The Utton Transboundary Resources Center hosted a free lunch and learn to teach students about what being a water lawyer means and the career options available to them. Students in attendance were currently enrolled at the Pre-Law Summer Institute, a program of the American Indian Law Center. Joe M Stell Ombudsman Program Director Stephanie Russo Baca led the discussion alongside guest speaker Veronique Richardson. For more on the Utton Center's Joe M Stell Ombudsman Program, click here. Veronique Richardson is a member of the Pueblo of Laguna, an alumna of the Pre-law Summer Institute, and a partner at Barnhouse, Keegan Solimon & West. (https://indiancountrylaw.com/our-attorneys/veronique-richardson/) 

Stephanie and Veronique explained what students interested in pursuing a career in water law should focus on in school, while providing advice on the best ways to advocate for themselves as they progress in their individual careers. Veronique and Stephanie which classes they took in law school prepared them for their careers, and how even classes not directly focused on water law could be applicable and valuable for water lawyers. Veronique and Stephanie additionally provided real-world examples of the variety of work they have done as water lawyers.

Special thanks to the American Indian Law Center for allowing the Utton Center to speak to students, thus continuing our mission of introducing law students to the possibility of pursuing a career in water law, and to Veronique Richardson for providing her insights and expertise.