QUARANTINE GRADUATING IN THE PANDEMIC

The Class of 2020 saw their law school careers end in a way unlike any class before them. Although the May graduation ceremony had to be postponed, we look forward to celebrating with the class when it is safe to do so.

Faculty, alumni and student leaders shared their well wishes and messages of support in a video to the Class of 2020.

Below are a few select remarks.

DEAN COLIN CRAWFORD

“I couldn’t be more proud of all of you and I look forward to a day when all of us will get together and celebrate your magnificent achievement in person. I look forward to working with many of you in the years to come in this terrific legal community. Congratulations for all that you have accomplished. This is a magnificent time for you and my admiration for you is profound.”

MADISON SHOFFNER, LAW ALUMNI COUNCIL

“On behalf of the Council, we want to say congratulations — and welcome to the club.

“I know it’s not been an easy road to get here and it’s definitely not ending as you had envisioned. But at the end of the day, you’re going to be an alumnus just like the rest of us. We at the Council cannot wait to see what your future holds. We are so proud of you. Congratulations!”

CONNOR CAFFERTY, 2019-2020 SBA PRESIDENT

“I know this isn’t the end to law school that we all imagined, but it is certainly an end that is unique and that will make an interesting story for many years to come as we all enjoy long and successful careers.”

CHIEF JUDGE DENISE CLAYTON, KENTUCKY COURT OF APPEALS

Judge Clayton was scheduled to deliver the May 2020 commencement address.

“My word for you today is integrity. That word has roots in both French and Latin.

“The first definition you’ll see of integrity in the dictionary is reflective of its French roots and that definition has integrity as meaning the quality of being honest and fair.

“However, the second definition is likewise important and it’s reflective of its Latin roots. That definition is integrity is a state of being whole or complete.

“As you go forward in your personal and professional life, it is important for you to model both of those attributes. Your completeness and your honesty are benefits to you and to your clients and to the community.

“Congratulations and I look forward to seeing you in court.”