During the Law School’s Senior Day celebration on May 6, speakers addressed the Class of 2024 with very personal messages to be true to themselves—even when faced with challenges—as they start to write the next chapter of their lives.
“When all is said and done, most of us want to have a productive life that doesn’t require us to constantly compromise ourselves and our core beliefs,” said the Hon. Judith E. Levy, ’96, who has served on the US District Court for the Eastern District of Michigan since 2014. “Yes, your clients may drive a particular argument or decision, but your work can be in harmony with your beliefs and your own strengths.”
Student speaker Ewurama Appiagyei-Dankah, ’24, who was selected by her fellow students to deliver the student address, spoke of the challenges that some of her classmates have experienced while in law school—from family crises to struggles with their own mental health. She advised her fellow students that, when the going gets tough, not to go it alone. As a student, it was that kind of support that helped her.
“The most important thing we can do for each other in this life is show up. Show up for people’s pain and for their joy. Look first to the humanity in the people around you. Share in the mess of being a human being with other people because those moments are what make us most fully alive.”
