June 1, 2021

Congratulations to Our 2021 Graduates and Award Recipients

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The Law School is incredibly proud of its graduates. Your perseverance and resilience during this challenging time is a testament to your professionalism and work ethic. We look forward to following your careers and championing all your future successes.

Valedictorians

This award is given to the valedictorian from each of the school’s divisions (full-time and part-time).

Miriam Perfecto, part-time program

Undergraduate institution:

University of West Georgia

Favorite AJMLS memory:

My top favorite memories were when I was chosen as Editor-in-Chief of Atlanta’s John Marshall Law Journal for the 2020-2021 year and when I found out I was Valedictorian.

Plans/dreams after the bar exam:

My dream is to start my own law practice one day.

Morgan Eipper, full-time program

Undergraduate institution:

University at Buffalo 

Favorite AJMLS memory:

Practicing for the 2020 Georgia Intrastate Moot Court Competition. Although I did not get to actually compete due to COVID, I found lifelong friendships during the countless weekends we spent practicing. 

Plans/dreams after the bar exam:

After the bar exam, I would like to work for an international law firm or an international corporation as a business attorney.

Outstanding Graduate Awards

This award is given annually to one graduate in each of the school’s divisions (part-time and full-time) who best demonstrates standards of competence and professionalism, a strong social conscience, high ethical standards, and a commitment to the improvement of the legal system and society, as determined by the Faculty on recommendation of the Honors and Awards Committee.

Morgan Eipper, full-time program

Undergraduate institution:

University at Buffalo 

Favorite AJMLS memory:

Practicing for the 2020 Georgia Intrastate Moot Court Competition. Although I did not get to actually compete due to COVID, I found lifelong friendships during the countless weekends we spent practicing. 

Plans/dreams after the bar exam:

After the bar exam, I would like to work for an international law firm or an international corporation as a business attorney.

Tessa Martin, full-time program

Undergraduate School:

Franciscan University of Steubenville, Ohio

Favorite AJMLS Memory:

Getting appointed Managing Editor of Law Review and working with my fellow colleagues on Law Review. Our virtual meetings during Covid were fun and we always helped motivate and push each other. 

Plans after bar exam:

I am excited to practice in the field of family law and personal injury. My goal is to be an excellent litigator and advocate for my clients.

Ashley S. Lewis, part-time program

Undergraduate institution:

Benedict College (Columbia, SC) and University of South Carolina (Columbia, SC) for Paralegal Certificate

Favorite AJMLS memory:

Annual Thanksgiving Dinner (Specifically 2018)- This was a dinner to remember, I was able to help decorate the student lounge and students, faculty, and staff were able to drop-in for a hearty dinner. The food was delicious and the love that was spread reminded me of my very own family thanksgiving. I am happy that AJMLS is now a part of my extended family! I will never forget the joy and support the school has provided me over the past four years!

Plans/dreams after the bar exam:

My future aspiration is to become a corporate finance and securities attorney. However, I want to always ensure I am giving back to the community in which I live, whether through pro bono or community service efforts. One of my favorite organizations is the Atlanta Volunteer Lawyers Foundation (i.e. AVLF).

Promiss Yvonne Yarber, part-time program

Undergraduate institution:

Georgia Southern University 

Favorite AJMLS Memory:

I believe that I have too many fond memories and am unable to pick just one. From attending events, to serving on the SBA Executive Board, to creating lost lasting friendships, I would not trade my experience at this school for anything in the world. It has been one of the most fulfilling time periods in my life.

Plans/ dreams after the bar exam:

After the bar exam I hope to begin a career as a closing attorney. I also hope to engage in pro bono services and one day create a scholarship fund to give back to AJMLS students.

Matthew James Repella, part-time program

Miriam Perfecto, part-time program

Undergraduate institution:

University of West Georgia

Favorite AJMLS memory:

My top favorite memories were when I was chosen as Editor-in-Chief of Atlanta’s John Marshall Law Journal for the 2020-2021 year and when I found out I was Valedictorian.

Plans/dreams after the bar exam:

My dream is to start my own law practice one day.

Megan Maloney Sale, part-time program

Undergraduate institution:

University of Georgia

Favorite AJMLS memory:

I have many favorite memories, but the most special is becoming great friends with the night students. What an amazing atmosphere the school creates for those of us that are traveling through law school on the less beaten path.  

Plans after the bar exam:

After the passing the bar exam I will be joining a corporation as in-house counsel. I hope to give back to the AJMLS community as much as the AJMLS community has given to me over the past four years.  What an honor and a privilege to attend AJMLS.

Excellence In Appellate Advocacy

This award is given to the outstanding student participant on a John Marshall Law School moot court competition team.

Mandira Sethi

Undergraduate institution:

Emory University

Favorite AJMLS memory:

Picking one AJMLS memory is so difficult for me, as I had so many that truly shaped me into the person I am today. The first would be in my 1L year, being cold-called in Professor Van Detta’s Contracts class, to this day, I still remember the terrifying feeling. I remember fumbling through the hypo, but in that moment things changed. That day I gained a mentor for life, what I learned from Professor Van Detta is something I will never be able to fully describe into words. It is a memory I will cherish forever.

My second would be competing in the Georgia Intrastate Moot Court Competition and becoming Chair of the Moot Court Advocacy. Moot Court is an invaluable experience to all students, it helps us perfect our oral and legal writing skills. 

Plans/dreams after the bar exam:

Ten years ago, I started my path in immigration law as a paralegal with the goal of helping immigrants, like myself, come to this country and pursue their dreams. Now, as an Immigration Attorney, I hope to give back to the community.

Zachary Warfel

Undergraduate institution:

Kennesaw State University

Favorite AJMLS memory:

Spending hours in the library studying just to get a C+ on a final.

Plans/dreams after the bar:

I plan to work at Wakhisi-Douglas and hopefully make a lot of money.

Excellence in Pro Bono

This award is given to those students whose pro bono hours are among the top 10% earned in the graduating class. This award is not merit-based.

Morgan Eipper

Undergraduate institution:

University at Buffalo 

Favorite AJMLS memory:

Practicing for the 2020 Georgia Intrastate Moot Court Competition. Although I did not get to actually compete due to COVID, I found lifelong friendships during the countless weekends we spent practicing. 

Plans/dreams after the bar exam:

After the bar exam, I would like to work for an international law firm or an international corporation as a business attorney.

Ashley S. Lewis

Undergraduate institution:

Benedict College (Columbia, SC) and University of South Carolina (Columbia, SC) for Paralegal Certificate

Favorite AJMLS memory:

Annual Thanksgiving Dinner (Specifically 2018)- This was a dinner to remember, I was able to help decorate the student lounge and students, faculty, and staff were able to drop-in for a hearty dinner. The food was delicious and the love that was spread reminded me of my very own family thanksgiving. I am happy that AJMLS is now a part of my extended family! I will never forget the joy and support the school has provided me over the past four years!

Plans/dreams after the bar exam:

My future aspiration is to become a corporate finance and securities attorney. However, I want to always ensure I am giving back to the community in which I live, whether through pro bono or community service efforts. One of my favorite organizations is the Atlanta Volunteer Lawyers Foundation (i.e. AVLF).

Tyler White

Stacy Williams

Georgia Association for Women Lawyers Outstanding Graduate Award

This award is given to a woman from each Georgia law school based on academic accomplishments and contributions to women’s issues.

Brittany Lenoch

Undergraduate institution:

Kennesaw State University

Favorite AJMLS memory:

Earning top appellee oralist in Professor Dalton’s legal writing class and a position on moot court

Plans/dreams after the bar exam:

I’ve accepted an offer to work for a small criminal defense firm that I’ve interned for since 2015. I plan to primarily practice criminal defense, but also hope to work on juvenile and family law matters. 

Edward J. Henning Award for Excellence in Dispute Resolution

This award is given to an outstanding ADR student at each of the state’s five ABA-accredited law schools. These awards are given in memory of Ed Henning, one of the “founding fathers” of mediation in Georgia.

Damilola Elizabeth Olatunde

Undergraduate Institution:

Georgia Southern University

Favorite AJMLS memory:

I have lots of wonderful memories. One memory that left an imprint on me was during my first year of law school. I was struggling and finding it hard to adjust to law school. It was my first time answering a question correctly in Professor Van Detta’s contract class. Disclaimer: It can be a little difficult to give a completely correct answer. But this event made me feel like I could make it through law school.

Plans/dreams after the bar:

Take a break, travel, look for a job and continue working on my organization for orphans in Nigeria. 

The Chief Justice Leah Ward Sears Pro Bono Award

The Chief Justice Leah Ward Sears Pro Bono Award is given to the graduate whose pro bono work has demonstrated outstanding commitment to legal services for underserved communities and their work was impactful.

Yvette Hill

Undergraduate institution:

Morgan State University

Favorite AJMLS memory:

I have several invaluable memories at AJMLS, but my favorite is working in the school’s business office as a receptionist. It afforded me the opportunity to build priceless, lifelong relationships with John Marshall staff, faculty, and students.

Plans/dreams after the bar exam:

I have been working with the Clayton County Public Defender’s Office as an Assistant Public Defender under the Third Year Student Practice Act since January 2020. As a result, I have been offered (and I have accepted) a permanent position upon passing the bar. My ultimate goal is to continue working as a Criminal Defense Attorney, and to possibly become a Civil Rights Attorney.

National Association of Women Lawyers Outstanding Law Student Award

This award is given to a third-year law student who who best exemplifies the following characteristics:

  • Contributes to the advancement of women in society
  • Promotes issues and concerns of women in the legal profession
  • Exhibits motivation, tenacity, and enthusiasm
  • Demonstrates high academic achievement
  • Earns the respect of the faculty and administration

Kristian Postma

Undergraduate Institution:

North Georgia College & State University

Favorite AJMLS Memory:

My favorite memory from AJMLS is getting to know my professors. On one particular emotionally challenging day, Professor Baker sat with me and shared his wisdom about not losing yourself or your perspective during law school. I made it a point from that moment on to remind myself daily of my true purpose and to exercise some grace! Also, the friends I made during my law school career are INVALUABLE.

Plans/dreams after the bar:

After the bar, I will be a Staff Attorney with the State Court of Cherokee County.

Pro Bono Distinction

This distinction is given to students who have completed 75 hours or more of pro bono work during their law school career.

Yvette Hill

Undergraduate institution:

Morgan State University

Favorite AJMLS memory:

I have several invaluable memories at AJMLS, but my favorite is working in the school’s business office as a receptionist. It afforded me the opportunity to build priceless, lifelong relationships with John Marshall staff, faculty, and students.

Plans/dreams after the bar exam:

I have been working with the Clayton County Public Defender’s Office as an Assistant Public Defender under the Third Year Student Practice Act since January 2020. As a result, I have been offered (and I have accepted) a permanent position upon passing the bar. My ultimate goal is to continue working as a Criminal Defense Attorney, and to possibly become a Civil Rights Attorney.

Order of Quill

The Atlanta’s John Marshall Law School (AJMLS) Order of the Quill (“Order”) is an honor society that recognizes significant academic achievement in designated required doctrinal courses (“Quill” courses). Students who achieve the required cumulative grade point average in the Quill courses will be eligible for admission into the Order. Members of the Order shall receive certificates of membership and be recognized at graduation.

Charles Carr, Scholar

Undergraduate institution:

Georgia State University

Favorite AJMLS memory:

My favorite memory at John Marshall is debating and arguing about cases in professor Rapping’s criminal justice classes. I learned a lot about criminal law and procedure, but I also learned about how the criminal justice system works and what to expect and watch out for in the courtroom.

Plans/Dreams after the bar exam:

I plan on working as a prosecutor in either the District Attorney or Solicitor General’s office. 

Morgan Eipper, Honor Scholar and Marshall of the Order

Undergraduate institution:

University at Buffalo 

Favorite AJMLS memory:

Practicing for the 2020 Georgia Intrastate Moot Court Competition. Although I did not get to actually compete due to COVID, I found lifelong friendships during the countless weekends we spent practicing. 

Plans/dreams after the bar exam:

After the bar exam, I would like to work for an international law firm or an international corporation as a business attorney.

Gianna Carolina Franceschini, Scholar

December 2020 Graduates

Yoana Maribel Banuelos

Jared Seth Claxon

Jessica Monserratt Devins

Ashley Lynn McDonald

Miracle Champale McGowan

Alexandra Mosiyachenko

Mandira Sethi

Renee Elaine Taylor

Martin A. Thomas

Ashley Alexis Winston

May 2021 Graduates

Karla Vidal Barrios

Melissa Barrett

Brenna Denia Bates

Glynneisha Jenny Bellamy

Claxton J. Boutwell, cum laude

Charles Logan Carr, magna cum laude*

Whitnie Lúchelle Carter

Justin Carth Cavanaugh

Stephen Andrew Crabtree

Don Alan Dixon, Jr.

Morgan Eipper, summa cum laude

Kiara Richelle Flantroy

Gianna Franceschini, magna cum laude

Gulliana L. Goehring, cum laude

Reginald Anthony Greene, Jr.

Daniel Y. Guo

Ashley Lindsey

Emory Lott

Adam Carson Lowney

Marie T. Martin, cum laude

Cynthia Dawn McDonald

Damilola Elizabeth Olatunde

Aristides D. Passas, cum laude

Mario Andres Pereira*

Miriam Perfecto, magna cum laude

Kristian Audrianna Postma, cum laude

Thomas Kell Randall, Jr.*

Jessica Marie Ratliff

Imani Redd

Matthew Repella, summa cum laude

Reneé S. Richardson

Megan Maloney Sale, cum laude

Martha Tewolde Habtemicael

Yvette Hill

Delesia S. Horton

Jenna Marie Hough

Don’Etrick Ja’Rod Houston

Sherin Hylan, cum laude

Catheryne Jenkins

Jessica Lea Jones*

Sarah Khan

Nicole Hejune Kim

Delenia Anita King

Jeffery Scott Knight

Brittany Shajuan Larcart

Bryson Kiara Lax*

Brittany Leigh Lenoch

Ashley S. Lewis

Cherie Nicole Sebro

Mahek Shah

Thomas William Sizemore

Suncearae Q. Spears

Mahham Syed

Heather Shannon Thornburg

Mindi Lynn Thrash, cum laude

Nicholas Brian Vowell

Zachary James Warfel

Tyler James White

Christopher Williams, cum laude

Stacy Lee Williams

Victoria Williams

Promiss Yvonne Yarber

Crystal D. Richmond Yarbrough

Vangelis Leonardo Zafiroulis

July 2021 Graduates

Bailey Ellis Farner

Williametta Garnett

David T. Harrison

Sydney Saponari

Justin Wills

*Criminal Justice Certificate Program