RWU Law Class of 2026 Celebrates Leadership, Service, and the Power of Community
Judge Lara E. Montecalvo reflected on mentorship, alumni support, and service, encouraging graduates to make lasting connections.
BRISTOL, R.I. – On May 15, the law school celebrated the Class of 2026 with remarks centered on service, mentorship, and community. Commencement speaker Judge Montecalvo encouraged graduates to use their legal skills, and compassion, to strengthen communities and support one another.
The day began with a procession from the School of Law Building to Paolino Field, led by The Rhode Island Highlanders Pipe Band. The 2026 law class included just under 150 graduates, with those earning Juris Doctor (JD) degrees and Master of Studies in Law (MSL) degrees.
Law School Dean Gregory W. Bowman told graduates he was “very, very proud” of them, not only for finishing law school, but because being a lawyer is “a noble way to live a life.” He addressed the class: “You have the ability to be true changemakers, as you help your clients and your communities, and your timing is perfect. Today, in 2026, ethical changemakers are needed in our country more than ever.”
Trustee Reflects on her RWU Law Graduation 20 Years Ago
Nicole J. Benjamin, Esq., L’06, Chair of the Board of Directors, reflected on her time at the law school. She spoke about the rewards and challenges of practicing law, including difficult cases and losses, while emphasizing the satisfaction that comes from serving clients honorably.
“…Even on the most challenging of those days, you will find profound satisfaction in knowing that you have served your clients with integrity, skill, and heart. Thirty years ago, the very first Roger Williams University School of Law graduates crossed this stage. And as they entered the profession, they shouldered the responsibility of proving to the world the value of an RWU law degree,” she said.
Faculty and Student Honorary Distinctions
Graduating student, Caroline Stanton Chlaupek, was recognized for representing the law school’s highest ideals through academic excellence, service, and leadership. As a former U.S. Navy lieutenant commander, Caroline navigated an assault vessel successfully using traditional navigation from Hawaii to San Diego, later publishing her experience. At Roger Williams University School of Law, she earned top grades in civil procedure, federal courts, and maritime law.
Dean Bowman also acknowledged the remarkable accomplishments of first-generation law students. It reflects more than personal achievement, he said, it shows resilience, determination, courage, and hard work.
Two faculty members achieved outstanding teaching awards: Professor Natasha Varyani was named Professor of the Year and celebrated as a “changemaker,” receiving an enthusiastic applause from the audience. Professor Collin Geiselman, who leads Rhode Island’s Public Defender’s Office, was given the Adjunct Professor of the Year Award, reflecting great student appreciation for his teaching.
Commencement Address
The School of Law’s Commencement speaker, and honorary degree recipient, the Honorable Lara E. Montecalvo, addressed graduates on the importance of mentorship. A judge on the U.S. Court of Appeals for the First Circuit, and former head of the Rhode Island Public Defender’s Office, Montecalvo is known for her commitment to justice, public service, and legal education.
She said that while graduates may not remember every piece of advice from Commencement Day, she has one important point: invest in people.
Montecalvo shared a personal story about the late Michelle Alves, a former colleague and RWU professor, who mentored her for years. Montecalvo credits Alves with strengthening her public speaking abilities and influencing her professional career.
She told graduates to seek out mentors and invest in others, even when it requires time and effort. Throughout her career, she has trusted RWU Law graduates for guidance, honest feedback, and support, stressing the key role guidance plays in developing legal advocacy.
“I think you, the class of 2026, are off to a great start because you already have people in your corner who have invested in you,” she said.
Valedictorian Address
Ryan John Claudino L’26, who served as an extern for Montecalvo, received the distinction of the 2026 law school valedictorian. “While today recognizes our achievement, it should also recognize the people sitting beside us. To the families, friends, mentors, spouses, and loved ones who helped carry us here. Thank you. This day belongs to you too. And to my fellow graduates, I hope that years from now, long after grades and rankings stop mattering, we still carry with us the bonds we formed along the way.”
The ceremony ended with the conferring of degrees and the presentation of the graduating law class of 2026.