Student Leaders and Award Recipients: Jasmine Rountree, Carl Hobbs, Yusuf Khan, Niya Pattasseril, Ida Namazi, Sofia Gurgis, Alondra Ayala-Coria, and Giezi Rios
The Catholic Law community recently gathered to recognize individuals who have made a positive difference by supporting and engaging others. Shani Butts, Assistant Dean for Admissions, Financial Aid, and Community Engagement, welcomed everyone to the ceremony, creating a warm and inclusive atmosphere. Through the Community Engagement Advisory Council, the institution presented the 2026 Community Engagement Awards to a group of dedicated alumni. These awards honor members of the Catholic Law family who demonstrate outstanding leadership and a commitment to service, both in their careers and within the community.
The ceremony featured introductions of each award recipient by student leaders who represent the diverse excellence of the law school. Presidents from four student organizations—the Asian Pacific American Law Students Association (APALSA), the Black Law Students Association (BLSA), the Latin American Law Students Association (LALSA), and the Middle Eastern Student Bar Association (MESBA)—took the podium to present the honors. Their involvement highlighted the strong connection between current student leaders and the alumni who continue to pave the way for future generations.
The recipients represent a wide range of legal fields and share a deep commitment to professional excellence. APALSA recognized Yusuf Khan ’24, who serves as a Judicial Law Clerk for the Honorable John M. Maloney. BLSA honored Carl Hobbs ’16, Deputy Counsel to the Inspector General at the USDA Office of Inspector General. LALSA presented its award to Giezi Rios ’24, a Corporate Financing Attorney at FINRA. Finally, MESBA celebrated Ida Namazi ’23, an Associate Attorney at Immigrant First, PLLC.
Each honoree took the opportunity after receiving their award to thank the Catholic Law community for this recognition. In their remarks, they reflected on the vital role of mentorship and the value of staying engaged with current law students, emphasizing how these connections have shaped their careers and outlook. While acknowledging their own roots in smaller student organizations, each recipient noted that they have always felt a strong sense of belonging within the broader, supportive community of Catholic Law. Collectively, these honorees showcase the powerful, positive impact Catholic Law graduates make across the legal profession.
Following the ceremony, a reception was held in the Law School's atrium, where students and alumni gathered to connect and celebrate the achievements together.