains of data can be staggering,” said Witte.

As e-discovery becomes a core competency of practice, Cooley continues to offer students a variety of course options, including Advanced Document Discovery.

Cooley grads ready to navigate e-discovery In addition to teaching students about the latest approaches to successful e-litigation, Witte ensures students are armed with solid e-litigation prevention policies.

“I am always amazed at the number of sophisticated businesses that do not have a company policy for basics like e-mailing, document storage, and retrieval,” explained Witte. “Instant messaging, which by its nature fosters a more relaxed, less professional form of communication between two people, can be another danger zone for a company,” he said. “That data is more recoverable than people think. People need to ask themselves if this were (broadcast) on the front page, how would I feel about it. Just because it’s marked ‘private,’ it’s not. In litigation, you have to disclose all data sources.”

According to Gary Hayden, director of Intelligent Discovery Solutions, Arlington, Va. and adjunct professor at Cooley Law School, Cooley students are well prepared to tackle this growing area of discovery and litigation.

“This area of law continues to grow and will continue having a profound impact on our students’ careers,” said Hayden. “Cooley is committed to helping our students and the legal community keep ahead of the curve; e-discovery is here to stay.”

FEATURE ARTICLE

One Law Degree; Multiple Uses A growing number of Cooley graduates are using their degrees to bolster current careers or open doors to new ones Although she’s been an attorney for 16 years, Hiroe “Ruby” Makiyama has spent very little time presenting cases before a judge. Yet that hasn’t stopped the 43-year-old lawyer from taking full advantage of her Cooley degree in her native Tokyo. In fact, Makiyama continues to credit the outstanding legal education she received at Cooley two decades ago with opening new career doors and helping her to be an inspiration to other Japanese women.

This working mother of two is part of a growing number of Cooley graduates who are flexing the value of a legal education in non-traditional ways.

According to the most recent Employment Report and Salary Survey (ERSS), about 45 percent of Cooley graduates were employed in positions other than private practice, echoing a trend at the national level.

“The ERSS statistics show that law school graduates, more than most other professionals, have the ability to be very creative in the use of their degree, and in this economy, being flexible, knowledgeable, and experienced in a variety of areas can help distinguish a candidate more than anything,” said Charles R. Toy, Cooley’s associate dean of career and professional development.

Today, Makiyama holds a prestigious seat with the National Diet of Japan, the equivalent of serving as a

U.S. Senator. Her journey spans more than 25 years and 8,000 miles, and first took root in an unlikely place – the Tokyo Broadcasting System, one of the largest national broadcast networks in Japan.

At 21, Makiyama held the demanding position as director of the network’s entertainment and celebrity news program. While she enjoyed her work, the position went far beyond the normal demands of a high-powered career: Makiyama worked 20 hour days and even slept at the station because she didn’t have time to travel home. She became increasingly determined to take the next step in her career.

“I had always wanted to work in the entertainment world, but while I was working at the TV station, I knew I wanted to do something more to differentiate myself,” Makiyama said. “I wanted to have a specialty that other directors didn’t have.”

Makiyama credits a 1987 newspaper article for sparking her interest in the ways a degree from a U.S. law school could propel her career in Japan’s burgeoning entertainment industry. The article featured the first female Japanese national to earn her law degree in the U.S. and return to Japan to apply her studies. This was the unique advantage Makiyama was looking for.

In her precious free moments at the TV station, Makiyama secretly studied for the LSAT in the company’s bathroom. Of all the U.S. law schools, she selected Cooley, not only for its sound reputation, but for its flexible scheduling that fit her fast-paced career path.

“I saw a Cooley brochure and thought, ‘wow,’ this school might be perfect for me because I can finish in two years,” she said. By January of 1988, Makiyama was living in Lansing and taking classes at Cooley.

Twenty years later, Makiyama is confident her Cooley law degree continues to reap benefits. She has worked in the legal departments of various entertainment businesses, including the largest and oldest film and production company in Japan, and started her own charity club (non-profit) called Budokai. In 2007, Makiyama was elected to the House of Councillors in the National Diet of Japan and began a new full-time career as a government official. Makiyama represents the Kanagawa-ken region, the second-most populated prefecture in Japan and the equivalent of a U.S. state.

Makiyama’s position with the National Diet of Japan allows her to advocate for underserved populations.

Budokai, the charity club that Makiyama founded, flourished from 10 friends to over 300 members under her leadership. While it was successful in raising money for the underserved, Makiyama wanted to make a larger impact.

“I always dreamed of doing something bigger,” she said. “I wanted to do more for those people who are really tortured and are suffering from serious disease and hunger.”

She views her position in the National Diet as an opportunity to prominently highlight social injustice issues, as well as to bring attention to how difficult it is for Japanese women to maintain their careers while raising children.

“Housewives who were never interested in politics before became interested because of me,” she said.

“They thought, ‘Maybe she will represent us because she is in the same shoes.’”

Makiyama also pointed out that her campaign posters prominently touted her background as a U.S. lawyer, which is something she feels was key to her election.

“In the National Diet, we make new laws for Japan every day. While knowing U.S. law doesn’t directly help [when working with Japanese law], a legal education really trained me to have a legal mind and to think logically, theoretically and critically, and I’m able to express myself clearly,” she said.

“My law degree has opened many new doors, and allowed me opportunities to grow personally and professionally beyond my dreams.”

Hiroe “Ruby” Makiyama (Lawrence Class, 1991) credits her Cooley law degree with her election to National Diet of Japan, the equivalent of serving as a U.S. senator.

15% GOVERNMENT 4% ACADEMIC

OPPORTUNITY

4% PUBLIC INTEREST

5% JUDICIAL CLERKSHIP

Cooley graduates use their law degree in a variety of ways. About 45% of Cooley’s 2008 graduates hold positions other than private practice, echoing a trend at the national level.

2% OTHER

“The Employment Report and Salary Survey statistics show that law school graduates, more than most other professionals, have the ability to be very creative in the use of their degree, and in this economy, being flexible, knowledgeable, and experienced in a variety of areas can help distinguish a candidate more than anything.”

53% PRIVATE PRACTICE

Charles R. Toy, Cooley’s associate dean of career and professional development

17% BUSINESS

KNOWLEDGE. SKILLS. ETHICS.

SCHOOL NEWS Christopher Hastings, Associate Professor Appointed, as chair of the Standing Committee on the Unauthorized Practice of Law for 2008-2009, State Bar of Michigan, by State Bar President Edward M. Pappas.

Victoria Kremski, Assistant Professor Spoke, “On Blizzard Lines, Atticus Finch & Not Getting Lost: What it Means To Be a Lawyer in These Times & How to Deal With Difficult Opposing Counsel,” at the South Carolina Bar Convention on Jan. 24, 2009, in Myrtle Beach, S.C.

THE LIBRARYOF

TOMORROW

Daniel W. Matthews, Associate Professor Published, an article, “‘Joe the Plumber Redux’ and a Discussion of the Obama Tax Plan,” which was featured as the February 2009 spotlight article in the Mertens Treatise on the Law of Federal Income Taxation.

Organized, and supervised the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program for the Auburn Hills campus.

Eight Cooley students volunteered to prepare tax returns for low income taxpayers in Pontiac. This was the third year of the program and about 50 taxpayers were assisted.

Co-authored, with Cooley Professor Emily Horvath, a survey article on “Trusts and Estates,” in the Wayne Law Review - 54 Wayne Law Review 476 (2008).

Donna McKneelen, Assistant Professor Published, an article, “Legal Barriers to Post-Conviction DNA Testing,” in CDAM The Right to Counsel.

Presented, on Feb.12, 2009, “The Innocence Project — What Do We Do?” before the Oakland County Bar Association in Novi, Mich.

To ensure that Cooley students have the very best resources available to them, the school is ready to embark on an unprecedented expansion of its law library in Lansing.

Presented, on March 3, 2009, “Criminal Justice and Actual Innocence” at the University of Michigan in Ann Arbor.

Presented, on March 17, 2009, “Seeking Justice” at the Thomas Cooley Law School Auburn Hills campus ACLU meeting.

Interviewed, and appeared in the Artis White production, “Living Accused” shown at the Lansing Mall Cinema on Feb. 18, 2009.

Argued, and won DNA testing in the following Innocence Project post-conviction cases: People v James Harris and People v Charles Evans.

Attended, the NACDL Mid-Winter Conference, “Jazzing Up Your Defense,” in New Orleans, La., on Feb. 25, 2009.

Attended, the National Institute of Justice Post Conviction DNA Case Management Symposium, on Jan. 22-23, 2009, in Palm Harbor, Fla. Nelson P. Miller, Associate Dean and Associate Professor Published, “Beyond Bias: Cultural Competence as a Lawyer Skill,” in 87/6 Michigan Bar Journal 38 (2008).

The Library of Tomorrow

Unprecedented expansion

The layout of the Lansing campus’ Thomas E. Brennan Law Library is engrained in the memories of many Cooley graduates. Countless students have spent hours upon hours in the library that fills what was a retail space at the corner of South Washington Square and West Kalamazoo Street, one block east of the Cooley Center and one block south of the Temple Building.

To ensure that Cooley students have the very best resources available to them, the school is ready to embark on an unprecedented expansion of its law library in Lansing. Once completed, the library will nearly double in size to over 138,600 square feet, becoming the nation’s second largest law library in physical size. The $6 million project will be funded in part

by Cooley’s first-ever capital fundraising effort called the Campaign for Knowledge. More than $1.5 million has already been raised toward the library’s fundraising goal of $3 million. The Campaign for Knowledge also creates an endowed scholarship fund (see next page).

Time spent in a law library is part of becoming a lawyer, a reminder of the importance of research. And now, more than ever before, law libraries are at the core of providing a top-notch legal education to the lawyers of tomorrow. Law libraries today are about more than just books, instead serving as centers of study, topical discussions, and social interaction.

Monica P. Navarro, Visiting Professor Appointed, to the Editorial Board of the ABA’s Health Lawyer.

“We’re extremely pleased with the early support that we’ve seen from the Cooley family,” said James D. Robb, Cooley Law School’s associate dean of development and alumni relations. “The need for this expansion is great, and the early donations show that student access to a top-notch center filled with legal resources is a passion shared by many.”

Named, a Michigan Super Lawyer

by Law and Politics Magazine.

Elected, into the Top 50 Women Lawyers by Law and Politics Magazine.

Appointed, Co-Chair of the Health Law Committee of the Federal Bar Association, Eastern District of Michigan.

Presented, Health Care in America, Due Process, Channel 56 Detroit Public Television, December 2008.

Knapps Building

Published, “Never Discount the Importance of Having a Plan to Combat Allegations of Unprofessional Behavior,” in Michigan Medical Law Report, Fall 2008.

Existing Cooley Parking Lot

Cooley Law Library

Future Growth Space

Associate Dean and Professor

Presented, updated research findings on minority law school (continued on following pages)

BENCHMARK COLUMN | MAY 2009 | VOLUME 1 | NUMBER 2

301 Building

Existing Building to be Demolished

Study Center, Floor Plan

John Nussbaumer,

Study Center, Site Plan

Attended, Emerging Issues in Health Law, Annual Conference of the American Bar Association, Orlando, Florida.

Future Growth Space

Classroom 38 Seats Classroom 38 Seats

Study Area 353 Seats

SCHOOL NEWS

“The expansion of the Thomas E. Brennan Law Library with the Center for Research and Study will form a crown jewel in downtown Lansing to be noted by legal libraries around the country,” said Cooley President and Dean Don LeDuc. “We’re pleased that Cooley alumni and friends are stepping up so quickly to support this growth.”

Once completed, the library will nearly double in size, becoming the nation’s second largest law library in physical size. The $6 million project will be funded in part by Cooley’s first-ever capital fundraising effort called the Campaign for Knowledge.

When the Brennan Law Library opened in 1993, Cooley’s student enrollment was 1,566, and the library contained 307,000 volumes.

Cooley now has 2,600 students at its Lansing campus, and the Brennan Library now houses nearly 600,000 volumes. The library is thus nearing the limit of its capacity in all respects as demand for library resources has increased by two-thirds since its opening in 1993.

In keeping with Cooley’s dedication to rehabilitating existing structures rather than building new ones, the library will expand to the west into the neighboring two-story Town Center Building at 333 Capitol Avenue across from the Cooley Center. The newly expanded library will offer 24-hour student access to the study hall on the first floor of the expansion.

The area will have seating for more than 100 students and will include a 43-seat student lounge.

“Offering access to our library 24 hours a day is a great step for Cooley,” said Cooley Law School President and Dean Don LeDuc. “We need to be available when our students are available, and this expanded center will allow us to do so.”

The expansion, called the Center for Research and Study, will provide greatly expanded study space throughout the rest of the structure as well. Seating for approximately 270 students will be added to the spacious study center on the upper floor, including two 38-seat classrooms and many private study rooms. This area will be the building’s hub for individual study, small group meetings, and informal gatherings that enrich the educational experience at Cooley.

“Because of its design, the floors above the basement lack sufficient load bearing capacity to support standard library shelving, limiting our ability to add texts. To compensate, the basement level was transformed with moveable shelving for both books and microfiche, but it is now reaching its limits.”

“The need for additional seating for study areas in the library is acute,” said Robb. “The limitations of available library study space have led us to use the lobby of the Cooley Center as a study hall, a use that is not completely satisfactory for students.”

“When we renovated the current library structure in 1993, we did not anticipate the transformation in technology that affects how students study, learn, and use of the library resources,” said Robb. “This expansion will allow us to update the technology to the very best in legal academia.”

Most of the expansion’s first floor will hold additional volumes of legal writings. Built on a slab floor, this area has the unique load-bearing capacity needed by Cooley.

Preliminary work on the expansion began in the spring of 2009.

“We have been running out of room to add legal texts for some time,” said LeDuc. “The current library building was not designed to serve as a library at all. In fact, it originally was a JC Penney department store.

The expansion also will update the library’s technology to the latest standards.

“The expansion of the Thomas E. Brennan Law Library with the Center for Research and Study will form a crown jewel in downtown Lansing to be noted by legal libraries around the country,” said LeDuc. “We’re pleased that Cooley alumni and friends are stepping up so quickly to support this growth.”

Cooley Law School’s Campaign for Knowledge is the school’s first major fundraising campaign. The campaign has two components.

1. The renovation of the Town Center Building next to the Brennan Law Library into a Center for Research and Study to provide more student study space, student gathering space, library stack area, conference rooms, and small classrooms. The campaign aims to raise $3 million for the $6 million library expansion. More than $1.5 million already has been raised.

2. The creation of an endowed scholarship fund for students with financial need. The campaign aims to raise $1 million. Cooley also will contribute $1 million to the fund. Approximately $750,000 has been donated already by alumni and friends.

Make your Mark on Greatness

Alumni and friends interested in contributing to the Campaign for Knowledge should call the Cooley Development Office at (517) 371-5140 ext. 2045 or visit www.cooley.edu/campaignforknowledge

KNOWLEDGE. SKILLS. ETHICS.

SCHOOL NEWS

enrollment at the American Association of Law Schools 2009 Annual Meeting program titled “Progress? The Academy, the Profession, Race and Gender.”

Appointed, to the Eastern District of Michigan Federal Bar Association Diversity Task Force.

Moderated, the State Bar of Michigan Equal Access Initiative at Cooley-Auburn Hills on March 6, 2009, titled “We Can, We Will, We Must: Creating Opportunities for the Next Generation of Lawyers.”

Invited, by Admiral Bruce MacDonald of Navy JAG to become a consultant to the Navy JAG Diversity Task Force.

Provided, pro bono legal services to Alpha Company, 125th Combat Infantry Battalion, as part of Cooley's Service to Soldiers Program.

Donald Petersen, Associate Professor Appeared, on numerous radio stations to discuss sports law issues.

Performed, stand-up comedy in Michigan and surrounding states.

Authored, a supplement to Security Interests in Personal Property, 3rd Edition, 2008-2009, Thomson/West Publishers.

Authored, Chapter 1 and Chapter 2 in Cyber Liability & Insurance: Managing the Risks of Intangible Assets, publishing in 2009. Chapter 1 is “Understanding Intangible Assets” and Chapter 2 is “Valuation of Intangible Assets.”

Authored, Chapter 6 titled “Foreclosure Sales & Disposition,” in Raymond Nimmers’ Commercial Asset Based Financing, publishing in 2009.

James D. Robb, Associate Dean of Development and Alumni Relations/General Counsel

A-d-v-a-n-c-i-n-g

Published, “Who Is the Client?,” an essay concerning the value of in-house corporate counsel as a lawyer-statesman in times of corporate trouble, in 23 Michigan Lawyers Weekly, pg. B1, Feb. 16, 2009.

OPPORTUNITIES

Appointed, chairperson of the city of Birmingham, Michigan’s Board of Ethics. He has served on the board since 2003.

John Rooney, Professor

New Corporate Law and Finance Program Adds to Cooley’s Master of Laws Degree Offerings

Presented, on trial skills, Making Your Case Come to Life, for the California DUI Lawyers Association, March 21, 2009, San Francisco, Calif.

Devin Schindler, Associate Professor Published, an article, “A Response to Noah Felman’s ‘When Judges Make Foreign Policy,’” in New York Times Magazine, in October 2008.

Charles Senger, Professor Elected, Chair of the State Bar of Michigan's Aviation Section for 2008-2009.

As today’s global marketplace becomes more complex, so do the laws that shape, define, and regulate a new breed of business transactions.

vant curriculum based on his years of experience as a practicing attorney and as vice president and general counsel at General Motors North America.

That is why Cooley Law School is broadening its advanced degree program offerings for students interested in deepening the knowledge, skills, and ethics they will need in specialized areas of practice.

“I am blessed to have served with a group of extraordinary professionals on the GM legal staff for 20 years, and my goal is to translate that experience into training the corporate lawyers of the future,” Johnson said.

In addition to its master of laws (LL.M.) degrees, one in Intellectual Property and another in Taxation, Cooley will begin offering a Corporate Law and Finance LL.M. program in September 2009, making it the only American Bar Association-approved law school in the country to provide this distinct combination of degrees.

At the core of the 24-credit program will be classes involving advanced corporate transactions, corporate governance and finance, business organizations, and corporate professional responsibility. Included in the professional responsibility course is a segment on a lawyer’s professional obligations to embrace diversity and provide pro bono and community service, which is consistent with Cooley’s nationally recognized professionalism program.

At the Table of World Commerce “Cooley continues to prepare students to be at the table of world commerce with confidence,” said Don LeDuc, Cooley’s President and Dean. “Our advanced degree offerings reflect the needs of the global marketplace.”

Paul Shagen,Visiting Professor Delivered, a two-day presentation on Indian Taxation for the Falmouth Institute Indian Taxation Training, in Las Vegas, Nev., on Jan. 27-28.

Yet the advanced degree offerings are only part of Cooley’s vision of educational excellence. It’s Cooley’s expert faculty who give students an edge in the business world. Look no further than E. Christopher Johnson, Jr., director of Cooley’s Corporate Law and Finance program for example.

Otto Stockmeyer, Emeritus Professor Published, “The Rose of Aberlone” in Chronicle, Vol. 31, No. 4 (Historical Society of Michigan, Winter 2009).

E. Christopher Johnson

Published, “Using Microsoft Word’s Readability Program,” in the January 2009 issue of the Michigan Bar Journal. This is his 10th article to be published in the Journal.

BENCHMARK COLUMN | MAY 2009 | VOLUME 1 | NUMBER 2

Gina Torielli

Johnson, who is developing the Corporate Law and Finance curriculum, is a sought-after national speaker on topics ranging from diversity as a business imperative to providing global legal counsel. He has created a rele-

In addition to a Corporate Law and Finance master of laws degree, students can choose to specialize in Global Public Companies Law, which will allow students to be introduced to the full range of issues within the corporate setting including litigation, intellectual property, and regulatory matters. This specialization will specifically prepare attorneys to represent large global companies whether they are on staff with the company or providing outside counsel.

Johnson also is forming an advisory board of prominent attorneys, including general counsel of global public companies and major law firm partners who provide legal counsel to those companies to support further the development of the curriculum.

Expert Faculty Directors of the other master of laws programs at Cooley also bring their in-depth and pertinent experience to their respective programs. Gina Torielli, director of the Taxation master of laws program, led a legal team of more than 100 attorneys in her role as president and chief executive officer of Howard & Howard Attorneys, P.C. and ran her own practice specializing in taxation and public finance before coming to Cooley.

Gerald T. Tschura and David Berry collaborate to lead the Intellectual Property master of laws program, tapping into their combined experience in their respective fields. Tschura was the Divisional Vice President of Intellectual Property Law with Kmart Corporation and worked with an intellectual property firm handling patent and trademark litigation matters before joining Cooley. Berry was a partner at Testa, Hurwitz & Thibeault, LLP, a 400-plus-attorney firm with a national practice in venture capital and technology law, and represented companies in patent and license disputes in private practice prior to his Cooley faculty position.

These expert faculty and program directors not only give students a first-hand perspective, but keep Cooley close to the practicing legal and business communities and ahead of the curve in advancing opportunities for its students.

“We are always looking ahead to the needs of the profession and how we can deliver a relevant education taught by top-notch faculty with exceptional and practical legal experience,” LeDuc said.

David Berry

Marjorie Russell, Professor

Gerald T. Tschura

Translated, a speech of Professor Rooney’s called 'The Misuse of Language in the Pursuit of Justice’ has been translated into Portuguese and will soon be published in Recife, Brazil.

SCHOOL NEWS

For Misty Davis, the law is about protecting those who most need protecting – children, the elderly, and the underprivileged.

The Access to Justice Clinic has handled more than 1,000 cases since its opening in January 2008, overseeing approximately 40 cases at any given time.

Cooley Graduate

SERVES Misty Davis

Those in Need

Law is about more than rules, regulations, and statutes for Misty Davis (William Paterson Class, 2002). For her, the law is about protecting those who most need protecting – children, the elderly, and the underprivileged. And it is her desire to serve these populations that has created the path of Davis’ career.

“My husband calls me the ‘do-gooder,’” said Davis.

As a student at Cooley Law School, she first indulged her desire to help people through the Sixty Plus, Inc., Elderlaw Clinic where she helped elderly individuals with wills, trusts, and other issues.

“My time as a law student at Cooley prepared me for every job that I’ve had since,” Davis said.

After graduation, Davis clerked for Eaton County Circuit Court, served as an elder law attorney at Legal Aid of South Central Mich. in Battle Creek and was an assistant prosecutor in Barry County, Mich., where she focused on juvenile work. But it was her time in the prosecutor’s office in Montcalm County, Mich., that has earned her statewide recognition.

In a case that grabbed a number of headlines, Davis served as a zealous advocate on behalf of a nine-year-old child named Nicholas Braman, whom she had never met but believed was in danger. Nicholas was the son of a man who had pled guilty to child abuse for using an electric cattle prod to discipline his two older sons. Concerned about the child’s saftey, Davis repeatedly asked the Michigan Department of Children’s Protective Services to have Nicholas removed from the home during a five-week period following the father’s guilty plea, yet Nicholas remained in the home. Unfortunately, Davis’ fears became reality.

According to published news reports, Nicholas Braman died in a bed with his father, Oliver Braman, and his stepmother, Nancy KaczorBraman, in October 2007. The three ingested nighttime pain relievers and inhaled carbon monoxide that had been funneled into a small room by the father.

“Unfortunately, I am not the only assistant prosecutor, caseworker, or service provider who has had to deal with a child’s death,” Davis later said. “But, for me, I cannot get him out of my heart, my soul, and my mind.”

The state later admitted that violations of Michigan law and department procedures had contributed to Nicholas’ death.

According to the Grand Rapids Press (April 30, 2008), an investigator with the Office of Children’s Ombudsman said during a state Senate committee hearing in April 2008 that “all the facts in the case suggest it shouldn’t have happened. It was bad decision-making all the way around.”

Michigan Gov. Jennifer M. Granholm has since signed requirements into the law mandating better communication between the state and local court agencies in child abuse cases, including a condition that the Michigan Department of Human Services collaborate with local Friend of the Court offices on cases in which a child is the subject of a protective services investigation and is involved in a custody case.

Nicholas’ mother had begun legal efforts to gain custody of Nicholas prior to his death.

In recognition of Davis’ efforts to remove Nicholas from the home prior to his death, the Carter-Alexander Institute for Law and Justice awarded her with its 2008 Advocate for Justice Award. Each year, the Institute seeks a person who, in the course of his or her life or work, valiantly fought for justice for the vulnerable and forgotten of our community.

An award signifying the honor sits on Davis’ windowsill in her office.

“It is a bittersweet thing for me,” said Davis, the mother of two young boys. “I don’t look at my actions as anything special. I was just doing my job. As a human, no one could just stand by and allow a child to remain in that kind of environment.”

Davis left her career in prosecution after Nicholas’ death. Today, she is impacting the lives of youth in a different way. Davis serves as a staff attorney at the Access to Justice Clinic at Cooley’s Grand Rapids campus. There, she works closely with eight Cooley students who primarily handle family law cases for individuals referred through the Legal Assistance Center in the Kent County, Michigan courthouse.

“I remember what it was like to be in their shoes,” she said of her students. “They have a great opportunity. They go to court almost every Friday and deal with the specific issues that they’ll face in their careers.”

The Access to Justice Clinic has handled more than 1,000 cases since its opening in January 2008, overseeing approximately 40 cases at any given time.

“Family law cases are fast-paced, much faster than the cases that I dealt with as a student at the Sixty Plus clinic,” said Davis. “The Access to Justice students will file motions on a Wednesday and are in court the following Friday for the hearing. In between, students are preparing their cases.”

The real-life case load of the clinic is an exceptional learning experience, according to Davis.

“People’s lives for that particular moment are in the students’ hands,” said Davis. “You learn how to work with different personalities and needs as well as how to manage your time. Sometimes it’s hard to make sure you’re acting as a lawyer and not a social worker.”

Davis acts as a role model to the students, helping guide them along the way toward professional growth. It is a role that continues her view of the law as more than just rules, regulations, and statutes.

During the ceremony when she accepted the award, Davis spoke publicly about the tragic case.

“My world came crashing down after I learned of Nicholas’ death and questions overwhelmed my mind,” Davis said. “What do I do with his death? How do I compartmentalize it? How could this happen? And, how do I put it behind me so I can fight for the next child?

“For the last year, I have struggled to find these answers. The only thing I could come up with is there are no answers. Nicholas’ death is a fresh and raw wound that goes to the core of my being.”

KNOWLEDGE. SKILLS. ETHICS.

SCHOOL NEWS

SAVE THE DATE Michigan Bar Admission Ceremony

Cooley 5K Race for Education –

Cooley Alumni Association Golf Outing

May 2009 1:00 - 3:00 p.m.

June 5, 2009 7:30 p.m.

June 22, 2009 10:30 a.m. - 8:00 p.m.

Cooley Center, Lansing, Mich.

Downtown Lansing, Mich.

Country Club of Lansing, Lansing, Mich.

Cooley Alumni Association Annual Meeting

Cooley Alumni Association Evening of Good Taste

October 10, 2009 4:00 - 6:00 p.m.

October 10, 2009 6:00 - 10:00 p.m.

Cooley Temple, Middle Temple Classroom, Lansing, Mich.

Cooley Temple, Middle Temple Classroom; Lansing, Mich.

Cooley Society Debut: the Annual Donor Recognition Gala

Alumni Reception at the State Bar of Michigan Annual Meeting September 17, 2009 4:30 p.m. - 6:30 p.m.

Hyatt Regency Hotel, Rotunda, Dearborn, Mich.

Michigan Bar Admission Ceremony November 2009 1:00 - 3:00 p.m.

October 24, 2009 6:30 p.m.

Cooley Temple Auditorium, Lansing, Mich.

Cooley Center Lobby, Lansing, Mich.

STUDENT AWARDS Cooley Law School and Mr. and Mrs. Alpert are proud to be able to recognize Mr Reaves’ contribution to the school through this honor.

I thank the Cooley Alumni Association for honoring me with the DSA and look forward to joining its ranks upon graduation.”

All Cooley students, faculty, friends, and staff are cordially invited to attend. Visit Amy Swope at the Alumni Relations Office on the 10th floor of the Cooley Center, call (800) 243-ALUM, or e-mail husseinf@cooley.edu for more information on the Golf Benefit.

Alumni Association Grants Distinguished Student Award to Daniel Reaume for the Riley Class The faculty, staff, and student body of Thomas M. Cooley Law School’s Auburn Hills Campus who gathered on April 3rd for the Honors Convocation of Hilary Term 2009 witnessed the granting of the Distinguished Student Award to Daniel Reaume of the Riley Class.

Cooley Law School Names the Sixth Annual Ida and Benjamin Alpert Scholar Thanks to the generosity of Mr. and Mrs. Myron Alpert of Highland Beach, Fla., Thomas M. Cooley Law School recognized its annual Ida and Benjamin Alpert Scholar recently. Several outstanding third-year students with financial need and who had excelled in service to their fellow students through their leadership in student organizations or activities were considered for this recognition.

Daniel’s GPA was 3.95 and ranked second in a class of over 400 students. He has earned at least 15 book awards and won the 2008 Intra-School Mock Trial Competition. Daniel is a leader in his industry, and is an award-winning engineer and an adjunct faculty member at the University of Michigan. Daniel has also served as an Assistant Editor of the Cooley Law Review as well as a member of the Cooley Intellectual Law Society, the ABA, and a number of professional organizations in the engineering field.

The students nominated for this semester’s Distinguished Student Award furnished a variety of information, including resumes and letters of reference that were reviewed by the Executive Committee.

Nominees were also personally interviewed as part of the selection process. Members of each graduating class are evaluated on the criteria of character, academic accomplishment, leadership, and extracurricular activities in the decision to grant the Distinguished Student Award.

The scholarship is derived from income from the Alumni Memorial Scholarship Fund. That fund is supported by the generous contributions of many alumni, and by the proceeds from the Alumni Golf Benefit, which is held each summer. This year’s outing is scheduled for Monday, June 22 at the Country Club of Lansing.

Alumni Association Past Presidents’ Committee Chair Virginia P. Allen (right) awarded the 2009 Alumni Memorial Scholarship to current student Sarah Ann Ramsey

Alumni Past Presidents’ Committee Chair Virginia Allen grants the 2009 Alumni Memorial Scholarship Cooley Alumni Association Past Presidents’ Committee Chair Virginia P. Allen (Wing Class, 1982) awarded the 2009 Alumni Memorial Scholarship to current student Sarah Ann Ramsey at the Hilary Term Honors Convocation held on April 3rd at the Auburn Hills campus.

The Alumni Memorial Scholarship is granted each year to a current student who has successfully earned at least 30 credit hours, is in good academic standing, exhibits financial need, and is a positive force in the Cooley community.

The applicants’ materials were reviewed by Alumni Association Past Presidents’ Committee Chair Virginia P. Allen (Wing Class, 1982), and committee members M. Carol Bambery (Morell Class, 1985), Julie Clement (McDonald Class, 1998), Sharon Ellis (North Class, 1980), Jeff Haarer (Copeland Class, 1989), Larry Kish (Marston Class, 1978), Andy Sass (Morell Class, 1985), Mike Pelot (Martin Class, 1988), Diane M. Smith (North Class 1980), John J. Smith (Smith Class, 1985), and Charles Toy (Kavanagh Class, 1985) to make the selection. The 2009 Alumni Memorial Scholarship amounted to $2,871, the tuition cost for a threecredit class.

Committee Chair Allen commented, “The Alumni Association Memorial Scholarship fund has grown over the years thanks to the hard work of the alumni. When you support the Golf Outing and the Wine Tasting fund raisers, for example, you are contributing to the fund.

We have progressed from giving only a couple hundred dollars to granting two, three-credit tuition scholarships annually. Thank you for your support.”

According to Sarah Ramsey, “I am honored to be the recipient of the 2009 Alumni Memorial Scholarship.

This scholarship will be extremely helpful to me in achieving my goals and my life long dream of becoming an attorney.”

The recipient receives $2,500 from a substantial donation given to Cooley in 2003 by the Alpert Foundation. The 2008-2009 Ida and Benjamin Alpert Scholar is current student Trevor Reaves.

Mr. Reaves said, “I am truly honored to be this year’s recipient of this scholarship and extremely grateful to Mr. and Mrs. Alpert for making this possible. I have worked with many students who are outstanding leaders here at Cooley, so this recognition is truly a privilege. I must thank those who have served with me in different leadership capacities. They are the ones who made it that much easier for me to lead and be the caliber of person I am today. Without their continued support, I don’t know if I would be in a position to accept such an honor. I plan to use my Cooley experience to elevate my level of service as I enter the legal community.”

The award was granted in part due to Mr. Reaves’ leadership qualities and a willingness to serve in his community and school, participating as President of the Black Law Students Association, Class Senator & Parliamentarian of the Student Bar Association, Association of Graduation Marshals & Cooley Ambassador, and many other activities. His academic successes consist of several scholarships, honors, and awards.

Alumni Association Past Presidents’ Committee Chair Virginia P. Allen (right) Grants Distinguished Student Award to Daniel Reaume for the Riley Class

Upon hearing of his honor as Distinguished Student, Daniel stated, “receiving the DSA is an especially great honor because it comes from an alumni body representing an exceptionally diverse variety of backgrounds and ideas. I have had the good fortune to experience a sampling of this diversity through Cooley alumni teaching classes as professors and adjunct professors. That they taught the practice of law – not just legal theory – was a vital part of my Cooley experience.

As a part-time student, I also appreciate that receiving the DSA is a testament to Cooley’s dedication to making a quality legal education accessible to non-traditional students. I truly appreciate the dedication of the Cooley faculty, administration, and alumni.

The Alumni Association is proud and pleased to give recognition to this outstanding member of the Riley Class and extends its best wishes for his continuing success.

Second Scholarship Awarded to Thomas M. Cooley Law School Student in Memory of Melissa S. Mitchell Erin Kathleen Doering, Woodward Class, has been named the second recipient of the litigation-based scholarship named in memory of Melissa Mitchell, (Swainson Class, 2003). Erin received her award at the Lansing Honors Convocation on March 20, 2009.

The Melissa Mitchell Memorial Scholarship Fund was founded in June 2006 by several of Melissa’s family, friends, classmates, and professors. The scholarship award is made to a currently enrolled student who has earned at least 30 credit hours at Cooley and who is a student of good character and in good academic standing. Preference is given to those individuals who have: (a) demonstrated excellence in litigation skills through participation in the Moot Court or Mock Trial Programs, (b) demonstrated a passion for learning and the law, and (c) demonstrated a commitment to community or pro bono service. The selection committee, chaired by Professor Evelyn Calogero, consisted of Professors Ronald Bretz, James Hicks, Marjorie Russell, and William Wagner.

In accepting the Melissa Mitchell Memorial Scholarship, Doering stated, “I am indeed honored and privileged to accept this award in honor of Melissa Mitchell.”

As Cooley’s motto states, “in corde hominum est anima legis,” in the heart of man is the spirit of law.

Melissa Mitchell was that spirit who will live on through the Melissa Mitchell Memorial Scholarship Fund.

Cooley Law Library – Lansing Campus THEN: A law library of 10,000 volumes NOW: A resource of nearly 600,000 volumes with an average of 15,000 volumes added each year, Cooley’s Thomas E. Brennan Law Library ranks among the largest in the United States. It’s staffed by 40 full-time employees, 21 of whom are professional librarians.

BENCHMARK COLUMN | MAY 2009 | VOLUME 1 | NUMBER 2

ALUMNI MATTERS

COOLEY LAW SCHOOL HOSTS

Alumni Receptions COOLEY ALUMNI EVENTS IN BEANTOWN

COOLEY IN FLORIDA: FIVE CITIES IN FIVE DAYS

On January 22, 2009, alumni gathered at the Royal Sonesta Hotel in Cambridge, Mass. for a cocktail reception hosted by Director of Development, Pamela Heos. “It was a nice exchange of alumni who had not previously met. They networked and offered new alumni assistance with job leads and resumes. They all exchanged their business cards and were happy to be updated on our campus growth, enrollment and programs.” Richard Ravosa (Black Class, 1996) noted “The Lawyering Before Trial and Trial Workshop courses prepared me very thoroughly for the busy civil trial practice I have today. The trial prep courses were invaluable, and my clients, who are the end-users, benefit from my first-rate Cooley legal education.” Ravosa also added that former President Brennan advised him to “take a lawyer to lunch” and he did so with a Boston area lawyer. This chance meeting has led to a long friendship and referrals from that lawyer, who has become his landlord for many years as Ravosa’s law practice has grown. “I felt I was very well-prepared to hang out my shingle in the Boston area in 1996 and that Cooley had pointed me in the right direction.”

Boston area alumni were also invited to a Cooley alumni reception on February 17 at the Sheraton Boston Hotel in conjunction with the American Bar Association Mid-Winter Conference. Associate Dean of Professional and Career Development, Charles Toy (Kavanagh Class, 1981) hosted the event and enjoyed the exchange with fellow alumni. This coming September, Dean Toy will become President of the State Bar of Michigan, the first Cooley graduate to hold that position.

Professor Dorean Koenig and Michelle Simmons Brown (Durand Class, 1992) in Bonita Springs

Trailing only Michigan, Florida is the state with the second largest number of Cooley graduates -- more than 800. With this winter came the opportunity for Cooley to organize a series of events to visit those alumni as well as friends and prospective students throughout the southern portion of the state. Assisted by key alumni volunteers, Associate Dean Jim Robb toured five Florida cities in five days.

The tour started with an evening reception on Oct. 10 at the famous Testa’s Restaurant in Palm Beach, co-hosted by Scott Devore (Stone Class, 1996). Devore’s brother and fellow Cooley graduate Jeff (Johnson Class, 1989) was among the other guests. The next day brought an alumni luncheon at Le Café de Paris in Ft. Lauderdale followed by an evening reception at Perricone’s in Miami. Both of those events were co-hosted by Lara Edelstein (Steere Class, 1995), who serves as chair of the Cooley Alumni Association’s special events committee. “These events were wonderful opportunities to renew old acquaintances and make new ones,” she said. Edelstein previously organized the law school’s highly successful U.S. Supreme Court bar admission event in 2008.

On Oct. 12, the Cooley tour moved to Bonita Springs for an evening reception at the Hyatt Regency Coconut Point Resort.

Co-host Christopher “Sarge” Sweeney (Toy Class, 2003) and

Lara Edelstein (Steere Class, 1995), David Brandwein (Steere Class, 1995), Paul Gottfried (Williams Class, 1994), Steven Rubino (Black Class, 1996), and Lawrence Ploucha (Kelly Class, 1978) in Ft. Lauderdale

Cooley Professors Dorean Koenig and Ann Wing welcomed alumni and incoming students. Cooley’s reception was held in conjunction with the two-day winter conference of the State Bar of Michigan’s Real Property Law Section. Thus, Cooley’s Florida alumni met with many Michigan lawyers at the reception and were also invited to attend the conference at a specially discounted price. Chris Sweeney reported that, “I especially enjoyed the chance to meet with prospective students and tell them how great a school Cooley has become.”

The Florida tour concluded on Oct. 14 with a luncheon at Jackson’s Bistro on the waterfront in downtown Tampa. Sandi Milmed (Sharpe Class, 1998), Gus Richter (Christiancy Class, 1997), and John Parigros (Paterson Class, 2002) served as co-hosts. Milmed, who has helped organize numerous Cooley events in the Tampa area, commented that “Even the Cooley alumni far from Michigan can stay involved with the school in a meaningful way.” The luncheon featured an appearance and remarks by Cooley’s founding President, the Hon. Thomas E. Brennan. “In the 35 years since we opened our doors, Cooley has grown into one of the nation’s finest, becoming a school about which we all have much reason to be excited and proud.”

(Clockwise starting from top left): Anita Khachikyan (Kavanagh Class, 2008), Ysabel Hernandez (Adams Class, 2008), Lara Edelstein (Steere Class, 2008), Michelle Pernas (Sharpe Class, 2008), Jaline Fenwick (Kavanagh Class, 2008), and Radames Heredia III (Sharpe Class, 2008) in Miami

Gerald Eisman (Epaphroditus Class, 1979), Gus Richter (Christiancy Class, 1977), Bud Stansell (North Class, 1980), Hon. Thomas E. Brennan in Tampa

COOLEY ALUMNI IN THE BIG APPLE WINDY CITY LUNCHEON On December 16, 2008, 40 alumni and prospective students gathered for the annual Chicago Alumni Luncheon at Maggiano’s Restaurante. This event, always successful, brought together a group of alumni from the classes of 1978-2008 and was hosted

by Cooley’s Director of Development, Pamela Heos.

“It is always energizing to see this group network and share their Cooley memories. They seem to enjoy coming together each year that we have hosted this event. The number of attendees speaks to their interest and commitment to Cooley. Alumni were updated on enrollment, campus growth, and the record number of applicants to Cooley,” said Heos.

Graduate Tony Kalogerakos (Starr Class, 2005) attended this year for the first time. He noted, “As a weekend student commuting from Chicago, my Cooley Law School experience was enjoyable. I was challenged, worked hard, and am reaping the benefits today. Cooley prepared me before as well as after graduation by providing the resources, knowledge, contacts, and staff who were willing to go above and beyond. I attended this event because I wanted to make contacts and set up a network.

By attending this luncheon, I received three leads which lead to two injury settlements, thus very beneficial.

Over 30 New York City area alumni gathered on Feb. 10 at the Millenium Hilton in lower Manhattan, hosted by Associate Dean Charles Toy (Kavanagh Class, 1981). Co-hosts for the event were Kathy Martin (Weadock Class, 1999) and Sidney Cherubin (Blair Class, 2001). “Dean Toy again had the pleasure of meeting many alumni as he prepares to assume his position this coming fall as the President of the State Bar of Michigan,” Kathy Martin stated.

“Cooley means so much to me, and I am appreciative of the education I received.

I enjoy attending these events each year and staying in touch with fellow alumni and Cooley staff.”

Kathy Martin (Weadock Class, 1999)

KNOWLEDGE. SKILLS. ETHICS.

FEATURE ARTICLE

Class Notes

He and his partners formed Bay Wind-

Naval Research Laboratory in Wash-

1997 Fellows Class

power in 1999 and built the first

ington, D.C., where he supervises a

Novay, Christian, was named a Part-

Boyle, Michael J.,

Cuthbertson, Jeff, was named

privately financed commercial wind

staff of Navy patent attorneys.

ner at Wilson Elser Moskowitz Edelman

was promoted to the

mayor of Rochester, Mich., by his

turbines in Michigan. In 2003 he formed

Meyer, John, is a partner in the firm

& Dicker LLP in Chicago. Wilson Elser

position of Senior

fellow city council members. He is

Mackinaw Power, which is developing

of Foster Quan LLP in Houston, Texas.

has 20 U.S.-based offices and provides

Trial Attorney with

an attorney with Secrest Wardle.

1977 Graves Class

about $500 million of new wind-

The firm, now the nation’s second

clients with international capabilities

the Barone

He focuses his practice on municipal

power projects.

largest law firm devoted exclusively to

through a network of affiliate firms in

Defense Firm. The

law, estate planning, and real estate.

1985 T. Smith Class

immigration law, was formed with the

France, Germany, and Mexico. The firm

firm’s primary focus is to help persons

joined the Traverse

Bowler, Nannette M., was appointed

Jan. 1, 2009 merger of Tindal & Foster

has 750 lawyers and serves clients in six

charged with alcohol-or drug-impaired

City, Mich., law office

director of the Department of Family

PC and Quan, Burdette & Perez PC.

of the seven continents.

driving. With his promotion, Mr. Boyle

of Smith Haughey

Services by the Fairfax (Virginia) County

1991 Krinock Class

1998 Sharpe Class

takes a more active role in the training

Rice & Roegge as a

Department of Family Services. She

Steiner Applegate, Carol, has been

Kranz, Roy, has accepted a position

Schuknecht, Ronald A., has

previously served as Chief Judge of the

named director of programs and serv-

as an Assistant U.S. Attorney, working

years of experience representing

Family Division for the 8th Judicial

ices at the Business Ownership Initiative

in the Bay City, Mich., office. He

creditors and trustees in bankruptcy

Circuit, Ionia County, Mich. She served

of Indiana and its Central Indiana

formerly served as Chief Assistant

court. He also practices in the areas of

as head of the Michigan Family Indepen-

Women’s Business Center. She previ-

Prosecutor for Isabella County, Mich.

real estate law, misdemeanor criminal

dence Agency, served as executive

ously served as an adjunct professor of

defense, and family law.

director of the Chance at Childhood:

medical law and ethics at the University

1978 Marston Class

Law and Social Work Initiative at

of Indianapolis and owned the Law

Michigan State University, was co-founder

Office of Carol Steiner for 10 years.

has joined Honigman Miller Schwarz and Cohn LLP as a partner in the firm’s Lansing, Mich., office. He formerly was a general managing partner with the lobbying firm of Karoub Associates. At Honigman, Mr. Garcia will provide clients with strategic

2007 Boston Class Gozdziak, Dorothy, has joined the Garden City, New York-based law

lawyers. He is certified as a practitioner office of Michael L. of the Standardized Field Sobriety Tests Pfeifer as Of Counand in the use of BAC Tracker software. sel. The firm concentrates in the areas He is a 2006 graduate of the Criminal of elder law, special needs planning, Defense Attorneys of Michigan Trial

1998 McDonald Class Fultz, Karen D., of

and estate planning.

Lawyer’s College.

2002 Paterson Class

2008 C. Adams Class Ahmad,

Cozen O’Connor, recently served as a

and executive director of the Children’s Law Center, and legal counsel/executive

2007 Fisher Class

and mentorship of the firm’s junior trial

shareholder. He has more than 25

Garcia, Joseph A.,

2002 Chase Class

Donaldson, Brett T., has been

Mohammad, has

elected as a member of The Cavanagh

1993 Moore Class

panelist for the Emory

joined the Cook Law Firm, in Phoenix, Ariz., by the

director to the Michigan Commission

Keilitz, Kirsten,

University School

on Children. Most recently, she was

has joined the

of Law’s Legal Associ-

president of Conceivex, in Saranac,

Traverse City, Mich.,

ation of Women Students (LAWS)

Mich., an international medical device

law office of Smith

biennial seminar, which focused on the

company focusing on new ideas in

Haughey Rice &

issues that affect female attorneys.

2003 Swainson Class

reproductive health care.

Roegge as a share-

A member in the firm’s Atlanta office,

Baluch, Laura A., has been named

Laura J., has joined

holder. She focuses her practice

Fultz focuses her practice on subroga-

a partner with the law firm Barrick,

the Grand Rapids,

1987 Champlin Class

County State’s firm’s board of directors. He practices Attorney’s Office in primarily in the areas of insurance deChicago, Ill. as an fense, criminal law, and general litigation. assistant state’s attorney.

Garlinghouse,

primarily on the area of family law,

tion and recovery matters. Her practice

Switzer, Long, Balsley & Van Evera,

solutions that involve the executive

Davis, Mark A.,

Mich., office of

including domestic relations, divorce,

also includes family law matters such as

LLP, in Rockford, Ill. She concentrates

branch of government, the legislature,

Foster, Swift, Collins

was unanimously

child custody, pre-nuptial and post-nuptial

divorce, child custody, family adoptions,

her practice in the areas of personal

and regulators.

re-elected as Presi-

planning, and facilitative mediation.

and child support. She is the coordinator

injury, complex family law, and disso-

an associate in the firm’s General Litigation Group.

Kuhnmuench, Nell, was voted

dent and CEO for

Michigan’s top lobbyist by an independ-

his second, five-year

ent political survey. She was twice voted

term at Howard &

1994 Person Class Clark, James, has

Howard Attorneys, P.C. Mr. Davis

been re-elected to the

ist. She formerly served as Chief of Staff

concentrates his practice in business,

Board of Directors of

for eight years for two different Demo-

real estate, securities, and tax law. He

Messerli & Kramer

cratic Speakers of the Michigan House

has extensive experience handling the

P.A. with offices in

of Representatives. She is known for her

acquisition, development, leasing, and

Minneapolis, St. Paul,

expertise on health care, insurance, and

disposition of automobile sales and

environmental issues.

the state’s most effective woman lobby-

1980 Bushnell Class

“Opening the Workplace to Service Animals, Not Pets,” in ADA Special

Report of the Society for Human Resource Management, in January 2009.

lution of marriage litigation. Phone: (815) 962-6611.

for the underprivileged and unrepre-

Roggenbuck, Amanda L., of

sented community in the state of

Unionville, Mich., has been selected

Georgia in partnership with Georgia

Notices 1976 Cooley Class

by the Michigan State University

Come, Donald R., 87, formerly of

Legal Services and the Atlanta

Michigan Political Leadership Program.

Lansing, Mich., died Sept. 14, 2008 from

Volunteer Lawyer Foundation.

The political leadership fellowship in-

cancer complications. He was a resident

1999 Flannigan Class

volves a public policy and leadership

of Sarasota, Fla., since 1998, and was an

and Plymouth, Minn. In addition, Mr.

active member of his community.

Clark has been elected Chair of the

Zyble,Tricia (Farrell), and her hus-

training program that runs annually

service facilities across the United States.

Messerli & Kramer Foundation, a 501(c)

band Mark announce the birth of their

from February through November.

Mr. Davis also has substantial experience

1976 Campbell Class

son, John Ryan Zyble, born on Aug.

She owns and operates Amanda L.

Fitzke, Robert, 82, died Oct. 30, 2008. He was a retired East Lansing

handling (1) acquisition, leasing, and

Neal, Stephanie, published,

for the Atlanta office’s pro bono program and provides legal assistance

& Smith, P.C., as

(3), whose mission is to financially assist

disposition of industrial and commercial

and support Minnesota communities

18, 2008. He joins siblings Mark II,

Roggenbuck & Associates, PLLC, in

Nick, Katie, Olivia, and Ava. The family

Cass City, Mich.

property; (2) acquisition and disposition

in their attempts to eliminate the

attorney, former lobbyist, and the first

of business operations in various

disparities in healthcare and education;

resides in Richmond, Mich.

2004 Cross Class

Executive Director of Delta Dental of

industries, including manufacturers, dis-

thereby, improving the quality of life

1999 Fead Class

Tlaib, Rashida, was elected to the

Michigan.

Walker, Earl H.,

Michigan legislature in November

1979 Butzel Class

was selected as a

2008, becoming the first Muslim

Whalen, James Lee, of Burton,

“Professional on the

woman to hold a seat in the Michigan

Mich., 56, died Sept. 5, 2008. He operated a private law practice for 26

tributors, retailers, and service providers;

experienced by low-income and

1980 Potter Class

(3) registration statements under the

disadvantaged individuals and families.

Ross, Gregory S., was elected

Securities Act, and reporting require-

Dulan, Steven, spoke to the Conser-

Judge of the 73A District Court in

ments under the Exchange Act. He was

vative Law Society at the MSU School of

Fast Track” in Hous-

House of Representatives.

Sanilac County, Michigan, Nov. 4,

associated with E.F. Hutton and with the

Law regarding Michigan firearm’s law

ton Texas by H Texas

2006 Reid Class

years, served as Interim Director

2008. He formerly was in private prac-

Michigan Corporation and Securities

and the 2nd Amendment on March 2,

Magazine. He is senior

tice of law since 1980, emphasizing

Bureau, Enforcement Division, from

2009. He also testified before the

criminal defense, general civil litigation,

1987 to 1991.

family law, and probate.

1988 Martin Class

1981 T. M. Kavanagh Class

May, Berton, has been appointed

Morse, David,

as a hearing panelist to the Michigan

was re-elected as

Attorney Discipline Board. Mr. May is a

Prosecuting Attorney

member of the State Bar of Michigan

for Livingston

Character & Fitness Committee. He

County, Mich.,

practices at May & Sucher, PLLC, 5777

on Nov. 5, 2008.

W. Maple Road, Suite 180, West

early 1980s, and was a former city

Houston office, practicing general civil

S.C., as an associate attorney. Previ-

attorney for Flint, Mich.

Recreation and Natural Resources

litigation involving real estate, construc-

ously she was with Nelson Mullins Riley

Committee in his capacity as a member

1981 Dethmers Class

tion, personal injury, estates, toxic

& Scarborough LLP. She practices in

waste, breach of contract, and

Flanagan, Dan C., 58, died Nov. 4,

the areas of personal injury, workers’

debtor/creditor issues.

2008. He was an attorney with the

compensation, employment, Social

Illinois Department of Employment

2000 Jay Class

Security, disability, estate planning,

Security. He was active with Home-

and incorporation.

law to coincide with federal statute. Mr.

Mendham, Robert, has joined the

wood-Flossmoor Youth Soccer and

Dulan is an adjunct professor at Cooley.

Cheboygan County (Michigan) Prosecu-

2006 Edwards Class

the Illinois Women’s Soccer League.

Mr. Dulan operates The Law Offices of

tor’s Office as an Assistant Prosecutor.

Alifo, Eric, is a Judicial Systems

1995 Bird Class

Steven W. Dulan, PLC, 1750 E. Grand

He previously served as Chief Assistant

Monitor for the United Nations

Prosecutor for Otsego County, Mich.,

Kettell Sr., Charles Allan, 51, of

River, Suite 101, East Lansing, MI

Mission in Liberia.

and has assisted in the prosecutor’s

Clearwater, Fla., died Sept. 15, 2008.

48823. Phone: (517) 333-7132.

Welsh, Patrick F., of Denver,

He served for eight years with the

Colo., has been named as a deputy

Clearwater Police Department, where

district attorney for the 14th Judicial

he won a medal for bravery for saving

of the board of directors of the Michigan

the definition of “pistol” under Michigan

is Livingston County’s longest-

626-5555. He practices in most areas of

serving prosecuting attorney.

criminal and civil litigation with a focus

Murkowski, the

Wigger Law Firm in North Charleston,

Michigan House Tourism, Outdoor

regarding legislation that would change

Bloomfield, Mich. 48322. Phone: (248)

1983 O’Hara Class

of the Bishop Airport Authority in the

Coalition for Responsible Gun Owners

Beginning his sixth term, Mr. Morse

Phone: (517) 546-1850.

Ameika, Ashley E., has joined the

counsel at Jackson Waller in the firm’s

on professional liability and legal ethics.

He is licensed in Michigan and Ohio.

Williams, Michael P., Chief Operat-

office in Emmet County (Michigan).

He formerly was a trooper with the

ing Officer and General Counsel for

1989 Copeland Class

Michigan State Police.

Sunteck Transport Group, spoke at the

District Attorney’s Office in Moffat

his sergeant’s life during a hostage

2001 Wilson Class

County, Colo. He handles lower level

situation. He was formerly a S/Sgt in

tion’s annual conference April 4, 2009,

Ambrozaitis, Michelle, was elected

felonies and Moffat County Court

the U.S. Air Force, where he served

manager, responsible for integrating in

in San Antonio, Texas. He participated

Prosecutor of Clare County, Mich.

misdemeanors.

as a firefighter.

Court, was elected to

to the PB family, marketing and sales

in a plenary session entitled “Who’s

Most recently she was in private prac-

nationally and internationally, and leading

2006 Fitzgerald Class

the Michigan Probate

2008 E. Sharpe Class

Growing and How.”

tice. Previously, she was Chief Assistant

1997 Voelker Class

Prosecutor in Clare County and also

Hon. David M.,

Henne, Mark, has joined Parsons

Transportation Intermediaries Associa-

Chief Judge of the

Brinckerhoff (PB) as an environmental

Kent County Probate

Judges Association Board of Directors and appointed chairman of the board’s Estates and Trusts committee and its Michigan Trust Code committee. Judge

multi-discipline teams to meet project/ client goals. Phone: (517) 886-7419.

1991 Lawrence Class

Descutner, Joy, was inducted by

Trevino-Savala, Marcelina, has

Ikeh, Olive, died Jan. 5, 2009, as the

been named Director of Migrant

result of a car accident while visiting

Affairs for the state of Michigan.

her family in Nigeria.

formerly was an Assistant Prosecutor in Cass County, Mich.

Wheeling Jesuit University into its

Previously, she was in private practice

soccer two-time All-Region and Regional

Group, has been appointed to the

one of the Navy’s highest civilian hon-

All-American. She is self-employed as a

board of directors for Easter Seals of

Do you have a submission for Class Notes?

1984 McAlvay Class

ors, and the highest civilian honor that

certified training consultant for case

Southwest Florida. She practices in the

E-mail: communications@cooley.edu

Vander Veen II, Richard F., is

the Commanding Officer of the Naval

management software in the legal field

area of personal injury law.

president of the Mackinaw Power and

Research Laboratory can confer. He is

in the Pittsburgh, Penn., area.

Michigan Sustainable Energy Coalition.

an Associate Patent Counsel at the

Murkowski was also elected to the Council of the Probate and Estate Planning Section of the State Bar of Michigan.

Karasek, John, was honored in

Athletic Hall of Fame. She is a 1992

Parker, Julie A., a founding owner of

and was a senior staff assistant for

January 2009 with the U.S. Navy

graduate of the school and a women’s

the Sarasota, Fla., law firm Parker Law

the Michigan State University College

Meritorious Civilian Service Award,

Assistance Migrant Program.

BENCHMARK COLUMN | MAY 2009 | VOLUME 1 | NUMBER 2