December 19, 2024

ASU Law convocation celebrates graduates’ journey to new beginnings

On Wednesday evening, The W.P. Carey Foundation Armstrong Great Hall at the Sandra Day O’Connor College of Law at Arizona State University was filled with joy and celebration as graduates and their loved ones gathered for a momentous convocation ceremony.

More than 180 students from five-degree programs —Master of Laws (LLM), Master of Legal Studies (MLS), Juris Doctor (JD), Sports Law and Business (MSLB) and Master of Human Resources (MHREL) — walked across the stage to receive their diplomas or tuned in virtually, making significant achievements in their academic journeys at ASU Law.

“Some came to us in the pursuit of justice, while others found a new enthusiasm for nuanced legal knowledge along the way,” Willard H. Pedrick Dean, Regents and Foundation Professor of Law Stacy Leeds told the crowd in her remarks. “Many intentionally took that next step along your career path to follow dreams you have pursued for many years, while others found themselves in the right place at the right time in ways you would have never foreseen.”

“This moment means a lot,” expressed Rhoda Siggers, an MLS graduate. “I came into this program after becoming the power of attorney for my mother, and I realized there was a huge need for people in this field to offer services like those to others, like my mother, at an affordable cost. I’m glad I can now help in some way.”

While graduates arrived at this moment from different walks of life and for different reasons, they’re now ready to take on the world and make a difference in their respective careers.

For J.D. graduate Kylie Runkle, convocation means she is now a step closer to achieving her lifelong goal of becoming a lawyer. Runkle said she is heading back to California to take the bar exam and work for a law firm.

Not only did this moment mean a lot to the graduates, but it also meant a lot to their loved ones. Tony Romano, the father of first-generation MLS graduate Brittany Romano, said, “It’s been an amazing thing to see her grow from a little girl to the amazing woman she is today. I’m so proud of her.”

The Romano family attended the funeral of Brittany’s grandmother, Mary, the day before her graduation. While the week was filled with sadness, it was also filled with joy and pride for Brittany.

“Today is dedicated to my mother-in-law Mary. We wouldn’t be here today without her,” said Christie Romano, Brittany’s mom. 

“I’m so excited for the next step of my career,” said Brittany.

As the ceremony came to a close, the graduates left with a sense of accomplishment, knowing their hard work had paid off. This milestone not only marked the end of one journey but also the beginning of many bright futures.

Written by Crystal Jimenez