2024 BYU Law Alumni Development Summit: Building a Legacy of Impact and Inclusion
The 2024 BYU Law Alumni Development Summit brought together more than 40 alumni, students, and faculty for two days of collaboration, inspiration, and meaningful discussions about the future of BYU Law School. This year’s summit highlighted the school’s growing impact, its commitment to fostering inclusion, and its efforts to prepare students to thrive in and contribute to the global legal landscape.
The Summit emphasized BYU Law’s mission to deliver “education for eternity” while addressing challenges and opportunities in legal education. Attendees engaged in thoughtful discussions on inclusion and belonging, with alumni sharing how their unique experiences have shaped their careers. Sessions emphasized the importance of creating environments that encourage open communication and respect for diverse perspectives and backgrounds. These conversations highlighted the school’s progress in increasing diversity among its student body, with women now representing near or above 50% of incoming classes and a steadily growing percentage of BIPOC students.
Career development and student placement were key areas of discussion, as alumni and faculty explored how BYU Law can build on its recent Top 10 ranking for federal clerkship placements. Alumni were encouraged to mentor students, helping them prepare for interviews and expand their networks. The Summit’s global focus was evident in discussions about BYU Law’s expanding international initiatives, including its LLM program and global learning through externships and seminars.
One of the highlights of the Summit was the keynote address by Kevin J Worthen (‘82), Hugh W. Colton Professor of Law, former BYU President, and former BYU Law Dean. Worthen articulated BYU Law’s role within the broader mission of the University. Worthen reflected on the Law School’s founding principles and its commitment to supporting individuals in their quest for excellence, integrity, and eternal growth. His remarks served as a reminder of the Law School’s unique position as a “graduate program of real consequence” with the potential to make a lasting global impact.
The Summit celebrated BYU Law programs including the Achievement Fellows and Academies. The Achievement Fellows program, which provides scholarships and mentorship to students who have overcome significant challenges to qualify for law school, marked a milestone this year with its first graduating class. Meanwhile, the Academies program offers 1L students immersive experiences in areas such as trial advocacy, deals, startups, bankruptcy, compliance, and immigration, reinforcing the Law School’s commitment to experiential education.
As BYU Law looks to the future, the Summit serves as a powerful reminder of the strength of its alumni community and the wide spectrum of opportunities ahead. With plans already underway for next year’s event, we look forward to continuing the momentum and building an even brighter future for BYU Law.