Winston Salem Times

At Wake Forest Law, veterans and active duty service-member students receive more than just a legal education; they become part of a community. The school offers robust support through the Veterans Legal Clinic, Yellow Ribbon Program, Veterans Advocacy Legal Organization (VALOR), and faculty and staff committed to aiding those who served.

Marine Nick Rader, a JD candidate from the class of 2025, emphasized the continuing sense of duty post-military service, stating, “I joined the military to give something back to this country that has given so much to me.” This ethos is mirrored in the initiatives like the Veterans Legal Clinic, which prepares students for legal careers while assisting others.

The Veterans Legal Clinic offers free legal aid to ex-service members facing challenges, from mental health struggles to racial discrimination. Students help correct injustices in military records and advocate for veterans at the Department of Veterans Affairs. Eleanor Morales, an Army Reserve Officer and Assistant Clinical Professor, leads the clinic. She is well-equipped for this role, having served in the JAG Corps and understanding both military and legal terrains.

The clinic has achieved significant victories, such as securing an honorable discharge for a female service member survivor of military sexual trauma and obtaining veteran status for a Vietnam-era soldier unjustly discharged. Brittany Taylor, another JD candidate and active duty combat arms officer, found these opportunities pivotal for her legal education and future as a JAG officer through the Army’s Funded Legal Education Program.

The appeal of Wake Forest Law's offerings, particularly the Veterans Legal Clinic, influences many students' decision to enroll. Hiram Poplin, a JD candidate and former Army first lieutenant, noted the appeal of Wake Forest Law's policies and clinics, which attract a growing number of veterans.

Wake Forest Law supports 13 active duty and former service members, with numbers expected to rise due to the advantageous Yellow Ribbon Program. This program mitigates tuition costs for eligible veterans by matching GI Bill benefits without limit, an offer appreciated by participants like Hiram Poplin, who is also the VALOR president.

VALOR provides a support network and outreach platform for military-affiliated students. Professor Morales, VALOR's faculty advisor, described it as an active student organization drawing increasing interest.

The transition from military to academic life can be arduous for some, but Wake Forest Law’s community, via initiatives like VALOR, the Veterans Legal Clinic, and the support from faculty, eases this process. JD candidates like Josh Flemings and Justin Combs highlight the impact of a supportive community and small class environments on their educational experience.

The camaraderie fostered at Wake Forest Law resonates with veterans, providing a sense of familiarity and community similar to military life. As Will Scott, a former Army Military Intelligence Officer, shared, the veterans at Wake Forest Law adapt military camaraderie to build supportive law school networks.

This community-building extends beyond law school, continuing into legal careers where these students maintain their legacy of service and leadership, true to their military beginnings.