http://pinkshagdesigns.ipaperus.com/DU/DULawWinter09/RSS.ashxDU Sturm College of Law Winter 09 Alumni Magazine PagesFri, 27 Mar 2009 23:36:43 +0100http://pinkshagdesigns.ipaperus.com/DU/DULawWinter09/http://pinkshagdesigns.ipaperus.com/DU/DULawWinter09/?Page=1http://pinkshagdesigns.ipaperus.com/DU/DULawWinter09/?Page=1W i n t e r 2 009 Alumni Magazine University of Denver STURM COLLEGE OF LA W Exceptional Students Raise The Bar Trial AdvocacyLawyers From Day One2009-03-27T23:36:43+01:00http://pinkshagdesigns.ipaperus.com/DU/DULawWinter09/?Page=2http://pinkshagdesigns.ipaperus.com/DU/DULawWinter09/?Page=2Contents contents From The University of Denver Sturm College of Law V o l u m e 6 I s s u e 1 Departments 1 A Message from Dean Juárez DU’s ongoing commitment to the public interest 4 News Briefs Cultural immersion program, new faculty, the “Obama Phenomena,” the DU Law Review makes history and more 13 Alumni Profile League of Women Voters President Mary Wilson, JD’ 75 features 16 20 Development News A message to alumni and friends of DU Law, LRAP gift and the law school hits the road Exceptional Students Raise the Bar for the Entire Legal Profession 40 36 28 Faculty Highlights Publications, presentations and awards Legal Affairs Receptions, Commencement and Law Stars 2008 Trial Advocacy44 Class Notes Catching up with alumni Firms Demand Trial-Tested Graduates 56 In Memoriam 2009 Calendar of Events 57 Cover Illustration: Alicia Buelow collects many of the elements in her illustrations from the streets and outer neighborhoods of San Francisco, CA. By combining found objects with photographs, type, drawings, and other surprises, she creates strong, provocativ e, and richly-textured illustrations. http://www.aliciabuelow.com/index.shtml2009-03-27T23:36:43+01:00http://pinkshagdesigns.ipaperus.com/DU/DULawWinter09/?Page=3http://pinkshagdesigns.ipaperus.com/DU/DULawWinter09/?Page=3Dean José R. Juárez, Jr. letter Letter from the Dean Dear Alumni and Friends: The spring semester has begun and the Ricketson Law Building is abuzz with activity. After the quiet of mid-December, it is wonderful to have students and faculty return. This issue reports on some important aspects of the work that goes on at the Sturm College of Law. I hope you will take a moment to read about some of our wonderful students. Their work is extraordinary. You will learn about one of our evening students, Darryl Collins who, based on his boundless energy as president of the Black Law Students’ Association and Student Bar Association (SBA) senator, will undoubtedly become a leader in the legal profession. Darryl is not alone in his commitment to serving the public interest. The three students – Beth Nuetzel, Gracie Chisholm and Angelica Tovar-Hastings – who attended the trial of former Peruvian President Alberto Fujimori are more examples of our students’ commitment to human rights and justice. Jonathan Keyser was a delight to work with as SBA president. His commitment to serving in Afghanistan is perhaps the most extreme example of our students’ commitment to serving the public good. I know you join me in wishing him and all of our military serving abroad a speedy and safe return home. The commitment to the public interest is certainly shared by our alumni. I am very pleased that we have an opportunity to highlight the work of Mary Wilson, JD’75, who has worked tirelessly for a number of different community organizations and now serves as president of the continued on next page p a g e 12009-03-27T23:36:43+01:00http://pinkshagdesigns.ipaperus.com/DU/DULawWinter09/?Page=4http://pinkshagdesigns.ipaperus.com/DU/DULawWinter09/?Page=4letter Letter from the Dean continued from page 1 League of Women Voters of the United States. Her work is of fundamental importance to our democracy, and I am proud to claim her as one of our own. Of course before our students can follow in Mary’s footsteps, they must learn to be lawyers. The Sturm College of Law has had an extraordinarily strong trial advocacy program for many years. Our teams are among the best in the country. With the addition of David Schott as the director of our Trial Advocacy program, we are poised to take that program to the next level and ensure that DU Law grads continue to excel as litigators and appellate attorneys. The building is indeed buzzing. I hope you will soon have an opportunity to come see for yourself all of the extraordinary activity at DU Law. José R. (Beto) Juárez, Jr. Dean and Professor of Law University of Denver Sturm College of Law Do you have something to say? Then let us hear it. Send your comments to editor Meghan Howes by e-mail to mhowes@law.du.edu, or by mail to Office of Communications, DU Sturm College of Law, 2255 E. Evans, Suite 315, Denver, CO 80208. p a g e 22009-03-27T23:36:43+01:00http://pinkshagdesigns.ipaperus.com/DU/DULawWinter09/?Page=5http://pinkshagdesigns.ipaperus.com/DU/DULawWinter09/?Page=5University of Denver STURM COLLEGE OF LAW alumni magazine WINTER 2009 Volume 6, No. 1 PUBLISHER & EDITOR Meghan Howes Director of Communications Office of Communications University of Denver Sturm College of Law editorial board Dave Ruderman, Christopher Wangelin, Jennifer Savage, Eric Lundstedt CREATIVE SERVICES: UNIVERSITY OF DENVER STURM COLLEGE OF LAW OFFICE OF COMMUNICATIONS Send correspondence and change of address to: University of Denver Sturm College of Law Alumni Magazine Office of Communications 2255 E. Evans Ave., Suite 315, Denver, CO 80208 Phone: 303-871-6117 Fax: 303-871-6498 Email: alumni@law.du.edu 2008 University of Denver Sturm College of Law All rights reserved. Printed in the USA UNIVERSITY OF DENVER STURM COLLEGE OF LAW VOLUME 6, ISSUE 1 • WINTER 2009 The Sturm College of Law publishes the Sturm College of Law Alumni Magazine twice a year – summer and winter – for alumni and friends of the law school. Magazine production is managed by the Office of Communications, University of Denver Sturm College of Law, 2255 E. Evans Ave., Suite 315, Denver, CO 80208. POSTMASTER: Please send change of address to: University of Denver Sturm College of Law Office of Communications 2255 E. Evans Ave., Suite 315 Denver, CO 80208 PHOTO CREDITS: p. 19, 38, 39 42 Eric Weber; p. 24 Jon Keyser/Emma Tetzlaff;p. 27 Darryl Collins; p. 36 Wayne Armstrong, University Communications Photography; p. 37 Tim Ryan Photography p a g e 32009-03-27T23:36:43+01:00http://pinkshagdesigns.ipaperus.com/DU/DULawWinter09/?Page=6http://pinkshagdesigns.ipaperus.com/DU/DULawWinter09/?Page=6News Briefs bri efs Sturm College of Law Bar Passage Rate Continues to Climb The University of Denver Sturm College of Law celebrated an 81 percent bar passage rate for all first-time takers in 2008. This number is up from a 74 percent passage rate in 2007. These results mark good progress in a deliberate and hard-fought push to improve a sagging bar pass rate among DU Law graduates. Through strategic research; an intentional reduction in the first year class size; new programming and prep courses specifically aimed at bar passage; and the tireless efforts of Dean José R. (Beto) Juárez, DU Law faculty, staff and alumni, DU Law students are better equipped and more confident in their ability to tackle the bar. The work is far from over, however. To determine the most effective ways to advance the DU Law on its path to excellence, including its bar passage rate, Dean Juárez organized the Next Steps Committee in 2008. The committee, composed of faculty, alumni and staff representatives in addition to the DU Chancellor and Provost, focuses primarily on admissions, financial aid, student advising, rankings and bar passage. – Jenny Savage Cultural Immersion Program Offers Hands-On Learning Nearly half of the population in the Western Hemisphere speaks Spanish. To keep pace with economic globalization, business professionals must acquire an understanding of the Latin American culture. Innovative language acquisition methods are necessary to meet the complex needs of today’s professionals. Cultural immersion offers a complete engagement with the culture and a deeper comprehension of the language with more speed and effectiveness than traditional classroom environments. Students broaden their perspectives and discover new dimensions of themselves as global citizens. Daily cultural exchanges take students well beyond the classroom as they listen to others speaking the language, ask for directions, shop, meet new friends and network with international colleagues. As part of its Continuing Legal Education (CLE) program, the University of Denver Sturm College of Law is sponsoring Cross-Cultural Spanish Immersion for the Legal Profession March 14-21 in Mérida, Mexico. Immigration law and Spanish instruction expert David Simmons will lead the session. Simmons, who currently teaches Immigration Law at the Sturm College of Law, is active in pro bono and community education efforts. He has spoken and written about immigration-related issues, and has presented CLE seminars to local, state and national audiences. The program will also introduce exciting, hands-on cultural excursions as well as a unique law-related curriculum that will include lectures at the Marista University Law School, a visit to the U.S. Consulate offices in Mérida and networking events with local attorneys. For more information about the program, visit www.law.du.edu/immersion. – J.S. p a g e 42009-03-27T23:36:43+01:00http://pinkshagdesigns.ipaperus.com/DU/DULawWinter09/?Page=7http://pinkshagdesigns.ipaperus.com/DU/DULawWinter09/?Page=7News Briefs briefs Obama, Sandra Day O’Connor The DU Law Review made history recently when it published its first-ever article written by a U.S. Supreme Court justice and focused an entire issue to essays about the “Obama Phenomenon.” “We have a lot to be proud about,” says Michael Smith, editor-in-chief of the Law Review. “This year, our team of editors went above and beyond in creating an issue entirely focused on judicial accountability and featuring an article written by former Supreme Court Justice Sandra Day O’Connor. “We also published an entire issue focused on the ‘Obama Phenomenon’ that coincided with the inauguration,” says Smith. The Law Review typically publishes four issues each year, but expanded to five to fully develop the topic of judicial accountability and to create a thoughtful commentary on the presidential election. Justice O’Connor’s discussion of the state of the judiciary during her visit to the Sturm College of Law in spring 2008 inspired members of the Law Review to dedicate the first issue of the year to the Inspire Issues for DU Law Review topic of judicial accountability. Articles editors worked with former Colorado Supreme Court Justice Rebecca Love Kourlis and Jordan Singer from the Institute for the Advancement of the American Legal System to create a framework for the first issue of the Law Review. “We all worked together to create this issue that focuses on the topic of judicial accountability, with perspectives from some of the leading scholars from around the country,” says Forrest Plesko, senior articles editor. “After we established the idea and secured a strong base of authors, we were pleased to be able to add a piece written by Justice O’Connor as well.” Throughout the issue, authors question whether judicial accountability translates into holding “activist” judges “accountable” or whether judicial independence remains as a staple of our legal system and society as a whole. The judicial accountability issue is available online at http://www.law.du.edu/index.php/denveruniversity-law-review. – J.S. p a g e 52009-03-27T23:36:43+01:00http://pinkshagdesigns.ipaperus.com/DU/DULawWinter09/?Page=8http://pinkshagdesigns.ipaperus.com/DU/DULawWinter09/?Page=8News Briefs bri efs PILG Kicks Off New Tradition On Sept. 27, the sweaty palms of 75 University of Denver Sturm College of Law students had nothing to do with exams or landing their dream internship. Instead, Sept. 27 had everything to do with kickball – law school style. That is, there were coolers of beer. And costumes. And a fantastic cause. Organized by the Public Interest Law Group (PILG) as an autumn fundraising counterpart to its annual spring auction, the inaugural kickball tournament aimed to bring the DU Law community together while supporting the funding of valuable public interest summer clerkships. Recent PILG clerkship grants have included projects ranging from prosecuting war crimes in Bosnia to developing new juvenile justice programs in Jefferson County, Colo. At Ruby Hill Park in Denver, eight teams, each with a faculty coach, competed for the coveted title of champion. Teams such as Mistakes of Law, Attractive Nuisance and Gang Green used costumes, skill and determination to stay competitive. Impressively, the tournament carefully followed the rules and guidelines set by the World Adult Kickball Association. Teams were seeded in brackets based on the amount of money they had raised collectively. “Kickball is basically a sport that students haven’t played since they were nine,” says Kim Chavez Cook, co-organizer of the event. “We really had to channel our inner elementary school P.E. classes.” “It was great watching someone wind up like they were going to slam the ball, then end up missing it completely,” says Rob Westfall, another coorganizer. “People really became very intense about something that is actually not intense at all.” Faculty took their role as coaches very seriously, often gathering their teams in a huddle to point out the weaknesses on opposing teams and even analyzing kicking techniques. In the semifinal round, faculty members abandoned their coaching positions to rally together as a team to play against the final student team standing. In the end, it was a round of rock paper scissors that served as a tiebreaker to determine the winner. “Team Flashback,” a 1980s-themed student group, took home the championship and bragging rights for the year. PILG hopes that the tournament will become a DU Law tradition that will continue to flourish and grow in size and spirit. “We are hoping that this event will become our legacy and that teams will one day practice for months in advance and be very hard-core,” says Cook. – J.S. p a g e 62009-03-27T23:36:43+01:00http://pinkshagdesigns.ipaperus.com/DU/DULawWinter09/?Page=9http://pinkshagdesigns.ipaperus.com/DU/DULawWinter09/?Page=9News Briefs briefs ENRL Turns Focus to Urban Pollution For Assistant Professor Michael Harris, the sky is the limit. Pun intended. Beginning in January, the DU Law Environmental and Natural Resources Law (ENRL) clinic will focus much of its efforts on responding to urban pollution, including clean air and environmental justice cases, specifically in response to low-income populations who statistically suffer in disproportionate amounts to living in the most polluted conditions. The clinic will continue to offer students the opportunity to focus on natural resources cases as well. “Environmentally speaking, Denver is becoming increasingly more sophisticated about dealing with its issues,” says Harris. “DU law students will have the opportunity to be in on the ground level of Denver’s environmental revolution, much like Los Angeles in 1988 and Houston in 2000.” Supportive of this shift, the clinic will soon launch a full ENRL fellowship to enhance its efforts. The ENRL fellow will teach a course in urban pollution and ask that students prepare white papers on the topic. Additionally, students will write letters to state regulatory groups and community groups that will encourage local governments to accept public participation in conversations about urban pollution rather than discussing the ins and outs behind closed doors. Harris also believes this shift in focus will help set the University of Denver Sturm College of Law apart from the University of Colorado Law School, which also offers a natural resources clinic that has been deadlocked with DU’s program for years. “DU is an urban school and that is something that CU doesn’t have claim to,” Harris explains. “Denver is a rapidly growing urban area, and if we want to make a name for ourselves, the door is wide open.” – J.S. From NFL to JD A competitive nature, solid work habits, leadership and communication skills have helped Craig Ochs achieve two starkly different but equally gratifying dreams: the NFL and the University of Denver Sturm College of Law. Ochs, a former quarterback for both CU and the University of Montana, played with the San Diego Chargers and Buffalo Bills before sustaining a career-ending shoulder injury in 2006. He returned to Montana for a coaching stint with the Division I-AA Montana Grizzlies before following in his father’s footsteps (Stephen Oaks, JD’99) and applying to DU Law. With one semester of law school now under his belt, Ochs couldn’t be more pleased with his new path, normal stresses aside. He plans to stay in Denver after graduation and raise his family in the Mile High City. p a g e 72009-03-27T23:36:43+01:00http://pinkshagdesigns.ipaperus.com/DU/DULawWinter09/?Page=10http://pinkshagdesigns.ipaperus.com/DU/DULawWinter09/?Page=10News Briefs bri efs DU Law Welcomes Seven New Full-Time Faculty ASSISTANT PROFESSOR REBECCA AVIEL JD, HARVARD LAW SCHOOL B.A., YALE COLLEGE Rebecca Aviel clerked for Judge Barry Silverman of the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals and practiced in the litigation department of Morrison & Foerster in San Francisco. She also spent two years as a staff attorney for the Ninth Circuit, specializing in civil rights, immigration, habeas corpus and criminal appeals. She is author of “Compulsory Education and Substantive Due Process: Asserting Student Rights to a Safe and Healthy School Environment,” 10 LEWIS & CLARK L. Rev. 201 (2006). Aviel’s research and teaching interests include family law, legal profession and professional responsibility, constitutional law and civil procedure. ASSISTANT PROFESSOR ERIK BLUEMEL JD, NEW YORK UNIVERSITY LL.M., GEORGETOWN UNIVERSITY LAW CENTER B.A., UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA-BERKELEY Prior to joining the faculty at the University of Denver Sturm College of Law, Erik Bluemel clerked for the Honorable Barefoot Sanders in the Northern District of Texas and the Honorable Kermit Edward Bye in the Eighth Circuit Court of Appeals. He also served as a staff attorney and teaching fellow at the Georgetown University Law Center Institute for Public Representation, where he represented dozens of national and local groups on administrative, environmental and public land law issues. Bluemel teaches courses in administrative, environmental and indigenous peoples law, and his research interests include environmental federalism, climate governance, international administrative law and environmental rights. ASSISTANT PROFESSOR MICHAEL HARRIS JD, BOALT HALL SCHOOL OF LAW AT THE UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA-BERKELEY M.S.L., VERMONT LAW SCHOOL B.A., PITZER COLLEGE Michael Harris is assistant professor of law and director of the Environmental Law Clinic at the University of Denver Sturm College of Law. Harris’ career has focused exclusively on the practice of environmental law, much of it working directly on litigation to protect public health and natural resources. He has worked as a senior deputy district counsel for the South Coast Air Quality Management District in Los Angeles, as an associate environmental counsel for the Los Angeles Unified School District and as a project attorney with Earthjustice in Denver. Harris has also published on legal issues associated with environmental litigation. “I am thrilled to be in Denver teaching p a g e 82009-03-27T23:36:43+01:00http://pinkshagdesigns.ipaperus.com/DU/DULawWinter09/?Page=11http://pinkshagdesigns.ipaperus.com/DU/DULawWinter09/?Page=11News Briefs briefs my students about environmental law at a time when the city is becoming increasingly sophisticated about its environmental standards and solutions,” says Harris. ASSISTANT PROFESSOR JUSTIN MARCEAU JD, HARVARD LAW SCHOOL B.A., BOSTON COLLEGE Justin Marceau joined the faculty at the University of Denver Sturm College of Law in 2008. Prior to his arrival at DU Law, Marceau clerked for the Honorable Sydney R. Thomas, Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals, and worked as a litigation associate with the law firm Heller Ehrman, LLP in San Francisco. More recently, Marceau was an assistant federal public defender specializing in capital habeas corpus appeals. He continues to assist in representing some of his former clients and remains in contact with many others. Marceau’s research interests include habeas corpus, the death penalty, criminal procedure, criminal law and federal courts. In addition to an amicus curiae brief in the U.S. Supreme Court, Marceau has published articles in the Tulane Law Review and the Journal of Criminal Law and Criminology, among others. ASSISTANT PROFESSOR RAJA RAGHUNATH JD, UNIVERSITY OF MICHIGAN LAW SCHOOL B.A., DUKE UNIVERSITY Before beginning his teaching career, Raja Raghunath, who works in DU Law’s Civil Rights Clinic, was an associate at Cleary Gottlieb Steen & Hamilton LLP in New York City, where his practice focused primarily on securities enforcement and bankruptcy litigation matters. His pro bono practice included federal wage and hour litigation on behalf of undocumented immigrant restaurant workers and guardianship proceedings in New York State Family Court. Raghunath also worked as a labor lawyer at Gilbert & Sackman, A Law Corporation, in Los Angeles, representing unions, unionized workers and jointly trusteed labor-management employee benefit funds in federal and state administrative and judicial forums. DAVID SCHOTT, LECTURER JD, UNIVERSITY OF PITTSBURGH SCHOOL OF LAW B.S., CARNEGIE MELLON UNIVERSITY David Schott began his legal career in Chicago, where he completed a four-year tenure with the Cook County State’s Attorney’s Office. He then served as general counsel for an international toy company, where under his litigation management, the company prevailed in its $33 million prosecution of a contract and trademark infringement claim in Federal District New Faculty continued on page 34 p a g e 92009-03-27T23:36:43+01:00http://pinkshagdesigns.ipaperus.com/DU/DULawWinter09/?Page=12http://pinkshagdesigns.ipaperus.com/DU/DULawWinter09/?Page=12News Briefs bri efs SAAA Seeks to Unite New Book Showcases JD and MSLA Students DU’s Architecture Though both programs are housed under the same roof, University of Denver Sturm College of Law Master of Science in Legal Administration (MSLA) and JD students’ paths rarely cross. Aware of this reality and understanding the mutual benefits that JD and MSLA students would receive if this separation were remedied, Cody Faust founded the Student Alliance of Attorneys & Administrators (SAAA) in autumn 2008. The vision of the SAAA is to bring JD and MSLA students together to exchange thoughts, ideas and plans; and to cultivate an environment of camaraderie and professional networking between attorneys and administrators. To achieve this vision, Faust has plans to set up and manage a DU Law community e-mail list that will serve as a resource for JD students and recent graduates who need business advice, which MSLA students are able to provide. Business courses are not currently required to complete a JD program, yet unintentional mishandling of money is the No. 1 cause for disbarment among attorneys. Faust’s e-mail list will seek to open communication between attorneys and administrators, who in turn will benefit from the networking opportunity. The SAAA will also host a speaker series, featuring alumni and friends of the school who will address a variety of topics. The series enjoyed a successful debut last autumn with guest speaker and DU Daniels College of Business alum Jack Hanley. – J.S. In the 1990s, the University of Denver embarked on the most dramatic physical transformation in its history, breaking ground on new buildings and renovating a host of others. That remarkable transformation is chronicled in a new book, Built for Learning (University of Denver, 2008), which tells the story behind DU’s architectural renaissance and the people who made it possible. The substantial hardback includes a chapter on the green design and construction practices that resulted in the Frank H. Ricketson Jr. Law Building. It also features hundreds of photos of campus landscapes and architecture, emphasizing the many ways in which new and renovated buildings support student learning and serve the community. The limited-edition book bears a dedication in memory of the late G. Cabell Childress, who served as university architect in the early years of the university’s building campaign. The book provides interesting insight in to how Childress worked with Chancellor Emeritus Dan Ritchie to develop a unified architectural vision for the university. Built for Learning is available from the DU Bookstore or at www.du.edu/builtforlearning. – J.S. p a g e 1 02009-03-27T23:36:43+01:00http://pinkshagdesigns.ipaperus.com/DU/DULawWinter09/?Page=13http://pinkshagdesigns.ipaperus.com/DU/DULawWinter09/?Page=13News Briefs briefs Scholars Descend on Law School to Debate the ‘Obama Phenomenon’ More than 100 scholars and students from around the country rolled into Denver as the Democratic National Convention (DNC) was pulling out Aug. 29, ready to dissect Barack Obama’s rise to power and four days of history at the DNC. At an all-day conference at the University of Denver Sturm College of Law titled “Obama Phenomenon: Facets of a Historic Campaign,” multigenerational, nonpartisan panels presented thoughts on the forces at play as a junior senator from the Midwest rose to become the country’s first African-American to earn a major party’s presidential nomination. Frank Rudy Cooper, co-organizer of the event and associate professor of law at Suffolk University, says he was working with DU Associate Professor Catherine Smith in June when they came up with the idea for a scholarly study of Obama’s rise. He says they were surprised to find how few academics were studying the politics at play. “What might this all mean?” he asked, as he pondered Obama’s popularity. “That’s what this whole conference is about.” Smith, who delivered a talk, “Race and the Obama Phenomenon: Change We Can Build On,” says she has been looking at how race is playing into politics. People tend to move in social groups, identifying themselves by race, gender, sexual orientation or other element, she says. Obama is subtly addressing those groups and triggering approval in many of them, she adds. “He’s the Tiger Woods of politics,” says Camille Nelson, professor of law at Saint Louis University, presenting her talk, “Examining Our Post-Racial Selves: Obama as a Balm for What Ails Us.” Other talks included examinations of the Internet’s role in politics; the role of Obama’s wife, Michelle; tax and race; and the role of religion in politics. Randall Kennedy, Harvard University law professor and prolific author, delivered the keynote address, “Barack Obama and the Optimistic Tradition in American Racial Commentary,” probing the attitudes and tone of the Obama candidacy. Obama, he says, has chosen to look at race relations in America through a positive lens, seeing progress made and envisioning continued improvement. According to Kennedy, Obama’s mission is to press beyond those who seek to undercut hope with pessimism, and he radiates that optimism. “Obviously, he has to believe in his bones that it is possible for him to prevail,” Kennedy says. Sturm College of Law Dean José R. (Beto) Juárez says recent talk of politicians courting the “New West” plays into not only the Rocky Mountain region’s history of pioneering new lands, but also into how the Obama camp came to Denver to pursue new ways of doing things. “There really is the opportunity here to do new and different things,” he says. “That’s what this conference is about – this idea that we don’t have to fit into the old paradigms. We have broken molds out here for a long time.” – Chase Squires p a g e 1 12009-03-27T23:36:43+01:00http://pinkshagdesigns.ipaperus.com/DU/DULawWinter09/?Page=14http://pinkshagdesigns.ipaperus.com/DU/DULawWinter09/?Page=14News Briefs bri efs STLA: Creating and Inspiring Future Trial Advocates Do you remember the first time you stepped foot in a real courtroom? The fear, the anxiety, the excitement? Do you remember thinking that you wished you were more prepared? The Student Trial Lawyers Association (STLA) exploded back onto the scene during the 2007-08 year and successfully completed the largest mock trial program in its history. By doubling its membership, STLA is now one of the largest studentrun organizations on campus, in addition to being chosen by Sturm College of Law students as last year’s “Outstanding Student Organization.” To enhance students’ law school experience, STLA was established to create opportunities for future practitioners to learn about and develop trial advocacy skills in an educational, noncompetitive environment. The fall mock trial program consisted of three rounds in which teams of students obtained feedback about all aspects of case preparation and presentation, first, from student judges; second, from practicing attorneys; and finally, from area judges in the Denver District Courthouse. In addition to STLA’s mock trial program, the incoming board introduced an instructional “trial week” to demonstrate integral lawyering skills to students – from discovery to closing statements. By inviting distinguished lawyers within the Colorado community to present to students, the board generated student awareness of the many options for trial (l-r) Phil McGrane, Emily Teel, Elizabeth Meier, Nicole Quintana, Alison Davis, Jon Hiller and Kevin Keyes advocacy work as well as to create a networking opportunity for those interested and passionate about this specialty. With the assistance of Sturm College of Law Alumni Association, the board’s goal is to raise the recognition and reputation of the STLA program. The board’s hopes to make STLA synonymous with merit, as its members exhibit a want to achieve more. Through the cooperative effort of alumni’s time and law students’ dedication, STLA aspires to garner a greater understanding of the advocacy skills with which Sturm College of Law graduates enter into the profession. Although the palms of STLA members may still be sweaty, the words “Counsel, please call your first witness,” will merely be an invitation to show how prepared they truly are. – Alison Davis p a g e 1 22009-03-27T23:36:43+01:00http://pinkshagdesigns.ipaperus.com/DU/DULawWinter09/?Page=15http://pinkshagdesigns.ipaperus.com/DU/DULawWinter09/?Page=15profile DU Sturm College of Law Alumni For (All) the People Mary Wilson, JD’75, with League of Women Voters members at the Washington D.C. Voting Rights March, April 16, 2008, on Capitol Hill As president of the country’s largest grassroots political organization, Mary Wilson has made it her mission to educate and motivate every American — man or woman, Democrat, Republican or Independent. Don’t read too much into the donkeys grazing on Mary Wilson’s ranch in Abo, N.M. Yes, the animals are a well-known symbol of a certain political party but sometimes a donkey is, well, just a donkey. As president of the League of Women Voters of the United States, Wilson (JD’75) is committed to the nonpartisan agenda of the organization she heads. “I’m a person who likes to think through the p a g e 1 32009-03-27T23:36:43+01:00http://pinkshagdesigns.ipaperus.com/DU/DULawWinter09/?Page=16http://pinkshagdesigns.ipaperus.com/DU/DULawWinter09/?Page=16issues and not be swayed because one group feels one way or the other,” says Wilson, who shares the ranch — and its equine residents — with her partner of 35 years, José Mora (JD’73), and her 92-year-old mother. “If you’re looking to see what’s best for our larger community, it’s not at all hard to maintain that nonpartisan outlook.” Mary Wilson, JD’75 Founded in 1920, six months before the 19th amendment to the U.S. Constitution gave women the right to vote, the League has never been about supporting or opposing any particular candidate or political party. That’s largely why Wilson became involved with the grass-roots organization in 1986. Working for the federal government at the time, she was subject to the Hatch Act and couldn’t participate in partisan politics. “Someone suggested that I join the League,” says Wilson. “And when I did, I found out that this was a dynamic group of people who really like to dig in and study the issues before they take a position.” To Wilson’s friend and fellow alumnus Ralph Torres (JD’70), an attorney in Denver, it comes as no surprise that she would find that evenhanded approach appealing. “She doesn’t make decisions quickly. She’s a very hard-working, studious person with a lot of intellectual curiosity,” says Torres. “She is willing to listen to both sides and has a good sense of balance. But when something needs to be done, she’ll get it done.” Those qualities have served Wilson well in the various positions she has held within the League as well as in her legal career. After receiving her undergraduate degree from Valparaiso University in 1972, Wilson moved to Denver, where she attended evening classes downtown at the University of Denver College of Law, as it was known then. During the day, she was employed first as a cashier in a dress shop and later as an investigator for the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission. Licensed to practice in both Colorado and New Mexico, Wilson has since worked for federal agencies and private corporations on everything from environmental law and regulatory compliance to employment law and litigation. Currently, she is a partner in the Albuquerque law firm Aungier & Wilson, P.C., where she focuses on estate planning when she is not traveling the country on behalf of the League. Now serving her second term as the group’s national president, Wilson is the League’s voice, whether that means testifying before Congress on the need for election reforms, approving the organization’s positions on proposed legislation or dispelling myths about the League to the media. “Although we derived out of the women’s suffrage movement, we are here to serve all voters, male or female,” she explains. “We’re best known for our voter and election-related work, but we also care about major policies that affect citizens, such as healthcare reform and global climate change. One of the things that intrigued me about the League from the beginning is that we so strongly encourage peo- p a g e 1 42009-03-27T23:36:43+01:00http://pinkshagdesigns.ipaperus.com/DU/DULawWinter09/?Page=17http://pinkshagdesigns.ipaperus.com/DU/DULawWinter09/?Page=17www.lwv.org ple to be active participants in our democracy rather than just sitting back and watching it happen.” In fact, an urge to be involved with our country’s political workings was engrained in Wilson from way back. Both sides of her family were interested in politics and so, it seems, were her ancestors. Thanks to her passion for pursuing genealogy research in her limited spare time, Wilson (along with her mother and sister) was recently inducted into the Daughters of the American Revolution, which requires that members be able to prove their descent from a Revolutionary patriot. Wilson’s desire to become an attorney isn’t nearly as historic but nonetheless extends far back in her childhood, when she visited the office where her aunt worked as a legal secretary. “I remember being impressed with the work her boss did. From the time I was in high school, I assumed that I would go on to law school,” she says. “Now, 33 years later, I know it was the right decision.” Graduate Progra ms at the University of Denver Sturm College of Law Masters of Science in Legal Administration (MSLA) -Online curriculum availableCerti cate programs available! Applications accepted year-round! has trained the world. We encourage college graduates from throughout Latin America to take advantage of our long history of excellence and our can acquire in residence or through on-line courses. Please contact Director Hope Kentnor at msla@law.du.edu for further information. Situated in the mining capital of the United States and nestled against the pristine Rocky Mountains, the University of Denver Sturm College of Law features an award winning LL.M. program ranked among the most prestigious in the world. The program attracts legal and other professionals from across the globe, enjoys internationally acclaimed faculty, presents a balanced international curriculum in natural ers strong ratory. For additional information please contact Director Don Smith at dcsmith@law.du.edu or visit www.law.du.edu/enrlp. Master of Laws in Environmental and Natural Resources Law and Policy (LLM) Master of Resources Law Studies (MRLS) Created for professionals who want to broaden their understanding of environmental and natural resources law, this program does not require a JD degree (or foreign equivalent). p a g e 1 52009-03-27T23:36:43+01:00http://pinkshagdesigns.ipaperus.com/DU/DULawWinter09/?Page=18http://pinkshagdesigns.ipaperus.com/DU/DULawWinter09/?Page=18Fundraising Improvements developments Engagement and Investment: A Message to Alumni From Executive Director of Development Eric Lundstedt Dear Sturm College of Law Alumni and Friends: It has been almost a year since I arrived at the Sturm College of Law, and what an eventful year it has been. In what feels like such a short time, the Office of Alumni and Development has been a part of a remarkable spectrum of activities. There were traditional annual events that serve almost as seasonal markers, such as commencement in May when we all enjoyed our inaugural Legacies Reception for families with multiple generations of DU Law graduates, and Law Stars in September, with more than 700 attendees. There were thank-you events, such as the mentor reception in April and the Volunteer Appreciation Day at the Colorado Rockies game in July. There were special events to honor and recognize excellence, such as the CLEO Reception in July (to celebrate and encourage minority participation in legal education) and the Yegge Peak Celebration in June, where Dean Emeritus Bob Yegge’s popular mountain lodge was gifted to the College of Law for its use. And for those unable to get to campus, we hosted events that brought a bit of the campus to you. We visited, listened, shared and celebrated alumni events with Dean José R. (Beto) Juárez, Jr., faculty and students in Boston; New York; Washington, D.C.; Chicago; San Francisco; Los Angeles; and San Diego. In my letter to you in the August 2008 issue of the Sturm College of Law Alumni Magazine, I acknowledged the need to re-engage our alumni in the life of the school. The events and activities mentioned above are just the beginning of that process. I am committed to supporting activities that connect and reconnect alumni, students and faculty in meaningful ways. Although we have made a start in that regard, I am open to your suggestions and support in defining new or additional activities that may better address this goal. On a separate note, as you can see in the chart on page 17, our fundrais- Eric Lundstedt ing results for the past fiscal year (June 2007-July 2008) were modest but relatively positive given the fundraising infrastructure at the school. The $5.8 million in new commitments to the College of Law represents a very small (2 percent) decline in overall commitments from the prior fiscal year. However, the distribution of commitments (that is, our diversification of gift sources) represents a much healthier balance over prior years, as our Gifts, Pledge and Testamentary sources have grown significantly and reduced our dependence on Bequest Distributions. This means we haven’t grown the pie much, but we have reduced our risk of being hurt by a sudden dropoff in estate gifts. This year, as you might imagine given the current economic conditions, is looking a bit more challenging from the fundraising perspective. In our conversations with donors, we have heard a lot of concern regarding market conditions and the impact on donor support of DU Law. That said, we are still receiving significant commitments (see page 18 regarding the Cathlin Donnell Initiative Fund gift to the Loan Repayment Assistance Program) in the form of outright gifts, as well as growing interest and p a g e 1 62009-03-27T23:36:43+01:00http://pinkshagdesigns.ipaperus.com/DU/DULawWinter09/?Page=19http://pinkshagdesigns.ipaperus.com/DU/DULawWinter09/?Page=19developments Fundraising Improvements support for the school via deferred or planned gifts. As this tax season approaches and you consider your philanthropic commitments, I would ask each of you to make the College of Law a priority. If you can keep your outright giving at the same level as last year, it would have an even greater impact in these challenging times. And if you had been considering a more significant commitment but are concerned about its impact on you or your family, please consider the wide variety of flexible and tax-efficient deferred giving options that we offer. You may see not only the fulfillment of your philanthropic ambitions for the school, but also a net savings for you or your loved ones. As always, I look forward to your feedback and to seeing you on campus or on one of our upcoming trips. Warmest regards, Eric Lundstedt Executive Director Office of Alumni & Development University of Denver Sturm College of Law p a g e 1 72009-03-27T23:36:43+01:00http://pinkshagdesigns.ipaperus.com/DU/DULawWinter09/?Page=20http://pinkshagdesigns.ipaperus.com/DU/DULawWinter09/?Page=20Fundraising Improvements developments Donnell Gift Supports Loan Repayment for Graduates The University of Denver Sturm College of Law recently received a gift of $250,000 from the Donnell Initiative Fund to support the Loan Repayment Assistance Program (LRAP). Not long ago, the law school established LRAP to help graduating students make the financially difficult decision to pursue a career in the public interest. LRAP promotes and encourages committed students to accept lower-paying public interest jobs by providing forgivable loans to repay those students’ law school related debt. Cathlin Donnell, who died of breast cancer in 2004, was an accomplished Colorado lawyer who devoted much of her professional time and talent toward solving systemic social problems, particularly as they affected the lives and life prospects of women and/or involved the system of justice. Donnell was the founding partner of the Denver law firm of Donnell Davis & Salomon; a founding member of the Colorado Women’s Bar Association (CWBA); and the first female U.S. attorney in Colorado. She spearheaded CWBA’s early efforts to look at pay equity for women in law firms, cochaired the Colorado Supreme Court’s Task Force on Gender Bias in the Courts and was an active member of the Colorado Supreme Court Committee on the Effective and Efficient Use of Juries. The Donnell Initiative Fund gift will help the College of Law expand the number of students supported by — and increase the amount of support provided to participants in — LRAP. About the gift, Diana Poole, a good friend of Donnell’s and president of the Donnell Initiative Fund, says, “During her lifetime, Cathlin was committed to making a difference, which she did time and again on nearly every issue to which she devoted her attention. She felt fortunate that her success as a lawyer allowed her the freedom to do this. In administering her foundation, we were hard-pressed to think of any more appropriate legacy, or any way to better magnify Cathlin’s impact in the world than enabling law school graduates similarly committed to social change and social justice to pursue professional opportunities where they, in turn, can make a difference.” LRAP has proven to be both extremely popular and competitive for anyone considering a public interest career. To date, over 70 applicants have applied to the program, and only two per year have been selected for a total of eight currently in the program. The gift from the Donnell Initiative Fund will help to expand this key program. – Eric Lundstedt p a g e 1 82009-03-27T23:36:43+01:00http://pinkshagdesigns.ipaperus.com/DU/DULawWinter09/?Page=21http://pinkshagdesigns.ipaperus.com/DU/DULawWinter09/?Page=21developments Fundraising Improvements 2008 Law Stars Shines On! DU Law Hits the Road! The Sturm College of Law alumni office hit the road last autumn with a terrific visit to Washington, D.C. An enthusiastic group of alumni representing more than 50 years of DU Law joined us at Sonoma Restaurant and Wine Bar in the Capitol Hill area to network and reconnect with fellow DU Law alumni. The event also featured a 2009 Law Stars (l-r) Dan Muse, JD’71; Dean Juárez; Prof. Julie Nice; Craig Joyce, JD’80 Continuing Legal Education panel on ethics entitled “Ethics & Professional Responsibility: The Jack Abramoff Scandal.” Dean José R. (Beto) Juárez, Jr.; Tom Rodgers (JD’86, LLM’88); two current DU Law students; Craig Holman from Public Citizen (a nonprofit consumer advocacy group); and Paul Singer, a reporter from Roll Call (a Capitol Hill newspaper), participated in the panel discussion. Next up on the DU Law traveling calendar: the Los Angeles area, March 10, 2009. To register for this event, visit www.alumni. du.edu/events/duinla. We look forward to meeting and reconnecting with more of our alumni soon! For information about the DU Law traveling events series, visit www.law.du.edu/alumni/events/events-nationwide, or contact Jenny Savage at 303-871-6398 or jsavage@law.du.edu. – J.S. The 16th annual Law Stars dazzled guests as usual! More than 700 members of the Denver legal community gathered to celebrate three sensational honorees, support valuable scholarships and the DU Student Law Office, rekindle old friendships and drink fine Jordan wine. The event, which was held Sept. 24 at the Denver Marriott City Center, raised $61,000. The 2008 honorees were: • Outstanding Alumni Award: Craig Joyce, JD’80 • Alumni Professionalism Award: Dan Muse, JD’71 • Robert B. Yegge Excellence in Teaching Award: Professor Julie Nice The 2008 honoree videos and a short slideshow of the event are available online at www.law.du.edu/alumni/. Scroll down to “Law Stars” and click on “Videos.” Deadline for submitting nominations for the 2009 Law Stars honorees is March 15. Nominations may be made online at www.law.du.edu/alumni/ law-stars/. Scroll down to “Law Stars” and click on “Nominations.” (Additional photos from the 2009 Law Stars event can be found on pages 38-39.) – J.S. p a g e 1 92009-03-27T23:36:43+01:00http://pinkshagdesigns.ipaperus.com/DU/DULawWinter09/?Page=22http://pinkshagdesigns.ipaperus.com/DU/DULawWinter09/?Page=22Where To Go Fro2009-03-27T23:36:43+01:00http://pinkshagdesigns.ipaperus.com/DU/DULawWinter09/?Page=23http://pinkshagdesigns.ipaperus.com/DU/DULawWinter09/?Page=23m Here A Direct Correlation Exists Between Future Opportunities & Achieving More. Now. Exceptional Students Raise The Bar. Schools Adapt & Accommodate. The Legal Profession is Elevated. Lisa Marshall Student Involvement The last day of finals has ended at the University of Denver Sturm College of Law, and the student dining area still echoes with the click of busy fingertips on laptop keyboards. From the hallway comes the sound of a highfive — a celebration of the last test until after holiday break. But for many of today’s Sturm College of Law students, a reprieve from classes hardly means vacation.2009-03-27T23:36:43+01:00http://pinkshagdesigns.ipaperus.com/DU/DULawWinter09/?Page=24http://pinkshagdesigns.ipaperus.com/DU/DULawWinter09/?Page=24Student Bar Association (SBA) President Jonathan Keyser will spend the break packing military duffel bags and rushing through wedding decisions as he prepares to leave for a special operations mission in Afghanistan set to end just days before his wedding and the start of his summer job. Beth Nuetzel will fly to Lima, Peru, to represent DU as an international observer for the human rights abuse trial of ex-President Alberto Fujimori. Darryl Collins will care for his 16-year-old brother, who has lived with Collins during the past year; will interview for an internship with the public defender’s office; and bury himself in research for a prisoners’ rights case he is litigating as part of his civil rights clinic in the Student Law Office. Such relentless schedules are common among a generation of DU Law students for which studying and attending class are only a fraction of their law school life. With more than 60 student groups, one of the largest internship programs in the nation, a firstof-its-kind Lawyering in Spanish program and a unique night program to accommodate students with daytime obligations, the school is quickly earning a reputation as one that produces not only graduates familiar with legal doctrine, but also practice-ready attorneys with a knack for multitasking and a diverse array of career goals. That’s a sharp contrast and, in many ways, an improvement from a generation ago, according to alumni and faculty, when ethnic and gender diversity was scarce on campus, only a half-dozen student groups existed, most students envisioned going to “The practice of law is about a lot more than looking up cases and writing ” briefs. - Michael Massey, JD’71 work for a private firm and real-life experience was harder to come by. “The practice of law is about a lot more than just looking up cases and writing briefs,” says Michael Massey, a lawyering process professor from the Sturm College of Law who graduated from DU in 1971. “It is running a business, having a good bedside manner, being able to work well with clients. It is multidimensional, and in many ways, I think law students today are coming out better prepared for that.” In 2008, DU enrolled 219 fulltime day students and 78 part-time evening students, with 152 women and 145 men, and 20 percent of minority descent. The median Law School Admission Test score of these students is 159. The median undergraduate grade-point average is 3.5. And more than half of students participate in at least one student group. After establishing one of the nation’s first clinical programs in 1904, DU now offers five law clinics (environmental, civil rights, criminal, civil litigation and mediation), in which students can work with clients and argue real-life cases before a judge. While some law schools refrain from allowing students to do p a g e 2 22009-03-27T23:36:43+01:00http://pinkshagdesigns.ipaperus.com/DU/DULawWinter09/?Page=25http://pinkshagdesigns.ipaperus.com/DU/DULawWinter09/?Page=25internships in private firms, DU’s database of 450 off-campus internships includes everything from private firms to nonprofits to public defender’s offices. “DU has understood the importance of practice-based education and has really focused on it,” says Ann Vessels, director of the Legal Internship Program, noting that students can take part in up to three internships in various practice areas during their time at DU. “They really get to experience a wide spectrum and decide what they like and don’t like.” DU students are also required to do 50 hours of public interest law volunteer work before they graduate, another nod to the school’s commitment to exposing students to the range of ways they can ultimately use their degree. (Statistics show that only about half of DU Law grads today go into private practice, while 18 percent enter the public sector, 14 percent go to industry, and the rest gravitate toward nonprofit work or academia.) The school also hosts a wealth of evening classes and the only evening division in the state, allowing those with family, military or work commitments to pursue their degree nonetheless. “I figure any experience I can draw on now will help me relate to clients in the future,” say Keyser, 27, a full-time student who works part time at Buckley Air Force Base during the day and takes the bulk of his classes at night. “Everyone here at DU has been incredibly supportive.” The citizen soldier A U.S. Air Force Academy graduate who became interested in law Today,only half of DU Law grads go into private practice, 18% enter the public sector, 14% go into industry & the remainder academia & nonprofit. after taking a military justice class, Keyser had to miss sleep, juggle commitments and navigate spotty Internet connections in the Iraqi desert just to apply to DU. As a captain in the U.S. Air Force Reserve, he had been deployed to Baghdad with a special operations unit in October 2006 and was spending his nights heading up “capture/kill” missions on Al-Qaida leadership. (In all, his team apprehended 107 suspected terrorists.) “We would have planning phase in the afternoon, get ready to roll out on a target, be gone all night, come back in the morning and debrief. Then I’d sleep for a few hours, get up and start working on law school applications,” Keyser says. Thanks to a generous scholarship from DU, he was able to pursue his dual dream: to serve his country and pursue a career as a lawyer. Since returning home and enrolling, he has maintained a harried schedule: Rise at 6:30 a.m. Work at the base until 2:30 p.m. Attend class until 8:45 p.m. Come home and study. Repeat. He also puts in roughly 10 hours a week in his role as SBA president, carves out time for meals and study time with p a g e 2 32009-03-27T23:36:43+01:00http://pinkshagdesigns.ipaperus.com/DU/DULawWinter09/?Page=26http://pinkshagdesigns.ipaperus.com/DU/DULawWinter09/?Page=26(l-r) Jonathan Keyser on a mission in Iraq; Jonathan Keyser working as a roughneck on an oil rig the summer after his first year at law school; Keyser and fiancee Emma Tetzlaff, who is also a law student at DU. fiancee and fellow law student Emma Tetzlaff, and runs or lifts weights daily to stay in shape — in case he is called to serve again. That happened recently, when the military asked him to join a special operations unit in the rugged, 10,000-foot mountains of Afghanistan. He could have said no, but he didn’t. “I believe in that citizen soldier mentality,” he says. “When there is a war and you are needed, you go off and support your country. When that need isn’t there, you return to civilian life and wait to be called again.” If all goes well, Keyser (a second-year student) hopes to be home by spring, just in time for his May 10 wedding and a new job as a summer associate at a Denver law firm. “Being an intelligence officer is the perfect skill set for a lawyer,” he says. “You are trained to question, to think about all sides of a problem, to be very analytical. You tell your team, ‘This is what we have to do,’ and they trust you completely because they are looking to you as the expert. Your client would do the same thing.” And as far as his stress level goes: “I really haven’t been faced with anything in law school that has maxed me out stresswise,” he says. “At least I am sleeping in my own bed and no one is shooting at me.” Front-row seat to history First year student Beth Nuetzel, 23, the decision to attend the Sturm College of Law was a nobrainer. A criminal justice major with an interest in Spanish language, immigration law and international human rights law, she was looking for a school where she could indulge all three passions. Within 12 hours of setting foot on the DU campus, she was sold. “I was incredibly impressed with its international affiliations,” she says, pointing to DU’s first-of-its-kind Lawyering in Spanish program, which enables students to take classes in Spanish in their second and third years. “Once I heard about the program, I called my parents, walked into the admissions office and put down my deposit.” Already, Nuetzel says, she is benefiting from the school’s international emphasis. After completing her first round of finals this December, she packed her bags and boarded a plane to Lima, joining fellow students Gracie Chisholm (1L) and Angelica Tovar-Hastings (2L) of the Spanish Speaking Lawyers Association for a front-row seat to Fujimori’s trial. During his reign as Peru’s president from 1990 to 2000, Fujimori was lauded for boosting the Thanks to those donors who made the DU Law students’ trip to Peru possible: Student Bar Association; Spanish Speaking Lawyers Association; Lawyering in Spanish; Holme Roberts & Owen; Dean Farer, Korbel School of International Studies; Office of Student Affairs, Korbel School of the International Studies; Sturm College of Law Professor G. Kristian Miccio & Leticia Pena, adjunct professor, DU Sturm College of Law. Thank you all!2009-03-27T23:36:43+01:00http://pinkshagdesigns.ipaperus.com/DU/DULawWinter09/?Page=27http://pinkshagdesigns.ipaperus.com/DU/DULawWinter09/?Page=27economy and quelling insurrection by rebels, but he was also known for corruption and authoritarian rule, and accused of violent acts against political opponents. He fled to Japan in 2000 after a bribery scandal forced his resignation, and was arrested and extradited years later. For the past year, the ailing 70year-old has been on trial in Peru for allegedly orchestrating two death squad massacres — at a university and at a community barbecue — killing 25 people, including children. If convicted, he could face up to 30 years in jail. “It’s incredible to me that it is happening at all — that a developing country is trying its former head of state,” says Nuetzel, who spent a year in Lima in 2006 and after connecting with some of the family members of those killed during the massacres, felt compelled to act. In fall 2008, she and two fellow DU students organized a letter-writing campaign, raised several thousand dollars for travel and asked the Peruvian court for permission to be present in the courtroom during the final phase of Fujimori’s trial — to assure the ruling was just and impartial. In their support, Dean José R. (Beto) Juárez, Jr. wrote a letter to the justices. “This is a unique opportunity for them to observe the enforcement of fundamental human rights norms under international law,” Juárez says. While in Lima, Nuetzel interviewed family members, including “mothers whose teenage kids went to university and never returned”; met with the main prosecutor and the Supreme Court justices; and launched a video project comparing law school in Peru to that in the United States. After a grueling first semester, heavy in bookwork, she says the Peru project has made the prospect of practicing law “more real.” “I have just four months of legal education behind me, yet I have the opportunity to have a meeting with the Supreme Court of Peru,” says Nuetzel. “This is very hands-on, and DU’s administration has been more than supportive.” “This is a unique opportunity. to observe human rights under international law. ” - Dean Beto Juárez (l-r) Alberto Fujimori, Peru’s former president being escorted by local officials. (l-r) DU Law student Gracie Chisholm, Franciscó Soberon, director of the human rights non-governmental organization APRODEH (Asociacion Pro Derechos Humanos, or Pro-Human Rights Association), DU Law students Angelica TovarHastings and Beth Neutzel. AP Images2009-03-27T23:36:43+01:00http://pinkshagdesigns.ipaperus.com/DU/DULawWinter09/?Page=28http://pinkshagdesigns.ipaperus.com/DU/DULawWinter09/?Page=28Brotherly Love For Darryl Collins, a third-year night student, that “hands-on” life experience has come from many different directions. At age 27, he boasts two tours of duty in Kosovo with the U.S. Army Reserves and a double degree from the University of Buffalo. But the unflappable, Bronx-born Collins can also work all day as a law clerk for a disability-rights firm, come home and make a mean meat and potatoes dinner for his 16-year-old brother, attend a parent-teacher conference and help his brother with his homework — all before heading back to school for classes; to attend a meeting of the Black Law Students’ Association, (BLSA) of which he is president; or to attend a committee as an SBA senator. “My brother Jamell wasn’t doing too well in school back in New York — getting C’s. So I asked my mom if I could bring him out here to live with me for a while,” says Collins. “Now he’s getting A’s and B’s.” This semester, Collins added another challenge to his plate, enrolling in DU’s Civil Rights Clinic. He is now one of three students representing three inmates at ADX, the federal maximum security prison in Florence, Colo., better known as “the Alcatraz of the Rockies.” The three clients, all of Arab or Muslim descent, allege that they have been unable to be moved into less-restrictive confinement due to racial profiling. The clients have been in solitary confinement for six years. Since taking the case, Collins has visited his p a g e 2 62009-03-27T23:36:43+01:00http://pinkshagdesigns.ipaperus.com/DU/DULawWinter09/?Page=29http://pinkshagdesigns.ipaperus.com/DU/DULawWinter09/?Page=29clients twice, flown to Alabama and Kansas City to take depositions, and buried himself in documents in what has proved to be a discovery-intensive case. “He manages to do all this while handling his military commitment, his job and his other classes. I don’t know when he sleeps,” says associate professor Laura Rovner, who is overseeing Collins in the clinic. “He really approaches the world with the view that there is something to learn from everyone, including his clients. That is a mark of an excellent lawyer.” whether that is military experience, international human rights work, nonprofit volunteering, internships and clinics, or student group involvement. “There has been a big push toward reforming legal education in the past two or three years,” says Rovner. “The consensus is that stu- Tough competition DU alumni and faculty agree that the school’s support of a well-rounded law education parallels a national trend as schools move toward incorporating more real-life experience — “People are looking at grades, but also at what else you did in law school.” - DU Law graduate Edward Schlatter, JD’70 dents need to come out not just with substantive knowledge of the law but also with the ability to practice and with sensitivity to ethical issues.” Adds DU Law graduate O. Edward Schlatter, JD’70, a retired federal magistrate judge, “It’s a tough market out there, much tougher than it was in the late ’60s. People are looking at grades, but also at what else you did in law school.” If they’re looking at DU students like Keyser, Nuetzel and Collins, they will surely like what they see. (l-r) Darryl Collins, 18, with his younger brother Jamell at age 8; The Collins family, sister Naysheen, mom Tracey, brother Jamell, father Darryl and Collins; Collins with brother Jamell, now 16.2009-03-27T23:36:43+01:00http://pinkshagdesigns.ipaperus.com/DU/DULawWinter09/?Page=30http://pinkshagdesigns.ipaperus.com/DU/DULawWinter09/?Page=30highlights Faculty Highlights University of Denver Sturm College of Law ERIK BLUEMEL PUBLICATIONS “Regional Regulatory Initiatives Addressing GHG Leakage in the USA,” in Climate Change and European Emissions Trading: Lessons for Theory and Practice (chapter) (Michael Faure and Marjan Peeters, eds.) (2008). PRESENTATIONS “Can Participation in International Law Solve the Domestic Discontent of Indigenous Peoples?” University of Denver chapter of the National Lawyers Guild (October 2008). “Regional Regulatory Initiatives Addressing GHG Leakage in the USA,” Climate Change and European Emissions Trading Symposium, Maastricht, The Netherlands (January 2009). “The Implications of Wolf Depredation Compensation Strategies on the Development of Beneficial Wildlife Coexistence Practices by Ranchers in the Rocky Mountain Region,” Natural Resources Law Teachers Institute, Chico Springs, Mont. (May 2009). LITIGATION Represented Environmental Defense and Sierra Club in litigation challenging the $3 billion Intercounty Connector highway in metropolitan Washington, D.C. The litigation resulted in a multimillion dollar settlement in November in the form of antipollution retrofits for public transportation and an agreement to monitor the air pollution in areas adjacent to the highway as a means to ensure the health of nearby residents and workers. APPOINTMENTS Hired by the University of Denver Sturm College of Law to teach “Administrative Law,” “Environmental Law” and “Indigenous Peoples in International Law.” ETC. Teaching a new course in the spring semester entitled “Indigenous Peoples in International Law.” The course addresses such wide-ranging issues as how indigenous groups are defined under the law; ethical and legal issues pertaining to indigenous selfgovernance, including the tension between minority rights, individual rights and democratic precepts; the application of self-determination law to indigenous self-governance; the implications of human rights, environmental and natural resources, intellectual property and international trade regimes for indigenous peoples; and international legal texts affecting indigenous peoples. KRISTIN CARPENTER PUBLICATIONS “In Defense of Property,” 118 Yale Law Journal (with Sonia Katyal and Angela Riley) (forthcoming 2009). “Interpretive Sovereignty,” 33 American Indian Law Review (2008). PRESENTATIONS Symposium co-chair, American Indian Law Works in Progress Symposium, University of Denver and University of Colorado law schools (with Sarah Krakoff) (July 31-Aug. 1, 2008). p a g e 2 82009-03-27T23:36:43+01:00http://pinkshagdesigns.ipaperus.com/DU/DULawWinter09/?Page=31http://pinkshagdesigns.ipaperus.com/DU/DULawWinter09/?Page=31Faculty Highlights highlights University of Denver Sturm College of Law “Individual Religious Freedoms in Indian Country,” Symposium on The Indian Civil Rights Act at 40, Michigan State University Law School (Oct. 10-11, 2008). “In Defense of Property,” Michigan State University faculty workshop (with Sonia Katyal and Angela Riley) (Oct. 9, 2008). “Cherokee Language in Treaty Interpretation,” DU-CU American Indian Law Works in Progress Symposium, Boulder, Colo. (July 31-Aug. 1, 2008). CHRISTINE CIMINI CONFERENCES “Legal Education at the Crossroads: Ideas to Implementation,” University of Washington School of Law (Sept. 5-7, 2008). ETC. Professor Cimini’s article entitled “Ask, Don’t Tell: Ethical Issues Surrounding Undocumented Workers’ Status in Employment Litigation” was on the SSRN Top 10 Download for Employment Tort Law Topic the weeks of Sept. 30, 2008, and Nov. 19, 2008. ROBERTO L. CORRADA PUBLICATIONS “Toward an Integrated Disparate Treatment and Accommodation Framework for Title VII Religion Cases,” 76 Cincinnati Law Review (forthcoming 2009). 2008 Casebook Supplement for Employment Discrimination Law: Cases and Materials on Equality in the Workplace (with Dianne Avery, Maria Ontiveros and Michael Selmi) (July 2008). PRESENTATIONS “Does the Carnegie Report ‘Educating Lawyers’ Support Humanizing Legal Education?,” AALS Annual Meeting, section on Balance in Legal Education, San Diego (January 2009). “Toward an Integrated Framework for Title VII Religion Cases,” AALS Annual Meeting, section on Employment Discrimination, San Diego (January 2009). “A Plan for NLRB Rulemaking,” Third Annual Colloquium on Labor & Employment Law Scholarship, California Western School of Law, San Diego (Oct. 25, 2008). “An Academic’s Perspective on NLRB Recent Developments,” ABA section on Labor and Employment Law (Traditional Labor Track), 3rd Annual National CLE Conference, Denver (Sept. 12, 2008). Showcase presenter, “Bridging the Gap Between First Year and Practice: The Promise of Whole Course Simulations for Upper Class Students,” Legal Education at the Crossroads, Ideas to Accomplishments: Sharing New Ideas for an Integrated Curriculum Conference, University of Washington School of Law (Sept. 6, 2008). p a g e 2 92009-03-27T23:36:43+01:00http://pinkshagdesigns.ipaperus.com/DU/DULawWinter09/?Page=32http://pinkshagdesigns.ipaperus.com/DU/DULawWinter09/?Page=32Faculty Highlights highlights University of Denver Sturm College of Law “Whole Course Simulations in Labor and Administrative Law,” Salmon P. Chase College of Law Faculty Forum (Northern Kentucky University), Highland Heights, Ky. (Aug. 26, 2008). “Toward an Integrated Disparate Treatment and Accommodation Framework for Title VII Religion Cases,” Salmon P. Chase College of Law (Northern Kentucky University), Highland Heights, Ky. (Aug. 26, 2008). APPOINTMENTS Vice chair, Colorado State Personnel Board (September 2008). Co-chair, Advisory Board, Denver Urban Debate League. WENDY DUONG PRESENTATIONS Public forum on memorial for freedom fighting against communism in Southeast Asia in District 13, Paris, France (September 2008). Roundtable participant, socio-economic section on corporate governance and social responsibility, AALS Annual Meeting, San Diego (January 2009). ETC. Professor Duong interviewed Olivier Todd, French journalist and author of Albert Camus’ biography of Ho Chi Minh and his legacy, Paris, France (September 2008). Professor Duong also interviewed Mrs. Claude Sarraute, former Le Monde correspondent (daughter of French novelist Natalie Sarraute and widow of the late philosopher Jean Francois Revel), Paris, France (September 2008). Interviewed by Voice of America multilingual broadcasting about President-elect Barack Obama (December 2008). KK DUVIVIER ETC. Professor DuVivier and her husband, Lance Wright, completed construction of a zero-energy house within walking distance of the law school. It was one of the featured homes in the Colorado Renewable Energy Society’s Solar Home Tour in October 2008. Professor DuVivier will be moderating a panel, “Green, Greener, Greenest: Navigating the Forest of ‘Green’ Building Standards” at the upcoming Rocky Mountain Land Use Institute, March 5-6, 2009 (www.law.du.edu/rmlui). NANCY EHRENREICH AWARDS Hughes-Rudd Research Grant (fall semester 2008), to explore notions of substantive reproductive justice and to investigate grass-roots organizations’ views on reproductive law and policy. PRESENTATIONS Roundtable panel on “Intersex Infants & Elective Genitoplasty: Issues of Consent” at the Lavender Law Conference, San Francisco (September 2008). Roundtable panel on “Issues in Intersex Informed Consent,” University of Connecticut School of Law (October 2008). APPOINTMENTS Society of American Law Teachers board member and national co-chair of Latina and Latino Critical Legal Theory, Inc. (“LatCrit”). p a g e 3 02009-03-27T23:36:43+01:00http://pinkshagdesigns.ipaperus.com/DU/DULawWinter09/?Page=33http://pinkshagdesigns.ipaperus.com/DU/DULawWinter09/?Page=33Faculty Highlights highlights University of Denver Sturm College of Law JOSÉ R. (BETO) JUÁREZ, JR. PRESENTATIONS “Best Practices for the Recruitment of Minority Law Professors II,” AALS Committee on Recruitment and Retention of Minority Law Teachers and Students (Jan. 7, 2009). MARTY KATZ PUBLICATIONS “Boumediene, Guantanamo and Jurisdiction Stripping: The Imperial President Meets the Imperial Court,” 25 Constitutional Commentary (forthcoming February 2009) (peer reviewed). PRESENTATIONS “What Constitutional Law Can Learn from Employment Discrimination Law,” Third Annual Colloquium on Current Scholarship in Labor & Employment Law, University of San Diego (Oct. 24, 2008). “Boumediene, Guantanamo and JurisdictionStripping: The Imperial Presidency Meets the Imperial Judiciary,” DU law school community, sponsored by DU Law Review (Sept. 30, 2008). JAN LAITOS PUBLICATIONS “Takings Law in Colorado,” in Environmental Regulation of Colorado Real Property (2008 supplement, Bradford Press). VIVA MOFFAT PUBLICATIONS “Regulating Search,” 22 Harv. J.L. & Tech. (forthcoming 2009). VED NANDA AWARDS Samaritan Institute, Denver, National Samaritan Award (November 2008). PUBLICATIONS Law of Transnational Business Transactions (Fall 2008). Litigation of International Disputes in U.S. Courts (Fall 2008). “The European Union’s Multinational Carbon Trading Program,” 85 Den. U. L. Rev. 995 (2008). “Selected Aspects of International Trade and the World Trade Organization’s Doha Round,” 36 Denv. J. Int’l L. & Pol’y 255 (2008). Chapter 6, “International Law, Nuclear Weapons and Twenty-First Century Insecurity,” The Challenge of Abolishing Nuclear Weapons (David Krieger, ed.) (2009). PRESENTATIONS “Revisiting Forum Non-Conveniens and Lis Pendens,” International Academy of Commercial and Consumer Law, Bamberg, Germany (July 31, 2008). “Darfur and the Responsibility to Protect,” Golden Jubilee Celebration, Indian Society of International Law, New Delhi, India (August 2008). “Media, Terrorism and International Law,” Hyderabad, India (August 2008). p a g e 3 12009-03-27T23:36:43+01:00http://pinkshagdesigns.ipaperus.com/DU/DULawWinter09/?Page=34http://pinkshagdesigns.ipaperus.com/DU/DULawWinter09/?Page=34Faculty Highlights highlights University of Denver Sturm College of Law “Climate Change and International Law,” NGO forum, New York (September 2008). “Good Governance and International Law,” International Law Student Association Board and American Branch International Law Association Executive Committee, New York (October 2008). “Keynote: Media, Public Awareness and International Law,” Human Empowerment Conference, Chicago (October 2008). “War on Terrorism and Civil Liberties,” NGO meeting, Houston (October 2008). “U.S.-India Relations and Nuclear Accord,” NGO forum, Buffalo, N.Y. (November 2008). “Religion and Human Rights,” 60th anniversary celebration of Universal Declaration of Human Rights, ABA and Paris Bar Association, New York (November 2008). Chair and panel presenter, “Martin Luther King and the Civil Rights Revolution,” Humanities Council of Washington, D.C. (November 2008). “Climate Change and Developing Countries,” Toda Institute, Honolulu (November 2008). “Comparative Religious Studies and Human Rights,” NGO forum, Los Angeles (November 2008). “U.S. Foreign Policy Under the Obama Administration,” International Council on Foreign Relations, New Delhi, India (January 2009). “Darfur Consultation,” Ford Foundation, Washington, D.C. (January 2009). STEVE PEPPER PUBLICATIONS How to Do the Right Thing: A Short Primer on Ethics and Moral Vision (November 2008). CONFERENCES “The Meaning and Practice of Professional Ethics Symposium,” conducted by Professor Stephen Pepper, Professor Buie Seawell of the Daniels College of Business and Dr. Richard Martinez of the Denver Health Medical Center. Twenty-five physicians, lawyers and business executives attended this day-long symposium. DON SMITH APPOINTMENTS Renamed editor-in-chief of the U.K.-based international peerreviewed journal Utilities Policy: Strategy, Performance, Regulation, 2008-2011. ETC. Professor Smith participated in a broadcast interview (in Sweden) on Stockholm’s TV4 News about the 2008 Democratic Convention (Aug. 26, 2008). Professor Smith conducted and produced the following interviews for the Judge David Edward oral history website. Professor Smith interviewed and produced conversations with Professor Anthony Arnull, dean of the University of Birmingham, England, School of Law, and author of The Court of Justice of the European Communities; and with Marie Demitriou, barrister, Brick Court Chambers in London and former law clerk to Judge Edward. (Nov. 24, 2008) The two p a g e 3 22009-03-27T23:36:43+01:00http://pinkshagdesigns.ipaperus.com/DU/DULawWinter09/?Page=35http://pinkshagdesigns.ipaperus.com/DU/DULawWinter09/?Page=35Faculty Highlights highlights University of Denver Sturm College of Law new interviews are among a collection of interviews of prominent Europeans who reflect on the life and career of Judge David Edward, a former member of the European Union’s top court, available at www.law.du.edu/index.php/judge-david-edwardoral-history/. Click on “Reflections of Colleagues.” Professor Smith interviewed and produced the first of the John A. Carver Jr. oral history project interviews. The first session is entitled “Thinking About Presidential Transitions: John F. Kennedy, 1960, and Barack Obama, 2008.” Professor Carver was a member of the 1960 Kennedy presidential transition team. The interview is available online at www.law.du.edu/index.php/enrgp/videos. Click on “Distinguished Speaker Series Streaming Videos Page.” JOHN SOMA CONFERENCES Privacy & Legal Ethics: Ethical Concerns for Lawyers Counseling Privacy Data Breaches, organized with the Privacy Foundation and held in conjunction with International Technology Law Association, University of Denver Sturm College of Law (Oct. 24, 2008). MICHAEL SOUSA PUBLICATIONS “Recent Developments in Chapter 11,” Norton Annual Survey of Bankruptcy Law (2008 ed., Thomson West). “Arbitration Agreements in Bankruptcy,” Norton Bankruptcy Law and Practice 3d (Thomson West). DAVID THOMSON PUBLICATIONS Law School 2.0: Legal Education for a Digital Age (LexisNexis/Matthew Bender 2009). PRESENTATIONS “Effective Methods for Teaching Legal Writing Online,” Biennial Conference of the Legal Writing Institute, Indianapolis, Ind. (July 16, 2008). Keynote speaker, “Practical Legal Education in the United States and China,” hosted by Peking University Law School, Beijing, China (Oct. 28-29, 2008). APPOINTMENTS Series editor, Skills & Values Series of supplemental law textbooks (forthcoming 2009-2010). Legal Practice Education: Interview of David Thomson, China Legal Review (November 2008). ELI WALD PUBLICATIONS “How We Got There,” the relationship between investment banks and elite law firms, Am. Lawyer (Nov. 1, 2008). “The Rise and Fall of the WASP and Jewish Law Firms,” 60 Stan. L. Rev. 1803 (2008). “Taking Attorney-Client Communications (and therefore Clients) Seriously,” 42 U. S. F. L. REV. 747 (2008). p a g e 3 32009-03-27T23:36:43+01:00http://pinkshagdesigns.ipaperus.com/DU/DULawWinter09/?Page=36http://pinkshagdesigns.ipaperus.com/DU/DULawWinter09/?Page=36Faculty Highlights highlights University of Denver Sturm College of Law PRESENTATIONS Continuing Legal Education (CLE) presenter, “Effective Attorney-Client Communications,” Tuesdays at the Bar, Denver Bar Association, Denver (November 2008). Speaker, “Understanding the Duty of Loyalty: The Peculiar Case of Lawyers’ Loyalty to Clients,” USC Gould School of Law, Center in Law, Economics and Organization Workshop, Los Angeles (October 2008). CLE presenter, “Ethics of Representing the Client with Diminished Capacity – Rule 1.14 and More,” 2008 Advanced Elder Law Institute 8th Biennial Program, Denver (September 2008). CLE presenter, “Conflicts of Interest for Governmental Lawyers and Employees,” American Association of Motor Vehicle Administrators Annual Law Institute, Boulder, Colo. (August 2008). ETC. Professor Wald’s work on the cultural and religious identity of the large law firm was mentioned in The New York Times and discussed in Malcolm Gladwell’s new book, Outlier – The Sociology of Success. APPOINTMENTS Associate professor of law, University of Denver Sturm College of Law, August 2008. New Faculty, continued from page 9 Court. Schott moved to Denver in 1997, where he opened his law practice consisting primarily of civil trial and domestic relations litigation. Armed with a passion for helping youth, Schott established the Providence Foundation of Law & Leadership in 2006 with the mission of providing scholarship funding to high school students who demonstrate dedication to their communities. In 2005, he joined the University of Denver Sturm College of Law as an adjunct faculty member and head coach of the school’s national American Bar Association Trial Team. In July 2008, DU Law appointed Schott director of the school’s Trial Advocacy program. “DU Law students have made this the most enjoyable job I have ever had,” says Schott. ASSISTANT PROFESSOR MICHAEL SOUSA (pictured on p. 33) JD, RUTGERS UNIVERSITY SCHOOL OF LAW LL.M., ST. JOHN’S UNIVERSITY SCHOOL OF LAW B.A., FLORIDA ATLANTIC UNIVERSITY Prior to joining the University of Denver Sturm College of Law, Michael Sousa (pictured on p. 33) was an associate in the Business Reorganization and Financial Restructuring Practice Group at an American Lawyer Top 100 law firm. In addition to his private practice experience, Sousa served as a judicial law clerk in both state and federal court. He is also a contributing editor to four national bankruptcy publications, including the Journal of Bankruptcy Law and Practice, American Bankruptcy Institute Journal, Norton Annual Survey of Bankruptcy Law and the multivolume treatise, Norton Bankruptcy Law and Practice 3d. Additionally, he is co-author of the one-volume treatise, Consumer Bankruptcy Manual. Sousa’s articles have been cited by several judicial opinions, and another article was cited as authority in an appellate brief to the U.S. Supreme Court. At DU Law, Sousa will teach in the areas of bankruptcy law and commercial law. – J.S. p a g e 3 42009-03-27T23:36:43+01:00http://pinkshagdesigns.ipaperus.com/DU/DULawWinter09/?Page=37http://pinkshagdesigns.ipaperus.com/DU/DULawWinter09/?Page=37THANKS TO DU LAW ALUMNI WHO HAVE JOINED THE ALUMNI CAREER NETWORK To date, more than 200 alumni and friends of the Sturm College of Law have responded to the Career Development Center’s (CDC) invitation to join the newly christened Alumni Career Network (ACN) and support the professional development of students and fellow alumni. Formerly known as the Alumni Volunteer Network (AVN), the group has been the link for students to connect with alumni to seek career guidance in a certain geographic and practice area for the past seven years. Looking for a job during this unprecedented economic crisis requires a broad approach. Networking yields 80 percent more results than cold calls. The fundamental basis of the ACN is to exchange information about particular practice areas, specific employers and market trends in specific geographic areas. All new participants as well as former participants from the AVN are asked to e-mail our office at careerdevelopmentcenter@law.du.edu to express your interest. We will then send you the link to our registration page. Please put Alumni Career Network in the subject line of your e-mail. Participants will provide basic contact information and identify their specialty law practice areas. All participants will receive an assigned University computer number following registration that will protect non-DU-affiliated people from using the system. The database is accessed solely by career consultants in the DU Law CDC following individual consultations with alumni and students. Alumni and friends are asked to specify the number of contacts they are willing to make. They can also participate in the ACN by: • Conducting informational interviews: answering questions about their career paths or areas of practice • Conducting a mock/practice interview • Advising a student via e-mail • Providing a shadowing opportunity Alumni are invited to see what other helpful services the CDC offers to students and alumni by visiting www.law.du.edu/career-development-center. p a g e 3 52009-03-27T23:36:43+01:00http://pinkshagdesigns.ipaperus.com/DU/DULawWinter09/?Page=38http://pinkshagdesigns.ipaperus.com/DU/DULawWinter09/?Page=38l e g a l Legal Affairs Law Commencement – December 19, 2008 Top L: December commencement speaker, John Echohawk, executive director of the Native American Rights Fund (NARF); Top Center: Student Speaker Timothy R. Franklin; Top R: University of Denver Provost Gregg Kvistad hoods a new graduate, Mary Kiernan, JD’08; Bottom L: (l-r) Amy Gray, JD’08; Christopher Massey, JD’08 (center) Ryann Love, JD’08; Bottom R: Erin Hollis, JD’08, and her shadow on the Ricketson Law Building p a g e 3 6 legal affairs2009-03-27T23:36:43+01:00http://pinkshagdesigns.ipaperus.com/DU/DULawWinter09/?Page=39http://pinkshagdesigns.ipaperus.com/DU/DULawWinter09/?Page=39affairs Legal Affairs Named and Endowed Scholarship Reception – January 29, 2009 Top L: (l-r) Recipients of the Jan M. and Marjorie G. Laitos Scholarship in Natural Resources Scholarship (l-r) James Shine, Jonathan Thompson, donor representative Professor Jan Laitos, Ben Kass and Kathleen Marks; Top R: (l-r) Viola Vestal Coulter Foundation Scholarship recipients (l-r) Paula Holt, Jeff Exil, donor representative Bruce Buell LLB’58, Daniel Watlington and Lindsay Goldford; Bottom L: (l-r) Marcus Houston, recipient of the Bishop Roland B. Martin and Foley’s Memorial Civil Rights Scholarship, and donor representatives Arlene Martin and Paula Martin; Bottom center: (l-r) Jean Schmid Ulrich Endowed Scholarship recipient Carrie Claiborne with Dean Juárez; Bottom R: (l-r) Jim Burghardt, JD’80, and Moye White Scholarship recipient Julia Scott legal affairs p a g e 3 72009-03-27T23:36:43+01:00http://pinkshagdesigns.ipaperus.com/DU/DULawWinter09/?Page=40http://pinkshagdesigns.ipaperus.com/DU/DULawWinter09/?Page=40affairs Legal Affairs DU Law Stars September 24, 2008 Top L: (l-r) Judge John Leopold, JD’74; Law Stars Committee Co-Chair Phil Johnson, JD’74; Outstanding Alumni honoree Craig Joyce, JD’80; Alumni Council Chair Howard Kenison, JD’72; Top R: (l-r) Russell Kemp, JD’98; Brian Meegan; Stefania Scott, JD’04; Dean Batchelder; Bottom L: John Baker, JD’73, amid CLE participants; Bottom R: DU Law student Maranda Compton, Paul Kyed, JD’06; law students Jason Crow and Kristina Lucero p a g e 3 82009-03-27T23:36:43+01:00http://pinkshagdesigns.ipaperus.com/DU/DULawWinter09/?Page=41http://pinkshagdesigns.ipaperus.com/DU/DULawWinter09/?Page=41Legal Affairs DU Law Stars September 24, 2008 affairs Top L: Michelle Barone; Law Stars Committee Co-Chair Pam Gagel, JD’85, Cynthia Camp, JD’84, Theresa Moore, JD’84; Top R: The honorees on stage after accepting their awards: (l-r) Prof. Julie Nice, Daniel Muse, JD’71, Craig Joyce, JD’80 Class Reunions Revived and Thriving Connie Talmage graduated from the University of Denver Sturm College of Law in 1978 with an extensive understanding of the law. She did not, however, emerge from law school with a cell phone, e-mail address or an understanding of what it meant to “Google” something. Thirty years later, sitting in an entirely different technological landscape, Connie and her fellow 1978 classmates reminisced about the many changes that have occurred at DU Law and in their own lives since graduation. Organized by Connie, Patricia Ayd, Terry Gorrell and Candy Figa, with assistance from the DU Law alumni office, the 1978 30th class reunion provided an opportunity for old friends to gather and reconnect in a natural and informal setting. They shared a meal and more than a couple of good stories. Dean José R. (Beto) Juárez, Jr. even stopped by to visit and give an update on the many happenings at DU Law. Reunions are a vital way to connect members of the DU Law community. If you are interested in gathering your classmates together for a reunion, please contact Jenny Savage in the Office of Alumni & Development at 303-871-6398 or jsavage@law.du.edu. p a g e 3 92009-03-27T23:36:43+01:00http://pinkshagdesigns.ipaperus.com/DU/DULawWinter09/?Page=42http://pinkshagdesigns.ipaperus.com/DU/DULawWinter09/?Page=42The Practice Of The Law Takes A Great Deal OF Practice Jackie McDermott At a time when law schools across the country have been accused of neglecting to adequately train students for the actual practice of law, the University of Denver Sturm College of Law remains dedicated to ensuring that its graduates enter the work force ready to be lawyers. David Schott, Trial Advocacy department, calls this the “Day One” approach. “We want our students to be able to start practicing law on the first day of their professional career,” explains Schott. “The establishment of the Trial Advocacy department coincides with the nationally occurring dialogue regarding how Today, Firms Expect Attorneys To Show Up, Day ONE. director of the newly formed Trial Advocacy to better prepare students to apply their critical p a g e 4 02009-03-27T23:36:43+01:00http://pinkshagdesigns.ipaperus.com/DU/DULawWinter09/?Page=43http://pinkshagdesigns.ipaperus.com/DU/DULawWinter09/?Page=43thinking skills to the professional rigors of the practice of law.” Along with curriculum choices like trial practice and legal writing classes, DU currently offers clinics and 10 competitive advocacy teams that allow participants to apply their legal knowledge. “For years, we have offered courses and competitions that have produced exceptionally skilled practitioners,” says DU Law Professor and Associate Dean of Academic Affairs Penelope Bryan. “We have an excellent clinical program, but we have not yet developed a coherent and comprehensive skills program accessible to all students. The Trial Advocacy department is a critically important step in the right direction.” The department is in the initial phase of a three- to five-year development plan that is beginning with an extensive audit of the school’s current offerings, explains Schott, a lecturer at DU and a practicing attorney. “We need a thorough understanding of all of our resources and consistency in our curriculum,” he says. “I want to make sure all professors are teaching the core fundamentals.” Schott also strives to create a better system for preserving institutional memory within student organizations and to boost the relevance of mock trial activities. The Hoffman Cup, a mock trial competition held every October, will now fall under the Trial Advocacy department umbrella. Schott is a faculty adviser to the Moot Court Board, the student board that oversees legal competitions at DU. “Right now, the board spends a lot of its time handling financial issues, such as travel budgets for moot court teams. Shifting that responsibility to the Trial Advocacy department will allow (the board) to focus on events,” he says. Its name may be misleading since the department aims to cultivate students’ pretrial, appellate and what Schott calls “client advocacy” skills. “We want to make sure our alumni know how to deal with clients, from interviewing to counseling to managing expectations,” he explains, adding that the department is developing a more inclusive name. Schott also chairs The Providence Foundation of Law and Leadership, a nonprofit, selffunded organization dedicated to teaching leadership and mock trial skills to students, regardless of their financial circumstances. The foundation runs an annual mock trial competition, The Providence Cup, in which high school students compete for scholarship funds. Schott has partnered with DU to help achieve some of the nonprofit’s goals while furthering the Trial Advocacy initiatives. DU’s Street Law programs provide the community with access to law students and legal expertise. A new Street Law class, “The Mentor’s “We want to make sure our alumni know how to deal with clients, from interviewing to counseling to managing expectations.” - David Schott p a g e 4 12009-03-27T23:36:43+01:00http://pinkshagdesigns.ipaperus.com/DU/DULawWinter09/?Page=44http://pinkshagdesigns.ipaperus.com/DU/DULawWinter09/?Page=44Schott encourages students to take a basic trial practice class regardless of their career plans. He notes that the skills mastered there can be useful in other areas of practice. Sarah McCutcheon, a 2001 Sturm College of Law graduate, found Schott’s approach rang true when she chose to participate in the Hoffman Cup to improve her presentation skills. To her surprise, she not only enjoyed the mock trial, she qualified to try out for a coveted position on DU’s competitive trial teams. “I was planning to go into environmental and national resource law,” she admits, “but after the competition, I began to think seriously about changing my career path and pursuing trial law.” She was hired as a deputy David Schott, director of the newly formed Trial Advocacy department at DU Law district attorney for the Sixth Judicial District in Colorado, and now works as an associate at Bruno, Colin, Jewell & Lowe in Denver. Down the road, Schott would like to see an academic concentration in Trial Advocacy. “We hope that in three to four years, students will be able to choose trial advocacy as a defined avenue of study. I’ve been told by hiring managers that they are impressed by students who have competed on one of our esteemed trial court teams. Ultimately, I want this program to have that same prestige.” Dean Bryan believes that Schott is the perfect person to lead the department to success. “He inspires everyone who has the privilege to work with him, including me and his students,” she says. Webb also supports the appointment of Schott. “His energy, vision and commitment to teaching students how to be lawyers in addition to how to Practicum,” which is run in conjunction with The Providence Foundation, reflects DU’s commitment to expanding its community outreach. In addition to attending class with Schott or Lindsey Webb, the law school’s director of public interest, students travel to one of three participating high schools to prepare students to compete in mock trials, including The Providence Cup. While the focus is on at-risk populations, these programs also benefit their graduate student participants, who hone their own skills through teaching. “If you can’t sum up legal concepts in a way that someone with a nonlegal background can understand, you won’t be a successful lawyer,” explains Webb. Trial Advocacy classes are not mandatory, but p a g e 4 22009-03-27T23:36:43+01:00http://pinkshagdesigns.ipaperus.com/DU/DULawWinter09/?Page=45http://pinkshagdesigns.ipaperus.com/DU/DULawWinter09/?Page=45think like lawyers is a tremendous benefit to the school,” she says. The department’s future may blunt the findings of a 2007 Carnegie Foundation for the Advancement of Teaching report, which concluded that law schools often fail to complement their teaching of critical thinking skills with applicable lessons imperative to the day-to-day life of a law practitioner. “Law schools have been hearing it from law firms whose partners don’t have time to mentor students – they need their new hires client-ready from day one,” Schott explains. While agreeing with aspects of the report, McCutcheon feels that DU adequately prepared her for work. “I liked the recommendation that law schools should mirror some of the other graduate professional programs, like medical schools, that require students to gain hands-on experience through a residency in addition to their class studies.” Alumnus Sean Olson, took trial advocacy courses, worked at a criminal law clinic and competed on a trial team. Now an associate at Wheeler Trigg Kennedy, he was not shocked “at all” by the report’s findings, although like McCutcheon, he made personal choices to ensure he got the most out of his education. “In my mind, law schools across the country were never geared to teach you how to be a lawyer; they were geared to teach you how to think like a lawyer,” he says. “I think DU’s offerings of classes and extracurricular activities that cultivate practical skills are unique, and actually, they were part of the reason why I went there.” Dean Bryan does not believe the school has failed students with respect to real-life practice experiences, but she is committed to expansion. “The Carnegie report inspires us to continue to improve in the areas of professional identity and skills training. The Trial Advocacy department offers us an exciting opportunity to expand what we already do well, and to make a distinctive mark on the landscape of legal education.” Brad Moloney, who now works as a deputy district attorney in Jefferson County after graduating in the top 10 percent of his DU class in May 2008, admits, “When I was at DU, I wished there was an actual program dedicated to trial advocacy. The department is poised to become what I wish I had had when I attended DU.” Schott encourages alumni to contribute whatever they can, whether it be time, money or brain power. Olson agrees that alumni support is essential: “First and foremost, lend your time to the students. It’s difficult to learn in the vacuum of a classroom.” The law school is truly committed to an improved focus on professionalism. “I hope the community, future students, potential employers of our graduates and alumni alike realize that DU has a clearly defined vision,” says Schott. “We recognize that we want to be a leader in the trial advocacy field. Of course, the process takes time, and changes of this magnitude do not happen overnight. But the future is bright.” p a g e 4 32009-03-27T23:36:43+01:00http://pinkshagdesigns.ipaperus.com/DU/DULawWinter09/?Page=46http://pinkshagdesigns.ipaperus.com/DU/DULawWinter09/?Page=46Sturm College of Law Alumni class class notes 1948 1940s p a g e 4 4 Upon graduation from DU Law, Ralph Ball passed both the Wyoming and Colorado Bar. He began working that September as a lawyer-landman in the Denver office of the California Company, a Rocky Mountain area oil and gas exploration unit where he enjoyed being sent out on assignments throughout the country. In November 1949, Ralph opened a one-room, no-secretary office in the First National Bank Building at 17th and Stout where he operated as a sole attorney specializing in oil and gas title work. Ralph worked on oil and gas lands in Colorado, Nebraska, Kansas, New Mexico, Oklahoma, Utah, Nevada, California, Wyoming, Montana and the Dakotas. During that time, Ralph enjoyed membership in many Denver clubs, travel, photography, skiing (some may remember that Ralph coached the DU ski team during his 3L year), mountaineering and playing “mediocre golf and acceptable tennis” along with rubber-boat running. From 1947 to 2000, Ralph competed in alpine ski races across the West and enjoyed winter cross-country ski tours. In 1950, he built a log chalet in Aspen, which he enjoyed for many years before eventually selling in 1993. In 1998, he received his 50-year certificate from the Denver Bar Association, then let his license go inactive around the year 2000. Ralph has three children by RALPH BALL his first wife, and four more joined the family when he married his second wife, Marilyn. They now reside primarily in Carbondale, Colo. Ralph still maintains his active lifestyle with recreational skiing, hikes through the beautiful red rock country and his general enjoyment of life. 1948 GERALD QUIAT Upon admission to the Colorado Bar in 1948, Gerald Quiat served as a deputy district attorney for the city and county of Denver until 1952. From 1952 to 1967, he practiced law as a partner with the firm Quiat, Seaman, & Quiat, which eventually transitioned to Quiat & Quiat, and then to Quiat, Bucholtz, Bull & Laff (1968 to 1985). His practice was a private business investments company with an emphasis in commercial real estate and oil and gas. Gerald has been active in the community throughout his life, serving in various capacities within organizations such as the AMC Cancer Research Center, the Anti-Defamation League, American Legion, Colorado Civil Rights Commission, Colorado Trial Lawyers Association, Guaranty Bank & Trust Company, the Jewish Institute of National Security Affairs and Rose Medical Center. In his spare time, he enjoys fly-fishing and exercise. Gerald married Roberta Nicholson in September 1962, and they raised six children together.2009-03-27T23:36:43+01:00http://pinkshagdesigns.ipaperus.com/DU/DULawWinter09/?Page=47http://pinkshagdesigns.ipaperus.com/DU/DULawWinter09/?Page=47notes 1954 1950s 1958 In 1979, Dolores Kopel was chosen as one of 10 U.S. trustees in the U.S. Department of Justice in charge of bankruptcy cases in Colorado and Kansas. The pilot program was enacted to free up the bankruptcy judges to hear contested issues and not be burdened with administrative duties. Her biggest case dealt with Storage Technology. Recently, Dorothy completed a term on the Colorado Bar Association board of governors, worked on the Barack Obama for President campaign and donated the documents of her professional life to the Western History section of the Denver Public Library. Dolores and her husband, Gerald Kopel (LLB’58), made their annual trip to Hawaii in April. DOLORES KOPEL lection and indexing of retired state legislators’ papers by the archives of the Western History section of the Denver Public Library. He is pleased that a dozen former legislators thus far have provided their papers and welcomes all former legislators to participate. Gerald and Dolores Kopel (LLB’54) were married 56 years ago by Chief Justice William S. Jackson (LL.B.’15) in the Supreme Court chambers. 1959 DON LOZOW GERALD KOPEL Don Lozow has been practicing trial law for more than 50 years off of the 16th Street Mall. His son Brad Lozow (JD’82) joined the practice as did his daughter Susan Lozow (JD’91). Always looking for the next adventure, Don and the Lozow & Lozow law firm have recently relocated to 209 Kalamath in Denver. 1964 Gerald Kopel organized the Bankruptcy Institute of the Denver Bar Association in 1962 and as chairman, provided half- and full-day programs featuring prominent bankruptcy experts at no charge to attorneys. In 1963, he began publishing a bimonthly bankruptcy newsletter, which he continued until 1975. Gerald has written a weekly column about legislative issues for the Colorado Statesman since 1993. Additionally, he has provided funding for the col- KURT HEERWAGEN 1960s p a g e 4 5 Kurt Heerwagen still practices full time in Western Spring, Ill., where he has lived for the last 41 years. Kurt has served two terms on a local school board, 12 years on the Village Plan Commission and also as a Village trustee. He has enjoyed maintaining contact through the years with DU Law classmates Mayo Sommermeyer (JD’64) and Hugh Fleischer (JD’64) and is already looking forward to their 50th class reunion in 2014.2009-03-27T23:36:43+01:00http://pinkshagdesigns.ipaperus.com/DU/DULawWinter09/?Page=48http://pinkshagdesigns.ipaperus.com/DU/DULawWinter09/?Page=48notes Class Notes university of denver sturm college of law alumni 1967 DAVID WEINSTEIN David Weinstein recently reviewed and provided comments to the Republic of Rwanda on its law for the protection of intellectual property in connection with the Business Climate Legal and Initiative Reform project. David is a Denver trademark/copyright attorney. 1966 DAVID ERICKSON 1970 RALPH TORRES David Erickson’s new book, Early Justice and the Formation of the Colorado Bar, was listed as a local bestseller in nonfiction by the major Denver newspapers. The book, published by the Colorado BarCLE, details the history of the early Colorado Bar and took David five years to research and write. The Tattered Cover bookstore in Denver hosted the book signing debut in October. 1967 1970s 1971 Ralph Torres received the 17th annual Eleanor P. Williams Arthritis Award in October 2008. The award recognizes a respected Colorado or Wyoming attorney whose career has been distinguished by the highest caliber of legal service and by a broad humanitarian contribution to his or her community. 1960s p a g e 4 6 Dennis Powers published his 10th book, Taking the Sea, in early January 2009. Dennis writes, Taking the Sea “is about the old-time wreckers and ship salvagers who traveled the oceans to save passengers and ships, hopefully in that order.” Another book, Tales of the Seven Seas, written about a famous—or infamous—ship captain of the past, will be published next year. Dennis and his wife, Judy, recently returned from a six-week trip to three continents and 10 countries in South America, Africa and Europe. DENNIS POWERS Upon receiving recognition of the Abogado de Los Tribunales y Juzgados de la Republic del Ecuador degree, Clinton Watkins was admitted to the practice of law in Ecuador. Clinton is also licensed in Florida and earned his LL.M. degree in ocean and coastal law from the University of Miami in 1994. Clinton resides in Manta Ecuador where he owns and operates M.R. Frogs Hosteria, a bamboo and thatched roof cabaña, restaurant and bar. Clinton may be reached at MRFrogsManta@yahoo.com. 1972 CLINTON WATKINS John Davidson retired from the practice of law in 2005 to work in the field of stress management, including work with children experiencing performance deficits. He relocated his business to Denver in January 2009 and may be contacted at www.heartworksnm.com. JOHN DAVIDSON2009-03-27T23:36:43+01:00http://pinkshagdesigns.ipaperus.com/DU/DULawWinter09/?Page=49http://pinkshagdesigns.ipaperus.com/DU/DULawWinter09/?Page=49notes Class Notes university of denver sturm college of law alumni 1973 JOHN HAYES 1976 THOMAS SHEA John Hayes is now of counsel to Hayes, Phillips, Hoffmann & Carberry, P.C., where he remains active in the practice of law from home. 1975 JOEL JUDD In November 2008, Joel Judd was re-elected to his fourth and final term in the Colorado House of Representatives and reappointed chair of the House Finance Committee. 1976 Thomas Shea is living in Nebraska where he writes “country and tween pop songs.” In the summer of 2008, Thomas worked in Nashville on the recording of a new CD by Justice, a young pop singer. Predemos of the CD can be heard by visiting soundclick.com/justicenebraska. 1977 SUE FOX JOHN HAGUE John Hague was recently appointed partner in the firm Farer Fersko. John works in the real estate and redevelopment practice group, advising clients in the areas of land use, common interest ownership, commercial real estate transactions and general business law. 1976 LARRY HOYT Larry Hoyt and Bryan Russell celebrated their 25th anniversary together by getting married in San Francisco on Sept. 6, 2008. The couple took their vows in front of friends and family gathered from around the country. 1970s 1978 Sue Fox currently serves as the 2008-2009 president of the Rotary Club of Denver, one of the largest and oldest Rotary Clubs in the country. Sue’s law practice, located in Cherry Creek, focuses on real estate and real estate brokerage law. Gerry Fisher and National Wind, LLC, co-founded a utility-scale energy development project in northeastern South Dakota. According to the project company, Dakota Wind Energy LLC, the project has the potential to produce 750 megawatts in the next 10 years. 1978 GERRY FISHER KATHARINE KURTZ Katharine Kurtz and Mary Peckham (JD’79) celebrated 30 years with their firm, Kurtz & Peckham, this year. Kurtz & Peckham specializes in all aspects of family law, juvenile law, probate and criminal law. Katharine is also involved with the collaborative law movement in Colorado, which she finds to be both personally rewarding and a wonderful alternative to traditional litigation p a g e 4 72009-03-27T23:36:43+01:00http://pinkshagdesigns.ipaperus.com/DU/DULawWinter09/?Page=50http://pinkshagdesigns.ipaperus.com/DU/DULawWinter09/?Page=50notes Class Notes university of denver sturm college of law alumni in family law cases. In what free time she has left, Katharine contributes both time and money to encouraging young women to become involved in politics and in helping elect women to higher public office. She also enjoys spending time with her niece and nephews in Denver. She writes that she is impressed with the incredible law school that DU has become and believes it “bodes well for the future of our profession.” 1979 1979 CHRISTOPHER CROSS 1970s 1979 Christopher Cross was appointed to the District Court bench in the 18th Judicial District by Gov. Bill Ritter. He appreciates that his law school friends did not contact the governor’s office about his activities with the DU Social Club while in law school. Christopher welcomes recent judicial appointees Kurt Horton (JD’80) to the 18th District Court bench and Addison “Spike” Adams (JD’79) as his replacement on the Arapahoe County Court bench. Christopher also serves on the Sturm College of Law Alumni Council. The Colorado Trial Lawyers Association (CTLA) recently honored Michael O’Donnell with an award for “the highest standards of competency, ethics and professionalism.” This was only the seventh time in its 55year history that the CTLA, whose members are plaintiffs’ attorneys, had given this award to a defense lawyer. Of the award, Mike says, “I am honored to be recognized by my professional colleagues who I usually only see on the other side of the courtroom.” Mike was listed in The Best Lawyers in America in four litigation categories, was voted one of the top 10 lawyers in Colorado in 2007 by Colorado Super Lawyers and is chairman-elect of the Colorado section of the American College of Trial Lawyers. 1979 MICHAEL O’DONNELL MARY PECKHAM DENNIS KEELER Dennis Keeler was recently selected by his peers for inclusion in The Best Lawyers in America 2009 for his work in real estate law at Pierce Atwood LLP. Pierce Atwood LLP is one of New England’s leading commercial law firms and has more than 130 attorneys who serve regional, national and international clients. Mary Peckham and Katharine Kurtz (JD’78) celebrated 30 years with their firm, Kurtz & Peckham, this year. Kurtz & Peckham specializes in all aspects of family law, juvenile law, probate and criminal law. Mary has also enjoyed teaching at Gerry Spence’s Trial Lawyers College for many years. 1982 BRAD LOZOW Brad Lozow has practiced law with his father, Don Lozow (JD’59), since graduating from law school in 1982. His sister Susan Lozow (JD’91) also practices at the firm, Lozow & Lozow, a Denver law firm specializing in criminal, divorce, personal injury and trial defense law. Brad has been married to his wife, Karen, for 26 years; they have two children: Emily, a sophomore at the University of Colorado–Boulder, and Jake, a sophomore in high school. p a g e 4 82009-03-27T23:36:43+01:00http://pinkshagdesigns.ipaperus.com/DU/DULawWinter09/?Page=51http://pinkshagdesigns.ipaperus.com/DU/DULawWinter09/?Page=51notes Class Notes university of denver sturm college of law alumni 1982 HENRY ROOT 1982 JILL-ELLYN STRAUS 1980s Henry Root, founder of the Santa Monica, Calif.based boutique entertainment law firm Law Offices of Henry W. Root, P.C., launched his legal career at MCA Records after several years of working with top internationally renowned recording artists as a tour manager and lighting designer. Henry now represents recording artists signed to nearly every major label as well as award-winning songwriters and producers, independent music publishers, record labels and the principal cast members of several reality TV series. He has overseen business and legal affairs for the delivery of programming to every major network, including the music specials Live 8, Tsunami Aid: A Concert for Hope and Decades Rock Live. Henry was executive producer of the DVD and TV show Chicago and Earth, Wind & Fire: Live at the Greek, which earned platinum sales status, and Kenny Chesney: No Shirts, No Shoes, No Problem, for which he received a Telly Award. In addition, Henry is a former officer and director of the California Copyright Conference; a founding member of the board of governors of the Academy of Interactive Arts and Sciences; and a frequent panelist and lecturer on music, media and Internet legal issues. He is active in the Entertainment Law Initiative nationwide writing contest for law students, is a contributing author to the Mathew-Bender publication Entertainment Industry Contracts: Drafting and Negotiating Guide and subject of the two-part series published in the Entertainment and Sports Law Reporter titled “Obtaining Rights to Artists and Content for Use in Music-Driven Television Productions.” Henry was also selected for inclusion in the 2005 and 2007 Southern California editions of Super Lawyers and was recently appointed by the American Bar Association Forum Committee on Sports and Entertainment Law as chairman of its music division. Jill-Ellyn Straus retired from the 17th Judicial District Attorney’s Office in May 2008 after 25 years of service. At the time of her retirement, JillEllyn was serving as chief of the juvenile division and the child victim unit. Currently, she serves in the District Court for the 17th Judicial District where she handles domestic relations matters. JillEllyn was appointed to this position by Gov. Bill Ritter and sworn in July 2008. 1985 LYNDA KNOWLES Lynda Knowles feels fortunate to work as legal counsel at the venerable institution of the Denver Museum of Nature & Science where her practice of the law runs the gamut from tax to exhibits. Lynda spends the remainder of her time working as an abstract artist and has shown at several local galleries. She writes that she always looks forward to hearing from classmates, “especially those rabble rousers in the back row – you know who you are!” 1986 SANDRA SHWAYDER SANCHEZ Sandra Shwayder Sanchez practiced law in Denver until 2005 when she and her husband, Ed Sanchez, moved to Nederland, Colo. That same year, Sandra cofounded a publishing group – www.essexcollective.com – with Long Story editor Peter Burnham. Since that time, the pair has published 13 fiction titles by eight authors from six states. Although she used to love travel, Sandra now spends as much time as possible exploring the Indian Peaks wilderness on foot, snowshoes and cross-country skis. She occa- p a g e 4 92009-03-27T23:36:43+01:00http://pinkshagdesigns.ipaperus.com/DU/DULawWinter09/?Page=52http://pinkshagdesigns.ipaperus.com/DU/DULawWinter09/?Page=52notes Class Notes university of denver sturm college of law alumni sionally pries herself away from the mountains to visit her daughters Rachel and Sara. Rachel lives on the eastern plains of Colorado and works with Homeward Bound Dog Rescue in Greeley. Sara is a documentary filmmaker living in Brooklyn, N.Y. 1988 1988 MATTHEW HOGAN ROBERT CASE After Robert Case’s children had grown and gone, his creative juices began to flow anew. In 2008, his first novel, Daedalus Rising – The True Story of Icarus, was published. In addition to his writing, Robert continues to practice law as an assistant county attorney in Jefferson County. 1988 JANICE CLEVELAND 1980s p a g e 5 0 Janice Cleveland moved with her husband and sons to Riverside, Calif., in 1990. For 16 years she practiced defense litigation before opening her own firm in 2006. Janice now primarily practices employment, probate and educational law, specializing in helping families receive the appropriate education for their special needs children. She also specialized in retaliation law suits in federal court for special education teachers who have been retaliated for advocating for their students. Janice has filed appeals to the Court of Appeals for the ninth circuit on educational issues. Matthew Hogan has been named one of Denver’s 150, a special honor recognizing ordinary citizens who are making Denver a better place for this and future generations. The honor was created by the city to celebrate Denver’s 150th birthday. Matt currently serves as president and board member of the Denver Children’s Advocacy Center where he works on behalf of children who have been traumatized by sexual abuse and domestic violence. Matt has taken this organization from a struggling agency with a shaky reputation through a capital campaign to purchase a new facility, handling everything from financing, zoning, historic district requirements and renovations. The center has also expanded its operation since that time and now treats more than 1,000 child victims of sexual abuse and violence annually at no cost to their families. In recognition of his volunteer efforts on behalf of abused children, Matt received the 2008 Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis Award for Public Service, the 2007 Jefferson Award from the American Institute for Public Service and a 2007 Minora Yasui Community Volunteer award. Matt has practiced law for 20 years and represents clients in public finance matters. He currently practices with Sherman & Howard LLC in Denver. 1988 SUSIE VELASQUEZ Susie Velasquez was appointed Weld County public trustee by Gov. Bill Ritter last year. Her term coincides with that of the governor’s term.2009-03-27T23:36:43+01:00http://pinkshagdesigns.ipaperus.com/DU/DULawWinter09/?Page=53http://pinkshagdesigns.ipaperus.com/DU/DULawWinter09/?Page=53notes Class Notes university of denver sturm college of law alumni 1989 TIMOTHY TOMASIK 1990 RUSS EMERY Timothy Tomasik recently spoke on the topic of air traffic control liability at the annual Convention of the American Association of Justice in Philadelphia. Timothy has worked on several aviation cases at Clifford Law Offices, including serving as counsel for property damage claims in the collapse of the World Trade Centers on 9/11. 1989 NANCY NOWAK UTECH Nancy Nowak Utech maintains a small practice handling corporate transactions, where she provides contract drafting and review and statement of work review both domestically and internationally. She has developed a statement of work standards, the PEKO Methodology, with the Utech Consulting Group in collaboration with Tomichi Ltd of the United Kingdom. Additionally, Nancy has developed statement of work training, which is an online training package, and is currently working on the college text for project managers. 1989 1990s 1990 Russ Emery is extremely happy and content in his position with the Department of Veterans Affairs Regional Counsel’s office where he serves as a contracts attorney. Significantly, Russ recently celebrated a 35th wedding anniversary with his wife, Kay. Russ and Kay have two wonderful daughters, two hard-working sons-in-law and two adorable grandchildren. He writes, “Soon I hope to be enjoying my retirement and enthralling my grandchildren as they sit on my lap with old war stories and tales of daring legal adventures, all of which my wife fondly calls, ‘big lies.’” ANDREA GELFUSO GOETZ ELIZABETH WEISHAUPL 1980s Elizabeth Weishaupl was appointed to the Colorado bench in 2008 where she became a district court judge for the 18th Judicial District, which includes Arapahoe, Douglas, Elbert and Lincoln counties. Prior to this appointment, Elizabeth had been practicing as an assistant U.S. attorney in the district of Colorado. For 17 years, Andrea Gelfuso Goetz practiced as an attorney with the U.S. Department of the Interior’s Office of the Solicitor. For the past nine years, Andrea has taught environmental law to DU undergrads and recently taught an additional course, “The Application of Environmental Law,” which provided students with experience in realworld problems confronted by environmental regulators. Andrea and the Goetz family will spend 2009 in Modena, Italy. Her husband, Dr. Andrew Goetz, chair of DU’s Department of Geology, was recently appointed director of DU’s Bologna International Center for Civic Engagement for the fall of 2009. Andrea will assist Andy in teaching a course that will introduce DU students to environmental issues in five Italian cities, including Rome and Venice. In Italy, Andrea can be reached at agelfuso@rocketmail.com. p a g e 5 12009-03-27T23:36:43+01:00http://pinkshagdesigns.ipaperus.com/DU/DULawWinter09/?Page=54http://pinkshagdesigns.ipaperus.com/DU/DULawWinter09/?Page=54notes Class Notes university of denver sturm college of law alumni 1991 Susan Lozow practices law with her father Don Lozow (JD’59) and brother Brad Lozow (JD’82) in their Denver law offices of Lozow & Lozow, a firm specializing in criminal, divorce, personal injury and trial defense. Alongside her practice of law, Susan manages the office, volunteers with the Junior League of Denver, and enjoys spending time with friends and her dog, Moose. 1993 SUSAN LOZOW 1996 Rico Munn was named a fellow by the German George Marshall Foundation. The fellowship fosters transatlantic relations and understanding by sending fellows to Europe for three weeks to meet with government, business and policy leaders. Rico’s fellowship trip includes visits to Brussels, Turkey, Germany, the Czech Republic and Denmark. 1997 RICO MUNN RICK DINDINGER 1990s 1994 Steven Moore was recently elected a fellow of the American Bar Foundation (ABF). As a fellow, Steven joins an elite group of attorneys nationally recognized for their leadership and professional excellence. These fellows encourage and support the research program of the ABF, which was founded in 1952 by the American Bar Association and is recognized as the premier sociolegal research institute in the country. Steven, a partner at Baker Hostetler in Denver, devotes his practice exclusively to the representation of management in a wide range of labor and employment disputes, and is an active member of the ABA’s section of labor and employment law. He currently services as co-editor of its Labor and Employment Law newsletter and is the immediate past employer chair of its ethics and professional responsibility committee. STEVEN MOORE Rick Dindinger is proud to announce the formation of the Dindinger Law Offices, LLC, where his practice concentrates on employment law matters. 1997 SAM NGUYEN Sam Nguyen joined Foley & Lardner as a partner. Sam, who previously practiced with Heller Ehrman, is a member of the chemical and pharmaceutical practice. 1997 Thomas Scott Jr. continues to reside in the Denver area where he works as an employment specialist for the Senior Community Service Employment Program, offered through the AARP Foundation. Thomas finds his work very rewarding as the community need for this type of care for the elderly is overwhelming and often overlooked. 1997 THOMAS SCOTT JR. JEN LOUD UNGAR Dale Butler decided to hang out his own shingle this year with the formation of Butler Law Firm, P.C. DALE BUTLER Jen Loud Ungar is still in Cherry Hills with her husband of nine years, Scott, and their two children William (age 7) and Caroline (age 4). She continues to do career consulting for lawyers and is currently rebranding and launching some new projects, including a product that packages her career counseling services for attorneys looking to leave the law. She occasionally runs into her DU Law class- p a g e 5 22009-03-27T23:36:43+01:00http://pinkshagdesigns.ipaperus.com/DU/DULawWinter09/?Page=55http://pinkshagdesigns.ipaperus.com/DU/DULawWinter09/?Page=55notes Class Notes university of denver sturm college of law alumni mates but would love to hear from others at jenungar@comcast.net or jen@jenniferloud.com. Her professional website is www.jenniferloud.com. 1998 Matthew Robert Schimberg, 7 pounds, 8 ounces, joins two loving brothers, William and Oliver. 1999 DAVID HARSTON 1990s 1999 David Harston is a partner with the law firm of Stern, Elkind, Curray & Alterman where he practices immigration law, including business, family, asylum and removal defense. David also recently completed his term as chapter chair of the American Immigration Lawyers Association Colorado Chapter. He can be reached at david.harston@secalaw.com. In January 2008, Katherine Lee Carey moved from Phoenix to Costa Mesa, Calif., to take a job as general counsel and vice president of compliance for a collection of companies that run six colleges devoted to health care and nurse training. She took her third bar exam in July 2008 and is enjoying her new job and the culture and climate of southern California. Her husband has taken up surfing and adopted the lingo as his own, often leaving her voicemails such as, “Dude, I am going to be late. There is a sweet, offshore breeze and I have to check it out!” They still miss Denver, and Katherine sometimes finds herself wishing for a snowstorm until she remembers having to dig out her car, scrape the windows and drive on I-25. At that point, she gazes out her window at the sun, surf and 75-degree weather, and sighs contentedly. 1999 KATHERINE LEE CAREY In January 2009, Aaron Bradford joined the law firm of Hensley Kim & Hozler, LLC. He continues his work representing clients in need of experienced trial counsel in cases involving complex commercial disputes, products liability, intellectual property, patent infringement and professional liability. Aaron has also been awarded the Denver Bar Association’s Young Lawyer of the Year award. Most importantly, Aaron’s son, Finland, turned 1 and continues to be the center of Aaron’s world. 1999 AARON BRADFORD RALEA SLUGA RaLea Sluga joined the law firm of Otten Johnson Neff & Ragonetti as an associate in the Denver office where she practices with the firm’s business transactions and tax group. 2000 JULIE HAINES Tricia McCarthy and her husband, Robert Schimberg, welcomed a third baby boy to their family Aug. 30, 2008. TRICIA MCCARTHY Julie Haines was elected shareholder of the firm Kennedy Childs & Fogg. Julie, who leads Kennedy Childs & Fogg’s medical device and drug litigation department, deals primarily with medical, device and drug litigation; commercial and product litigation; and professional counsel for professionals, including doctors, engineers and athletes. p a g e 5 32009-03-27T23:36:43+01:00http://pinkshagdesigns.ipaperus.com/DU/DULawWinter09/?Page=56http://pinkshagdesigns.ipaperus.com/DU/DULawWinter09/?Page=56notes Class Notes university of denver sturm college of law alumni 2000 Jennifer Siegal-Miller and her husband, Rabbi Adam Miller, welcomed twin boys, Jonah Lev and Gabriel Addison Miller, on Nov. 2, 2007. The family currently lives in Framingham, Mass., where Adam is the senior rabbi of Temple Beth Ann. 2001 JENNIFER SIEGAL-MILLER 2005 Meagan Pitt Partilla and her husband, Ian, welcomed their daughter, Jorah Naomi Partilla, to the world Aug. 12, 2008. 2005 MEAGAN PITT PARTILLA 2000s 2002 Lyle Wallace was named director and shareholder of Otten Johnson Robinson Neff & Ragonetti where he practices with the firm’s business transactions and tax group. He is a frequent author and speaker about business, private equity and environmental topics. Lyle stays active in the community as well; he serves on the board of directors of the Youth Opportunity Foundation, is a past board member of Denver Active 20-30 Children’s Foundation and the Colorado Business Leadership Network, and a mentor with Byrne Urban Scholars. Additionally, Lyle serves on the board of directors of the Cherry Creek Chamber of Commerce, is a member of the Leadership Denver Class of 2008, a graduate of Impact Denver Class of 2008 and a past member of the Chamber 100. LYLE WALLACE Theresa Sidebotham is in her fourth and final year as a law clerk at the Colorado Court of Appeals. At the end of her clerkship, Theresa will begin practicing law with the firm Rothgerber Johnson & Lyons LLP. She is most looking forward to April, when her husband will return from Iraq, where he was deployed as an army chaplain in 2008. Theresa has also enjoyed teaching CLEs and writing articles about special education law. 2005 THERESA SIDEBOTHAM James Chandler is an associate with the Law Office of David T. Agoston, P.A. in Naples, Fla., where he practices state and federal criminal defense and family law. He can be reached at JChandler@Agostonlaw.com. 2004 JAMES CHANDLER JASON TURNER Since completing law school, Jason Turner has become the proud father of two sons, Alden McGowan (age 3) and Chapin Kapoor (6 months). Jason, Sonya and their boys recently relocated to Glenwood Springs, Colo., where Jason is employed as associate counsel for the Colorado River Water Conservation District. After spending a year clerking for Justice Coates on the Colorado Supreme Court, Drew Unthank joined the Denver offices of Wheeler Trigg Kennedy LLP as an associate. In 2008, he was named one of Law Week Colorado’s Up & Coming Lawyers. As an associate, Drew spent the majority of 2008 working closely with the firm’s managing partner, Hugh Gottschalk, in defending a local Colorado business in a hard-fought and complex, 10-plantiff, $30 million franchise fraud matter. Drew second-chaired the five-week bench trial and took lead responsibility for several witnesses, including one expert. Drew’s client won dismissal of the plaintiffs’ Colorado Consumer Protection Act and conspiracy claims, and is awaiting the trial court’s decision DREW UNTHANK p a g e 5 42009-03-27T23:36:43+01:00http://pinkshagdesigns.ipaperus.com/DU/DULawWinter09/?Page=57http://pinkshagdesigns.ipaperus.com/DU/DULawWinter09/?Page=57notes Class Notes university of denver sturm college of law alumni on the remaining claims. After all of this, Drew and his wife, Kristy, escaped to Paris for 10 days. 2006 2007 2000s 2007 Upon graduation, Joseph Graves moved to Los Angeles for an internship at Sidley Austin Brown & Wood. While there, he decided to explore the world of acting and soon had the opportunity to be an extra in an HBO film, Walkout. He was also in a music video called, One Blood, featuring Elijah Wood. Upon his return to Denver, Joseph worked as a production assistant for The Real World 18, Denver House. Still interested in acting, he landed a role in the Eddie Murphy film, Nowhereland (summer 2009 release), was cast in the play Inspecting Carol at the Miner’s Alley Playhouse in Golden, Colo., and also received roles in the off-Broadway hit, Tony & Tina’s Wedding and the play Dinah Wars at Shadow Theatre, which enjoyed awards, great reviews and sold-out performances. Joseph had a short stint as a field engineer with his father’s company, Graves Analytical Services, before taking a position at Ballard Spahr Andrews & Ingersoll in Denver. He currently works at Denver Water as a legal administrator. In addition to his legal work and acting career, Joseph recently had the opportunity to travel to Puerto Rico and explore the El Yunque Rainforest, where he learned about many of the unique plant and animal species there, including the rarely seen Puerto Rican parrot. He also paints in his spare time and recently sold his first high-price painting. JOSEPH GRAVES Melissa David joined the law firm of Otten Johnson Neff & Ragonetti as an associate in the Denver office where she practices with the firm’s business transactions and tax and real estate group. 2007 MELISSA DAVID Jeremy Ferrin and Amy Willhoit were recently engaged at the top of Quandary Peak outside of Breckenridge. They are planning an autumn 2009 wedding. JEREMY FERRIN 2007 In 2008, Meredith Karre enjoyed working for Judge Maus in Colorado’s 19th Judicial District. During the summer of 2008, she lived and volunteered at a Sudanese orphanage in the village of Kajo Keji. 2007 MEREDITH KARRE DEONA NAYLOR BRUMMETT Aviv Segev joined the law firm of Otten Johnson Neff & Ragonetti as an associate in the Denver office where he practices with the firm’s litigation group. 2008 AVIV SEGEV On Aug. 12, 2008, Deona Naylor Brummett and her husband, Wallace, welcomed the birth of their son, Canaan Trice. Mary Byrne joined the Minneapolis law office of Meagher & Geer PLLP as an associate focusing on insurance coverage. MARY BYRNE p a g e 5 52009-03-27T23:36:43+01:00http://pinkshagdesigns.ipaperus.com/DU/DULawWinter09/?Page=58http://pinkshagdesigns.ipaperus.com/DU/DULawWinter09/?Page=58in memoriam p a g e In Memoriam remembering those we have lost Jerome R. Strickland, LLB’39, died November 26, 2008, in Denver, Colo. W. Robert Delaney, JD’46, died August 2, 2008, in Glenwood Springs, Colo. Hon. James C. Flanigan, JD’46, died September 1, 2008, in Denver, Colo. Thayne W. Swenson, JD’47, died November 26, 2008, in Tampa, Fla. Hon. Paul H. Buchanan, JD’48, died November 6, 2008, in Indianapolis, Ind. John M. Oakes, JD’50, died April 15, 2008, in Aspen, Colo. Robert W. Johnson, JD’51, died October 26, 2008, in Colorado Springs, Colo. Henry W. Toll, JD’55, died October 20, 2008, in Denver, Colo. William Devlin, JD’56, died November 30, 2008, in Las Vegas, Nev. Dennis C. DeBerry, LLB’57, died August 18, 2008, in Scottsdale, Ariz. Paul E. Lundy, LLB’58, died September 18, 2008, in Lakewood, Colo. Maxine Kurtz, JD’62, died November 4, 2008, in Denver, Colo. John D. Ward, LLB’62, died December 24, 2008, in Hayden, Idaho George C. Aucoin, JD’63, died October 15, 2008, in Port Ludlow, Wash. George S. Kondos, JD’67, died December 12, 2007, in Boulder, Colo. Stephen B. Schuyler, JD’71, died July 16, 2008, in Denver, Colo. Donald Wasko, JD’71, died August 28, 2008, in Steamboat Springs, Colo. Douglas Phillips, JD’73, died July 15, 2008, in Denver, Colo. Barbara C. Quade, JD’76, died November 28, 2008, in Littleton, Colo. Ryan T. Clark, JD’82, died September 7, 2008, in Littleton, Colo. Stuart A. Lundberg, LL.M.’82, died July 13, 2008, in Grand Forks, N.D. Karl B. Hascall, JD’85, died January 23, 2008, in Ada, Mich. Narendar Gopal Berry, JD’04, died July 19, 2008, in Albuquerque, N.M. 5 62009-03-27T23:36:43+01:00http://pinkshagdesigns.ipaperus.com/DU/DULawWinter09/?Page=59http://pinkshagdesigns.ipaperus.com/DU/DULawWinter09/?Page=592009 Calendar calendar of events University of Denver Sturm College of Law Wednesday, March 4, 2009 Water Law Review Symposium Thursday - Friday, March 5 - 6, 2009 Rocky Mountain Land Use Institute’s 18th Annual Land Use Conference Friday, March 6, 2009 Peter H. Holme Jr. Barrister’s Cup Appellate Competition Saturday, April 4, 2009 Philip S. Figa Motions Competition Thursday, April 30, 2009 Mentor/Internship/PALs Volunteer End-of-Year Reception Saturday, May 16, 2009 Spring Commencement Saturday, May 16, 2009 Legacies Reception 2009 Tuesday, March 10, 2009 Los Angeles Regional Alumni Event Shutters On the Beach 1 Pico Blvd., Santa Monica, Calif. Saturday, May 16, 2009 Golden Barristers Reunion Thursday - Saturday, September 24 - 26, 2009 The Futures Conference Co-sponsored by the College of Law Administrators and the DU Law Master of Science in Legal Administration (MSLA) program, this conference will examine the future of the practice of law. Wednesday, March 18, 2009 Rocky Mountain Legal Diversity Summit Wednesday - Thursday, March 25 - 26, & Saturday, March 28, 2009 PALS *All events held at the Sturm College of Law unless otherwise noted. The Right Time is NOW! www.law.du.edu/msla2009-03-27T23:36:43+01:00http://pinkshagdesigns.ipaperus.com/DU/DULawWinter09/?Page=60http://pinkshagdesigns.ipaperus.com/DU/DULawWinter09/?Page=60The Futures Conference at the University of Denver Sturm College of Law Presented by the Master of Science in Legal Administration (MSLA) Program and The College of Law Practice Management September 24-26, 2009 Join the College of Law Practice Management and the MSLA program for a ground-breaking conference looking at the future of the practice of law. The Futures Conference will include two days of interactive programming featuring thought-provoking leaders from law practice management and leaders outside of the industry as they discuss the future of the legal profession and the resulting challenges for law firm management. For more information or to register, please visit www.colpm.org. Master of Science in Legal Administration NON-PROFIT ORG. 2255 E. Evans Ave., Ste. 315 Denver, CO 80208 U.S. POSTAGE PAID PERMIT 321 DENVER, CO2009-03-27T23:36:43+01:00