Class of 2017 Sets Two New Pro Bono Records

June 8, 2017
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Students with Alan B. Morrison, Lerner Family Associate Dean for Public Interest and Public Service Law, at the GW Law Pro Bono Recognition Ceremony.

The Class of 2017 has set two new records for the amount of pro bono services provided by a graduating class: one for the total hours submitted and another for the number of students involved. This year, 280 graduates contributed an astounding 109,515.53 pro bono hours. In addition, 75 more students participated than ever before. To celebrate their accomplishment, the law school held its Pro Bono Recognition Ceremony before a Washington Nationals game.

GW Law is committed to encouraging students to volunteer legal services. This commitment is reflected, in part, by the Pro Bono Program. By doing pro bono work, students provide legal services in the public interest. Additionally, volunteering is an excellent way to gain practical legal experience, which develops skills, builds resumes, and establishes networking contacts. Participation also begins the pro bono habit. Taking time to help others now paves the way to continue doing so later when practicing law.  As a way of thanking students who volunteer in this way, GW Law annually sponsors this event before graduation. 

Students who completed 50 hours or more of pro bono legal services were recognized with a Dean's Certificate. In addition to the Dean's Certificate provided to all honorees, students who volunteered over 100 hours also received a silver cord to wear at graduation and a presidential lapel pin, certificate, and letter. A complete list of all honorees appeared in the Commencement Program.

David M. Johnson, Assistant Dean for Pro Bono & Advocacy Programs, said, "What is most amazing about the Class of 2017's pro bono contribution is not that they set a record for most hours contributed or the greatest student participation, even though both represent excellent accomplishments. What is most amazing is that their total pro bono hours is more than the last two classes combined. The Class of 2017 is truly to be commended for this outstanding effort."