St. Thomas University College of Law

Official Twitter account of St. Thomas University College of Law in Miami. Largest law school in Florida for traditional J.D. programs.

[St. Thomas University College of Law @StThomasLaw]

The Summer in Spain Program reflects STU College of Law's commitment to providing students with transformative global experiences that prepare them for an increasingly interconnected legal profession.

#STUMiami // #STULaw // #SummerInSpain

[St. Thomas University College of Law @StThomasLaw]

From Miami to Spain, STU Law students are expanding their legal education beyond borders through the Summer in Spain Program in San Lorenzo de El Escorial.

Nestled in the foothills of the Guadarrama Mountains and just outside Madrid, the historic town of El Escorial offers students a unique setting to combine academics, culture, and community while living alongside centuries of history at the UNESCO World Heritage Site of the Royal Monastery of San Lorenzo de El Escorial.

@TarlikaNavarro

#STUMiami // #STULaw // #SummerInSpain

[St. Thomas University College of Law @StThomasLaw]

In the classroom, students are exploring topics such as judicial decision-making, including independent factual investigation, judicial notice, and statutory interpretation. Outside the classroom, students are experiencing Spain firsthand through shared meals, cultural immersion, and excursions, including a hike led by Dean Tarlika Nuñez-Navarro to one of the highest points in town, where the group enjoyed breathtaking views of the monastery and the surrounding landscape.

#STUMiami // #STULaw // #SummerInSpain

[St. Thomas University College of Law @StThomasLaw]

The 2nd Annual Spiritual Bar Boost Program continued this week with a session centered on "The Way of Surrender." Graduates reflected on managing stress and anxiety through faith while finding encouragement, fellowship, and spiritual support throughout the bar preparation journey. Inspired by Scripture and the example of St. Thomas More, the program continues to support the whole person as graduates prepare for the Bar Exam.

The session also welcomed STU Law graduate Vincent Reda, who returned to share his insights and experiences with the students, offering encouragement and practical wisdom as they continue their preparation for the Bar Exam.

A special thank you to President David Armstrong for his surprise FaceTime call and words of encouragement, which provided an uplifting reminder to our graduates that the entire STU community is cheering them on throughout their Bar Exam journey.

@TarlikaNavarro @STUPrez

#STUMiami // #STULaw // #BarPrep

[St. Thomas University College of Law @StThomasLaw]

✨🎤🇺🇸

[St. Thomas University College of Law @StThomasLaw]

Congratulations to Professor Colleen O'Toole! Her innovative article, "Prosecutorial Discretion as Infrastructure: The Sequential Intercept Model," has been accepted for publication in Volume 15 of the Indiana Journal of Law and Social Equality.

The article explores how prosecutors can play a pivotal role in preventing individuals from entering or re-entering the criminal justice system by embracing a community-centered, prevention-oriented approach.

By integrating resources such as housing, healthcare, education, and social support into the justice system, Professor O'Toole argues that preventive justice offers a more sustainable path to reducing crime and strengthening communities.
#STUMiami // #STULaw

[St. Thomas University College of Law @StThomasLaw]

Professor Dr. Roza Pati attended the prestigious Council on Foreign Relations (CFR) Religion and Foreign Policy Workshop on May 20-21, 2026—two days of expert panels and discussion groups on cutting-edge issues impacting U.S. engagement with the world. Participation in the workshop is by invitation and selection only. The CFR is a non-partisan, independent national membership organization, think tank, educator, and publisher, including of Foreign Affairs. It generates policy-relevant ideas and analysis, convenes experts and policy makers, and promotes informed public discussion. This year’s workshop focused on issues at the intersection of religion and U.S. foreign policy affairs. Panels focused on: The Future of Humanitarian Aid; Faith, Ethics, and Artificial Intelligence; Conflict in the Middle East; The Local to Global Dimensions of Immigration. Discussion group sessions related to Climate and Faith Movements; Gender Equality and Faith Communities; International Religious Freedom; Peace and Global Conflict; and the Rise of Religious Nationalism and Authoritarianism, in which Dr. Pati had her insightful contribution.

Professor Pati has also received an exceptional invitation from the Council of Europe to present at its Headquarters in Strasbourg before the 8th Plenary Meeting of the Committee of the Parties to the Convention against Trafficking in Human Organs (The Santiago de Compostela Convention), which will take place on June 9-10, 2026. Dr. Pati has been invited to share her “valuable experience and insights” in anti-trafficking, with particular emphasis on trafficking in persons for the purposes of organ transplant. The organizers express appreciation for Dr. Pati’s “willingness to engage with the work of the Council of Europe.”

#STUMiami // #STULaw

[St. Thomas University @StThomasUniv]

Behind every graduate is a village that helped make these moments possible. 💙🎓
To the parents, grandparents, siblings, family members, friends, mentors, and loved ones who cheered from the sidelines, offered support through every challenge, and celebrated every milestone—thank you.
Commencement is more than a celebration of our graduates. It's a celebration of everyone who helped them get here.
Congratulations to the Class of 2026, and thank you to the family and friends who were part of the journey every step of the way. 🐾✨
@StThomasLaw
#STUMiami #Commencement2026 #BobcatPride #StuFeatured #BeGiant

[St. Thomas University College of Law @StThomasLaw]

St. Thomas University College of Law in partnership with The Trial Lawyers Section of the Florida Bar welcomed attorneys and judges from across Florida for the 2026 Advanced Trial Advocacy Course, presented by the Trial Lawyers Section of The Florida Bar. For the first time in approximately 40 years, the prestigious program was hosted at STU College of Law rather than its traditional location at the University of Florida.

The intensive program focuses on hands-on trial skills development through lectures, demonstrations, and practical exercises, allowing participants to refine courtroom advocacy techniques while receiving individualized feedback from experienced judges and trial attorneys.

Hosting the Advanced Trial Advocacy 2026 reflects STU College of Law’s strong partnership with the legal community while providing students with unique opportunities to engage with leaders in the profession.

@TarlikaNavarro

#STUMiami // #STULaw // #ATA2026 // #AdvancedTrialAdvocacy

[St. Thomas University College of Law @StThomasLaw]

This week, STU Law graduates gathered for the first session of the 2nd Annual Spiritual Bar Boost Program, taking time to reflect, connect, and recharge as they prepare for the Bar Exam.

The journey to the Bar is demanding, but you don't have to carry the weight alone. Through weekly themes, guest speakers, and fellowship, the program is designed to support the whole person throughout bar preparation.

Missed the first session? There's still time to join us for the upcoming gatherings.

📅 Wednesdays | 12:15 PM – 12:45 PM
📍 ASP Skills Center
🗓️ June 10, 17, 24 | July 1, 15, 22

#STULaw // #STUMiami // #BarPrep

[St. Thomas University College of Law @StThomasLaw]

On Saturday, May 30th, rising 3Ls Jaylyn Jones, Emmanuela Petit, Britany Harris, and Genesis Johnson, along with rising 2L Soraya Jovin, attended the Wilkie D. Ferguson Jr. Bar Association & Foundation's 45th Annual Installation & Scholarship Gala at Jungle Island alongside Jennifer Ley-Soto, Senior Director for Career Development, Sabrina Salomon, Director of Public Sector, and Morenike Saula, Assistant Professor of Law.

Inspired by Langston Hughes' words, “I, too, sing America,” the evening brought together attorneys, judges, alumni, students, and community leaders to celebrate 250 years of achievement, resilience, and impact. The gala honored legacy, recognized excellence, and reflected the strength of community within the legal profession and beyond.

The event provided students with valuable opportunities to engage with legal leaders, alumni, and members of the profession while celebrating the installation of Julian Jackson-Fannin as President of the Wilkie D. Ferguson Jr. Bar Association.

Congratulations to R. Donahue "Don" Peebles, recipient of the Corporate Citizen Award; Hans Ottinot Sr., Esq., recipient of the Trailblazer Award; Melba V. Pearson, Esq., recipient of the Community Service Award; Yaneth Baez, Esq., recipient of the Public Service Award; and Jeremy McLymont, recipient of the Rising Star Award.

Pictured are members of the STU Law community alongside legal and community leaders, including STU Law alumni Joshua Heath (’22) and Javier Ley-Soto (’05), Michael T. Davis, STU Law Adjunct Professor and Immediate Past President of the Wilkie D. Ferguson Jr. Bar Association, and newly installed President Julian Jackson-Fannin.

#STUMiami // #STULaw

[St. Thomas University College of Law @StThomasLaw]

On Friday, May 29th, STU Law students had the opportunity to attend and volunteer at the 110th Annual Miami-Dade Bar Installation Gala alongside Dean Tarlika Nuñez-Navarro and Jennifer Ley-Soto, Senior Director for Career Development, connecting with leaders from across the legal community and celebrating excellence in the profession.

Student volunteers included rising 3Ls Cassandra Concilio and Juan Otero, and rising 2L Rani Jivani. Rising 3Ls Jake DeChick, SBA President, and Lisandra Triana, SBA Vice President, also represented the College of Law among members of the bench and bar. The evening provided valuable networking opportunities for students while celebrating the accomplishments of legal leaders throughout South Florida.

Congratulations to John Kozyak, recipient of the Dyer Award; Melissa V. Jordon on her installation as President of the Miami-Dade Bar; and Maria Papasakelariou on her appointment as President of the Young Lawyers Section.

Pictured are members of the judiciary, alumni, and friends of STU Law, including Honorable Judge Marie Mato, Florida’s Eleventh Judicial Circuit Court; Honorable Judge Christina DiRaimondo, Miami-Dade Circuit Court; Honorable Judge Bronwyn C. Miller, Florida Third District Court of Appeal; Honorable Judge Linda Stein, Miami-Dade County Court and STU Law Adjunct Professor; STU Law alumna Honorable Judge Jose Rohaidy (‘17), Miami-Dade County Court; Honorable Judge Chiaka Ihekwaba (’01); Charise Morgan, Past President of the Miami-Dade Bar; STU Law alumna and Board of Advisors member Schuyler Smith (’09); Herman J. Russomanno, STU Law Adjunct Faculty Member, Chair Emeritus of the College of Law Board of Advisors, and former President of The Florida Bar; Thomas Santi (’25); Past President of CABA Javier Ley-Soto (’05); and alumni Herman Russomano III (’04) and Suzette Russomanno (’04), both past presidents of the Miami-Dade Bar.

@TarlikaNavarro

#STUMiami // #STULaw

[St. Thomas University College of Law @StThomasLaw]

STU Law students had the opportunity to attend and volunteer at the Miami-Dade Trial Lawyers Association Judicial Reception alongside Dean Tarlika Nunez-Navarro, connecting with members of the legal community while supporting the event through registration and guest check-in.

Student volunteers included rising 2L Joseph Faradji and rising 3Ls Valentina Benavides, Camila Godoy Heredia, Juan Otero, and Lisandra Triana. Also attending was rising 3L Gabriela Martinez, Dean Nuñez-Navarro's research assistant, who joined the evening alongside members of the judiciary and legal profession.

The event recognized several distinguished members of the legal community, including Adjunct Professor Judge Abby Cynamon of the Eleventh Judicial Circuit, recipient of the Judge Steve Levine Award; Judge Jason Dimitris of the Eleventh Judicial Circuit, President of the Honorable Peter T. Fay Inn of Court, recipient of the Judge Manny Crespo Award; and Judge Monica Gordo of the Third District Court of Appeal, recipient of the Justice Harry Lee Anstead Award.

Also pictured are Adjunct Professor Judge Linda Singer Stein of the Eleventh Judicial Circuit Court and Amanda Demanda, Esq.

@TarlikaNavarro

#STUMiami // #STULaw

[St. Thomas University College of Law @StThomasLaw]

More than 80 students from Miami Carol City Senior High School participated in this year’s Honorable Peter R. Palermo Mentorship Program at STU College of Law, culminating in the C.H.I.E.F. Challenge, a six-week legal research and advocacy project encouraging students to analyze important social, legal, and political issues impacting their communities.

Students presented thoughtful and impactful solutions while gaining valuable mentorship and advocacy experience alongside members of the legal community. The event also welcomed Rosalyn “Sia” Baker-Barnes, President of The Florida Bar, as keynote speaker.

The Palermo Mentorship Program continues STU College of Law’s longstanding commitment to mentorship, civic engagement, and developing future leaders both inside and outside the legal profession.

Special thank you to Kubicki Draper and The Leon Foundation for their continued generosity and support of the program’s mission.

🔗 https://t.co/5tnaRTNwmG

#STUMiami // #STULaw

[St. Thomas University College of Law @StThomasLaw]

Professor Sandy Boisrond recently attended the 13th Annual Conference of the Association of Academic Support Educators in Las Vegas, hosted by UNLV William S. Boyd School of Law. Professor Boisrond served as a panelist for the presentation, “Playing Your Best Hand: Making Academic Probation Work For You and Your Students.”

The panel brought together eight Academic Intervenors to discuss effective approaches to managing academic probation programs, including setting a supportive tone during initial student meetings, addressing stigma, developing meaningful probationary-semester activities, expanding support services, tracking student progress, and providing continued guidance after students return to good academic standing.

Professor Boisrond shared insights on strategies for sustaining student success beyond probation, as well as approaches for supporting students amid increasing class sizes and evolving academic standards.

#STUMiami // #STULaw

[St. Thomas University College of Law @StThomasLaw]

St. Thomas University College of Law was proud to sponsor the Miami-Dade Chapter of the Florida Association for Women Lawyers' 46th Annual Installation & Awards Reception, celebrating this year’s theme, “Rooted and Rising.” Senior Director Jennifer Ley-Soto, Samantha Alvarez (rising 2L), and Natalie Medina (rising 2L) attended the event.

The evening recognized the strength, leadership, and lasting impact of women in the legal profession while highlighting the importance of mentorship, community, and creating pathways for the next generation of lawyers.

STU Law is honored to support organizations that continue to elevate and empower women in law. Congratulations to MDFAWL’s newly installed President, Allison Leonard!

#STUMiami // #STULaw

[St. Thomas University College of Law @StThomasLaw]

Rising 3Ls Yashley Mesa, Angelique Crespo, Juliette Valle, and Angela Barbosa Vilar had the opportunity to attend the 17th Annual Heart of Giving Reception hosted by Legal Services of Greater Miami alongside Dean Tarlika Nuñez-Navarro and Sabrina Salomon, Director of Public Sector.

The evening provided students with an opportunity to connect with members of the legal community while learning more about the meaningful advocacy and legal services being provided throughout South Florida.

During the event, The Honorable Edwin A. Scales III, Chief Judge of the Third District Court of Appeal of Florida, was presented with the 2026 Equal Justice Judicial Leadership Award.

#STUMiami // #STULaw