We’re kicking off our summer staff edition of #BisonOfTheWeek! From admissions to academics to behind-the-scenes operations, these are the people who keep Southwestern running and thriving. Meet this week's #BisonOfTheWeek – Mara Parker, our Events and Program Manager. Mara has been with Southwestern for two and a half years, working closely with Dean Dickerson to plan and manage events for faculty, staff, trustees, students, and guests—helping bring the Dean’s vision to life across campus. She also serves as Executive Director of Southwestern’s chapter of the American Inn of Court, overseeing programs that promote excellence, professionalism, and mentorship in the legal community. Mara shares, "One of the things I love most about working at Southwestern is the incredible camaraderie I share with my colleagues. As a one-woman show without a dedicated team, I rely heavily on the generosity, support, and teamwork of others to bring events to life. The willingness of so many to step in with their time, energy, and enthusiasm not only makes my job easier—it fills my heart." #GoBison (fb)

They spotted a legal loophole. Now, they’re trying to change the law. After 𝘋𝘰𝘣𝘣𝘴, three Southwestern students saw a gap in legal protections and took action. I’niah Clark ’24, Jenna Myers Karvunidis ’23, and Christy Thomas ’23 launched the Overarching Reproductive Law Project (ORLP) to protect attorneys advising on lawful reproductive and gender-affirming care. Teaming up with WLALA, legal scholars, and policy experts, they helped draft AB 715, the California Attorney Protection Act. If passed, the bill would prevent California from imposing “reciprocal discipline” on attorneys who are punished in other states for work that is legal here. Their work is a powerful example of student-led advocacy in action. (fb)