Dear Esteemed Colleagues and Scholars,
As we draft this closing message in our roles as your Student Body Co-Presidents, we are met with a wave of sentiments. Serving you, the bright minds and resilient spirits that constitute the Harvard Law School community, has been an unparalleled honor, an experience that we will carry with us always.
Just over a year ago, we embarked on this adventure with the aim to effect a meaningful impact on our beloved law school, our home away from home. While the subsequent year was characterized by challenges unforeseen, it was also a testament to the indomitable spirit of our community. We remain steadfast in our belief that Harvard Law School will emerge from these trials stronger, more united, and with an enhanced sense of resilience. As we graduate and refelct on our time here, we are reminded that our 3L class will have been the last to experience a zoom law school experience, hopefully for many decades to come.
This period of adversity has underscored the urgency to address mental health, a subject that demands open dialogue and concerted action. The experience of the past year has also highlighted the vital role of community. It is a testament to our collective strength and determination that we have navigated our years at HLS—a task formidable even in ordinary circumstances—under such challenging conditions.
Our hearts swell with pride and gratitude as we reflect on the individuals who have risen to the challenge this year. We extend our deepest admiration to those students who assumed leadership roles in various organizations, journals, and advisory positions, thereby reinforcing our community’s fabric.
The faculty and staff who went to extraordinary lengths to ensure the continuity of our academic pursuits deserve our heartfelt appreciation. A special note of gratitude is due to the members of the HLS Student Government, whose tireless advocacy on behalf of their constituents has been invaluable.
Reflecting on the past year, we are immensely proud of our collective achievements. Together alongside our partners, we have successfully led efforts to increase the LIPP floor from $55k to $70k, advocated for admin to reverse their restrictions on WCC study rooms, and even implemented a new queing plan in the Hark. We organized the 1L & LLM Welcome Mixer, the Thanksgiving Dinner, Valentine’s Day Grams, and brought back the Halfway through Harvard event. This year, we also brought back the Yale vs Harvard Basketball, and had our first ever Staff vs. Student Charity Basketball match.
While it is with a sense of sadness that we pen this farewell, we are also filled with anticipation for the future of Harvard Law School. As we transition into this new phase, we have no doubt that our community will continue to shine brightly, embodying the spirit of HLS in all that we do.
As we take our leave, we extend our best wishes to each one of you. Continue to remain resilient, stay connected, and carry forward the HLS spirit of excellence.
Yours sincerely,
Joan Josiah and Mussab Ali Student Body Co-Presidents