The Appalachian School of Law Class of 2024 commencement ceremony was held on Saturday, May 11th, 2024, and was a wonderful event. Family, friends, peers, and future colleagues watched each of the 39 students cross the stage into their future.
The commencement address from Kevin Carson was smart, reflective and inspiring. Mr. Carson explained that “It’s the community that builds a lawyer”. Mr. Carson’s influence and growth in a short timeframe has been impressive and encouraging.
Valedictorian, Mr. Shawn Douglas Smith, addressed his peers in a personal way that encouraged them to take the heart of Buchanan County with them in their future.
Alumni Association President, Pebbles Burgess awarded our Valedictorian with the Alumni Association’s Scholarship for Outstanding Academic Achievement in the amount of $500.
Justice Mims shared insight for how these new attorneys would use their professionalism oath every day of their career.
Our Farewell Celebration was chilly in temperature, but warm in memories and heartfelt goodbyes. Some important awards were given after dinner. Chase Arrington won the Virginia State Bar Family Law Award as a student who demonstrated great promise and potential in the practice of Family Law. Alexandra Kennedy was awarded the Virginia Trial Lawyers Trial Advocacy Award and Megan Endicott was awarded ASL Best Advocate from professor Tom Scott.
Graduating Student Ambassadors, Meredith Waugh, Shawn Smith, Morgan Eminhizer, and Will Perkins were recognized for the many ways they help our admissions office in welcoming new students to ASL, among other supporting duties.
After awards and singing “Happy Birthday” to our beloved security guard, Kenny Keen, Victor Lawson and Boogie Chillin’ kept the party going.
This class is ready for the world ahead. We are ready to see you reach your professional goals.
