As a law school student, Addie Rogers was always interested in learning how to help support and navigate clients through the legal system, especially the underprivileged. Through her years at the University of Louisville Brandeis School of Law, Rogers said she learned that and so much more. With the unique opportunity she was given as a Breonna Taylor Legacy Fellowship scholar informing her journey, Rogers, who graduates in May, talked to UofL News and reflected on what she takes with her as she embarks on her new road as an attorney.
UofL News: How did you feel when you found out you were selected as a Breonna Taylor Fellow?
Rogers: I felt honored and incredibly grateful to be given the opportunity to work in such an impactful way. Most law students are forced to choose between paying their rent and other expenses or working in public interest. This fellowship gave me the honor and opportunity to practice in a field I am passionate about, and to help those most in need.
I am so thankful to the Breonna Taylor Legacy Fellowship team, Taylor’s family and the law school for this opportunity. I have been proud to attend a law school that has such a supportive community for its students and provides them with such incredible opportunities.
UofL News: What did you learn from your fellowship and how did this experience enhance your law school experience?
Rogers: For my fellowship, I worked at the Clark County, Indiana, Public Defender’s Office. Last summer, I worked on developing motions and trial documents for the attorneys in the office. Further, I was responsible for speaking directly to our clients in the office and on the phone. My goal was to give our clients who often have no one to turn to, a listening ear. Using my restorative justice training, I assisted our clients through the system and addressing their concerns.
UofL News: How has this experience been professionally and personally meaningful for you?
Rogers: The Breonna Taylor Legacy Fellowship gave me an incredible opportunity to serve the community and advocate for the rights of the public. It can be easy after a fight for justice to forget, to be complicit in our lives. My goal as a fellow was to never forget. I am committed every day to fighting for those most disadvantaged.
UofL News: How do you believe being a Breonna Taylor fellow will continue to influence your future law career?
Rogers: This internship was absolutely a pillar of my future career. At the office, I learned the system and route of a trial from beginning to end. Communicating with clients is essential to a proper practice and career. Post-graduation, I have secured a clerkship for the next two years working in the Eastern District of Kentucky.
I believe I learned how to be a better community member and how to help those going through the system, using my skills to assist future clients and the community at large. Bryan Stevenson, an attorney I look up to, says “no one should be defined by the worst thing they have ever done.” Unfortunately, defendant’s rights are violated and judged before they ever walk through the door. This is a lofty goal, but one I carry with me every day.
UofL News: What has been your favorite part of your experience at the Brandeis School of Law?
Rogers: I can’t say enough about the community that I have become a part of. The support from staff, faculty and my peers has been life changing. I was so thankful to be at a place where I can learn and grow with a community of support behind me.
The Brandeis School of Law held its fifth Annual Breonna Taylor Lecture on April 9. See pictures from the event on Flickr.
