The 2025 Institutes and Special Programs Certificate Ceremony took place on May 22 in the Rev. William J. Byron, S.J. Auditorium, bringing together graduates from five specialized certificate programs and their guests to celebrate an extraordinary milestone. These students achieved a level of expertise surpassing the foundational J.D. curriculum, earning certificates that mark their mastery in distinct areas of legal practice.

The ceremony honored graduates from the Comparative and International Law Institute (CILI); Compliance, Investigations, and Corporate Responsibility Program (CICR); Law and Public Policy Program (LPP); Law and Technology Institute (LTI); and Securities Law Program (SLP). Certification from these institutes highlights their recipients as specialists, prepared to excel in their respective fields.

Dean Stephen Payne opened the ceremony with a warm welcome to graduates, faculty, staff, and guests. Following his remarks, each program director expressed their pride in the graduating class, reflecting on their accomplishments and dedication.

Professor Susanna Fischer, Director of CILI, presented certificates to this year’s CILI graduates, celebrating their focus on global and comparative legal studies. Professor Sarah H. Duggin, Director of CICR, together with John Polanin, Jr., Associate Director of CICR, acknowledged the achievements of CICR graduates, commending their commitment to corporate responsibility and compliance.

Brian Svoboda, Director of LPP, spoke about the unique positioning of Catholic Law in offering a public policy certificate, emphasizing its location in the nation’s capital and its mission of service. Svoboda also awarded the Dulin Haynes Fellowship to Dylan Celentano and Maura Schlee for their outstanding dedication to public service.

Representing the LTI, Professor Megan M. La Belle, Senior Associate Dean for Academic Affairs and Co-Director of the institute, celebrated the accomplishments of the institute’s graduates. She also presented the Harvey L. Zuckman Scholarship Award to Keelin Ferris in recognition of Ferris' academic excellence and contributions to the LTI and the broader law school community.

Finally, Jack Murphy, Director of SLP, commended the passion and determination of this year’s securities law students, underscoring their drive to succeed in this dynamic field.

This event not only celebrated the academic achievements of these graduates but also highlighted their readiness to make meaningful contributions to the legal profession.

 

2025 Certificate Recipients