Published: Aug. 7, 2024 By

ProfessorÌýMatsumoto (SM) and ProfessorÌýKrishnamurthy (VK), new faculty members in the Clinical Education Program, share insights from their inaugural year, highlighting the impact of hands-on legal education at Colorado Law.Vivek and Sarah

What were some of the most memorable experiencesÌýduring your first year?

SM: "The energy of NREE Clinic student attorneys, and how welcome they made me feel, is a memory I'll always cherish. Despite the challenges of real-world legal work, students eagerly embraced new experiences."

VK: "The incredible camaraderie that developed among the student attorneys in my clinic was remarkable. We witnessed not just the growth of legal skills, but also the formation of lasting friendships."

Can you share a specific success story or impactful moment from your work with students and clients this year?

SM: "Students represented a community group against the Bureau of Land Management over logging in old-growth forest in Oregon. We received a favorable preliminary decision, demonstrating the real-world impact of clinical work." (Read more about this case here)Ìý

VK: "We petitioned the FCC to reconsider its approach to AI transcription of telephone calls for deaf Americans. This project allowed students to tackle cutting-edge issues while advocating for marginalized communities."

What goals or plans do you have for the coming year?

SM: "I hope the NREE Clinic can serve an important role in legal services for Coloradans and communities in the interior Mountain West, providing diverse experiences for students while serving underrepresented communities."

VK: "We plan to continue our technology and disability rights advocacy while broadening our international scope. We hope to deepen our collaborations with digital rights organizations worldwide, enriching students' understanding of global digital rights issues."

What do you love the most about the CU Â鶹ӰԺ campus and/or Â鶹ӰԺ in general?

SM: "Â鶹ӰԺ is a fantastic place to study and practice environmental law. The community's commitment to addressing ecological challenges and the inspiring natural surroundings enhance both teaching and learning experiences."

VK: "The incredible natural beauty of this place is what I love most. It's truly a privilege to live and work in such a beautiful community.Ìý Every day, as I bike to work, I have to pinch myself to find out if the scenery I am seeing is real or just a dream. This inspiring environment contributes to the creativity and passion I see in my students' work."

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