Wilmington University School of Law’s inaugural students began their exciting and challenging journey at orientation. Over the past year, they have created traditions, established a student culture, and helped chart the course that other classes will follow. It is an innovative and student-centered culture at WilmU Law, where first-year students play a crucial role in shaping the school’s identity and legacy. The law school underscores the University’s commitment to fostering a dynamic and inclusive environment for aspiring legal professionals.
From establishing a student government to organizing the school’s first Barristers’ Ball, the students faced a unique challenge: creating a framework and traditions from the ground up. That journey began with the formation of the Student Bar Association (SBA), an essential component in the structure of any law school. Unlike established schools with decades of history and practices, these students had the distinct opportunity to craft the bylaws and set a precedent for future cohorts.
The SBA formation process was a testament to the dedication and leadership of four key student officers: President Genesis Joma, Vice President Dalton Lahti, Treasurer Elijah Westog, and Secretary Britton Ody. They worked tirelessly, holding meetings throughout the year to draft SBA bylaws, guided by Professor Nicole Mozee. They laid the groundwork for a governing body that represented the student body and played a pivotal role in shaping the school’s culture and direction.
With the bylaws in place, the SBA expanded, bringing in more students to serve as committee co-chairs. This collaborative effort ensured a diverse range of voices was heard, fostering community among full- and part-time students. SBA meetings became a hub of activity. Ideas were exchanged, and plans were made.
One of the SBA’s final tasks for the year was to plan a celebration that has become a hallmark of law schools nationwide: the Barristers’ Ball. This formal event, often called the “law school prom,” is a time-honored tradition where students, faculty, and staff celebrate their achievements and enjoy an elegant night of camaraderie. Planning such an event from scratch was no small feat, but WilmU Law’s SBA made it happen.
Co-chairs Alynna Wilson and Hannah Goldston led the committee and set out to create an unforgettable evening with the support of other SBA committee members. The planning process involved numerous details, from selecting a venue to arranging catering, entertainment, and decor. The committee chose to host the inaugural event at WilmU’s Brandywine location, transforming the usual study spaces into a sophisticated venue. This black-tie affair reflected the formality and significance of the occasion and marked the beginning of a new tradition for WilmU Law.
As the Barristers’ Ball date approached, anticipation grew among the students and faculty. The event promised to be a celebration of their hard work and a preview of the traditions that future classes would continue. “For future generations to come, I want the Barristers’ Ball to welcome them,” says Wilson, a correctional counselor and JD candidate. “I want the next generation to participate, and I want them to know law school can be fun.”
“For future generations to come, I want the Barristers’ Ball to welcome them.” — Alynna Wilson
The electric atmosphere boomed with excitement and pride. The program included a formal dinner, dancing, and live music. The co-chairs delivered heartfelt speeches, reflecting on the journey of the inaugural class and the significance of the first WilmU Law Barristers’ Ball. “It felt like a family gathering,” Goldston says. “It was a nice time to relax and dress up.”
The event was a resounding success, a testament to the hard work and dedication of the SBA and the entire inaugural class. The night was filled with laughter, celebration, and accomplishment. For many, it was a moment to reflect on the unique experience of being part of the first class at WilmU Law and the legacy they were creating.
The Barristers’ Ball also allowed students and faculty to connect more personally. It was a chance to celebrate their shared journeys and look forward to the future with optimism. “I was very, very proud of the dedication of the co-chairs, Hannah and Alynna,” says Professor
Mozee, who describes the Barristers’ Ball as an opportunity for students to “take a moment and decompress from the rigor of law school and just enjoy themselves.”
For WilmU Law’s inaugural class, the Barristers’ Ball was more than a celebration. It symbolized their efforts to build something from nothing, create traditions that would endure, and lay the foundation for future generations.
In the years to come, as new classes join the ranks of WilmU Law, they will look back on this first Barristers’ Ball as the beginning of a proud tradition. The legacy of the inaugural class, their leadership, and their commitment to creating a dynamic and inclusive environment exemplify the spirit of WilmU Law. They will continue to inspire and guide the school’s future.
—Taylor Warrington-Purcell