Photo above: Christine Jacobs, Ashley Faulkner and Gabrielle Marcum.
Spirit of WVU Law – Christine Jacobs '21
Christine was nominated multiple times for awards this time, and we can see why! According to one of her nominators, “Christine does what she can to make everyone feel comfortable and included, going above and beyond to reach out to those who may not normally be heard or considered.” Another nominator writes that she “should receive this award because she is not afraid to speak up and bring everyone to the table. She makes sure everyone gets heard.” Legal education is tasked with training students to become strong advocates for others. Christine is clearly bringing those skills to the table here and utilizing them to truly exemplify the spirit in which we hope that others will follow. For these and many other reasons, we believe that Christine exemplifies the Spirit of WVU Law and are pleased to present her with this award.
Random Acts of Kindness – Ashley Faulkner '21
Ashley’s stellar nomination noted the many efforts that Ashley has made to welcome students to the College of Law. Whether it’s a transfer student, visiting student, or a new 1L, Ashley is known for helping students connect with others in the building. She has introduced new students to classmates, student organizations, and professors. A nominator writes, “I wouldn’t have made it in my first semester here without her kindness, guidance, and support…I’ve witnessed her calm frantic people down and speak kind and encouraging words to almost anyone she interacts with.” Ashley’s random acts of kindness make a difference daily to many students in the law school, and we are pleased to recognize her with this award for the Fall of 2019.
Culture of Excellence Award – Gabbie Marcum '20
When looking at the nominations for the overall Fall 2019 Culture of Excellence award winner, the committee took many things into consideration. We were looking for a person or group of people who demonstrated the high academics and moral integrity that we wish to encourage in our student body. We looked for someone who shows kindness and values service. We looked for that person who may not be front and center in every picture and at every event, but is still there, in the picture, quietly leading the way. We are pleased to say that Gabbie Marcum exemplifies this award. One nominator writes, “…the student who I find the most kind and respectful while also maintaining incredibly high academic standards is Gabbie.” Described as “a kind, genuine person,” she sets the standard for law students, and we are pleased to recognize her with the Fall 2019 Culture of Excellence Award.
Student Organization of the Semester – Democratic Law Caucus and Republican National Lawyers Association
At the College of Law, we are fortunate to have many very active student organizations. There is literally something for everyone. However, when reviewing nominations, two organizations stood out for their dedication to service, to educating their classmates on the issues, and to working to bridge the gaps in between – the Democratic Law Caucus (DLC) and the Republican National Lawyers Association (RNLA). Nominations for these groups both noted their work at registering students to vote, holding watch parties for various debates/events, and for connecting students to candidates running for office. It was also noted both organizations’ strong dedication to service, which is part of the mission of WVU Law. In tense times, these organizations are working together to give everyone a voice. We are pleased to recognize their efforts by naming them as the Student Organizations of the Semester for Fall 2019.
