"You nurtured all your students, even if it meant pushing them into the deep end" -Anonymous

“People will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.” - Dr. Maya Angelou

This quote never seemed so true as when I sat down to write this note. I know I learned a great deal as a student at the Immigration Justice Clinic, but what I remember most vividly - and what continues to influence me today - is the confidence you gave me. I started law school as an insecure evening student who was mostly naïve about the world. You spent so much time talking with me after my classes ended at 10 p.m., encouraging me and taking a genuine interest in my life, including my inevitable struggles as a new parent. I always left your office with the confidence to change the world, one good deed at a time.

You backed up your words with actions, making innumerable accommodations to allow me to enroll in IJC while watching my son during the day and while serving as an intern at the immigration court. You reviewed countless cover letters for internships, made calls on my behalf, reviewed my law review articles, and nominated me for awards.

If I’m honest with myself, I had secretly hoped it was something unique about me that motivated your efforts, but I soon saw that you inspired the same confidence and enthusiasm in many others. That’s because you nurtured all your students, even if it meant pushing them into the deep end of the pool. I recall one time asking you a question during my first summer about why Congress created three similar forms of relief for refugees, and you answered: “How the hell should I know why Congress does anything!?” I researched for myself, and we discussed.

I could write so much more, but I’ll close by saying thank you, Vanessa. The confidence you gave me helped me become the attorney - and the person - I am today.

Anonymous