Rev. Brian J. Shanley, O.P. President | St. John's University website

Nine third-year law students from St. John’s University have successfully passed the February New York Bar Exam, marking a significant milestone in their journey as Pro Bono Scholars. The students participated in a program established by the New York State Unified Court System in 2014, which allows them to dedicate their final semester to providing pro bono services to underserved communities.

Rabab AlAjmi, one of the scholars, expressed her interest in participating in the Consumer Justice for the Elderly: Litigation Clinic. "The idea of doing full-time pro bono work in my final semester of law school really interested me," she stated. Her experience was enriched by working closely with Professors Ann Goldweber and Gina Calabrese.

Another scholar, Nathalie Lindor, also worked in the same clinic and found it rewarding due to its immediate positive impact on clients' lives. "Participating in a clinic is rewarding because of the immediate positive impact you can have on people's lives," she shared.

Victoria Ciminera spent her semester at the Child Advocacy Clinic under Professor Jennifer Baum's supervision. She valued the hands-on experience and noted, "One of the main highlights of being a Pro Bono Scholar has been the hands-on experience I’ve received in the clinic."

Lindor emphasized the importance of pro bono work as she prepares to graduate. "Pro bono work matters," she said. "Advocating for those who can’t advocate for themselves matters."

The 2024-2025 cohort includes other scholars such as Federico Curbelo (Refugee and Immigrant Rights Clinic), Talia Gal-Osher (Domestic Violence Litigation Clinic), Kipp Garrett (Bankruptcy Advocacy Clinic), Amber Joyner (Refugee and Immigrant Rights Clinic), Nadiyah Owens (Tenants' Rights Advocacy Clinic), and Gabriella Schwartz (Child Advocacy Clinic).