Welcome to the Office of Student Affairs

The Office of Student Affairs (OSA) welcomes you to another safe space at the Louis D. Brandeis School of Law. We believe in transparency, authentic individuality, academic excellence and overall well-being. We embrace the changes that allow us to think of innovative ways to engage our students. The OSA supports the mission, vision and principles set forth by the University of Louisville.

This office is dedicated to helping students develop a strong platform for student success and wellness. We offer support, organizational leadership opportunities and guidance while facilitating meaningful relationships among students, faculty, and staff.

Image: Signature, Crystal Coel
Crystal Rae Coel, Esq., M.A.

Assistant Dean for Student Affairs

Student Spotlights

	Peyton Gray Class of 2025 Hometown: Louisville, Kentucky What do you like about Brandeis/Law School? What I like most about Brandeis is the opportunity to venture outside the classroom and explore other interests within the curriculum. For example, participating in the Mediation Clinic while also serving on the Moot Court Client Counseling Team allowed me to gain academic credit while pursuing real-world experience—and in the process, I discovered new passions and made great friends. Career goal – What do you want to do after graduation? After graduation, I plan to work at my father David Gray’s law firm, Gray Law, PLLC, representing plaintiffs in medical malpractice suits. I look forward to practicing alongside my father, a man and lawyer I admire deeply. Who has influenced you the most? My parents have influenced me the most—I’m a perfect blend of the two of them. My mother taught me to be compassionate, selfless, and big-hearted, qualities that will guide me as I advocate for clients with passion and empathy. My father, with his brilliance and resilience, inspired me to follow in his footsteps from Centre College to Brandeis (which was simply the University of Louisville Law School when he attended). I’ve always admired his intelligence, advocacy skills, and ability to persevere through adversity. Being raised by such incredible people shaped me into the woman I am today. Favorite Quote: “It took me quite a long time to develop a voice, and now that I have it, I am not going to be silent.” – Madeleine Albright
	Michael Fields Class of 2025 Hometown: Cecilia, Kentucky What do you like about Brandeis/Law School? What I enjoy most about Brandeis is the faculty. In class, the professors are engaging and bring the material to life. Outside of class, they’re approachable and genuinely committed to helping students succeed. As a first-generation law student with limited connections in the legal field, I’ve especially appreciated how willing they are to open their networks to support our goals. Career goal – What do you want to do after graduation? While I’m still exploring my immediate path after graduation, my long-term goal is to open a small law firm in Elizabethtown, Kentucky. Who has influenced you the most? My grandfather has influenced me the most. He’s a shining example of the person I aspire to be. His strong work ethic, unwavering loyalty, and dedication to helping others have guided me throughout my life and led me to where I am today. Favorite Quote: “Anything worth doing is worth doing right.” – Hunter S. Thompson
	Taijah Thornton Class of 2025 Hometown: Louisville, Kentucky What do you like about Brandeis/Law School? What I like most about Brandeis is the supportive, close-knit community. The professors are not only knowledgeable but genuinely invested in our success. Being involved in student organizations like the Advocacy Society and BLSA has helped me build leadership skills and connect with others who share my passions. Career goal – What do you want to do after graduation? After graduation, I plan to pursue a career in criminal law with the goal of becoming a public defender. I’m passionate about advocating for justice and serving my community, and I hope to gain valuable courtroom experience while making a positive impact in the legal system. Who has influenced you the most? The female attorneys and judges I’ve connected with throughout my legal journey have influenced me the most. Their perseverance and willingness to mentor have shown me the importance of representation in the legal field. The guidance I’ve received from mentors during internships, professors, and local judges has given me the confidence to navigate this profession. Favorite Quote: “Injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere.” – Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.
	Mallory L. Harrington Class of 2025 Hometown: Benton, Kentucky What do you like about Brandeis/Law School? My favorite thing about Brandeis are the people. Between a student body filled with interesting, engaging, and friendly classmates, and a faculty and staff that are immensely caring and knowledgeable, I couldn’t imagine a better community to learn from and grow with. Career goal – What do you want to do after graduation? I hope to serve my community and the interests of justice as a prosecutor. Who has influenced you the most? The generations of fiercely loving men and women I’m lucky to call my family. From my great-grandmother, who was raised in an orphanage after losing her father and went on to work as a riveter during World War II, to my paternal grandmother, who raised two children as a single mother at a time when women weren’t welcomed in the workplace, to my own hardworking and devoted parents—I’ve always been surrounded by people who’ve taught me this simple lesson: a little bit of stubbornness and a whole lot of love can move any mountain and bridge any divide. Favorite Quote: “Courage is being scared to death, but saddling up anyway.” – John Wayne
	Kylie Menish Class of 2025 Hometown: Louisville, Kentucky What do you like about Brandeis/Law School? Brandeis offers a truly unique atmosphere. While it maintains a rigorous and driven academic environment, it also fosters a genuine sense of community and support. The professors and staff demonstrate an uncommon level of care and dedication to their students. This blend of academic excellence and heartfelt encouragement has played a significant role in my success and personal growth throughout law school. Career goal – What do you want to do after graduation? At this point, I’m still exploring the specific career path I’d like to pursue after graduation. My time at Brandeis has exposed me to a wide range of legal fields and opportunities I hadn’t previously considered. I’m excited to continue exploring and to see where my experiences and interests lead me. Who has influenced you the most? Judge Yvette De La Guardia and Defense Attorney Kevin Glogower have both had a profound impact on my academic and legal journey. Judge De La Guardia’s tireless advocacy and commitment to equal treatment under the law have been truly inspiring. Her historic achievement as the first Latina District Court Judge elected in Jefferson County exemplifies perseverance and purpose. Likewise, Kevin Glogower introduced me to the field of law and has been instrumental in shaping my career. His mentorship and support have opened many doors, and I’m deeply grateful for the guidance he has provided. Favorite Quote: “Success is not the absence of failure; it’s the persistence through failure.”

Inclusive Excellence

Katherine “Katie” Barker

Class of 2025

This year—are you a 1L, 2L, or 3L?
I am a 3L this year!

Hometown and State:
Born and raised in Louisville, Kentucky.

What do you love most about your family and/or friends?
I love the unwavering support I receive from my family and friends. I wouldn’t be where I am today without the people who lift me up when I fall and cheer me on regardless of the outcome. Through the trials and tribulations of law school, they’ve continued to care for my mental well-being and helped me stay grounded in my faith.

What undergraduate and graduate degrees do you have? What majors/minors?
I earned my Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice from UofL through the 3+3 program—an accelerated track that allows students to begin their 1L year during what would be their senior year of undergrad.

Why law school, and why Brandeis?
I chose law school because I’m passionate about helping my community and want to improve the system from within. I chose Brandeis specifically for its deep commitment to public service. Public service is essential to making the world a better place, and since it’s one of my core values, attending a school that shares that commitment was very important to me.

How have you changed since your 1L year?
When I started law school, I was just 20 years old, so you can imagine how much I’ve grown since then. I’ve matured emotionally and begun to build my professional identity. I now have more confidence and a clearer sense of the kind of attorney I want to be. Most importantly, I’ve learned how to show up authentically in both personal and professional spaces.

In addition to getting into the UofL Brandeis School of Law, what are you most proud of and why?
I’m most proud of my personal growth—especially the ways I’ve healed and stepped out of my comfort zone. Law school doesn’t always pair well with emotional healing, but my commitment to therapy during this time has helped me discover more about myself and embrace experiences I never thought I would try.

How do you define Inclusive? How do you define Excellence?
Inclusive means creating a space where differences are recognized and respected, and where everyone feels that they belong. Belonging is key to building truly inclusive spaces.
Excellence is a personal standard—it looks different for everyone. For me, excellence means doing my best to live out my purpose.

What is your professional goal for five years from now?
I hope to be working in criminal law as a prosecutor, taking cases to trial and continuing to build my confidence and skills as a trial attorney. I also hope to stay involved in serving my community outside of the legal profession.

Favorite Quote or piece of advice:
“When they go low, we go high.” – Michelle Obama

Bailey Gardin

Class of 2025

This year—are you a 1L, 2L, or 3L?
3L

Hometown and State:
Gastonia, North Carolina

What do you love most about your family and/or friends?
I love that I’m surrounded by family and friends who truly want the best for me—but who also aren’t afraid to hold me accountable. Their support is grounded in honesty, and that has helped me grow.

What undergraduate and graduate degrees do you have? What majors/minors?
I earned a B.S. in Political Science with a minor in Criminal Justice.

Why law school, and why Brandeis?
I chose law school because I’m passionate about creating opportunities and resources for those who need the most support, especially youth. I believed the legal field would equip me with the tools to drive meaningful, intentional change. I was drawn to Brandeis because of its strong emphasis on service and community engagement. I also wanted to challenge myself by stepping outside my comfort zone and experiencing life in a different state. I’m forever grateful for the opportunity and support Brandeis has provided in pursuit of my dream.

How have you changed since your 1L year?
Since 1L year, I’ve developed more confidence in myself—not just as a law student, but as a young professional ready to make an impact.

In addition to getting into the UofL Brandeis School of Law, what are you most proud of and why?
One of my proudest accomplishments happened during my junior year at Appalachian State University in 2020. As a member of Student Government, I led the implementation of an academic relief policy that over 5,000 students used. It allowed students to choose a Pass/Fail grading system instead of traditional numeric grades during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic. The transition to virtual learning was difficult for both students and professors, and I felt it was unfair to apply traditional standards to such unprecedented times. Knowing that this policy helped thousands of students makes me incredibly grateful to have been in a position to advocate for meaningful change.

How do you define Inclusive? How do you define Excellence?
To be inclusive is to have an open mind, show respect, and treat others with kindness—no matter how different our principles may be.
Excellence is about striving for greatness and never settling for less. It’s not something handed to you—it’s earned, and it often requires sacrifice and resilience.

What is your professional goal for five years from now?
Five years from now, I hope to be using my legal education to drive the kind of change I want to see in the world—and to have established a respected reputation in the legal profession.

Favorite Quote or piece of advice:
“Everything you want is on the other side of hard.” – Monty Williams
This quote reminds me that anything worth achieving will come with challenges—but it’s the journey that makes success truly rewarding.

Madelyn Garrett

Class of 2025

This year—are you a 1L, 2L, or 3L?
3L

Hometown and State:
Madisonville, Kentucky

What do you love most about your family and/or friends?
I love that my family and friends help keep me balanced. Their constant support and gentle reminders about what really matters in life—beyond the walls of law school—keep me grounded.

What undergraduate and graduate degrees do you have? What majors/minors?
I graduated with a major in Women and Gender Studies on a 3+3 law school track and earned a minor in Public Health.

Why law school, and why Brandeis?
Law school has been my dream for as long as I can remember. I’ve always known I wanted a career where I could make a real difference and feel passionate about my work. My primary passion is working closely with people in need, and obtaining a law degree makes it not only possible but impactful.

How have you changed since your 1L year?
Since 1L year, I’ve gained a great deal of confidence and self-assurance. Adjusting to law school can be intimidating, but learning to trust myself and realizing that I belong here has helped me grow in the best way possible.

In addition to getting into the UofL Brandeis School of Law, what are you most proud of and why?
I’m most proud of the person I’ve become over the past three years. I’ve grown into someone who stands firmly in their beliefs, regardless of the environment. I’m proud of caring—both when it matters and when it seems like it doesn’t. My compassion for others and commitment to systemic change have shaped me into an advocate ready to serve those who need it most.

How do you define Inclusive? How do you define Excellence?
To me, inclusivity must be intersectional. It means embracing and honoring all identities while ensuring that everyone feels seen, heard, and valued.
Excellence is deeply personal—it’s about striving to achieve your own goals while remaining true to your values and maintaining your integrity.

What is your professional goal for five years from now?
In five years, I hope to be a trial lawyer advocating for those in need. Regardless of my job title, I want to make a meaningful difference in the lives of underserved communities while continuing to feel passionate about the work I do.

Favorite Quote or piece of advice:
Growing up, my mom would often say, “This too shall pass.”
As a child, it was a comforting reminder that hard times don’t last forever. As I’ve gotten older, the phrase has taken on a deeper meaning—it reminds me that even the good moments are fleeting. It’s a call to slow down and take everything in—the good and the bad—because it too shall pass.