Clinic Spotlight: Samantha Hunt ’23

Samantha, a First Amendment Clinic student in fall 2022 who continued her work with the Clinic as an advanced student in the spring 2023 semester, was awarded the Clinical Legal Education Association’s (CLEA) Outstanding Clinic Student Award for Vanderbilt Law School. In recognition of her work on the Renehan case, Samantha was nominated for serving as an accomplished advocate and exemplary team member. She personified excellence in representation, engagement in coursework and self-reflection, effective collaboration, and commitment to achieving a positive impact during her tenure with the Clinic.

She provided high-quality representation to our client for the entire academic year. From initial fact-gathering conversations to drafting briefs to discussions with opposing counsel, Samantha demonstrated attention to detail, a nuanced understanding of legal arguments, and a commitment to ongoing learning in every interaction. After the fall semester ended, in late December, she was one of two students to deliver oral argument, successfully arguing the motion to intervene.

Samantha showed incredible dedication and commitment to our client, making her feel supported while thoughtfully navigating discussions about difficult subjects. She not only served as an incredible client advocate, but she was also a wonderful collaborator and peer mentor. Samantha listened thoughtfully to the ideas of others, provided encouragement, and shared insight in a way that fosters inclusion for all teammates in reaching their shared goals.

“The client-focused approach to running the First Amendment Clinic taught me invaluable practical skills, and …helped me both identify and hone my voice and style as a legal advocate,” she said. “I will be a better lawyer to my clients.” She applied her legal talents as an Equal Justice Works fellow in New York, beginning fall 2023. Samantha was also bestowed the National Association of Women Lawyers’ 2023 Outstanding Law Student Award for Vanderbilt in recognition for her advocacy, both through the Clinic and within the community at large.