Two ASL Students Awarded Scholarships by EMLF
This year, the Energy and Mineral Law Foundation (EMLF) awarded scholarships to eight law students from five EMLF member schools. Appalachian School of Law (ASL) students, Jacob Snuffer and Jay Callahan were awarded two of the eight scholarships from the EMLF general fund. Additionally, Jacob Snuffer, president of ASL’s Student Bar Association, won the James H. Davis Scholarship award which was created to promote the study of energy and mineral law and support law students from the Appalachian Region.
“I am so thankful to EMLF for awarding me the Davis Scholarship,” said rising 3L Jacob Snuffer. “Coming from West Virginia, coal and natural resources are common origins of litigation, and I am excited to be initiated into this tradition of advocacy. I am thankful for ASL — especially Professor Mark “Buzz” Belleville for continuously encouraging me to learn more about this field. There truly is no better place than ASL to study environmental and natural resource law.”
Jay Callahan echoes Snuffer’s sentiments. “ASL benefits from institutional connections that reinforce our connection to energy industries that help students be a part of the future of energy development in Appalachia. EMLF helps students and legal professionals stay current on energy and environmental law in a region committed to balancing energy interests and environmental integrity.” Regarding the scholarship, Callahan said “I would like to personally thank Professor Mark Belleville, who encouraged me to apply. Professor Belleville helps ASL maintain a strong connection with EMLF.”
ASL’s President and Dean offered his congratulations to Mr. Callahan and Mr. Snuffer! “These two students exemplify the quality and character of ASL students,” said Faulkner. “Both will be leaders in the natural resources law arena and are committed to improving the Appalachian Region.” Regarding Professor Belleville Faulkner said, “Buzz is an outstanding teacher, mentor, and scholar who is committed to students and ASL’s mission. ASL is fortunate to have him leading our Natural Resources Law Center (NRLC).”
ASL is a proud academic leader in the field of energy and mineral law. The NRLC bridges theoretical legal inquiry with the practice. Last year, for example, ASL partnered with an environmental research company to provide a legal and environmental analysis of the economic impact and environmental implications of Garbage of Bituminous piles, commonly known as “GOB,” in southwest Virginia. This collaboration provided actionable reports and recommendations for legislators. See here for more regarding this impactful work.