Atlanta’s John Marshall Law School is proud to announce that civil rights attorney and law professor Jasmine Rand will deliver the 2026 commencement address.
Rand is widely known for her work as lead counsel for the families of Trayvon Martin and Michael Brown, cases that shaped a national conversation on justice and equality. She also served as international legal counsel to the family of George Floyd, representing them before the United Nations in a case that led to adoption of the landmark George Floyd Resolution on human rights and policing.
As the founding attorney of RAND LAW, L.L.C., based in Miami, Rand focuses on civil and human rights, catastrophic injury, and wrongful death litigation. Her advocacy extends globally—she has lectured at Harvard Law School, University Mohammed V in Morocco, and the University of the West Indies, and advised Morocco’s Supreme Court on integrating international human rights standards into its judicial system. Rand currently serves as an adjunct professor at the University of Miami School of Law, where she teaches innovative courses exploring law and social impact.
Reflecting on her upcoming address, Rand said:
“I am honored to deliver John Marshall Law School’s commencement speech at a pivotal moment in human history. I hope to leave the graduates inspired with the notion that the law is not a static machine but an evolving system and they have the agency to influence it for the betterment of society.”
Dean Marty Ellin, CEO of Atlanta’s John Marshall Law School, shared his enthusiasm for Rand’s participation:
“Jasmine Rand’s career embodies the ideals we hope our graduates carry forward—commitment to justice, respect for the dignity of others, and the courage to engage in difficult conversations with integrity. Her perspective will empower our graduates to define their own professional identities and understand the essential role lawyers play in promoting human rights and constructive dialogue.”
Rand’s life work underscores the strength of individual purpose in advancing justice. Her presence at commencement promises to remind graduates that the practice of law is not only a profession, but a profound responsibility to shape a society rooted in respect and equality.
Please note: this is a ticketed event, all information is accessible here.