If public contact information for a student group is not listed below, please email Student Affairs.
Recognition of Student Groups
Students wishing to form new student activity organizations will be “recognized” by the Administration following review of a mission statement and a petition signed by at least a dozen members of the current student body.
Interested students should present a petition, noting the purpose, goals, and activities planned by your group and including the signatures of the 12 interested students, to the Dean of Students.
“Recognition” permits students to place a mailfolder among the student activities folders, and to request funding from C.S.R. and the Dean’s Speakers Fund. And any funding by C.S.R., is governed by C.S.R.’s rules.
Recognized Organizations
The AI Foresight Initiative at Penn Carey Law will prepare its future lawyers to lead in a world transformed by Artificial Intelligence technologies.
Recent developments indicate that we are at an extraordinary inflection point in the development of artificial intelligence technologies, which seem poised to have profound impacts throughout society. The law and government will have to grapple with these changes, and lawyers will need to be prepared to operate and lead in this rapidly changing environment.
The AI Foresight Initiative will lead the conversation on AI and the law by hosting impactful events, publishing insightful content, and providing practical resources for attorneys.
Please email our President, Alec Willerman, at alecjw@penncareylaw.upenn.edu, to get involved.
Founded in 2001, ACS is a national organization of law students, lawyers, scholars, judges, policy makers, and activists. The organization is driven by the goal of ensuring that important principles of human dignity, individual rights and liberties, genuine equality, and access to justice retain a central place in American law. We believe that those who create, interpret, and enforce our laws must have a greater concern for the way in which it affects the personal lives of those it governs. Members of ACS recognize the direct relationship between legal theory and the broader debate about the kind of society in which we live. We hope to revitalize and transform the legal debates in classrooms, federal courtrooms, and the media into one that encompasses the broad range of interests at stake in our nation. We view law as an integral mechanism for governing the relationship between and among the individuals and institutions that form our society. The American Constitution Society is a non-partisan, non-profit educational organization. ACS does not lobby, litigate, or take positions on specific issues, cases, legislation, or nominations. We do, however, encourage our members to express their unique viewpoints. Please feel free to get in touch through email or attend an event to get involved!
Contact:
Co-President: Esther Yoon - ehyoon@pennlaw.upenn.edu
Co-President: Annamarie Hufford-Bucklin - amhb@pennlaw.upenn.edu
Contact:
President, Tora Husar - thursar@penncareylaw.upenn.edu
The Comparative Law Association (CLA) is dedicated to broadening the horizons of law students to foreign perspectives on law. Learning about foreign law and other jurisdictions, helps one understand their own legal system, question assumptions, and spark ideas for new solutions. The CLA aims to tap into the diversity of the international students at Penn Carey Law and their extensive knowledge, expanding the discourse on foreign laws and their interaction with one another. Beyond international students, the CLA is open to anyone interested in learning more about legal issues in other countries or sharing experiences they have gained studying or working abroad. The topics discussed encompass all areas of law and the agenda is defined based on the interests of current members. Events range from informal, low-threshold discussion groups to larger-scale conferences with external speakers.
Contact:
President, Giovanna Parini - gparini@penncareylaw.upenn.edu
The Council is the elected government of the Law School student body. CSR has four major purposes: (1) Represent the interests and address the concerns of the student body; (2) Coordinate and regulate student activities and funds in the interest of the student body; (3) Communicate with the student body, administrative offices, student leaders, as well as other departments in the university system on relevant issues; and (4) Provide services that improve the quality of life of Penn Carey Law students.
President, Vinila Varghese - vinilav@pennlaw.upenn.edu
Vice President, Julie Linstra - jlinstra@penncareylaw.upenn.edu
Treasurer, Alexander Diwan - tiberius@penncareylaw.upenn.edu
The University of Pennsylvania Law School’s Entertainment and Sports Law Society (ESLS) is dedicated to exploring the legal, business, and ethical issues that arise in the sports and entertainment industries. Through guest speakers, panels and an annual Entertainment & Sports Law Symposium, ESLS facilitates an ongoing dialogue among the Penn Law community on issues such as labor and collective bargaining, contract law and negotiations, intellectual property, and social justice. In addition to its academic mission, ESLS is committed to providing opportunities for members to network with professionals and other students working in and/or passionate about sports and entertainment law. We also provide students with essential guidance on obtaining internships and jobs in the field.
For more information and/or to get involved, please visit our website (upennesls.com) and/or contact us at upennesls@gmail.com.
Devin Tusa, Co-President - dtusa@pennlaw.upenn.edu
Grace Lange, Co-President - glange@pennlaw.upenn.edu
The Equal Justice Foundation, a student-run organization at the University of Pennsylvania Carey Law School, encourages law students to pursue their aspirations of serving low-income, under-represented clients or otherwise engaging in meaningful public interest work by providing financial support to students who take public interest jobs during the summer and upon graduation. We do this through several fundraising activities, which include the annual EJF Auction, which is one of the biggest events at the law school every year. Students interested in getting involved should email President Ellie Schwab at elschwab@pennlaw.upenn.edu
The Federalist Society is an organization of conservative, libertarian, and moderate law students interested in the current state of the legal order. We are founded on the principles that the state exists to preserve freedom, that the separation of governmental powers is central to our Constitution, and that it is emphatically the province and duty of the judiciary to say what the law is, not what it should be. As a student group, we host weekly speaking events featuring esteemed judges, law professors, and prominent legal advocates. We welcome all students and are committed to encouraging dialogue and fostering policy understanding at Penn. We look forward to meeting you!
Contact:
Co-President, Liam Kerr - liamkerr@pennlaw.upenn.edu
Co-President, Zach Gluckow - zgluckow@pennlaw.upenn.edu
Contact: Nikki Bourassa (veboura@pennlaw.upenn.edu)
The Jessup International Moot Court is the largest moot court competition in the world. Our members are interested in public and private international law, current affairs, and legal writing and oral advocacy. Penn Law’s team has had success at the regional and international levels in past years. Our team is a diverse and welcoming cohort that is proud to belong to a global community of international law scholars and practitioners. Please contact jessup.pennlaw@gmail.com with any questions or for more information.
The Light Opera Company has brought music and entertainment to the Penn community for over thirty years! Every spring, we perform a comedy musical that brings the arts (and laughs!) to our campus. Light Opera provides an opportunity for students to showcase their musical and dramatic talents, and it serves as a welcome relief from the rigor of academic pursuits.
Contact:
President, Liz Dowdle - ldowdle@penncareylaw.upenn.edu
Law Students for a Democratic Society (LSDS) is a group of students at Penn Carey Law that advances a program of critical inquiry and political dissent in response to the entrenchment of racism, economic exploitation, and other anti-democratic elements of the American legal system. We cultivate politically conscious lawyering through a legal and intellectual framework that supplants obsession with economic efficiency with nuanced analysis of power, justice, and opportunity. We are Penn’s affiliate of the Law and Political Economy Project.
Board Members:
Alexandra Kurland, akurland@penncareylaw.upenn.edu
Tora Husar, thusar@penncareylaw.upenn.edu
Contact:
Jack Gelb (jackgelb@pennlaw.upenn.edu)
Chase Haegley (chaegley@pennlaw.upenn.edu)
Founded in 2019, the MLS was created to foster a greater sense of community amongst Master in Law students, staff, faculty, and alumni of Penn Carey Law, as well as facilitate collaboration and relationship-building across the Penn Carey Law community and beyond.
Co-President, Clare Din (din@pennlaw.upenn.edu)
Co-President, J.P. Li (jmli@penncareylaw.upenn.edu)
Secretary, Paul Welfer (pwelfer@penncareylaw.upenn.edu)
Director of Development, Tejan Patel (tejan@pennlaw.upenn.edu)
Director of Communications, Olivia D’Angelo (odang@penncareylaw.upenn.edu)
Director of Operations, Leo Kim (leodhkim@penncareylaw.upenn.edu)
Oh, howdy there! The Midwest Penn Carey Law Student Association (MPCLSA) is an organization dedicated to supporting and connecting Penn Carey Law students who are interested in practicing in Chicago, St. Louis, Milwaukee, and the Midwestern region more broadly. We look forward to hosting professional talks and social events for students to establish and expand their networks in the Midwest. Events will introduce what it is like to practice in the Midwest and explore challenges specific to joining Midwestern legal markets. Social hours will encourage students to meet and talk about their shared interests. All are welcome. Join us for job talks, externship and clerkship panels, coffee chats, and happy hours!
For more information, please contact Lydia Wuorinen, President, at wuorinen@penncareylaw.upenn.edu.
A coalition of lawyers, law students, legal workers, and jailhouse lawyers, the National Lawyers Guild looks at the law as an instrument for the protection of the people, rather than for their repression. The Guild is a space for students who value human rights over property interests and who are dedicated to progressive change in the structure of our political, social, and economic system. As part of this larger network, the Penn Carey Law Chapter of the National Lawyers Guild strives to amplify and sustain student-led initiatives committed to prison industrial complex abolition, intersectionality, anti-racism, anti-capitalism, and collective care. We understand that lawyers do not create social change, but that social movements create social change, and we must assess how we can best support the work of existing movements as students, legal workers, and community members. We recognize that as students we collectively have a particular power and responsibility to leverage our privilege and position to combat the university’s complicity in upholding systems of white supremacy. Within the law school, we aim to build awareness, initiative, and capacity among students to draw connections between the law school’s institutional function and its impact on the residents of West Philadelphia and the city more broadly.
Contact Penn Law NLG: nlg.pennlaw@gmail.com.
OWLS (Older Wiser Law Students) is a newish organization, which fosters community for non-traditional law students (e.g. older students, second-career students, married and/or parenting students) as well as anyone who’s just not feeling as young as they used to. Dedicated to being a place for low-key engagement, we gather for drinks, board games, and good conversation throughout the year. If you’re looking for a new group of friends or have an idea for an event, our door is always open!
Contact:
Preston Chang-Sundin, Co-President - pcsun@penncareylaw.upenn.edu
Devon McCarthy, Co-President - dnjm@penncareylaw.upenn.edu
The Penn Business Law Association seeks to expose Penn Law students to different areas of corporate law, including M&A, capital markets, private equity, and more. PBLA hosts panels and networking events for students and professionals who are interested in working in various corporate practice areas. PBLA also organizes social events and a mentorship program to bring students with similar interests together!
Contact:
Co-President, Juliana Recarey (jrecarey@penncareylaw.upenn.edu)
Co-President, Angela Yoon (alyoon@penncareylaw.upenn.edu)
Penn Carey Law and the Arts explores the intersection of the legal and arts communities. We’re a group of dancers, painters, musicians, actors, and audience members who appreciate the power of art to open channels of creativity, promote understanding, and breathe life into our legal careers. We host activities throughout the year with help from Philadelphia ballet companies, local museums, art law practitioners, and acclaimed academics. Past events have included a lecture on the art program at the Guantanamo Bay Prison, an art law careers panel, a theater outing, and tours of the Philadelphia Museum of Art and the Barnes Foundation with presentations conducted by the respective counsel for those institutions. Our season culminates with a spring art show, showcasing work from our fellow Penn Carey Law classmates. Join us today and add depth and color to your law school experience!
PCLATA is open to all students interested in the arts–no artistic talent is needed, though certainly welcomed! For any inquiries, please reach out to the Co-Presidents, Stephanie Lim (limst@penncareylaw.upenn.edu) and Jingyi Xu (jingyixu@penncareylaw.upenn.edu)
The Penn Carey Law Antitrust Association (PCLAA) is a student-run organization dedicated to furthering legal careers and scholarship in the interdisciplinary and dynamic field of competition law. Antitrust opportunities exist at defense-oriented law firms, at plaintiffs-side law firms, and in the government. As a practice at defense-oriented firms, antitrust often spans transactional, regulatory, and litigation groups and can touch on everything from pre-merger defenses of transactions before government agencies to multibillion-dollar lawsuits.
With the primary goal of promoting the interests of everyday consumers, antitrust law serves a broad public interest that is protected through actions brought by the Federal Trade Commission, Department of Justice, corollary state agencies, and even private plaintiffs. PCLAA provides a forum for students to research, analyze, and discuss antitrust-related matters through guest speakers, panels, academic activities, and a Spring Symposium. In addition, PCLAA provides an excellent opportunity for members to network with professionals, scholars, and other students involved in the antitrust field, at both the national and international levels. 1Ls and LLMs have opportunities for substantive leadership as representatives. No prior knowledge or experience is needed. Join us today!
Contact: penncareylawantitrust@gmail.com
President: Melissa Bredbenner (mbredb@penncareylaw.upenn.edu)
Internal Vice President: Ben Kilano (bkilano@penncareylaw.upenn.edu)
External Vice President: Mariana Fontoura de Rosa (rosamf@penncareylaw.upenn.edu)
Professional Development Chair: Eleanor Liu (eliu99@penncareylaw.upenn.edu)
Treasurer: [TBA]
Symposium Chair: Victor Manuel Aldasoro Favela (aldasoro@penncareylaw.upenn.edu)
Events Chair: Doug Snyder (dbsnyder@penncareylaw.upenn.edu)
Contact:
Co-President, Michaela Bevan - mbevan@penncareylaw.upenn.edu
Co-President, Mary Elbanna - melbanna@penncareylaw.upenn.edu
Contact:
President, Grace Lange (glange@pennlaw.upenn.edu)
James Wilson founded Penn Carey Law in 1790 to give the members of his bowling league something to do during the daytime, and the Penn Carey Law Bowling League (PCLBL) has abided as the backbone and spiritual tentpole of the institution ever since. Through untold generations, social upheavals and awakenings, births, deaths, droughts, blizzards, boom-times, recessions, war, peace, and the slow passage of time that weaves these threads into the textiles we call our lives, and our lives in turn into the tapestry of history, there has remained one constant: on Wednesday evenings, Penn Carey Law students gather together to unwind, enjoy each other’s company, and bowl poorly.
The League comprises sixteen teams (because that is how many lanes there are at our bowling alley), with four law students per team. PCLBL uses the handicap system to ensure that all regular season games are theoretically competitive. At the end of each semester, the two teams who have won the most games compete in a non-handicapped, best-of-three final match to be honored as the season champion and recipient of the Jesus Quintana Cup. Despite the nominally competitive nature of the League’s activities, all who enjoy good times are encouraged to apply regardless of bowling skill.
Teams from the previous year automatically retain their membership in the League, and new teams are selected by lottery at the beginning of the fall semester. Membership in the League is a weekly commitment, and individuals who plan to ever miss bowling as a matter of personal preference (rather than due to illness or one-time conflict) should refrain from applying so that their spots may go to those who intend to immerse themselves fully in the PCLBL experience. Occasional absences being inevitable, however, the League invites other law students to serve as substitutes for their ill and conflicted classmates as necessary. Bowling season concludes two weeks before the end of classes each semester.
Contact:
Co-Commissioner - Brianna Goodchild, brigood@pennlaw.upenn.edu
Co-Commissioner - James Callison, jpcalli@pennlaw.upenn.edu
Are you looking to get fit and feel fierce? Did you move to Philadelphia to become Rocky? Join the Penn Graduate Boxing Club–no experience needed! Professional boxing coaches and staff train students from the law school and other grad schools through fall and spring semesters. Traditionally, Penn Grad fighters train together at a partner gym, with the twin goals of building boxing fundamentals and improving personal conditioning, including sparring for those interested. Training culminates with Penn Fight Night, a celebrated charity boxing event held each April between the Grad Team and Wharton.
Don’t hesitate to contact Presidents Justin Nam (junam@pennlaw.upenn.edu), Kyra Du (ksdu@penncareylaw.upenn.edu), or Sarah Barnett (sarah.barnett@pennmedicine.upenn.edu) to join the club!
Instagram - @penngradboxingclub
Email - penngradboxingclub@gmail.com
The mission of Penn Carey Law Capital Markets Association (PCLCMA) is to contribute to the Penn Carey Law community of professionals interested in capital markets and securities laws. We aim to enhance members’ expertise and interests in this practice area. Members will be offered opportunities to gain a deeper understanding of the mechanisms that facilitate trading and issuance; the motivations of investors and issuers; regulatory reforms and government oversight. We take applications for board positions in the Spring semester.
Contact: President, Molly Tsang (tyunwen@pennlaw.upenn.edu)
The Penn Law Comedy and Improv Club is a group of aspiring and current comedians who do stand-up and improv comedy and occasionally make people laugh. We’re flexible with what we’re doing, though we like to go to open mics, do improv exercises, and are planning a school-wide comedy show.
Contact:
Co-President, Dan Holtzer (dholtzer@pennlaw.upenn.edu)
Lydia Wuorinen (wuorinen@penncareylaw.upenn.edu)
Contact:
President, Sam Burdyl - sburdyl@penncareylaw.upenn.edu
For more information, contact president Andrew Bookbinder at albooks@pennlaw.upenn.edu
Penn Carey Law Flag Football is the law school’s premier flag football league. Each Friday morning in the fall semester, dozens of Penn Carey Law students gather at Penn Park to partake in fun (and semi-competitive) flag football games. Normally there are eight teams that compete in a regular season, six of which advance to the playoffs. The championship game is usually held at historic Franklin Field, with the winning team taking home a trophy, bragging rights, and the opportunity for a team photo with the Dean.
Contact:
President: Justin DiCarlo - dicarloj@pennlaw.upenn.edu
plflagfootball@gmail.com
Penn Carey Law Football Club is Penn’s premier soccer team. We play weekly against other Penn schools and organizations as well as schools from the area such as Temple or Villanova. There are league competitions both in the Fall and Spring semesters and we welcome both men and women, JDs and LLMs to the team. We invite everyone to come blow off some steam and procrastinate in the healthiest way possible. The team looks to balance fun and competitiveness; all skill levels are welcome, we range from casual to former college players. To get involved, look for posts in the Penn law Facebook groups and come by one of our practices.
Contact:
Andrew Bookbinder (albooks@pennlaw.upenn.edu)
Penn Carey Law for Philly seeks to build a community of Penn Carey Law students dedicated to living and working in Philadelphia after graduation. By fostering connections between current students and local alumni, in addition to providing opportunities for engagement with the local legal and pro bono sectors, we hope to increase the number of Penn Carey Law students who commit to a career in Philadelphia.
Contact: pennlawforphilly@gmail.com
Antonino Grillo, Co-President - agrillo@pennlaw.upenn.edu
Ryan Rizzo, Co-President - ryrizzo@pennlaw.upenn.edu
The Penn Carey Law Funds & Investment Management Association aims to inform current students about the real-world experience of legal professionals working in the funds & investment management industry, covering the range of mutual and private funds, hedge funds, ETFs, SPACs and REITs, as well as the regulation of investment managers, advisors and service providers. We host speakers, panels and events throughout the year to introduce students to current themes and provide them with networking opportunities. Our ultimate goal is to build a global community of alumni within the industry.
Contact:
- President, Jon Henney (henney@pennlaw.upenn.edu)
- Vice President, Spencer Landis (sdlandis@penncareylaw.upenn.edu)
The Mental Health and Wellness Club (MHW) aims to cultivate a community that supports law students through the rigor of law school. By putting on regularly scheduled programming throughout the academic year, the goal of our club is to promote a culture that prioritizes well-being.
Contact: Keshara Senanayake (keshara@pennlaw.upenn.edu)
The Penn Carey Law National Security Society is uniquely positioned at the intersection of law and national security. We host discussions around a diverse selection of practice areas, including international trade (CFIUS work), the interplay of U.S. and international law, humanitarian law, privacy and technology, access to justice and the rule of law in developing countries, and many others. This growing group is committed to leveraging Penn’s location between New York and Washington, D.C. to connect with professionals in the field (both Penn alums and non-alums) for speaker engagements, mentorship opportunities, and career advice. In addition to individual events, the National Security Society hosts an annual conference at Penn Carey Law, showcasing a range of topics in the field.
The Penn Carey Law Private Equity & Venture Capital Society seeks to bring PE and VC professionals, both lawyers and non-lawyers, to interact with the law school community. We welcome students who are new to the realm of PE/VC, as well as those with working experience in the sector prior to law school. Our goal is to make helpful programming available to those who may pursue legal work related to PE/VC or would just like to be more informed about current events in the fast-paced area of finance and law.
The 2023-2024 PE/VC Board consists of Helen Fan, Will Sedgwick, Hugh Murchie, Stephanie Lim, Tim Cho, Colton Becker and Arpan Chakrabarti
E-mails: helenfan@penncareylaw.upenn.edu, sedgw@pennlaw.upenn.edu, hmurchie@pennlaw.upenn.edu, limst@penncareylaw.upenn.edu, tim2020@penncareylaw.upenn.edu, crbecker@penncareylaw.upenn.edu, charpan@penncareylaw.upenn.edu
For more information, please contact Mochen Ma at mochenma@pennlaw.upenn.edu
Penn Carey Law Tennis Club is a noncompetitive recreational sport club, aimed at fostering physical health in a relaxed and social atmosphere. Practice is held once a week in the evening at Penn’s outdoor and indoor tennis facility (Hamlin/Hecht Tennis Centers), though on occasion members organize Grand Slam or tournament viewing parties. Penn Carey Law Tennis Club welcomes players of all skill levels, from absolute beginners to former college players.
Contact:
Co-President, Seumas Macneil - macneil@penncareylaw.upenn.edu
Co-President, Caroline Kam - carkam@penncareylaw.upenn.edu
PEEPL is a collaborative initiative between the Law and Engineering schools, where law students will offer advice to engineering students on Intellectual Property (IP) issues related to their simulation start-up project. Throughout the semester, two in-person meetings will take place. The first meeting will be held at the beginning of the semester, during which the engineering team will present their project. The second meeting is scheduled for the end of the semester, during which the legal team will deliver presentations addressing the potential IP exposure and concerns of the project.
Additionally, there will be optional “consultation” meetings in between, where follow-up questions can be discussed either in person or over Zoom. First-year law students (1Ls) will be assigned to teams with upper-level students, who can provide valuable guidance throughout the process. The primary aim of this experience is to offer a helpful simulation and to enhance exposure to consulting in the IP field.
Contact:
Catherine Zhang - zcaiying@penncareylaw.upenn.edu
Manolo Diaz Corada - mdiazcor@pennlaw.upenn.edu
The Penn Intellectual Property Group is the student hub for intellectual property on campus. Our members’ interests span the full range of IP, with a focus on patents, copyrights, and trademarks. We also invite those holding an interest in contemporary legal issues such as data privacy, internet, and space law. The group hosts numerous events and panels throughout the year, bringing in speakers from a variety of backgrounds, including attorneys from top law firms, in-house counsel from large technology and life sciences companies, and government officials. In past years, these speakers have included a sitting judge federal judge from the US Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit, the Senior Vice President of Global Public Policy at the Walt Disney Company, the Founder of Intellectual Ventures, and many other distinguished professors and practicing attorneys from various leading law firms and Fortune 500 companies. PIPG also produces and publishes original content on our blog, Useful Arts and Sciences, where our members analyze breaking IP news and summarize the latest IP precedent. PIPG’s year culminates with an annual symposium on exciting new topics in IP law, bringing together lawyers and entrepreneurs from around the country to discuss the legal issues surrounding emerging technology and other industries. Topics have included fashion, open source technology, the gene-editing technology CRISPR, design patents, and media streaming.
Students looking to get involved in the group can contact us at pennlawip@gmail.com to be added to our list serve. Additionally, we take applications for 1L representatives in the Fall and for other board positions in the Spring semester.
For more information, contact president Liam Leahy at liamlea@penncareylaw.upenn.edu
The mission of the Aerial Arts Club is to bring together students across the Penn Law community in a safe setting in which they may enjoy the fellowship and support of their peers and future colleagues while challenging themselves in physical activities designed to mimic the exciting athletic feats involved in circus performance. The Aerial Arts Club will not establish any minimum physical requirements (other than a general state of good health) to participate in club activities. Aerial Arts Club members will travel to the Philadelphia School of Circus Arts to practice trampoline, trapeze, silks, and other acrobatic feats.
Photos of our previous trips to the Philadelphia School of Circus Arts can be found on our Instagram: https://instagram.com/pennlaw_aerialarts?igshid=frba3vbvegyr
Contact: President, Isaiah Kramer (krameri@pennlaw.upenn.edu)
Audiobook Club (ABC) provides Penn Law students with an opportunity to acquire the knowledge that books provide without the dread of additional reading. This low-stress community encourages students to enjoy the benefits of reading while going about their daily tasks - working out, running, cleaning, cooking or walking to class.
Through monthly meetings, the Audiobook Club will meet to discuss - and sometimes debate - the audiobook voted on by members of the club. Each month, a list of five books will be posted in the Audiobook Club’s communication channel for members of the club to vote on. After the voting period ends, the members of Audiobook Club will have the remainder of the month to listen to the winning book. Members of the club will then meet during the last week of each month to discuss their thoughts, takeaways and opinions of the designated book. As aspiring lawyers, the Audiobook Club hopes to instill confidence and create a community
around personal growth.
Contact:
Michael Minsky: mminsky@pennlaw.upenn.edu
Mary Zimmerman: maryzim@pennlaw.upenn.edu
Contact:
President, CeCe Coffey (ccoffey@pennlaw.upenn.edu)
Director of Finance & Events, Bryn Hines (brynh@pennlaw.upenn.edu)
VP of Outreach, Jonathan Wiersema (wiersema@pennlaw.upenn.edu)
PLIAA was founded by LLM students with the idea of increasing LLM participation in PennLaw activities. It is now co-run by JD and LLM students and is one of the best student groups to meet our LLM classmates while exploring the field of International Arbitration. Since 2016, the PLIAA generally puts on a single large conference in the Spring semester that acts as a gathering for the most prominent attorneys in International Arbitration, with smaller events though out the year to introduce students to the practitioners and general practice of International Arbitration. For more information, please visit the PLIAA LinkedIn page.
Contact:
Board Chair: Olivia Rosenzweig (roseno@pennlaw.upenn.edu)
pennlawiaa@gmail.com
What does it mean to be “for” Israel? Our group hopes to show that there is no single answer to that question because there are so many reasons to be “for” Israel. Whether you are a religious Jew, Christian, or Muslim who feels a connection to many of the holiest sites in the world, an advocate for the only democracy in the Middle East, a proponent for the only safe place for LGBTQ people to live in the Middle East, an interested student in the rapid development of Israel’s business and tech sector or a supporter of the unmatched security cooperation and alliance between the U.S. and Israel, it is our goal to create a community here at Penn Law for you to join. Through the establishment of this group, it is our hope to sponsor and organize activities and speakers to join us here at Penn Law in order to build and promote awareness within our community
The Penn Law Public Speaking Society provides a safe and comfortable environment to exercise your public speaking skills and interact with your peers. We practice everything from networking conversations or delivering oral arguments to impromptu presentations on fun and unique topics. In our weekly meetings, students give one another constructive feedback that is helpful to speakers of all levels. The Penn Law Public Speaking Society is a great place for you to practice your speaking and listening skills and make great friends along the way!
Contact: pennlawpublicspeaking@gmail.com
President, Ethan Swift (swifte@pennlaw.upenn.edu)
The Penn Law Real Estate Club works in conjunction with Wharton’s Zell & Laurie Real Estate center to provide an opportunity for law students interested in the real estate industry to participate in meetings, panel discussions and informal activities with students, academics and businessmen who share a passion for real estate. Law students in the Penn Law Real Estate club are given the chance to meet with some of the biggest names in the industry and develop a one-on-one rapport with active professionals though the Zell & Laurie mentorship program.
The Penn Law Running Club is a casual group of runners that meets twice a week for group runs. On occasion, we will go out for a post-run coffee or happy hour. All skill levels and speeds welcome!
Penn Law Softball organizes teams for Penn Law students to participate in UVA’s annual softball tournament in Charlottesville, VA. It’s a weekend of fun, collegiality, and (hopefully) great weather. You can get involved by signing up at the Student Activities Fair held at the beginning of each school year.
Penn Law Students for Justice in Palestine (PLSJP) is Penn Law’s home for education and activism related to Palestine. PLSJP seeks to amplify Palestinian voices, advocate for Palestinian rights, and support the Palestinian cause for liberation, justice, and peace, while combatting anti-Palestinian narratives. At the same time, we aim to strengthen the connection that the Palestinian liberation movement shares with other anti-racist, anti-colonial, and social justice movements. Through social outreach, the showcasing of Palestinian arts and culture, and discussions on legal discourse pertaining to what international human rights groups have termed the illegal occupation of and apartheid in Palestine, we will cultivate awareness around one of the most pressing human rights issues today.
To get involved, please contact PLSJP at pennlawpalestine@gmail.com. You can also be added to our listserv.
Penn Law Texas Club is an organization dedicated to building a professional and social network for Texans or those interested in Texas at Penn Law. The organization hosts an annual event where several Texas firms have the chance to meet with our members. Professional advice tailored to the Texas job market are provided throughout the year as well as mentorship. All are welcome!
To get involved, please contact Sean Dao (qdao@pennlaw.upenn.edu) or pennlawtexasclub@gmail.com
Founded in 2022, Penn Law Ultimate is a sports club built around community, collegiality, and promoting physical health through our shared love of Ultimate Frisbee. Practice is held based on student demand (ideally weekly or biweekly). There will also be opportunities to play in recreational athletic leagues near campus. We welcome players of all skill levels to participate in a low-stress environment to burn off steam and have fun.
Feel free to reach out to our Co-Presidents to be added to the Groupme:
Sam Waranch (swaranch@pennlaw.upenn.edu)
Jon Reid (jonmreid@pennlaw.upenn.edu)
The Penn Plaintiffs’ Law Association (PPLA) is a student organization dedicated to fostering interest in plaintiff-side litigation. PPLA’s mission is to connect students to a fulfilling industry that allows them to fight on behalf of victims with unlimited room for professional growth. The PPLA believes in the value of introducing students to practitioners and thought-leaders in plaintiffs’ law through social and professional events, culminating in a yearly Job Fair with many of the top plaintiff-side firms in the world. The PPLA is also organizing an extensive alumni network to allow students to connect with attorneys who litigate in their exact firms and practice areas of interest. New students are always welcome!
If you are a current student, prospective student, or Penn Carey Law alumni interested in getting involved with PPLA, please contact our President, Douglas Snyder, at: dbsnyder@penncareylaw.upenn.edu.
The Penn Slavic+ Club celebrates Slavic (and Slavic-adjacent, e.g., Hungarian, etc.) culture at Penn Law. Our members represent a diverse group of students who wish to learn more about Slavic+ culture, heritage, and language. Our mission also incorporates humanitarian goals. In the local sphere, we intend to draw attention to global issues affecting Eastern and South-Eastern Europe–more specifically, raising visibility and sparking legal conversations about the ongoing war in Ukraine.
Contact information:
Kristina Kotyza, Co-Founder, kkotyza@penncareylaw.upenn.edu
Julia Jarrett, Co-Founder, jpkj@penncareylaw.upenn.edu
The STEM club is focused on providing a space for science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) majors and STEM-adjacent majors to adapt to the unique challenges that accompany adjusting to law school and the legal profession. As a community of scientists, our goal is to connect incoming Penn Law students with current students who share similar academic backgrounds to help them successfully navigate 1L, find summer internships, and prepare for a legal career that capitalizes on individual’s technical abilities.
Contact:
Co-President, Sophie Roling (sroling@law.upenn.edu)
Co-President, Sofia Barbosa (sbarbosa@penncareylaw.upenn.edu)
The Student Public Interest Network (SPIN) cultivates a strong, inclusive social community for public interest students at Penn Law. SPIN defines public interest broadly, including international, non-profit, government, direct services, impact litigation, and movement lawyering work. This group is open to justice-minded students with a wide-range of career aspirations, including those who want to work in public interest immediately after graduation and those who seek to do so later in their careers.
If you are at all interested in joining, please do not hesitate to reach out to either Catherine Dema (cdema@pennlaw.upenn.edu) or Megan Bird (birdmeg@pennlaw.upenn.edu) with your questions.
SPIN works closely with TPIC, CP&P, and other student groups to complement pre-existing programming by continuing conversations about public interest lawyering in informal, student-led settings. By connecting the range of talents and interests amongst Penn’s public interest students to existing institutional resources, SPIN seeks to enhance the public interest experience at Penn Law.
The SPIN Mentorship Program offers to match any student interested in public interest law with a 2L or 3L mentor. Mentors support their SPIN mentees personally and professionally throughout their time in law school.
The SPIN Practice Group Program offers smaller communities dedicated to a particular practice area – such as government service, civil rights, criminal defense, and others – where members can meet other students who share their interests.
The SPIN Advocacy Section asks for transparency, accountability, and effort from the University of Pennsylvania in meeting the changing needs of public interest law students and new lawyers. In addition to collecting and sharing data about student priorities and potential solutions, we advocate for Penn to operate in the public interest of the Philadelphia community.
The Trial Team at Penn (TTAP) gives Penn Law students an opportunity to learn and practice trial advocacy skills in a live setting. TTAP members compete at tournaments throughout the country, and have competed in New York City, Washington D.C., Texas, and Puerto Rico in recent years. TTAP also hosts an annual intramural competition, where law students form teams and compete to have their names inscribed on the Englert Cup. Training sessions, held weekly each fall, are run by adjunct professor and professional litigator Robert Englert. These skills are taught and subsequently refined through competition, including delivering opening and closing statements, making objections, and having strong courtroom presence. TTAP is proud of its strong alumni network, and former TTAP members come back each year to help judge the intramural competition.
Contact:
pennlaw.mocktrial.assn@gmail.com
Co-President, Hayley Haas - haasha@pennlaw.upenn.edu
Co-President, Bri Goodchild - brigood@pennlaw.upenn.edu
Co-President, Michael Sise - msise@pennlaw.upenn.edu
Contact:
Sam Waranch, Co-President (swaranch@pennlaw.upenn.edu)
Jon Reid, Co-President (jonmreid@pennlaw.upenn.edu)
For more information, please contact:
-Willie Powers at wmpowers@penncareylaw.upenn.edu
-Stephanie Lim at limst@penncareylaw.upenn.edu
-Faculty advisor William Burke-White at wburkewh@law.upenn.edu
The West Coast Law Students Association (WCLSA) is a hub for west coast-bound students and west coast hopefuls. We host job-related events to address the unique issues facing Penn students applying to positions on the west coast, as well as social events to foster a sense of community within the law school. Join us next year for jobs, externships and clerkships panels, happy hours, and more!
Contact: pennwclsa@gmail.com
Affinity Groups
Penn APALSA is the largest student-run affinity organization at Penn Law. APALSA invests in the professional, academic, and personal development of its members. APALSA strives to promote Asian American interests in the legal sphere by engaging its members and the greater surrounding legal community in critical contemporary legal topics and by preparing its members for well-rounded and successful legal careers. APALSA’s keystone event is an annual APALSA Conference which brings in students and speakers from around to country to discuss important legal issues affecting Asian Americans. APALSA is also committed to supporting diversity across minority identities through alliances and allyships and views diversity in a broad, vibrant, and engaging way.
Contact:
President, Yuan Tao (yuanctao@penncareylaw.upenn.edu)
BLSA provides support, encouragement, and advice to students who identify themselves as African-American, Caribbean, or African. BLSA membership is open to all Penn Law students and provides valuable programming to inform and enlighten its members and the Penn community at large. BLSA serves its members and local community through many programs including the annual Sadie Alexander Conference; Project Peace; Pan-Africa Program; Fredrick Douglass Moot Court; intensive first-year success program; exam prep workshops; professional development workshop series; networking programs with alumni; and mentoring program with pre-law students from local universities.
Contact: upennblsa@gmail.com
Co-President, Chioma Uba - chioma2@penncareylaw.upenn.edu
Co-President, Jared Turner - jmwturn@penncareylaw.upenn.edu
Penn Law’s CLS Chapter is a non-denominational organization affiliated with the national CLS grassroots network of lawyers, law professors, and law students. To integrate our Christian faith into our current studies and future endeavors as legal professionals, CLS is committed to providing law students with a means of society, fellowship, and discipleship and a forum for discussion of problems and opportunities related to Christianity and the law. CLS holds weekly meetings over lunch, Bible studies, social events, and an annual weekend retreat.
We welcome you to learn more about CLS by contacting us at cls.pennlaw@gmail.com.
Co-President, Darius Iraj - diraj@pennlaw.upenn.edu
Co-President, Laurie Ellen Moore - moolau@penncareylaw.upenn.edu
The mission of DALSA is to foster a sense of community among students with disabilities and allies, address pertinent concerns like accommodations at school and in the workplace, and to learn about the law through a disability-rights framework. DALSA will partner with other affinity groups to address issues of intersectionality and to build awarenessand pride for our community. DALSA defines “disability” very broadly to encompass physical, mental, learning, and other disabilities and encourages allies to engage in the DALSA community.
Contact:
Audrey Adams, President (audreyad@pennlaw.upenn.edu)
Group Email (pennlawdalsa@gmail.com)
Academics & Admissions Chair, Lex Brugger (abrugger@pennlaw.upenn.edu)
First Generation Professionals at Penn Carey Law is an affinity group for students who are the first in their families to attend professional school or who are from a working class or lower-income background. The group is designed to stress a common experience among the student body based on economic status. The group seeks to foster community among its members and assist its members in navigating law school. In addition, the group advocates for school policies that better serve the needs of its members and seeks to foster a broader conversation about socioeconomic status at Penn Carey Law.
Contact:
President, Sam Burdyl - sburdyl@penncareylaw.upenn.edu
The Jewish Law Student Association is a cultural, social, and non-denominational affinity group at The University of Pennsylvania Carey Law School. We work to represent Jewish students and welcome students of all backgrounds and affiliations. Our mission is to build a vibrant community within Penn Law by providing programming of Jewish cultural, social, charitable, legal, and educational significance. We host Friday night dinners, socials, lunch and learn sessions, distinguished speakers, and other events. JLSA seeks to develop an awareness within the campus community of legal issues relevant to the Jewish community and the role of Jewish ethics and values in the professional world. By offering engaging and meaningful programming and by connecting students with other Jewish organizations and alumni, we hope to contribute to the wellbeing of Jewish students at the Law School, the broader Penn community, and the Philadelphia Jewish community in which we operate.
Contact: upennjlsa@gmail.com
Co-President, Jonathan Parker - jdparker@penncareylaw.upenn.edu
Co-President, Rafi Fischer - fischerr@penncareylaw.upenn.edu
LALSA aims to enhance the student experience at Penn Law. We are committed to the academic, social, and professional development of our members and aim to increase outreach, diversity, and Latinx awareness in our community.
Contact - lalsa.penn@gmail.com
Co-President: Michael Asparrin (asparrin@pennlaw.upenn.edu)
Co-President: Chiara Padilla (chiarabp@pennlaw.upenn.edu)
The Middle Eastern Law Students Association is committed to supporting Middle Eastern Students in legal space. Our mission is to provide a forum where Middle Eastern students can build lasting professional and social connections. This association affords its members valuable development opportunities and the means to engage with related organizations and alumni. Beyond its social and professional utility, MELSA remains devoted to aiding the middle eastern community and advocating on their behalf.
For more information, contact:
President, Austin Burk - burka@penncareylaw.upenn.edu
Vice President, Zade Ghani - zadeg@penncareylaw.upenn.edu
MLSA bases itself on the philosophy present in the oft-cited verse of the Holy Qur’an: “O humankind, God has created you from male and female and made you into diverse nations and tribes so that you may come to know each other. Verily, the most honored of you in the sight of God is he who is the most righteous” (49:13). MLSA welcomes the participation of all members of the Penn Law community and encourages the presence of Muslims from diverse schools of thought, levels of faith and backgrounds. The operating precept of MLSA is mutual respect within one’s devotion to God. MLSA hopes to foster a welcoming atmosphere for every law student wishing to learn more about Islam and/or gain support from their community.
Contact:
President, Shahrani Bhatti (shahrani@pennlaw.upenn.edu)
The Native American Law Student Association (NALSA) is a student run organization dedicated to creating a supportive environment for Native American students. NALSA is inclusive of all and is committed to educating the Penn Carey Law student body about Indian law, indigenous rights, tribal sovereignty, and peaceful resolution / alternative sentencing options.
Contact
Nick Tinker, President
Partners at Law School (PALS) provides an opportunity for the significant others (Partners) of Penn Law students to meaningfully participate in the life and culture of Penn Law. The group serves as a strong social network where students, Partners, and family members are able to share information, enjoy experiences together, and build lasting friendships. Events include welcome parties, holiday celebrations, dinner parties, kid-friendly outings, and outdoor picnics.
Penn Carey Law Lambda is a student organization for LGBTQ+ identifying students. Lambda works to increase LGBTQ+ representation in academia and throughout the wider law school community. We are committed to fostering an environment that celebrates diversity and intersectional identities within the LGBTQ community. From organizing academic and networking events, to bringing speakers to campus, to hosting social gatherings, Lambda strives to empower all our members to succeed at Penn Carey Law.
For more information about Penn Carey Law Lambda, please visit https://www.pennlawlambda.com/ . For any specific questions, please reach out at pennlawlambda@gmail.com
The mission of Penn Carey Law Veterans is to promote military veteran recruiting, retention of military veteran admitted students, and advancement of veteran interests at Penn Carey Law. The group will also provide opportunities for veteran fellowship and advancement, organize veteran recruitment events, and provide a single voice to the staff and faculty for veteran specific issues.
Contact: President, Austin Severns - aseverns@penncareylaw.upenn.edu
Penn Carey Law Women’s Association (PCLWA) works to advance the position of women in the legal profession. PCLWA aims to create an inclusive community at Penn Carey Law and provides students with academic, professional, and social resources.
PCLWA accomplishes its mission through a variety of programming, including mentorship opportunities, academic panels, professional panels featuring attorneys from various legal industries and career paths, and social events to ensure active engagement within the community of Penn Carey Law women. PCLWA’s programming culminates in the Annual Dinner, which brings students, alumnae, attorneys, and faculty together to build their professional networks, celebrate a keynote speaker, and discuss the advancement of women in the legal profession. All students at Penn Carey Law are welcome to participate in PCLWA activities and programs.
If you have any questions please reach out to us at pennlawwomenassn@gmail.com
The South Asian Law Students Association (SALSA) provides those identifying as South Asian at Penn Law a forum to discuss South Asian issues, celebrate our shared experiences and encourage legal debate and participation within the South Asian community. Penn SALSA has a strong mentorship program for entering 1Ls, and we frequently organize social events, speaker events, and cultural events for our community and the law school. This year, SALSA will be hosting its 2ns Annual Conference, which will allow members to network directly with attorneys and firms, and hear from renowned South Asian speakers in the legal field.
Contact:
President, Reena Chojar - rchojar@penncareylaw.upenn.edu
The St. Thomas More Society is the association for Catholic students at Penn Carey Law. Our goals are to help facilitate discussion on the Catholic perspective on legal issues or legal issues impacting the Catholic Church, to help students see how the Catholic faith and the legal profession interact in daily life, and to build community through social events and prayer. As our name indicates, we celebrate and honor the traditional connection between Catholic theology and legal scholarship. If interested in hearing more, please reach out to our president, Sam Burdyl, at sburdyl@penncareylaw.upenn.edu, or the organization’s email at st.thomas.more.at.penn@gmail.com.
Journals
Since our founding, the University of Pennsylvania Asian Law Review (ALR) has become one of the most influential forums in the nation addressing legal developments in Asia. As Asia becomes increasingly integrated, ALR continues the East Asian Law Review and expands its geographical coverage to South, Southeast, and Northeast Asia. ALR plays a critical role in promoting scholarly conversations and shaping the legal community’s perspectives by publishing articles and hosting a series of events. We pride ourselves in our vast selection of publication topics and our stress-free author experience. ALR leads discussion and debate through an annual symposium. In the past few years, we have invited internationally renowned panelists to discuss contemporaneous topics, such as “IP Law in Asia,” “Belt and Road Initiative,” and “Social Implications of AI & Robotics in Asia.” We also successfully co-hosted a panel on “Affirmative Action in a Post-Harvard Landscape: Escaping The Model Minority Myth” in Spring 2020. ALR offers a tight-knit, collegial environment where Associate Editors’ opinions and diverse backgrounds are highly valued. Our journal is comprised of students pursuing all degrees at Penn Law, including LL.Ms and S.JDs. We also welcome 1L Associate Editors on a selective basis.
The University of Pennsylvania Journal of Business Law is an expansion of the University of Pennsylvania Journal of Business and Employment Law, which has published cutting-edge business and employment scholarship for more than a decade. Founded in 1997, the Journal publishes articles and comments on a broad range of business law topics including corporate governance, securities regulation, capital market regulation, employment law and the law of mergers and acquisitions.
The University of Pennsylvania Journal of Constitutional Law provides a forum for the academic advancement and interdisciplinary study of constitutional law. To that end, JCL cultivates innovative scholarship, promotes critical perspectives, and reinvents the traditional study of constitutional law. As part of its mission, JCL is committed to publishing five issues each year via both print and electronic mediums. JCL is one of only ten non-law review publications ranked in the top 60 for the most citations and impact. JCL also sponsors an annual symposium that deals with a topic at the cutting edge of constitutional law.
First printed in 1978 as the University of Pennsylvania Journal of Comparative Corporate Law and Securities Regulation,the Journal of International Law is the oldest topically focused Journal at Penn Law and widely recognized as one of the top international law Journals in the world. Our history allows us the privilege of publishing the scholarship of premier academics, government officials, and practitioners in the field. JIL has collaborated with the Institute for Law and Economics, the American Society of International Law, and the U.S. Court of International Trade. Furthermore, we are honored to maintain an extensive alumni network spanning our 32 years of existence. The Journal, formerly the Journal of International Economic Law, has broadened its focus to explore all issues at the forefront of general international law, but retains its strength as a leading journal of international business and economic law.
The Journal of Law & Public Affairs(JLPA) serves as a research tool for policymakers, practitioners, judges, academics, students, and other interested readers. JLPA provides a forum for scholarship that speaks to pressing law and policy issues with innovative solutions and thought-provoking analysis. Membership on JLPA is open to second- and third-year University of Pennsylvania Carey Law School students via application. First- and second-year law students may also apply to certain board positions for their second and third years.
Co-Editor-in-Chief: Margaret Cohen, mcohen1@pennlaw.upenn.edu
Co-Editor-in-Chief: Tess Markovich, tcm@pennlaw.upenn.edu
We are a progressive, student-run journal and seminar that espouses an interdisciplinary scholarly approach to challenge social injustice. JLASC is unique among Penn Law Journals both in our mission and process. All journal members participate in journal decision-making by collectively reviewing, selecting and editing each piece of scholarship. Our broad mission attracts articles from a diverse range of legal scholars, practitioners and activists around the country. We embrace theory and practice, featuring interdisciplinary scholarship that has practical implications beyond the legal community. Each 3L member is responsible for leading one ten to fifteen-minute seminar session during the year, on a topic of his or her choosing, and all members are expected to actively participate in discussion of course materials.
Founded in 1852 as the American Law Register, the University of Pennsylvania Law Review is the nation’s oldest law review. The Law Review has both a professional and an educational mission. It serves the legal profession, the bench, the bar, and the academy by providing a forum for the publication of original legal research of the highest quality. We accept and scrutinize approximately 2,000 written submissions annually to select approximately twelve articles in each volume. We also ensure uniformity in the citation of authority in legal scholarship and court documents by cooperating with our peer organizations at Columbia, Harvard, and Yale in the maintenance of The Bluebook: A Uniform System of Citation.