Photograph: Eagle statue outside law school.

Student Organizations

2013-2014 Academic Year Officers

Remember to check your organization's mailbox in Room 203.

Note: Organizations identified with an asterisk ( * ) are inactive.

The information on this page is updated as information about new officers becomes available (many organizations elect officers in March and April for the following academic year). Please send updates to Martin Wisneski (martin.wisneski@washburn.edu).

All-Law-School-Students discussion list: To add or modify organization officers who can post directly to the discussion list see:

* Action Sports of Washburn
(approved 2/15/2012)

This social organization will facilitate activities such as kite boarding, surfing, snow boarding, etc.

Agricultural Law Society
(updated 9/18/2012)

This organization seeks to created opportunities to educate the next generation of leaders about the necessities of an agriculture friendly society. It encourages healthy conversation about current agriculatural law issues to promote the understanding of agriculture practices and laws.

  • President: Tucker Stewart
  • Vice President: Justin Daake
  • Treasurer: Benjamin Busboom
  • Secretary: Jason Schulte
  • Production Ag. Committee Chair: Jara Settles
  • Niche Market Committee Chair: Robert Young
  • Faculty Advisor: David Pierce
  • Can post to All-Students discussion list:

American Association of Justice (AAJ)
(approved 2/8/2012)

AAJ is a plaintiff's attorney organization focused on making students better trial attorneys. The organization is dedicated to promoting a fair justice system; the national orgization has the largest trial bar.

  • Officer elections pending.

American Bar Association Family Law Quarterly

  • See the Quarterly's website for information about the editorial board.
  • Can post to All-Students discussion list:

American Constitution Society for Law and Public Policy (ACS)
(updated 4/11/2013)

The Society is a progressive legal organizations designed to ensure that fundamental principles of human dignity, individual rights and liberties, genuine equality, and access to justice enjoy their rightful, central place in American law. The national organization, founded in 2001, is a network of lawyers, law students, scholars, judges, policymakers and other concerned individuals. ACS is a non-partisan, non-profit educational organization.

  • President: Joel Mason
  • Vice President: Grace Lancaster
  • Faculty Advisors: Bill Rich
  • Can post to All-Students discussion list:

Asian American Law Student Association (AALSA)
(updated 8/30/2012)

AALSA enhances the legal education, community participation, employment opportunities, and academic achievement of Asian law students and other minorities by hosting speakers, coordinating community projects, promoting social activities, and providing study aids to members and other interested parties.

  • President: Alisha Udhwani
  • Vice President: Nhu Nguyen
  • Treasurer: Iasha Chaudhry
  • Secretary: Matthew Parker
  • Faculty Advisor: Professor Ali Khan
  • Can post to All-Students discussion list:

Black Law Student Association (BLSA)
(updated 4/24/2012)

  • President: Maurice Brewer
  • Vice President: Gerald Jackson
  • Secretary: Alisha Udhwani
  • Treasurer:
  • Faculty Advisor: Professor Janet Jackson
  • Can post to All-Students discussion list:

Christian Legal Society (CLS)
(updated 4/19/2012)

  • President: Michael Duenes
  • Vice-President: Jaci Kelly
  • Secretary/Treasurer: Lyndzie Carter
  • Faculty Advisor: Professor David Pierce
  • Can post to All-Students discussion list:

Environmental Law Society (ELS)
(updated 2/19/2013)

  • President: Lynne Laseter
  • Vice President: Aaron Westbrook
  • Secretary: Nick Adams
  • Treasurer: Ben Bowman
  • Faculty Advisor: Professor Myrl Duncan
  • Can post to All-Students discussion list:

* Excellence in Athletics

Federalist Society for Law and Public Policy Studies
(updated 8/12/2011)

This organization of conservatives and libertarians is interested in the current state of the legal order. It is founded on three principles: the state exists to preserve freedom; the separation of governmental powers is central to our Constitution; and it is emphatically the province and duty of the Judiciary to say what the law is, not what it should be. The Society seeks both to promote an awareness of these principles and to further their application through its activities.

  • President: Brian Main
  • Vice President: Ryan Smith
  • Treasurer: Andrew Millett
  • Secretary: Kendra Hanson
  • Faculty Advisor: Professor David Pierce
  • Can post to All-Students discussion list:

Gay-Straight Legal Alliance
(updated 5/17/2012)

The purpose of the Gay-Straight Legal Alliance is to respond to sexual orientation and gender identity legal issues. The organization promotes awareness and education regarding the legal system's treatment of lesbians, gays, bisexuals and gender-variant people. In addition, its members are committed to building a safe and tolerant society that respects diversity and offers gays, lesbians, bisexuals and gender-variant people equal protection under the law. The group also serves as a support system for gay, lesbian, bisexual and gender-variant students and their allies. The meetings are open to all law students who believe in equal rights and fair treatment.

  • Executive Committee: Kesar Sharma-Crawford, Kelsey DeLong, Ben Bowman, John "Bo" Turney
  • Faculty Advisor: Professor Nancy Maxwell
  • Can post to All-Students discussion list:

Gentlemen's Legal Forum
(updated 3/3/2011)

Modern society often lacks the chivalry, manners, and style of the past. The goal of Gentlemen's Legal Forum is to restore the "lost art" of gentlemanly and professional conduct to law school and the legal community as a whole. In addition, we endeavor to create a place for open discussion on topics ranging from cigars to Supreme Court decisions.

  • Officers: Ty Patton, Mike Rost
  • Faculty Advisor: Adjunct Professor Mark Burghart
  • Can post to All-Students discussion list: Ty Patton

* Health Law Society

Hispanic American Law Student Association (HALSA)
(updated 4/8/2013)

  • President: Norah Avellan
  • Vice President: Joseph Astrab
  • Treasurer: Jennifer Ouellette
  • Secretary: Kaitlyn Alegria
  • Faculty Advisor: Professor Mary Ramirez
  • Can post to All-Students discussion list:

International Law Society (ILS)
(updated 4/24/2012)

  • President: Kaitlin Marsh
  • Vice President: JD Hatcher
  • Secretary: Megan Williams
  • Treasurer: Ethan Hausmann
  • Faculty Advisor: Professor Craig Martin
  • Can post to All-Students discussion list:

J. Reuben Clark Law Society
(updated 5/14/2013)

This organization offers a forum of activities that promote professionalism and sound ethics in the law school environment. The Society also seeks to instill in its members the importance of family, religion, and morals within the future practice of law.

  • President: Benjamin Lamb
  • Vice-President: Jason McIlrath
  • Secretary/Treasurer: Dave Groth
  • Faculty Advisor: Professor John Christensen
  • Can post to All-Students discussion list:

Moot Court Council

* Native American Law Student Association

Non-Traditional Student Group
(updated 4/23/2013)

  • President: Celeste Kirby
  • Vice President: Jessica Watts
  • Secretary: Kara Daniel
  • Treasurer: David Thompson
  • WSBA Liaison: Adeel Syed
  • Faculty Advisor: Associate Dean Jalen Lowry

Phi Alpha Delta (PAD)
(updated 4/2/2013)

  • Justice: Calla Sprague
  • Vice Justice: Michelle Pflumm
  • Clerk: Jessica Brunken
  • Treasurer: Jenni Howsman
  • Marshall: Chris Staley
  • Alumni Liaison: Nate Jiwanlal
  • Faculty Advisor: Professor Alex Glashausser
  • Can post to All-Students discussion list:

* Phi Delta Phi International Legal Fraternity

The Phi Delta Phi fraternity, among the oldest legal fraternities in North America, was established in 1869 for the purpose of promoting a higher standard of professional ethics. The Landon Inn at Washburn Law places its emphasis on academics and ethics.

Pro Bono Society (formerly Equal Justice Works)
(updated 12/11/2012)

This organization focuses on all aspects of public interest law. Its goal is to provide access to the legal system, as well as representation, for those normally without the funds to do so. As an organization we have sponsored forums on controversial topics such as gun control and the death penalty. We have sponsored a coat and winter clothing drive for the Topeka Rescue mission. Along with our national organization, we have participated in local and national internships, fellowships, and even help seek out job opportunities.

  • Board: Leah Bockover, Kelsey Fowler, Scott Abbott, Nana Brammer, Tabitha Chapman, and Jessica Fiorini
  • Faculty Advisor: Professor Joseph Mastrosimone
  • Can post to All-Students discussion list:

* Real Estate Law Society (RELS)

This organization provides opportunities to learn about real estate law and other aspects of the real estate industry.

Sports and Entertainment Law Society
(updated 4/16/2013)

Tax and Estate Planning Association (TEPA)

This organization's major function is to coordinate with the IRS' VITA program each year to prepare tax returns for individuals that cannot afford a paid preparer. In addition, TEPA each year invites guest speakers in various fields of tax law to discuss their real world experiences.

Velocipedists
(updated 9/26/2012)

This organization provides opportunities for students to get together for leisurely biking, combining exercise, recreation, and social interaction.

  • President: Jerry Johnson
  • Vice-President: Jordan Ryan
  • Secretary:
  • Treasurer: Dave Groth
  • Faculty Advisor: Professor John Christensen
  • Can post to All-Students discussion list:

Veterans' Legal Association of Washburn (VLAW)
(updated 4/4/2013)

This organization provides any Washburn law student, staff or faculty member opportunities for involvement with military, veteran and law enforcement organizations within the scope of legal and law-enforcement careers, provides support and guidance for members, veterans and their families at the law school, and serves the community by addressing military, veteran and law-enforcement issues.

  • President: Joseph LoRusso
  • Vice-President: Nathan Lispkin
  • Secretary: Deborah Hammond
  • Treasurer: Jim Ruttenberg
  • VA Liaison: Chris Lyon
  • Military Liaison: Rick Ottinger
  • Faculty Advisor: Professor Joseph McKinney
  • Can post to All-Students discussion list:

Washburn Business Law Society

Washburn Committee on Air and Space Law
(updated 4/17/2013)

This organization is dedicated to topics and opportunities in the aerospace law field and supports students in their pursuit of knowledge and experience in all aspects of aviation and space law while forging relationships with industry leaders and legal practitioners.

  • President: Joseph LoRusso
  • Vice President: Max Caldwell
  • Secretary: David Thompson
  • Treasurer: Dylan Serrault
  • Public Relations Officer: Nathan Jiwanlal
  • Events Coordinator: Jeffrey Akin
  • Space Liason: Bret Robinson
  • Founding Member: Brad Carlton
  • Faculty Advisor: Professor Joseph McKinney

Washburn Intellectual Property Law Society (WIPLS)

The Society provides a forum for students interested in patent, copyright, trademark, and trade secret law and seeks to expand awareness of intellectual property (IP) and its importance in the global marketplace and legal world.

* Washburn Law American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU)

Washburn Law Democrats (WLD)
(updated 4/11/2013)

This organization pursues liberty, justice, and freedom for all, regardless of race, religion, or sex, through support of the Democratic Party and its ideas, ideals, and candidates.

Washburn Law Journal

  • See the Journal's website for information about the editorial board.
  • Can post to All-Students discussion list:

* Washburn Law Republicans

Washburn Law Soccer Club
(updated 4/4/2012)

  • President: Craig Hulse
  • Vice-President: John Doyle
  • Secretary: Ethan Hausmann
  • Treasurer: Josh Mortensen
  • Faculty Advisor: Professor Alex Glashausser
  • Can post to All-Students discussion list: Josh Mortenson

Washburn Oil, Gas, and Energy Law Society (formerly Rocky Mountain Mineral Law Foundation (RMMLF) Washburn Student Chapter)
(updated 5/12/2013)

This organization promotes the study of the law and regulations relating to mining, oil and gas, water, public lands, land use, conservation, environmental protection, and other related areas. Washburn Law is one of 30 law schools that are RMMLF trustee schools and the only law school that has a student organization affiliated with the Foundation. Visit their Facebook group.

  • President: Adeel Syed
  • Vice-President: Taylor Leftwich
  • Secretary: Courtney Kelley
  • Treasurer: Kate Wary
  • Faculty Advisor: Professor David Pierce
  • Can post to All-Students discussion list:

Washburn Student Bar Association
(updated 2/28/2013)

  • President: Jesse Haller
  • Vice-President: Bobby Young
  • Treasurer:vacant (contact Assistant Treasurer or President)
  • Assistant Treasurer: Michael Fowler
  • Secretary: Cassy Zeigler
  • ABA Senior Rep: Adeel Syed
  • ABA Junior Rep: elected in the fall
  • KBA Senior Rep: Taylor Concannon
  • KBA Junior Rep: Kara Cox
  • Rep-at-Large: Tabitha Chapman
  • Rep-at-Large: Jessica Gallagher
  • Rep-at-Large: Michelle Pflumm
  • Rep-at-Large: Calla Sprague
  • Rep-at-Large: Chandler Maxon
  • Rep-at-Large: Jorge De Hoyos
  • 1A Rep: Michaela Marine
  • 1B Rep: Christopher Staley
  • 2A Rep: Maurice Brewer
  • 2B Rep: India Keefover
  • 3A Rep: Angel Romero
  • 3B Rep: Stephanie Randall
  • J-Section Rep: Lisa Williams
  • Faculty Advisor: Associate Dean Jalen Lowry
  • Can post to All-Students discussion list: Jesse Haller

Washburn Student Bar Association Barristers' Ball Committee
(updated 11/7/2012)

The annual Barristers' Ball and Charity Auction, sponsored by the Washburn Student Bar Association, is a charity event that raises money for donation to local non-profit organizations. The Committee solicits donations for auction from area businesses, faculty, and other donors; members also plan ball festivities such as the theme, location, caterer, and music. The ball and auction provide an evening for students, faculty, staff, and alumni to socialize over dinner and dancing. Past recipients of proceeds include Court Appointed Special Advocates for Children (CASA) (Topeka), Kansas Legal Services (Topeka), the School of Equestian Arts (Lecompton, Kansas), the Capper Foundation, the Topeka Community Cycle Project (TCCP), and the YWCA Center for Safety and Empowerment. The 2012 Barristers' Ball will be held Friday, November 16, 2012, at the Topeka Country Club. Topeka Literacy Council and Kids Voting Kansas have been selected as the recipients of the 2012 proceeds.

  • 2012 Event Chair: Chandler Maxon
  • Faculty Advisor: Associate Dean Jalen Lowry
  • Can post to All-Students discussion list: Chandler Maxon

Washburn Student Bar Association Kuether Golf Tournament Committee
(updated 3/4/2013)

The John F. Kuether Memorial Golf Tournament is an annual fundraiser, with net proceeds going to the Endowed Scholarship Fund, which provides scholarships to students at Washburn University School of Law. This is an opportunity for the law faculty, students, and alumni to celebrate the contributions of this beloved former professor of law.

Womens Legal Forum (WLF)
(updated 4/23/2013)

This organization promotes awareness of women's issues in the law, provides law students with access to professionals in the area, endorses community outreach, and encourages women to become involved and stay involved in the law.

  • President: Lindsee Acton
  • Vice President: Danielle Packer
  • Secretary: Meredith Fry
  • Legal Community Liaison: Jennifer Ouellette
  • Special Event Coordinator: Ashley Green
  • Faculty Advisor: Professor Jalen Lowry
  • Can post to All-Students discussion list:
Websites

Centers:

Other Organizations:
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