On Monday, May 12, 2025, Wayne State University Law School celebrated the academic achievements and bright futures of graduates at the Detroit Opera House—an iconic venue at the heart of the city the law school proudly calls home. This year’s graduating class included Juris Doctor recipients, Master of Laws recipients, and graduates of the Master of Studies in Law program. 

Dean Richard A. Bierschbach opened the ceremony with a warm welcome, followed by greetings from Provost and Executive Vice President for Academic Affairs Laurie Lauzon Clabo, Board of Governors Member Justice Marilyn Kelly, and student leaders Georgé Cole and Samantha Lamrock. The 2025 Professors of the Year, Lynn Sholander (First-Year) and Dan Ellman (Upperclass), were also recognized for their outstanding contributions to legal education. 

The keynote address was delivered by renowned civil rights attorney and 1979 Wayne Law alumna Deborah LaBelle, whose transformative legal work has expanded constitutional protections and advanced human rights across the nation. Her message inspired graduates to lead with courage, compassion, and conviction. 

Wayne Law extends sincere gratitude to its dedicated faculty, staff, volunteers, and partners including the Commencement Planning Committee, Inland Press, and the Detroit Opera House for helping create a memorable celebration of achievement and purpose. 

View highlights from this unforgettable celebration in our digital photo album on Flickr.