Amanda Alvez, JD '24: From Passion to Action in Advocacy, Receives PSJD Pro Bono Publico Award

When Amanda Alvez, JD ’24, entered Baylor Law School, she was driven by a singular goal: to connect the law with the people who need it most. For Amanda, pursuing justice transcends academic interests and career aspirations—it is an intensely personal mission. Growing up in poverty, she understands firsthand the barriers those without legal aid face, igniting a profound resolve to address the justice gap. This unwavering dedication carried her through her studies and earned her significant recognition. Most recently, in August 2024, the National Association for Law Placement (NALP) honored her with the PSJD Pro Bono Publico Award for her exceptional contributions to public service in the legal field.

Each year, NALP awards its PSJD Pro Bono Publico Award to one law student nationwide whose dedication to public service exemplifies a commitment to pro bono work and enhances the pro bono culture within their law school and community. In addition to her countless hours of service and community engagement, Amanda stood out among nominees from across the United States for her work in mobilizing her fellow students to volunteer with TexasLawHelp.org. In her award letter, Samuel D. Halpert, NALP’s Director of Public Service Initiatives, praised Amanda, stating, “Through your efforts, you not only demonstrated your own individual commitment to pro bono service but helped grow the overall commitment of your law school community as a whole. Your achievements in this regard are exactly the sort our award aims to honor.” Reflecting on the award, Amanda notes, “This award just fuels my passion; my heart is to be a servant-leader, and it confirms that I am working in the right place—serving those in need.”

Amanda’s decision to study law stemmed from her commitment to aiding communities similar to hers. “I came to law school to close the access to justice gap,” Amanda says. “I know the fear, the shame, and the hopelessness.” Baylor Law School is where she developed the skills necessary to become a powerful advocate for the underserved. At Baylor, Amanda found a supporter in Professor Whitney Holmes, whose courses in Poverty Law & Policy and Consumer Protection resonated deeply with her. “Professor Holmes champions the same causes,” Amanda explains. “Her passion for closing the access to justice gap is evident in her lessons.”

“Poverty affected my entire life,” Amanda reflects. “In poverty, everything breaks. I remember my family’s circumstances with each client and treat each client like it were my mom seeking assistance.” By sharing her connection to the work and demonstrating how even small actions can make a significant difference, Amanda inspired others to join her in serving those in need. Halpert noted in Amanda’s award letter, “Our selection process for this award, which draws outstanding nominations on behalf of law students across the United States, is often difficult. [Amanda] stood out in our deliberations for [her] work recruiting your fellow students to volunteer as live chat assistants for TexasLawHelp.org.”

Beyond her work with TexasLawHelp.org, Amanda’s dedication to pro bono work was evident in every aspect of her law school career. She worked two quarters in the Veterans Clinic at Baylor Law’s legal advice clinics and drafted wills for veterans and first responders in the Estate Planning Clinic. She volunteered during Baylor Law’s Adoption Day, supporting families during one of the most joyful moments in their lives, and she participated in the Texas Access to Justice Commission’s Pro Bono Spring Break, where she worked with American Gateways drafting a successful Request for Re-Interview, allowing the release of a detained asylum-seeker who faced deportation.

In addition to the most recent award from NALP, Amanda’s extraordinary efforts earned her multiple accolades during her time at Baylor. In October 2023, she received a commendation from the Supreme Court of Texas for her pro bono work. In November 2022, she was awarded first place in the Texas Young Lawyer’s Diversity Scholarship, receiving a substantial scholarship for her contributions to diversity and inclusion. At Baylor Law School’s Student Awards Ceremony in March 2024, Amanda was one of two students to receive the Outstanding Pro Bono Service Award, the school’s top honor for student pro bono work. At her commencement in April 2024, she was named a Public Interest Fellow, further recognizing her commitment to serving the public good.

Today, Amanda works as a Quality Control Director at a non-profit in Texas, where she continues to fulfill her passion for helping the underserved. “My involvement in pro bono work definitely influenced my choice of career,” she shares. “I am fulfilling my passion by helping the community at every moment.” Amanda’s dedication to pro bono work during law school was not just a chapter in her life but a guiding principle that continues to shape her career.

Recalling her time at Baylor Law School, Amanda has some advice for current law students who might be interested in pursuing pro bono work: “Start with setting aside an hour or two a week to help the community, and set a time to meet with Professor Josh Borderud; he is the best resource to helping you find where you can help.” She adds, “Pro Bono work paired with Baylor Law’s rigorous program creates a passionate advocate who can recognize when to be fierce for the communities that need it.”

Amanda’s journey through Baylor Law School is a powerful example of how a commitment to service and advocacy can create lasting change. Her achievements in pro bono service, recognized by numerous awards and accolades, are a testament to her dedication to closing the access to justice gap. As she continues her career, there is no doubt that Amanda will keep making a difference in the lives of those who need it most.