Lightfoot Welcomes Fifth Annual Lightfoot Academy Class
June 9, 2025
Lightfoot, Franklin & White LLC proudly welcomes its fifth annual class of Lightfoot Academy participants. Nine college seniors and incoming law students from across the country will participate in the immersive, weeklong pre-law program starting June 9.
Launched in 2021, the Lightfoot Academy was created to encourage and support talented students from a variety of backgrounds who are pursuing a legal education. The program is open to rising college seniors seriously considering law school and incoming law students with an interest in litigation.
This year’s participants are:
- Samir Abouhaidar, The University of Alabama (2026)
- Walter Dyal, The University of Alabama (2025)
- Val Fesenko, The University of Toronto (2024), Washington & Lee School of Law
- Angela Jacobs, The University of Georgia (2026)
- Laylah Kirksey, The University of Alabama (2025)
- Lilly Noble, The University of Alabama (2025)
- Jayla Oliver, The University of Alabama (2026)
- Nicole Renzulli, The University of Southern California (2026)
- Claire Roberts, The University of Alabama (2025), Cumberland School of Law
Modeled after Lightfoot’s summer clerkship program, the Lightfoot Academy offers students a behind-the-scenes look at life as a trial lawyer. Participants observe the litigation process firsthand, from client and team meetings to drafting legal briefs and motions and watching the firm’s trial lawyers in action. Lightfoot also pairs each participant with dedicated mentors.
The week’s schedule also includes interactive sessions that focus on the skills and habits essential to success in law school and in litigation practice. These educational components offer students a comprehensive understanding of the legal profession, including what it’s like to practice law and how to set the groundwork for a long career.
During their week at Lightfoot, participants immerse themselves in the firm’s culture and build valuable connections that can shape their professional future. The Academy also features several social events designed for the pre-law students to get to know the firm’s lawyers, particularly younger associates who can offer insights into all that Lightfoot offers to those starting their legal careers.
