On May 1, the USC Gould School of Law Undergraduate Law Programs, in partnership with the Legal Studies Student Association (LSSA), held its first formal end-of-year celebration for students earning a Bachelor of Science in Legal Studies, honoring the Class of 2025. The event marked a milestone in the program’s evolution, featuring a pinning ceremony, the presentation of honor cords, and special recognition for four outstanding graduates who exemplified academic excellence, community impact, and show promise to the future in legal education.
“This inaugural ceremony marks the continued growth of USC Gould’s Undergraduate Law Programs. Our efforts strengthen Gould’s commitment to shaping future leaders in law, policy and society,” stated Professor Robert Rasmussen, faculty director of undergraduate education at USC Gould.
Among the highlights of the ceremony was the acknowledgment of four exemplary students:
Commitment to Community Award: Laura Denise Mendez S. was honored for her impactful service and active involvement in both the law school and the wider USC community.
Distinguished Legal Studies Graduate Award: Luz Clarissa Rosales was celebrated for her academic excellence, commitment to the field of legal education and promise for future research and creative endeavors.
Lifelong Learner in Legal Education Award: Brianna Sanchez, who served as Undergraduate Student Government (USG) President and LSSA Vice President, was recognized for her leadership and visionary approach to legal education.
Outstanding Legal Scholar Award: Susanna Andryan, this year’s commencement speaker, received recognition for her outstanding legal writing and deep commitment to law through active involvement in internships, externships, and leadership roles. A first-generation student, Andryan served as President of both LSSA and the Blackstonians pre-law honor society and as Chief Justice for USG. She also was awarded the prestigious University Discovery Scholar Prize, an honor granted to just 10 undergraduates across USC.
The graduating class of 28 students reflects the program’s growing influence:
- 22 graduates earned Latin honors, including seven summa cum laude.
- The class includes 10 first-generation college students, 11 transfers and one international student.
- Both Andryan and Sanchez were named University Discovery Scholars, with Sanchez also receiving the “Order of the Laurel and the Palm” University Recognition Award.
Post-graduation plans reflect the diverse ambitions of the class. One student, Michael Apfel, will attend the JD program at USC Gould. Others have committed to graduate education and legal practice, including Sanchez, who will be attending USC Rossier for a Master’s degree in Postsecondary Administration and Student Affairs; Caroline Helms, who will be attending LMU Loyola Law School; and Nolan McDowell, who will serve as a legislative correspondent for U.S. Sen. Jon Husted. Seven students plan to pursue law school in the future.
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