October, 2025 | Newsletter Volume 4 | | |
This fall marks an extraordinary moment in the life of Ave Maria School of Law. We welcomed 155 new 1L students — our largest incoming class in many years. Beyond their number, what stands out most is their character and caliber. They come to us from across the nation, united by a desire to pursue law as a vocation rooted in truth, justice, and faith. Their enthusiasm reminds all of us — faculty, staff, and alumni — that the mission of Ave Maria School of Law continues to attract those who seek to serve both the Church and society through their profession.
This year’s growth reflects more than a trend in enrollment. It signals a renewed recognition that faith and reason belong at the heart of legal education. That conviction was on full display in Washington, D.C., where Ave Maria School of Law hosted the Faith & Reason Academic Conference at The Heritage Foundation. The event drew leading scholars, judges, bishops, and Catholic educators to engage in thoughtful dialogue on “Catholic Legal Education in a Post-Christian Culture.” Their discussions affirmed what we live daily on our campus — that law grounded in natural law and moral truth offers enduring hope for the renewal of our culture and institutions.
As we continue this academic year, I am deeply grateful for the dedication of our faculty, the promise of our students, and the faith of our alumni and friends. Together, we are strengthening a community that not only teaches law but also forms hearts and minds for service — to our nation, to the Church, and to the common good.
Finally, never hesitate to contact me directly with any questions, concerns, observations, or even just a simple greeting! My email address is jczar@avemarialaw.edu.
Fides et Ratio,
| | |
John M. Czarnetzky
Chief Executive Officer and Dean
| | |
| |
Faith & Reason Academic Conference Explores Catholic Legal Education in a Post-Christian Culture
Washington, D.C. — October 3, 2025
Ave Maria School of Law hosted its Faith & Reason Academic Conference at the Heritage Foundation’s Van Andel-Gaby Center in Washington, D.C., drawing together bishops, judges, scholars, and Catholic leaders from across the country. The daylong event, titled “Catholic Legal Education in a Post-Christian Culture,” explored how law, faith, and reason intersect in the formation of future leaders for the Church and society.
More than 200 participants joined for a program that included keynote addresses, panel discussions, and conversations on the enduring importance of Natural Law philosophy and Catholic Social Teaching in legal education. The event underscored Ave Maria School of Law’s unique mission: to prepare lawyers and judges who see law not only as a profession, but as a vocation rooted in fides et ratio — faith and reason.
Highlights of the day included reflections from Robert P. George (Princeton University), Helen Alvaré (George Mason University), Hon. Stuart Kyle Duncan (U.S. Court of Appeals, Fifth Circuit), Most Rev. Thomas John Paprocki (Bishop of Springfield, Illinois), and Thomas S. Monaghan, founder of both Ave Maria School of Law and Domino’s Pizza. Dean and CEO John M. Czarnetzky opened the conference with a call to strengthen Catholic identity in higher education and in the legal profession.
Attendees also heard from panels of professors and judges who shared perspectives on the challenges and opportunities facing Catholic legal education today. A strong theme emerged: the need to equip the next generation of Catholic legal professionals to defend truth, justice, and the dignity of the human person in public life.
The conference concluded with a keynote address from Professor Helen Alvaré and a closing reception, offering an opportunity for fellowship among students, faculty, alumni, and guests.
This fall, Ave Maria School of Law welcomed 155 new students, its largest incoming class in many years. The record enrollment reflects a broader national trend: a renewed interest in legal education grounded in Catholic principles and the natural law tradition.
For those unable to attend in person, the full event was livestreamed on Ave Maria School of Law’s website and official YouTube channel.
| | | |
Admissions on the Road: Recruiting the Next Generation of Ave Law Leaders
The Ave Maria School of Law Admissions team is on the road this fall, visiting universities and law school fairs across the country to meet the next class of future lawyers formed in faith and reason.
Their message is resonating. Ave Law welcomed 155 new students this fall — our largest incoming class in years — bringing the total student body to 349 students. The Class of 2028 represents 27 states and more than 80 undergraduate institutions, with LSAT scores and GPAs continuing to rise, reflecting an increasingly high-achieving and mission-driven student body.
As our Admissions team travels the nation, they carry the story of Ave Maria School of Law — a place where legal education is more than a profession; it’s a calling to serve truth, justice, and the common good.
| | | |  | |
There will be a Fall Open House at Ave Maria School of Law. If you know of anyone who would like to attend, please pass the registration link to them.
Date: Saturday, November 22, 2025
Time: 9:00 AM
Location:
Ave Maria School of Law
1025 Commons Circle
Naples, FL 34119-1376
| | |
The Rodney L. Smith Business Law Institute is gearing up for another successful academic year. We would like to congratulate our new BLI Fellows:
- Beth Berger
- John Bozue
- Annabelle Bruno
- Anthony Calello
- Annierys Dominguez Perez
- Shannon Lenahan
- Erlinda Loyola-Cervantes
- Sawyer Paugh
- Jessica Puk
- Raymond Salazar
- Sierra Vicente
- Robert Weesner
- Savannah Woodland
The BLI is hosting 3 distinguished guests for its Fall Semester Lunch Speaker Series, including Louis Amato, Denis Forster, and Tinea Price.
The Ave Maria Business Law Herald is excited to kick off another year of publications, with the first article of the year written by 3L Smith Fellow Vince Martino. His article titled, "Skipping Pillar Two: OB3’s Divergence from the OECD and Why the G7 Isn’t Pushing Back" examined the overarching implications of the newly enacted "One Big Beautiful Bill Act." The Herald plans to publish moer than 20 articles this academic year. Stay tuned for more great contributions by our Smith Fellows as they continue to explore all aspects of business law! See the BLI Herald online If you would like to be featured as a guest writer, please reach out to Editor-in-Chief John Wright (jwright@avemarialaw.edu)
| | |
Professors Bruce Connolly and Kelley Thompson recently joined several Ave Maria School of Law students at the annual Naples gathering of the Southwest Florida Federal Court Bar Association.
This event brought together federal judges, attorneys, and law students for an evening of networking and mentorship. Our students had the opportunity to engage directly with members of the bench and bar, gaining insights into federal practice and building connections that will serve them throughout their legal careers.
| In early September, the Rodney L. Smith Business Law Institute competed in the 2025 ’Canes Contract Challenge at the University of Miami School of Law. Professor Bruce Connolly joined 3L fellows Robert Eichelberger, Caroline Funk, Megan Howard, and John Wright, who drafted and negotiated a contract during the transactional tournament. The team looks forward to competing in additional transactional competitions later this year. | |
Ave Maria School of Law Celebrates July 2025 Florida Bar Examination Success
Ave Maria School of Law proudly congratulates the 39 graduates who passed the July 2025 Florida Bar Examination. Their success is a testament to the rigorous academic preparation, personal discipline, and faith-filled determination that define an Ave Maria education.
The school achieved a 75 percent first-time passage rate, closely aligned with the statewide average of 78.4 percent reported by the Florida Board of Bar Examiners. This performance reflects the dedication of Ave Maria’s students as well as the steadfast commitment of its faculty, mentors, and alumni community who accompany them on their journey from classroom to courtroom.
“Our graduates have once again demonstrated the perseverance, skill, and character that define an Ave Maria education,” said John M. Czarnetzky, Dean and CEO. “We are immensely proud of their achievement and confident in the impact they will make as attorneys who serve with integrity and purpose.”
The July bar passage results also highlight the strength of Ave Maria’s mission to form legal professionals grounded in faith and reason (fides et ratio). From orientation through bar preparation, students are supported academically and spiritually to ensure they are ready to serve their clients, the profession, and the common good.
With 39 new alumni now entering the legal field, Ave Maria School of Law continues to expand its influence through graduates who bring not only professional skill but also a commitment to justice and service in the Catholic tradition.
| |
| | | JAG
Ave Maria School of Law proudly hosted its annual Judge Advocate General (JAG) Panel, welcoming officers from the Air Force, Army, Coast Guard, Navy, and Marine Corps. Students heard firsthand about careers in military law and had the opportunity to meet one-on-one with recruiters.
As a Top Military Friendly® School, Ave Law is honored to support those who serve through the Yellow Ribbon Program, veteran scholarships, and dedicated student services—continuing our strong tradition of respect and gratitude for the nation’s veterans.
| |
Ave Maria Law Earns Top Rankings in The Princeton Review
Ave Maria School of Law is proud to share that we have once again been ranked #1 in the nation for Most Conservative Students by The Princeton Review.
Adding to this distinction, we are also ranked #2 in the nation for Most Competitive Students—a reflection of the dedication, drive, and values that define our remarkable student body.
From our home in Naples, Florida, we remain committed to forming future legal leaders grounded in faith, integrity, and academic excellence.
Read the full press release here.
| | |
Professor Richard S. Myers Honored by Society of Catholic Social Scientists
Ave Maria School of Law is proud to share that Professor Richard S. Myers has been recognized with a special award from the Society of Catholic Social Scientists (SCSS) in honor of his many years of service and scholarship.
Stephen M. Krason, J.D., Ph.D., co-founder and president of the Society, praised Professor Myers’ extraordinary contributions:
“The Society gives this special award to show its gratitude to Professor Richard S. Myers for his many years of faithful service. Professor Myers served as our Executive Secretary for most of those years, helped shape policies, and provided ideas to advance the Society’s mission of promoting Catholic scholarship in the social sciences and defending the Church’s social teachings. He co-edited the three-volume Encyclopedia of Catholic Social Thought, Social Science, and Social Policy, a major publication project of the Society, and helped organize several of our conferences—all on a volunteer basis while balancing his other major commitments. The Society, and I personally, can hardly express how deep our appreciation is for his contributions.”
Professor Patrick Gillen, colleague of Professor Myers at Ave Law, reflected on the broader significance of the honor:
“This award shows that my colleague, Richard Myers, who played an important role in founding Ave Maria School of Law, has also made a significant contribution to the broader field of authentic Catholic education at the post-secondary level. He will be numbered among those who labored long and hard to pass the light provided by the Church to the next generation, and that effort is worthy of the honor this award seeks to confer.”
Professor Myers’ leadership, scholarship, and commitment to Catholic education stand as an inspiration to Ave Law and to the wider Catholic intellectual community.
| | |
| |
Ave Maria Dean Participates in Federalist Society Education Law & Policy Conference
Ave Maria School of Law is proud to share highlights from the 2025 Education Law & Policy Conference, hosted by the Federalist Society in Washington, D.C.
Our Dean and CEO, John M. Czarnetzky, joined national leaders in legal education for the panel discussion, “Reimagining Law School Accreditation: Possibility or Pitfall?” The timely conversation examined the American Bar Association’s role as the sole accreditor of J.D. programs, the implications of diversity standards, and the opportunities and challenges presented by alternative accreditation pathways.
Dean Czarnetzky’s contribution reflects Ave Law’s leadership in shaping the national dialogue on accreditation and the future of legal education. His perspective underscored the importance of innovation while remaining faithful to the mission of forming lawyers rooted in faith and reason (fides et ratio).
Watch here
| | | |
Ave Law Professors Meet Pope Leo XIV at the Vatican
Professors Brian Scarnecchia and Ligia De Jesús Castaldi of Ave Maria School of Law met Pope Leo XIV following his general audience in St. Peter’s Square. During their visit, the professors spoke with the Holy Father about Ave Maria School of Law and their ongoing work in support of the Holy See Mission before the United Nations in Geneva and the Holy See Mission before the Organization of American States (O.A.S.).
Their meeting highlighted Ave Law’s distinctive commitment to faith, reason, and service within the global Catholic legal community.
| |
Professor Bruce Connolly Engages in Corporate Law Scholarship and National Dialogue
Professor Bruce Connolly, Director of Ave Maria School of Law’s Business Law Institute, continues to advance the school’s leadership in corporate and business law. He recently authored an article spotlighting the Institute’s distinctive and prestigious program in the latest edition of the Ave Maria Law Review.
Professor Connolly also attended the 25th Anniversary
| | |
Symposium for the John L. Weinberg Center for Corporate Governance at the University of Delaware, where he had the privilege of meeting Judge Leo E. Strine, former Chief Justice of the Delaware Supreme Court. Justice Strine’s influential opinions are regularly studied by students in Professor Connolly’s Business Organizations course.
Professor Castaldi Publishes on Landmark Inter-American Court Decision
Professor Ligia De Jesús Castaldi recently published two scholarly articles analyzing the Beatriz v. El Salvador decision of the Inter-American Court of Human Rights, a landmark case addressing abortion, the right to health, judicial guarantees, and obstetric violence.
Her English-language article, “Beatriz v. El Salvador: A Mixed International Court Decision on the Right to Health, Obstetric Violence and Abortion,” appears in the Intercultural Human Rights Law Review (Vol. 20, 2025). Read here.
Her Spanish-language article, “El fallo ‘Beatriz vs. El Salvador’ de la Corte IDH,” was published in Prudentia Iuris (No. 99, 2025). Read here.
Through these publications, Professor Castaldi continues her internationally recognized work on human rights, bioethics, and the protection of life in international law.
| |
Veterans and Servicemembers Law Clinic Defends Religious Liberty in the Armed Forces
Ave Maria School of Law’s Veterans and Servicemembers Law Clinic continues to serve those who have served, providing legal assistance to military members and veterans while upholding the principles of faith, freedom, and justice. Two recent cases highlight the Clinic’s ongoing commitment to protecting the constitutional and human rights of those in uniform.
In one case, the Clinic—working alongside First Liberty Institute—helped Master Sgt. Timothy Hilgert, a Premier Trombonist in the U.S. Air Force Band, secure a religious accommodation to wear a beard in accordance with his Christian beliefs. After his initial request was denied, the Air Force reversed course and granted the accommodation, affirming Master Sgt. Hilgert’s right to serve while remaining true to his conscience.
In another case, the Clinic joined First Liberty Institute and Winston & Strawn LLP to represent Jace Yarbrough, a U.S. Space Force reservist who was disciplined after quoting Christian writer Aleksandr Solzhenitsyn during a private retirement ceremony. The U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Texas recently denied a motion to dismiss the case, allowing Mr. Yarbrough’s lawsuit against the Air Force and Space Force to proceed.
Under the leadership of Professor Antony Kolenc, the Veterans and Servicemembers Law Clinic offers Ave Law students hands-on experience in public interest and military law while advancing the Catholic mission of justice and human dignity. Through advocacy and education, the Clinic equips future attorneys to stand with courage and compassion beside those who defend our nation.
| | | | |
New Faces at Ave Maria Law
Bianca Anderson, Associate Dean of Research Services, Director of the Law Library, and Visiting Associate Professor of Law. Bianca is a Miami native. She grew up near Schenley Park, attending Catholic schools until studying at the University of Miami, where she graduated with a degree in Political Science. Bianca then earned her Juris Doctor from the University of Florida Levin College of Law. During law school, she was inspired by her internship at the Florida Immigrant Advocacy Center to dedicate herself to public service. A member of the Florida Bar, she spent most of her ten-year legal career in immigration practice in South Florida, serving low-income communities through non-profit work. She transitioned away from legal practice and went on to graduate from the University of South Florida with a Master’s degree in Library and Information Science. Bianca then spent nearly a decade at the University of Miami School of Law as a Librarian Associate Professor, where she was the subject specialist on foreign and international law. She taught legal research, supported faculty scholarship, and published on legal research topics in foreign and international law. She is a founding member and part of the Steering Committee of the SAILS project, a collaborative research effort to study the relationship between international law scholarship and practice. Most recently, she served as the Director of Research and Information Services at Shutts & Bowen, LLP, Miami’s oldest law firm, where she spearheaded projects on legal technology innovation and artificial intelligence.
Marlee Moon Gaddy, Assistant Registrar. Marlee's journey has taken her from coast to coast. She began her collegiate lacrosse career at Stony Brook University in New York, later transferring to the University of Oregon, where she earned her undergraduate degree. Thanks to the NCAA’s COVID eligibility extension, she concluded her athletic career at Florida Southern College, earning her MBA while completing one final season on the field. Marlee also gained valuable experience interning with the Marketing Department at Arthrex, where she helped strengthen communication between surgeons, athletes, and medical education initiatives. A Naples native, Marlee is excited to return to her hometown and bring her competitive drive, creativity, and enthusiasm to the team.
Paula Starkey most recently served as senior regional director of advancement for Washington University in St. Louis, working with the university’s key donors and alumni leaders in the Chicago region. She has more than 25 years of experience in higher education, with a focus on student services and advancement, and previously worked at Eureka College, DePaul University, and the University of Chicago Booth School of Business. Starkey holds degrees from Illinois Wesleyan University, Illinois State University, the Université de Paris-IV (Sorbonne), and DePaul University. She also completed the Certificate in Fundraising Management at The Fundraising School in the Lilly Family School of Philanthropy at Indiana University. Her past volunteer leadership roles include serving as a trustee for Lexington College, a school of hospitality for women, and working on the Education Commission and the Evangelization Commission at Holy Name Cathedral in Chicago.
Assistant Professor of Law Kelley Thompson teaches Civil Procedure at Ave Maria School of Law, bringing both courtroom and classroom experience to her students. A graduate of Stetson University College of Law (J.D., magna cum laude) and the University of Notre Dame (LL.M., cum laude), she is currently completing her doctorate in Educational Leadership and Policy Studies at Florida State University. Professor Thompson previously practiced business litigation and served as a judicial clerk for the Honorable Charles R. Wilson on the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Eleventh Circuit. Her research explores civil procedure, professional responsibility, and innovative approaches to legal education.
Professor Stephen Wagner brings more than two decades of courtroom experience and teaching excellence to Ave Maria School of Law. A career California trial lawyer and longtime prosecutor, he has tried everything from complex civil cases to homicide prosecutions — earning two Prosecutor of the Year awards from Mothers Against Drunk Driving. Before joining Ave Law, he taught for 22 years at Monterey College of Law and San Luis Obispo College of Law, where students honored him multiple times with the Outstanding Professor award and, most recently, the title Distinguished Professor of Law. Known for his dynamic teaching style and passion for advocacy, Professor Wagner also co-hosted the nationally syndicated radio show Wagner & Winick On The Law, helping demystify legal issues for listeners nationwide.
| | |
Ave Law Hosts Promotion Ceremony for Sgt. Maj. Meghan Giffin
On Friday, August 22, 2025, Ave Maria School of Law had the privilege of hosting the promotion ceremony of Sgt. Maj. Meghan Giffin, United States Army. Surrounded by family and friends, Sgt. Maj. Giffin was honored by Dean John M. Czarnetzky, her husband, CW3 (ret.) Christopher Hosack, her parents, Michael and Lauren Giffin, her brother, Michael Giffin Jr., and her mother-in-law Patricia Hosack.
A member of the Class of 2027, Sgt. Maj. Giffin exemplifies leadership and service both in uniform and on campus. She currently serves as the student representative for the Veteran Engagement Team and as president of the Veterans Law Students Association.
Ave Maria School of Law is proud to support student veterans and their families. Recognized as a Top 10 Military Friendly® School and a designated Yellow Ribbon Program institution, Ave Law remains committed to standing with those who serve our nation.
See more photos on our Flickr page.
| |
Student Organizations Fair
Students gathered on Friday, August 29, 2025 for Ave Maria School of Law’s annual Student Organizations Festival in Naples, Florida. The event marked the official kickoff to the academic year and offered students the opportunity to learn about the many faith-based, academic, and service-oriented organizations active on campus.
Representatives from each group shared their mission and upcoming events, helping students connect with peers who share their interests and values. From law journals and moot court to pro bono service and community outreach, the festival showcased the vibrant student life that defines the Ave Law experience.
| |
What a great day on the greens!
Thank you to everyone who joined us for the Ave Maria School of Law Golf Classic on October 11th — and a special thanks to our incredible sponsors who made it all possible: Pitkin Law Firm, Gibsons Bar & Steakhouse, Lisa Chlumsky – Chlumsky Wealth Management Group, DeVoe Cadillac, and Gregg Schindler – State Farm. Your support helps strengthen our Student Bar Association and enrich the Ave Law community.
| |
Ave Maria School of Law Alumni Announcements & Updates
- Ave Maria School of Law alumnus Aaron Pearce (’08), president and CEO of Pharmacists Mutual Insurance Co., says coaching football helped shape his leadership style—teaching him lessons in teamwork, honesty, and communication that now guide his company. READ MORE
-
After 12 years with the federal bureau of prisons Adam Boyer (’07), is now an Associate Counsel at Sentry in Steven’s Point WI.
-
Sharitza López-Rodriguez (’16), Chief Operating Officer and Legal Compliance Officer for the Housing Authority of the City of Fort Myers, has been appointed to the Board of Directors of the Immokalee Fair Housing Alliance. A longtime advocate for affordable housing, López-Rodriguez continues to advance opportunities for families and seniors across Southwest Florida through her leadership and public service. READ MORE
-
Diana “Dawn” Maselli (’12), an attorney at Associates & Bruce L. Scheiner, Attorneys for the Injured—has been appointed Treasurer of the Lee County Bar Association.
-
Alexis Barkis (’13) now serves as Labor & Employment Counsel for Arthrex, Inc., a global medical device company headquartered in Naples, Florida. In her role, she advises on employment law, compliance, and human resources matters, drawing on more than a decade of experience in labor relations and workplace policy.
-
Hannah Reynolds (’23) now serves as Corporate Counsel for TouchSuite, a leading fintech company based in South Florida. She provides strategic legal counsel supporting innovation in payment technology and business development across the organization.
|
| |
Alumna Honors Grandmother with New Scholarship
Ave Maria School of Law alumna Victoria Kelly (’25) has honored the memory of her grandmother by establishing a scholarship in her name. The award, created through the generosity of Victoria’s father, will support two women students each year as they pursue their legal education at Ave Maria.
Reflecting on her grandmother’s legacy, Victoria shared that higher education was never an option for her grandmother as an Irish Catholic growing up on the south side of Chicago. Yet she instilled in her family a deep belief in hard work, faith, and love. “My heart is full knowing that my grandma would have absolutely loved my alma mater, Ave Maria School of Law,” Victoria said. “I know she is looking down smiling to support two women a year with a dream in their heart and the courage to pursue it through education.”
Victoria earned her J.D. in May 2025 and is now working at The Ferraro Law Firm in Miami. She credits Ave Maria School of Law with shaping her outlook on life and the law. “It’s a place where faith, intellect, and purpose come together, and everyone deserves the opportunity to feel what I’ve felt during my time there. I’m deeply grateful to help carry forward both her memory and the mission of this incredible school. Fides et Ratio.”
| |
Alumnus Spotlight: Mark Rohlena (’03)
Ave Maria School of Law proudly congratulates Mark Rohlena (Class of 2003) on his appointment as President of the Napa Legal Institute. Rohlena has built an impressive career rooted in faith and service, from his early years in litigation, legal ethics, and law firm administration at Holland & Hart, LLP, to his dedicated leadership in the faith-based charitable, policy, and education sectors.
In addition to his new role at Napa Legal, he will continue serving as President of the Napa Institute. In a press release, he said, “I am deeply honored to serve as President of Napa Legal Institute while continuing my work with the Napa Institute. The synergy between these organizations is vital in advancing our shared mission to defend faith, strengthen institutions, and equip leaders. We have an amazing mission, excellent staff, and a wonderful board at Napa Legal.”
We celebrate Mr. Rohlena’s accomplishments as a shining example of Ave Maria School of Law’s mission—forming legal professionals grounded in faith and reason.
| |
| |
Alumnus Spotlight: Joshua McCaig (’03)
Ave Maria School of Law celebrates alumnus Joshua McCaig, a member of the inaugural J.D. class of 2003, for his remarkable leadership in the legal profession and the Catholic community.
In September 2025, McCaig traveled to Rome as the United States Delegate to the Jubilee of Justice, a historic gathering of more than 15,000 legal professionals from around the world. Appointed by Archbishop Timothy Broglio, President of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops, McCaig represented the Catholic Bar Association, which he founded and continues to serve as an advocate for Catholic legal professionals. During the event in St. Peter’s Square, McCaig met Pope Leo XIV following the Holy Father’s address on justice, forgiveness, and human dignity. “It was an honor to spend a moment with Pope Leo and tell him of the Catholic Bar Association's work to promote justice in the United States and beyond,” McCaig said.
Just weeks before this pilgrimage, McCaig returned to Ave Maria School of Law’s Naples campus on August 27, 2025, to speak with students about the vocation of law and the integration of faith into professional life. McCaig is currently a shareholder with Polsinelli, one of the nation’s leading law firms, where he practices in corporate, healthcare, and intellectual property law.
We are proud to celebrate his accomplishments and grateful for his continued commitment to Ave Law’s mission of forming lawyers who serve both Church and society.
| | | |
Alumna Returns to Campus for Book Presentation
Ave Maria School of Law was honored to welcome back Alex Swoyer (Class of 2013), who returned to campus to present her new book, Lawless Lawfare: Tipping the Scales of Justice to Get Trump and Destroy MAGA.
In her presentation, Ms. Swoyer reflected on how her time at Ave Maria School of Law played a pivotal role in shaping her understanding of the law and preparing her to engage with some of the most complex and high-profile legal issues of our time. She spoke about the challenges of navigating the legal landscape surrounding President Trump.
Her visit was both inspiring and energizing, offering current students the opportunity to learn from the experiences of an alumna who continues to live out the mission of Ave Maria School of Law in her professional life.
| | | |
Ave Maria School of Law Mourns the Passing of Professor Charles C. Cohen
We are saddened to share the passing of Professor Charles C. “Chuck” Cohen, who taught at Ave Maria School of Law and left a lasting mark on our community. Professor Cohen passed away on August 27, 2025, after a short illness. A distinguished attorney and co-founder of Cohen & Grigsby in Pittsburgh, he shared his expertise in corporate governance and business law with students for more than five decades at several law schools, including Ave Maria School of Law. He will be remembered for his generosity, professionalism, humor, and the dedication he showed to his students and colleagues. We join his family and friends in giving thanks for his remarkable life and legacy.
| |
|
| |
Save the Date: Liberty Ball — Celebrating 250 Years of Justice & the American Way
Ave Maria School of Law cordially invites you to join us for an evening of inspiration and celebration at the Liberty Ball, marking 250 years of Justice & the American Way.
📅 Tuesday, February 24, 2026
🕠 5:30 p.m.
This signature event will feature Christopher Ruddy, CEO of Newsmax Media, as our distinguished guest speaker. The evening will honor America’s enduring commitment to liberty, justice, and faith in the public square.
For more information, please contact Jackie Burke at (239) 687-5341 or JBurke@AveMariaLaw.edu.
Visit avemarialaw.edu/liberty for details.
| | | | We want to invite you to share our Good Counsel newsletter from Ave Maria School of Law. It's filled with insightful updates, exciting news, and upcoming events that showcase the Ave Law community. If you would like to share our unique approach to Faith & Reason or think a friend might be curious about what we do, the Good Counsel newsletter is a great resource. Click the links below to share and connect with us! | | | | |
