This May, Vermont Law and Graduate School celebrated another graduating class of incredible students setting out to make a difference in the world. Along with law students who earned a concentration in animal law, this year's class included the first students to graduate with a Master's in Animal Protection Policy and an Animal Law LLM.

While we applaud all of their accomplishments, we are especially proud of the animal law and policy students who earned special recognition from faculty for their extraordinary contributions to the VLGS community.

Andrea McMillan (JD) was awarded the Clinical Legal Education Association Award for her excellence in clinical fieldwork based on the high quality of representation provided to clients and for exceptionally thoughtful, self-reflective participation in an accompanying seminar, as nominated by the clinical faculty of Vermont Law School. The award was presented by Professor Laura Fox, Director of the Farmed Animal Advocacy Clinic who shared Andrea's achievements, excellent research and litigation skills, compassionate leadership, and dedication to justice.

Sophia Clevenger (MAPP) was awarded the inaugural Dean's Leadership Award for her numerous contributions in the classroom, in committee meetings, and at recruitment events. Dean Dan Bromberg highlighted Sophia's professionalism and rigor and shared how she truly exemplified what it means to be a positive member of our community.

Bella O'Connor (JD) received the Marc Mihaly Environmental Leadership Award for her demonstrated leadership in the field of Environmental Law. Dean Jenny Rushlow presented the award for her work fighting biogas facilities, exposing deceptive humane washing practices, advocating for more plant-based options at VLGS, and for her overall brilliance and commitment to animal advocacy.

Click here to view the 2024 Awards Ceremony.