Law School Honors Leaders of Legal Boot Camp Program

Tulane Law honored faculty and alumni leaders of its Intersession Program during a dinner celebrating the program’s 14th year, recognizing their role in preparing students for the realities of legal practice through intensive, hands-on training.

“This evening is purely about celebration,” Dean Marcilynn Burke said, thanking the instructors and volunteers who make the weeklong program possible. “Over the years, we’ve seen remarkable transformations in our students as they gain confidence, practical skills and a deeper understanding of what it means to be a lawyer.”

Awards were presented to alums Erin Arnold (L’04), Chris Teske (L’00) and Richard Levenstein (A&S ’74, L’76) for their leadership of the Pretrial Civil Litigation Boot Camp; law Professor Carlotta Lepingwell for directing the Pretrial Criminal Litigation Boot Camp;  Joel Feldman for leading the Trademark Prosecution Boot Camp; and alumna Michelle Bergman (JD/MBA ’94), leading the Transactional Boot Camp.

Launched in 2012, the Intersession Program functions as a legal “boot camp,” immersing students in simulated lawsuits, criminal cases, trademark prosecutions and business transactions. More than 1,200 students have completed the program, working closely with alumni and nationally recognized practitioners in courtroom exercises, negotiations and client counseling.

“Intersession equips our students to think critically, communicate effectively and navigate complex legal scenarios,” Burke said. “Those skills not only enhance employability, but help shape ethical, practice-ready lawyers on day one.”

Burke also highlighted the financial and volunteer support that sustains the program, noting that alumni engagement remains central to its continued success.