Public Interest Law Students Honored

RWU Law proudly congratulates its 2019 Public Interest Award winner, Braxton Medlin ’19, and 2019 Pro Bono Collaborative Award winners, Michaela Bland ’19 and Krystal Medeiros ’19.

The Public Interest Award is given each year to a graduating student committed to serving the community and promoting justice for the underrepresented.  During his years at RWU Law, Medlin was an active participant in the Pro Bono Collaborative, Alternative Spring Break, and the Criminal Defense Clinic. He also completed public defender internships each summer – “always with great enthusiasm, energy, and optimism,” noted Laurie Barron, director of the Feinstein Center for Pro Bono & Experiential Education. “Braxton is an extraordinary example of dedication and commitment to the public interest through his unwavering support for those in need.”

The Pro Bono Collaborative Award is given each year to a graduating student involved in the Pro Bono Collaborative, who demonstrates professionalism, collaborative spirit and exemplary commitment to serving the community and promoting justice for the underrepresented through the PBC.  This year, two students, Bland (also the recipient of a Skadden Fellowship) and Medeiros, were chosen.

“Michaela and Krystal have both demonstrated outstanding professionalism, commitment and spirit,” Barron said. “Michaela through her hard work and commitment to the PBC’s Street Law and Special Education projects, and Krystal through her hard work and innovative approach to the McAuley House Expungement Project.”

The awards will be presented on Monday, May 13, 2019, during the Class of 2019, reception at the Glen Manor House in Portsmouth.

“We are thrilled to recognize these three outstanding 2019 graduates for their commitment to our underserved communities,” Barron said.