100% of first-gen college graduates receive aid

Abstract

With more than 75 first-generation college graduates currently earning their Juris Doctor at the School of Law, we are pleased to share that 100% of them are receiving aid.

This cohort is currently supported by approximately 25 scholarship funds, including the First-Start Scholars Program established by 1982 alumna Kathelen V. Amos and the Daniel P. Amos Family Foundation. This initiative has grown from first-generation students in the 2019 J.D. entering class receiving a scholarship to every first-gen J.D. student getting aid for the fourth year in a row.

Starting this fall, the First-Start Scholars Program now bears a new name – the Rutledge Family First-Start Scholars Program, and awards range from the equivalent of a one-quarter scholarship to a full-tuition plus scholarship.

The School of Law is redefining what it means to be a great national public law school by offering a world-class, hands-on, purpose-driven educational experience with a pioneering commitment to accessibility and affordability, according to School of Law Dean Peter B. “Bo” Rutledge.

Some recent statistics supporting this statement include:

  • #1 Best Value Law School for five of the last seven years (National Jurist, 2018-24).
  • Top-20 Law School for two years in a row (U.S. News & World Report, 2023/24 & 2024/25).
  • Near perfect Ultimate Bar Passage rate (99.48% for the Class of 2021).
  • 95% Full Credit Employment Outcomes (Class of 2023).
  • 18 clinics and externships, with 91% participation (Class of 2024).
  • For 2023-24, 50% of students did not borrow.
  • Extremely competitive tuition and fees (the lowest among the Top-20 law schools ranked by U.S. News & World Report).

Pictured above are First-Generation Law Student Association leaders (l. to r.) Vice President Gordon Wayne, Secretary Carsen Christy, Alumni Relations Chair Justin Davenport and President Rosalie Vendrell.

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