The College of Law’s alumni awards program recognizes alumni who have made significant achievements in their careers and in their service to the College of Law. The program features four award categories: Emerging Leader, Iowa Law Review Distinguished Alumni, Alumni Service, and Alumni Achievement.

These individuals, consisting of both current students and recent graduates, have earned a place on the distinguished honors society list through their dedicated commitment to serving others and cultivating the skills and values essential for a life of public service.

The DEI Awards were established to acknowledge the significant contributions of students, faculty, and staff who have played a pivotal role in advancing diversity and inclusion at Iowa Law. The awards committee also sought out those who have demonstrated their commitment by introducing innovative programs or initiatives that enhance diversity and inclusion within the college. 

The Wunderlich brothers of Mason City, Iowa, are all in on their home state—and the University of Iowa College of Law is all the better for it. “I love Iowa,” Elias says. “I’m a very proud native Iowan. I’ve been all around the country, and there’s something special about Iowa. I feel like you can do something here and get noticed for it. Iowa’s an easy place to live, an easy place to realize your dreams, and the people are amazing.”

During Hispanic Heritage Month, a compelling narrative has unfolded at Iowa Law where passionate individuals with multicultural backgrounds intertwine their legal aspirations and desire to create change within the legal community. Patricia Linninger, a second-year law student and president of the Hispanic and Latinx Law Students Association, has nearly four years of experience in immigration, discovering that her diverse background helped her facilitate trust and communication with clients.

Zachary Sides is a second-year law student and vice president of Iowa Law's Hispanic and Latinx Law Students Association (HLLSA). Zach is extremely proud of his heritage and through HLLSA he’s working to help promote, encourage, and increase the number of Hispanic and Latinx individuals in the legal field and to enhance their legal education.  

First-gen student, Bry-Tanny Weaver talks about her inspiration to study law, the programs and people who helped her along the way, and how her heritage shaped her goals and desire to give back. As a child she loved watching Law & Order with her mom and, as she grew up, she saw the real world impacts of having a skilled attorney on your side in times of need. Her experiences shaped her future in law.

“No one in my family has been to law school, so I didn’t know what to expect. The image I had in my head was that you’re on your own, and no one will help you. I did not want a school like that—especially since I was used to the warm and friendly environment of a small liberal arts college,” says Anelisa. “I knew when I went to law school that I wanted to feel at home, and when I visited Iowa Law, I definitely felt that.” 

rowing up in the town of Nichols, Iowa, Isaac Sarinana found himself on an extraordinary path that led him to Iowa Law. Isaac’s interest in pursuing a legal education began after he hired an immigration attorney to sponsor a family member. It was during his final year of college that he had a life-changing encounter with an immigration attorney and Iowa Law alum.

This year’s One Community, One Book (OCOB) program features "The Farm" by author Joanne Ramos. This program, hosted by the UI Center for Human Rights (UICHR), an affiliated center with the College of Law, has become a cherished tradition.