Recognizing Our Distinguished 2022 Graduates: Annual Student-Voted Awards

student congratulates Administrator of the Year winner with hug
Michael McCarthy receives Administrator of the Year award, as voted by the Class of 2022.

The Case Western Reserve University School of Law congratulates the student, faculty and staff recipients of the following awards, as determined by a spring vote by the graduating class of 2022:

Teacher of the Year Award

In grateful appreciation for outstanding teaching and dedication, this award is presented to Michael Benza, senior instructor in law.

LLM Professor of the Year Award

Selected by a ballot of the graduating LLM students in grateful appreciation for outstanding teaching and dedication to LLM students, this award is presented to Jaclyn Celebrezze, instructor and international LLM program fellow.

1L Professor of the Year

Selected by a ballot of the first-year students in grateful appreciation for outstanding teaching and dedication to 1L students, this award is presented to Professor Daniel Jaffe.

Dennis J. Jenks Memorial Award for Administrator of the Year Award

In grateful appreciation for outstanding service and dedication, this award is presented to Michael McCarthy, assistant dean of student services.

Student of the Year Award

Alireza Nourani-Dargiri
Student of the Year: Alireza Nourani-Dargiri

Presented to Alireza Nourani-Dargiri, who, in the judgment of classmates, best exemplifies outstanding scholarship and excellence in extracurricular activities.

Martin Luther King Jr. Award

Presented to Makela Hayford, who, in the judgment of classmates, follows in character and conduct, the spirit of Martin Luther King, Jr.

Dean's Community Service Award (Student)

Presented to Lillian Hall, whose commitment to enriching the lives of others in Greater Cleveland serves as an example to those within and outside the legal profession.

Dean's Community Service Award (Organization)

Presented to the Black Law Student Association, a student organization whose commitment to enriching the lives of others in Greater Cleveland serves as an example to those within and outside the legal profession.

School of Law Leadership Award

Presented to Nadia Haile, Sean McGuigan and Alireza Nourani-Dargiri, who, in the judgment of classmates, have demonstrated leadership in making significant contributions to student organizations and fostering community within the school.