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School of Law Celebrates Midyear Graduates

by Hannah Scheckel on 12/21/2018

12/21/2018

At a special recognition ceremony on Dec. 19, the SLU LAW midyear graduates shared testimonials of their law school experiences and acknowledged those who helped them along the way.

Midyear Graduates

Ten of SLU LAW's 18 midyear graduates pose for a photo following the Dec. 19 recognition ceremony. Photo by Adam Westrich

Ten of the 18 midyear graduates along with their families and friends filled the Louis W. Riethmann Jr. Pavilion to share in the celebration.

“There is something that seems to be particularly special about our December graduates,” Dean William P. Johnson said. “Many of you are graduating from the part-time program. You juggled full-time jobs in some cases, family obligations, military service, the rigors of intense law school study, student leadership roles, and a variety of other things that compete for your time, your attention and your energy. Some of you have decided to pursue a dual-degree program. But no matter your path … your hard work, your commitment, your dedication have yielded success in law school.”

Following Johnson’s remarks, Dean of Students Jon Baris invited each graduate to say a few words. They spoke of late nights, early mornings, the bitterness of leaving SLU LAW, but also the sweetness of accomplishing their goals. Many thanked their family members for their enduring support throughout the rigors of law school.

This is the hardest thing I’ve ever done, and this is the most humbling thing I’ve ever done."

Nicholas Tindall, School of Law midyear graduate

“This is the hardest thing I’ve ever done, and this is the most humbling thing I’ve ever done,” said graduate Nicholas Tindall.

Another graduate, Mel Kimberlin, said his daughter and granddaughter motivated him to go back to school as a grandfather. “They’ve been the inspiration for me at this stage in my life, choosing to try and give something back,” Kimberlin said. “And that’s what I want to do with this great education that I have been blessed to receive from Saint Louis University.”

Others remarked upon the assistance of the faculty and their fellow classmates who helped get them through.

“I as well as my classmates are deeply appreciative for you [faculty] all staying late and helping us who may not otherwise have had the chance to get an education like this,” said Kayla Utt.

“I’ve developed lifelong friends and had a really great education here learning about the law,” said Gabrial Crocker. “This has just been a really wonderful experience, very difficult and very challenging, but I feel like a better person.”

Baris encouraged the group to continue to engage with the School of Law as alumni and to know that they always have a home at SLU.

Learn more about SLU LAW’s part-time program, ranked no. 28 in the nation by U.S. News and World Report


Saint Louis University School of Law was founded in 1843 and is the oldest law school west of the Mississippi River. The strength of the faculty, breadth of course offerings and extensive clinical and professional skills experience provide students with a well-rounded legal education. The School of Law’s rich history consists of strong connections to the community and a long tradition of public service. SLU LAW’s location in the heart of downtown St. Louis offers students unparalleled access to leading law firms, courthouses, corporations, government agencies and nonprofit organizations — and a unique opportunity to see the law in action. Learn more at slu.edu/law.