News & Insights

Lightfoot Welcomes Fourth Annual Lightfoot Academy Class

June 10, 2024

Lightfoot, Franklin & White LLC proudly welcomes its fourth annual class of Lightfoot Academy participants. Ten college seniors and incoming law students from across the country will participate in the weeklong pre-law program starting June 10.

The firm launched Lightfoot Academy in 2021 to encourage and support students from a variety of backgrounds who are qualified students pursuing a legal education. The program is open to rising college seniors seriously considering law school and incoming law students interested in becoming trial lawyers.

This year’s participants are:

• Malea Benjamin, The University of Alabama (2024), The University of Alabama School of Law (2027)
• Jayanna Cameron, Samford University (2024), Mercer University School of Law (2027) 
• Jaye Conn, George Mason University (2025)
• Louis-Haslan “Louis” Dorsinvil, Vanderbilt University (2025)
• Isaiah Fitch, Arizona State University (2024), Georgetown University Law Center (2027)
• Joshua Hargrove, Howard University (2024), Howard University School of Law (2027)
• Makena McHargh, The University of Alabama (2025)
• Samia Noor, Duke University (2022)
• Jason Park, The University of Alabama (2023)
• Ethan Shunnarah, Auburn University (2025)

Modeled after Lightfoot’s immersive summer clerkship program, the Lightfoot Academy offers an opportunity for students to gain an insider’s perspective on what it’s like to work as a lawyer, and particularly as a litigator. Participants get a comprehensive view of the litigation process during the program, ranging from attending client and team meetings, producing legal briefs and motions, to observing the firm’s trial lawyers in action. Lightfoot also pairs each participant with dedicated mentors.

During their week at Lightfoot, participants immerse themselves in the firm’s culture and build valuable connections that can shape their professional future. The Academy also features several social events designed for the pre-law students to get to know the firm’s lawyers, including younger associates who can offer insights into all that Lightfoot offers to those starting their legal careers. 

The week’s schedule also includes curated, interactive educational sessions that focus on essential skills and habits for success in law school and in litigation practice. These sessions offer students a comprehensive understanding of the legal profession, including what it’s like to practice law and how to set the groundwork for a long career.