What is the Ignatian Scholars Program?
The Ignatian Law Scholars (ILS) Program recognizes particularly promising members of the entering law school class whose applications reflect the Jesuit values of commitment to academic excellence and service to others. ILS receive a renewable Dean’s Scholarship and are assigned faculty and alumni mentors to help with the transition to law school and practice. In addition, Scholars gather for special events each semester to get to know each other and other members of the law school community.
Fall 2023 Ignatian Law Scholars
Loyola University New Orleans proudly welcomes 19 new members to the Program.
The newest Ignatian Law Scholars class comes from 5 different states and from 13 different undergraduate institutions, including one Historically Black College and University (HBCU). The members of this cohort of Ignatian Scholars come from diverse backgrounds: 7 of 19 identify as a person of color and 8 of 19 identify as women; at least 5 religious traditions are represented and one parent! Additionally, 5 scholars hold advanced degrees. This class is academically gifted as well as talented educators and dedicated social justice advocates. We are ecstatic to welcome them to Loyola!
For more information about Loyola Law’s Ignatian Law Scholar Program, please contact the Law Admissions Office at (504) 861-5575 or ladmit@loyno.edu.
A Loyola legal education changes the way you experience the world and the practice of law. Join a community that brings learning to life. Apply today.
Donovan Benton
Originally from Illinois, Donovan Benton and his family moved to New Orleans from Spokane, Washington in May of 2021. Before law school, Donovan spent nearly a decade developing a successful career in mining engineering, working in federal and state agencies that promote workplace safety. Donovan’s and his wife’s experiences in adopting their son reinforced their dedication to fight against social inequities and poverty. Donovan felt passionate about enrolling in a Jesuit law school, but when he reviewed Loyola Law’s robust social justice program options, he knew that Loyola was the right college for him.
Education: BA, MS, & MA, Southern Illinois University
Bailey Brierly
Bailey Brierly doubled majored in Political Science and International Studies while earning a Certificate in Free Enterprise Studies. At Spring Hill College, Bailey was inducted into Pi Sigma Alpha, the National Political Science Honor Society, and led several student organizations, including the Mental Health Awareness Club. Before enrolling at Loyola Law, Bailey worked as a legal assistant for a law firm in Mobile, Alabama. Her assistantship brought valuable insight into the life and work of an attorney: drafting pleadings and briefs, interviewing clients and witnesses, and maintaining the busy schedules of the firm’s attorneys. Bailey is guided by her commitment to help others.
Education: BS, Springhill College
Daniel Coman
Since 2012, Daniel Coman has been running after-school chess events for children. In 2018, Daniel took the strategy game to the Orleans Parish Justice Center, pioneering the prison’s first chess program. While instructing the class, he bonded with the residents and learned the circumstances that brought each of them to prison. After his internship as an investigator with the Orleans Public Defenders Office, Daniel aspires to contribute to a more just system in his home city of New Orleans. Daniel chose Loyola because he wanted to join an institution that will support him in bringing legal aid to those most vulnerable to unjust treatment.
Education: BS, Tulane University
Katrina Huber
Katrina Huber graduated from high school in Massachusetts and went on to study in Connecticut before earning her Master’s Degree in the United Kingdom. Katrina comes to law school after working as a Southeast Immigrant Freedom Initiative Project Coordinator with the Southern Poverty Law Center. While there, Katrina helped coordinate legal services to detained immigrants. With a long history of being a community advocate, Katrina chose Loyola College of Law because many of her colleagues in the legal non-profit community assured her that Loyola is the best place to get a legal education that prioritizes public service.
Education: BS, Connecticut College; MS, London School of Economics
Megan King
Megan King returns to school after serving as an educator for nearly twenty years. Megan taught high school junior- and senior-level English courses, including AP English IV for more than a decade. Megan incorporates lessons on social justice into her curriculum, educating her students about inequities found within the criminal justice system. Megan is interested in studying matters related to incarceration and the intersection of race and the law. Megan aspires to make a direct impact by becoming an attorney for a non-profit organization that supports individuals for whom the justice system has not worked.
Education: BA, University of Southern Mississippi; BA, Mississippi University for Women; MA, University of Alabama
Kevin Kuhm
Hailing from Arizona, Kevin Kuhm worked in education in a low-income, rural community for more than 11 years as a high school teacher, football coach, athletic director, and assistant principal. A few years ago, Kevin attended the Arizona School Board Association Law Conference as part of his professional development, and the experience sparked his passion for the legal field. Kevin feels that a career in law will be both intellectually challenging and rewarding at the same time. Kevin hopes to continue his career in public service by working for the federal, state or local government as an attorney after graduation.
Education: BS, University of Arizona; MEd, Northern Arizona University
Bennett Matson
Bennett Matson’s passion for service began long ago when he became a member of the City of Memphis AmeriCorps VISTA team. While at Ole Miss, Bennett served on the Associated Student Body and as an Ole Miss Ambassador. He also served as the Philanthropy Chair of Beta Theta Pi. An internship with the District Attorney’s Office in Memphis, Domestic Violence Unit, underscored his belief that law school should be the next step in his journey. Bennett plans to focus on Health Law while enrolled at Loyola, and he hopes to improve laws that promote access and equality within the nation’s health care system.
Education: BA, University of Mississippi
Lily McLemore
Lily McLemore’s love for reading led her to join a print magazine as an editor after earning her English degree in college. During her five years as an editor, Lily wrote countless features, managed a team of talented writers, and read hundreds of books for coverage. She also began devoting more time to volunteering at local non-profits and engaging politically. After a short stint of living and working in Europe, Lily returned to Montgomery, Alabama, and began doing legal research for government relations and policy consultants that help secure funding for the needs of low-income communities. Lily plans to pursue a career in public interest law after graduation.
Education: BA, Sewanee: The University of the South
Analise Morrow
Analise Morrow’s love of nature and all things outdoors started before she was in elementary school: swimming in a lake with her brother, searching for worms in the mud, and observing wildlife characterized her childhood in Florida. Analise’s goal is to be Earth’s lawyer, an intention to make the world a better place—literally. Analise has organized beach clean-up efforts and volunteered with Tampa Bay Watch to assist in preserving the health of the region’s oyster population. Analise decided to study environmental law at Loyola due to Loyola's humanistic and spiritual focus on education, as well as emphasis on integrity, respect, and faith.
Education: BA, Florida State University
Tevin Rosenthal
Tevin Rosenthal hails from the community of Kentwood, Louisiana. He is proud to be the first college graduate in his family, earning his undergraduate degree in business administration. While in college, Tevin served as both the Community Service and Special Events Chair of Kappa Sigma Mu-Omega fraternity. Additionally, Tevin has been involved in community service efforts for homeless veterans, and serves as Director of Development for a local non-profit aimed at keeping kids active. Tevin applied to law school to challenge himself to do something truly impactful for others. He wants to make a difference by becoming a legal advocate for those in need.
Education: BBA, Southeastern University
Katherine Schaumburg
Katherine Schaumburg’s enthusiasm for the unique architecture of New Orleans led her to pursue a Construction Engineering degree at LSU. After taking a construction law class, Katherine decided to specialize in that field. In doing so, she is also following in her family’s footsteps: both of Katherine’s parents earned their Juris Doctor degrees from Loyola Law. In addition to her schooling, Katherine was crowned 2022 Queen of the Legion of Mars, a Mardi Gras organization that provides charitable support for first responders and military members.
Education: BS, Louisiana State University
Olivia Taylor
A New Orleans native, Olivia Taylor left the city briefly to earn her undergraduate degree in Biology. Olivia served as a College of Science Senator for two years within student government and also spent a summer working as a Consular Section Intern for the United States Embassy in Athens, Greece. Upon graduation, she worked for a year as a Research Associate in the Shirley C. Tucker Herbarium at LSU. Desiring to return home, Olivia applied to Loyola Law in order to receive a legal education grounded in her Catholic beliefs. She’d like to serve her community after graduation by practicing law in the city of New Orleans.
Education: BS, Louisiana State University
Ashley White
Ashley White enrolled at Loyola University College of Law because of its reputation regarding social justice, public service, and activism. She is especially excited for the opportunity to learn from Professor Andrea Armstrong, a national expert on jail conditions and prison reform. Ashley comes to the legal profession after working in the fields of investment banking, management consulting, and enterprise strategy. As a Bail Disruptor with The Bail Project, a national non-profit bail fund, she helped secure the freedom of hundreds of men and women detained pre-trial. Ashley hopes to dedicate her legal career to addressing the root causes of mass incarceration and systemic inequality.
Education: BBA, Howard University
Alexander Bolanos earned his BA in History and an AA in International Studies from Southeastern Louisiana University. Alexander is guided by his faith and incorporates it into everything he does. In addition to volunteering at his church, Alexander enjoys cooking, gardening, gaming, reading, and history.
Lale Brown graduated from Florida State University with a BA in music and a minor in business. Lale Brown studied double bass performance while working in the culinary arts. Lale is an advocate for people in the QTIBIPOC community and intends to remain connected to their musical roots.
Lucy Brown graduated from Louisiana State University with a BS in Psychology with a minor in Spanish. Lucy was an active member of her sorority, dedicating much of her time to giving back to the community through volunteering at various organizations such as Habitat for Humanity. Lucy enjoys spending her free time hiking and rafting.
Emma Collin graduated from Tulane University with a BS in Environmental Biology and Ecology. Emma is dedicated to fighting climate change. She advocated as a community organizer for the Gulf South Delegation at the United Nations Climate Talks. Emma volunteers at Jewish Voice for Peace New Orleans and is an editor at New Orleans Progressive Voter Guide.
Tristan Diermann holds a BA in Music Performance from the University of Alabama and an MBA from the University of Alabama. He teaches electric bass and performs volunteer concerts at nursing homes and rehab facilities. Tristan is interested in delving into how intellectual property rights affect musicians' creative processes.
Austin Galy graduated with a BA in history from University of New Orleans. Austin is invested in serving the New Orleans community with his love of history. He worked with the Smithsonian Institute in recording the oral history of veterans and also volunteers at the Veteran’s Day parade. When he is not volunteering, he enjoys fitness and spending time with his family.
Jailyn Heisser graduated from Xavier University of Louisiana with a BS in Business with a concentration in
Finance. Jailyn is committed to serving the community by being a voice for those with less privilege. In pursuit of that goal, she learned Spanish and is learning American Sign Language. Jailyn spends her free time volunteering for FUND-17 which helps local entrepreneurs launch small businesses.
Anna Jones earned her BA in Mass Communication with a concentration in Public Relations from Louisiana State University. Anna is an award-winning journalist for LSU’s school newspaper, the Reveille. She is passionate about juvenile justice and has served as the treasurer for the Tiger Prison Project, an organization dedicated to advocating for prison reform.
Christian Marks graduated from the University of Mississippi with a BBA in Banking and Finance. While at Ole Miss, Christian served as the Head Prudential Chairman for his fraternity. He is a volunteer with the Leapfrog Program, tutoring children who attend elementary school in an economically disadvantaged community.
Anna Nguyen graduated from the University of New Orleans with a BS in Finance. Prior to law school, Anna worked as an Accounting Clerk at Galloway, Johnson, Tompkins, Burr, & Smith. She volunteers at her church, providing translation services and teaching students about Vietnamese culture. She enjoys traveling and sports.
Samantha Quinones graduated from University of South Florida with a BA in Political Science. Samantha is active in the political process and stands up for people in marginalized communities. She has participated in the George Floyd protests, canvassed for the Progressive Turnout Project, and interned in the Andrew Gillum for Governor campaign.
Cait Roberts graduated from SUNY at Binghamton Center with a BA in English. While at Binghampton, Cait volunteered as a peer educator at the Binghamton University Q Center and developed training programming on non-binary identities. They served as Publicity Coordinator at Ellipsis Literary Magazine.
Sydney Rusovich, a National Merit Finalist, graduated from the University of Mississippi with BA in Arabic and International Studies. Sydney co-founded and led Rebels Against Sexual Assault, an organization that raises awareness for sexual assault awareness and provides survivor resources. She also served as the Student Delegate for the UM Chancellor’s Commission on the Status of Women.
Logan Satter graduated from Florida State University with a BS in Environmental Science and Policy. Logan is passionate about protecting our environment so much so that he used his academic career to study climate history and climate change. He served on FSU’s Inter Residence Hall Council and the Eco-Reps sub-council. He hopes to one day use his love of the law and the environment to launch a political career.
Danae Scheuing graduated from Loyola University New Orleans with a BA in Criminology and Justice. Danae served the City of New Orleans since 2015 as a police officer and later as a detective for the Violent Crimes Division. Her work with the New Orleans Police Department motivated her to pursue a legal education. She hopes to make a larger impact for those affected by the criminal justice system after earning her law degree.
Alyce Simien graduated from Rice University with a BA in English. Alyce uses her writing talent to bring a voice to women and women of color, including through her thesis on the aesthetic concerns of African-American women. As the co-editor of Engender Magazine, Alyce spearheaded a special edition which celebrated the voices of Black women students.
Maya Archaya graduated from Tulane University with a B.A. in International Relations and a B.A. in Film Production. Maya has worked as a graphic designer and photographer, and in sports broadcasting and filmmaking.
O'Brien Alley graduated from Tulane University with a B.S. in Psychology and Classical Studies. she has devoted numerous hours to non-profit organizations such as Magnolia Community Services, Children’s Hospital, Sanctuary at Passages Hospice, Roots of Music, and Trinity Community Center.
Kent Coupe graduated from Reed College with a B.A. in History and The University of Texas at Austin with a Master's degree in Education. Kent began his career as an AmeriCorps member in Austin, Texas before becoming a public school teacher.
Clifford Fields graduated from Oakwood University with a B.A. Clifford has political experience as a precinct captain for an Alabama State Housing campaign.
Peter Finney graduated from St. Joseph's Seminary College with a B.A. in Philosophy and Theological Studies, Pontificia Universita San Tommaso D'Aquino with a Bachelor of Sacred Theology, and l’Accademia Alfonsiana with a Licentiate of Sacred Theology in Moral Theology. Prior to arriving at Loyola Law, Fr. Finney served locally as the pastor of St. Rita Catholic Church, Chaplain of Ursuline Academy, and as the assistant pastoral formation director of Notre Dame Seminary.
Paige Franckiewicz graduated from Loyola University New Orleans with a B.A. in Accounting. Paige was a starting member of the Loyola Wolfpack Women’s Basketball Team and was the Vice President of the Delta Gamma Fraternity and an Executive Officer on the Student-Athlete Advisory Council.
Jordan Giles graduated from Rhodes College with a B.A. in International Studies and a B.A. in Russian Studies. While at Rhodes, Jordan served as the Editor-in-Chief for Modus Vivendi, an international studies journal; served as president for the Russian club; and, named Mertie Buckman International Internship Scholar.
Cameron Haddad graduated from the University of Louisiana at Lafayette with a B.A. in Film Production and John Paul the Great Catholic University with an MBA in Film Production. Cameron has interned at Walden Media and produced two films: “Unspoken” and “Rewind.”
Scott Havener graduated from Loyola University New Orleans with a B.M. in Music Composition where he earned an Outstanding Composition Student Award, an Outstanding Music Theory Student Award, and academic honors.
Alexander Hood graduated from the University of New Orleans with a B.A. in Political Science. At UNO, he earned the prestigious Latin American Studies Grant from the Doris Zemurray-Stone Endowment Chair to study the experiences and treatment of illness among Shipibo communities in Peru.
Daisy Huck graduated from American University with a B.A. in Performing Arts - Dance, and a B.A. in Political Science. Daisy has been a dancer for 19 years and has participated in a number of productions.
Kayla Koonz graduated from Loyola University New Orleans with a B.A. in Philosophy, Politics, and Social Justice. Kayla has sung for the WWII Museum, the Zephyrs Baseball Team, and for a film production.
Sorren Lannes graduated from the University of Southern Mississippi with a B.A. in English and a minor in French Language. While at USM, Mr. Lannes studied abroad in France for two semesters to increase his competency in French and studied abroad in London to study William Shakespeare.
Charelle Lett graduated from the University of Alabama at Birmingham with a B.A. in African American studies. Charelle is a first-generation college student and has been involved with various organizations such as the UAB NAACP, the National Society of Collegiate Scholars, and the Pre-Law Society.
Aspen Murphy graduated from Howard University with a B.A. in Communication - Broadcast Journalism. She currently works in Community Relations at Marathon Petroleum Company and is a board member at St. John United Way and the Krewe of Harmonia.
Mindy Parker graduated from Tulane University with a B.S. in Business Management and Legal Studies of Business. She has served as a leader in the student ministry of Celebration Church for six years.
Dawn Penn graduated from Dillard University with a B.A. in Criminal Justice. Prior to law school, she worked as the Pretrial Release Bond Advocate for Orleans Public Defenders.
Patricio Ramos graduated from the University of California Los Angeles with a B.A. in Political Science. Mr. Ramos served five years of active duty in the U.S. Navy that included two combat deployments to the Persian Gulf.
Madison Tuck graduated from Loyola University New Orleans with a B.A in English. She served as the president of Wolf Pack for Life at Loyola and planned the 2019 Rehumanize Conference, a national whole life conference for peace and justice.