Celebrating the Class of 2025: Arizona Law Convocation Highlights
“The law is more than a career—it’s a responsibility. You now have the training to solve problems, to reduce harm, to bring clarity where there’s confusion, and to create access where there are barriers.”
The University of Arizona James E. Rogers College of Law celebrated the accomplishments of the Class of 2025 during its annual Convocation ceremony, held on Saturday, May 17 at Centennial Hall. The ceremony honored the hard work, resilience, and commitment of 131 Juris Doctor (JD) graduates, 154 Master of Legal Studies (MLS) graduates, 40 Master of Laws (LLM) graduates, 8 Scientiae Juridicae Doctor (SJD) graduates, 5 Master of Professional Studies (MPS) graduates and 35 Graduate Certificate graduates as they marked the culmination of their legal education journeys.
Interim Dean Jason Kreag opened the ceremony by welcoming all in attendance and asked the graduates to take a pause during this turning point, a rare moment to look back with pride and forward with purpose.
“As new graduates of Arizona Law, you're entering a world that doesn't pause for anyone. It's complex. It's fast. It often feels uncertain. But that’s exactly where lawyers are needed most,” said Kreag. “The law is more than a career—it’s a responsibility. You now have the training to solve problems, to reduce harm, to bring clarity where there’s confusion, and to create access where there are barriers.”
He closed by offering graduates three things to hold onto: Seek the truth, fight for justice and show up and share your voice.
“The people who make a difference aren’t always the ones with the most credentials or the biggest platforms. They’re the ones who show up when it’s inconvenient, when it’s difficult, when it matters,” said Kreag. “Show up for your clients. Show up for your profession. Show up for your community. Even when no one’s watching.”
The Law College Association President Maricela Meza (’08) formally welcomed the Class of 2025 as alumni.
Outgoing Student Bar Association President Maelene Rosales presented the class gift, funds to install artwork in the new courtrooms at Arizona Law.
Student speakers Parth Mandar Kulkarni (LLM), Adam Potash (MLS), Leo Killsback (JD) and Matt Lubisich (JD) reflected on their time at Arizona Law and their hopes for their classmates.
“Class of 2025, I see you, I am proud to have completed this journey with you,” said Killsback. “It is a true honor to know that I will continue to grow with you as we now embark on our separate paths. Let us do so with the rule of law in one hand and the grace of maturity in the other.”
Ann Miller (’99), who serves as Executive Vice President of Global Sports Marketing at NIKE, Inc., delivered the keynote address. She shared her journey after graduating from Arizona Law to getting her foot in the door at Nike, to the different roles she has taken in the company over the past 18 years, always pressing ahead and up for the next challenge.
“Whatever the ask, I was game. Even if it felt beyond my skill set—especially if it felt beyond my skill set,” she said. “Because it’s the best way to grow—as a lawyer, as a leader and as a human.”
Miller encouraged graduates to be open to learning, growing, and new opportunities, because it can lead to them doing something they love.
“Just be game,” said Miller. “Make the most of every chance you get to find out what you’re capable of — and just as important, what you love. Because in the end, of all the career moves you can make, that’s the one that will change your life.”
Kreg closed the ceremony by congratulating Professor Sylvia Lett, who was selected by the Student Bar Association as Professor of the Year.
“This marks the third time Professor Lett has received this honor, and for good reason,” said Kreag. “She is a brilliant and creative teacher who brings clarity, depth, and compassion into every classroom, and she serves as a tireless mentor and advocate for her students beyond it.”