Student Organizations: Appalachian Women in Law

The Appalachian Women in the Law at the Appalachian School of Law

The Appalachian Women in Law get to the point quickly and efficiently.

The Mission Statement

The Mission Statement set out in its Constitution simply states that the organization "strives to educate, support, and empower women not just in the legal field but within our entire community, as well."

Membership is open to all students and alumni.

Students created this organization in September 2009.

Events and Activities Sponsored by AWIL

This active organization sponsors many events.  It is best known for its work on behalf of the local women's shelter.  Among other programs, it collects toiletry items for women using that facility and sells T-shirts to raise cash funds for the shelter.  One notable shirt read: "We want to be on top."

Over the last several years, AWIL has hosted lectures and presentations by distinguished women lawyers. Most recently Deputy Commissioner Deborah Blevins spoke about her experience on the Virginia Workers Compensation Commission.

In conjunction with the Career Services Office, AWIL sponsors the Dos & Don'ts of Professional Attire Fashion Show.

Several years, it sponsored the Quack for a Cure Duck Race on the Levisa River to generate charitable funds for the Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure.

More recently, AWIL created a Race for the Cure Team and participated with Associate Dean Sandy McGlothlin, a breast cancer survivor, in the annual race that raises funds for breast cancer research.   Associate Dean McGlothlin also spoke to interested students about her experience with breast cancer and the ongoing need for research.

In 2013, AWIL held a "Think Pink Bake Sale" and sold pink tutus to raise monies for the Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure charity.

Students greatly anticipate the annual Casino Night, which features Poker and Blackjack championships. Winners are recognized on attractive trophies donated by Visiting Professors John Murrey and Steven Parsons. AWIL members, who run the tournaments, dress as "molls" and provide table-side drink service. Student dealers ensure that even inexperienced players have an enjoyable time.  Funds raised benefit the local women's shelter.  The share of proceeds earned by co-host, The Hamilton Society, benefit local veterans.

Associate Dean Sandy McGlothlin serves as the faculty advisor for AWIL