Building the Next Generation of Practice-Ready Legal Advocates
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Advocacy in Action
Advocacy in Action
LUCHA brings together students, attorneys, and community leaders through advocacy, mentorship, legal education and civic engagement.
LUCHA Events Calendar
Filed Under 2026 - 2027 2nd Year
A Frighteningly Good Discussion About Copy Right
A Frighteningly Good Discussion About Copy Right
Trademarks, copyrights, and patents… OH MY!
What's scarier than a haunted house? A stolen trademark. A copyright nightmare. Or discovering that your million-dollar idea has mysteriously vanished into someone else's portfolio!
This Halloween season, LUCHA invites you to an evening of tricks, treats, and intellectual property rights as we pull back the curtain on the legal nightmares lurking in the world of intellectual property.
From trademarks that come back to haunt you to copyright disputes that just won't die, our panel will explore the frightening consequences of leaving your intellectual property unprotected. We'll venture into the mysterious world of patents, uncover what happens when intellectual property is stolen, and discover how attorneys help keep these legal monsters at bay.
The frightening details:
When: Thursday, October 29, 2026 | 5:30–6:30 PM
Where: Nashville School of Law | Room 400
Who: All students, faculty, and staff are welcome
Admission: Free — no tricks, just treats!
Our panelists will be revealed soon. Until then, consider yourself warned: ignorance of intellectual property law can be a grave mistake.
Come for the knowledge, stay for the refreshments and sweet Halloween treats. Costumes are optional, curiosity is encouraged, and no intellectual property will be harmed in the making of this event.
Don't let your intellectual property become someone else's haunting success story.
First Generation Judges Panel
First Generation Judges Panel
Four judges, four paths to the bench.
LUCHA, in partnership with the American Constitution Society at Nashville School of Law, invites students, alumni, faculty, and members of the legal community to a conversation with four distinguished judges about the paths that brought them to the bench.
The panel features Hon. Dawn Deaner, Davidson County Criminal Court; Hon. Bernice Bouie Donald, former judge of the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Sixth Circuit; Hon. Jeffrey Usman, Tennessee Court of Appeals; and Hon. Stephanie J. Williams, Davidson County Fourth Circuit Court.
Rather than focusing on what happens after someone becomes a judge, this conversation will explore what came before the title: the experiences, obstacles, decisions, mentors, and opportunities that shaped each judge's career. For law students, particularly those who may be the first in their families to enter the legal profession, the discussion offers a rare opportunity to hear candidly from judges whose own paths demonstrate that there is no single route to a meaningful career in law.
Thursday, November 12, 2026 | 5:30–6:30 p.m.
Nashville School of Law | Room 400
Refreshments will be provided.
All students, faculty, staff, and alumni are invited to attend.
Bring Your Business Cards. You're Going to Want Them.
Bring Your Business Cards. You're Going to Want Them.
On December 9, LUCHA is recruiting student volunteers to support the Tennessee Innocence Project's Journey to Justice gala at the Loews Nashville Hotel.
We volunteered last year, and I can tell you firsthand: this is an exceptional networking opportunity for law students, particularly 3Ls and 4Ls preparing to enter the legal profession.
Volunteers help with event operations, including greeting guests, registration, ushering, and similar responsibilities. Once our assignments are complete, we get to enjoy the gala ourselves, including dinner at our own table and opportunities to connect with members of the legal community.
My advice? Dress professionally, bring business cards, and be prepared to introduce yourself. You never know which conversation might lead to your next professional opportunity.
More importantly, you'll be supporting an organization doing important work on behalf of people affected by wrongful convictions.
Wednesday, December 9, 2026 | 4:30 PM
Loews Nashville Hotel
Volunteer RSVP deadline: November 30
Human Trafficking & the Courts: LUCHA Joins Athena Court for an Important Conversation
Human Trafficking & the Courts: LUCHA Joins Athena Court for an Important Conversation
October 7, 2026 | Nashville, Tennessee
LUCHA (Latines United for Change, Hope and Advocacy) was honored to attend Human Trafficking & the Courts, a continuing legal education (CLE) program presented by Athena’s Court. The event brought together attorneys, judges, and justice system partners to examine the challenges of identifying human trafficking, understanding its impact on survivors, and strengthening the legal system’s response to those affected.
The program provided an important opportunity to expand awareness, engage with legal professionals, and consider the role of education and collaboration in addressing human trafficking. Conversations like these reinforce the importance of ensuring that the legal community is equipped not only with knowledge of the law, but also with an understanding of the individuals and communities that the law is intended to protect.
For LUCHA, participation reflects our commitment to building meaningful connections between law students, legal professionals, and the broader community. By engaging in programs that address pressing legal and social issues, we continue to create opportunities for professional development, greater awareness, and a more informed and inclusive legal profession.
We extend our appreciation to Athena’s Court for the invitation and for its continued work promoting safety, hope, and opportunity. As LUCHA advances its mission, we look forward to supporting conversations and initiatives that strengthen our legal community and expand opportunities to serve others.
Stronger Connections. Greater Awareness. A More Inclusive Legal Profession.
From Left to Right: Ashley Martin, Judge Ana Escobar, Ronal Bueso, Jesus Gonzalez
LUCHA Invited to Hispanic Heritage Happy Hour with Nashville's Legal Community
LUCHA Invited to Hispanic Heritage Happy Hour with Nashville's Legal Community
On September 24, 2026, LUCHA at Nashville School of Law joined the Nashville Hispanic Bar Association and Nashville Bar Association for a Hispanic Heritage Happy Hour at Federales in The Gulch. The evening brought together attorneys, judges, public officials, law students, and other members of Nashville’s legal community to celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month and strengthen connections across the profession.
For LUCHA, the evening represented more than a networking opportunity. Our students met new members of the legal community, reconnected with familiar faces, and spent time with attorneys and community leaders who have supported LUCHA’s growth. Those conversations gave our students another opportunity to begin building the professional relationships and sense of community that will follow them beyond law school.
LUCHA Board members Ronal Bueso, Jesus Gonzalez, Ali Hendrix, Melanie Chavez, and Ashley Martin represented the organization at the event. We are grateful to everyone who took the time to welcome our students, share advice and experiences, and make them feel that they belong in Nashville’s legal community.
LUCHA Connects with Nashville's Legal Community at NBA Skyline Social
LUCHA Connects with Nashville's Legal Community at NBA Skyline Social
LUCHA’s Executive Board was honored to attend the Nashville Bar Association’s Skyline Social at Bass, Berry & Sims, where our students had the opportunity to step inside one of Nashville’s leading law firms and connect directly with attorneys and other members of the legal community.
The evening became much more than a networking reception. LUCHA members received candid career advice, met Nashville attorneys at different stages of their careers, and began building relationships with professionals they might otherwise never have had the opportunity to meet. Those personal interactions demonstrated the value of becoming part of the legal community while still in law school.
LUCHA is grateful to the Nashville Bar Association, Bass, Berry & Sims, and the many attorneys and supporters who welcomed our students into the room. Events like the Skyline Social advance an important part of LUCHA’s mission: creating access, building relationships, and helping students become connected to the profession before they ever submit their first résumé.
LUCHA at the 2026 Nashville Bar Association Diversity Summit
LUCHA at the 2026 Nashville Bar Association Diversity Summit
LUCHA was proud to support the Nashville Bar Association’s 2026 Diversity Summit, with LUCHA President Ronal Bueso, LUCHA Vice President Jesus Gonzalez, LUCHA Secretary Ali Hendrix, and LUCHA Communication Director Ashley Martin serving throughout the event and representing LUCHA within Nashville’s broader legal community.
Beyond volunteering, the Summit provided our students with an exceptional opportunity to network with judges, attorneys, professors, and community leaders. Those conversations and new connections were among the most valuable parts of the experience, giving students an opportunity to engage with the profession outside the classroom.
A particular highlight was hearing from Dr. Karen Korematsu, whose presentation brought Korematsu v. United States, a case familiar to virtually every Constitutional Law student, out of the casebook and into a deeply personal, real-world context. It was a powerful reminder that the cases we study are not merely doctrines and holdings; they involve real people, families, and consequences that extend far beyond the pages of a law-school textbook.
LUCHA’s 2nd Annual DCSO Field Experience Brings Three Law Schools Together
LUCHA’s 2nd Annual DCSO Field Experience Brings Three Law Schools Together
LUCHA’s 2nd Annual Davidson County Sheriff’s Office Field Experience brought together students from Nashville School of Law, Vanderbilt Law School, and Belmont University College of Law, along with social workers from the Nashville Hispanic Bar Association’s Eviction Right to Counsel program.
Participants received a behind-the-scenes look at the Downtown Detention Center and Behavioral Care Center, engaging directly with Sheriff’s Office professionals while learning about correctional operations, behavioral healthcare, inmate services, and re-entry initiatives.
The successful tri-school event marked an exciting expansion of the program and reflected LUCHA’s commitment to creating practical experiences that connect law students across Nashville’s legal community while providing perspectives on the justice system that extend beyond the classroom.
Filed Under 2025 - 2026 Inaugural Year
Leadership, Justice, and Service — LUCHA’s Founding Night
Leadership, Justice, and Service — LUCHA’s Founding Night
LUCHA’s inaugural event marked more than the beginning of a student organization it signaled the rise of a community of future advocates answering the call to lead with purpose. In his keynote address, Dean Alberto R. Gonzales challenged us to view the law not merely as a profession, but as a lifelong responsibility to justice. His words continue to guide LUCHA’s mission: to learn boldly, serve faithfully, and lead with conviction in the pursuit of equity and hope.
LUCHA Field Trip to Davidson County Sheriff’s Office – DDC & BCC
LUCHA Field Trip to Davidson County Sheriff’s Office – DDC & BCC
October 21, 2025 ◾Davidson County Sheriff's Office Downtown Detention Center
LUCHA members toured the Davidson County Sheriff’s Office Downtown Detention Center (DDC) and the Behavioral Care Center (BCC) to learn firsthand about local correctional operations, behavioral healthcare, and the re-entry process for justice-involved individuals.
The field trip sparked meaningful discussion on the intersection of law, rehabilitation, and social justice, aligning directly with LUCHA’s mission to connect advocacy with experience. Students reflected on how effective policy and community partnerships can transform justice from a system of punishment into one of restoration.
LUCHA + CJI, Youth Life Sentencing Project Info. Session
LUCHA + CJI, Youth Life Sentencing Project Info. Session
LUCHA and CJI's Executive Director Dawn Deaner came together last night and hosted a successful information session. Participants learned more about Dawn and DJI's mission to end wealth based disparities in the criminal justice system. Attendees were introduced to an upcoming research project involving youth life sentencing and how LUCHA members and NSL students can partner with CJI working with newly eligible individuals under the 2022 Tennessee Supreme Court ruling that mandatory life sentences for youth is cruel and unusual punishment, a violation of the 8th amendment.
LUCHA with BLSA Women in Law Panel
LUCHA with BLSA Women in Law Panel
January 19, 2026 ◾Nashville School of Law
In partnership with BLSA, LUCHA hosted its Women in Law Panel featuring Lody Powers, Kristen Taylor, and Judge Jodie Bell.
Representing leadership from criminal defense, the District Attorney’s Office, and the judiciary, the panel provided students with candid insight into the realities of practicing law across multiple areas of the justice system. The discussion explored professional development, courtroom advocacy, and the challenges and responsibilities that come with legal practice.
The program drew strong student engagement and meaningful dialogue throughout the evening, offering attendees the opportunity to learn directly from experienced legal professionals and members of the judiciary.
Corporate Law Panel
Corporate Law Panel
March 2, 2026 ◾Nashville School of Law
LUCHA hosted its Corporate Law Panel featuring Van Santos (Senior Counsel, Metropolis), Joshua Mayo (Senior Corporate Counsel, Cracker Barrel), and Lamar Moore (Vice President & Senior Credit Officer).
The discussion provided students with direct insight into corporate governance, transactional strategy, risk management, and the realities of practicing law within large organizations. With leadership represented from both legal and executive financial management, the panel offered a practical look at how legal strategy integrates with business operations in the corporate environment.
The program drew strong student engagement and thoughtful discussion throughout the evening.
In-House Connect
In-House Connect
May 8, 2026 ◾Top Note Nashville Tennessee
LUCHA recently attended the inaugural In-House Connect Nashville Networking Mixer, an invite-only event bringing together in-house legal professionals from across the Nashville area for an evening of networking, conversation, and professional connection.
Hosted in downtown Nashville and supported by Thomson Reuters and Butler Snow, the event provided students and legal professionals the opportunity to engage directly with attorneys working in corporate and in-house legal roles while strengthening relationships within the broader legal community.
Pictured from left to right, Ronal Bueso, Jesus Gonzalez.
NHBA ERTC
NHBA ERTC
May 13, 2026 ◾Bradley Nashville Tennessee
LUCHA members attended the NHBA ERTC End-of-Semester Happy Hour hosted at Bradley in downtown Nashville. The event brought together law students, attorneys, and community leaders for an evening focused on networking, mentorship, and community engagement.
Following the event, LUCHA had the opportunity to meet with NHBA ERTC leadership to continue discussions surrounding LEAP, the LUCHA Experiential Advocacy Program, including plans for a kickoff call and potential future expansion opportunities involving Belmont Law and Vanderbilt Law.
The evening reflected the growing collaboration between LUCHA, NHBA, and ERTC as efforts continue to create meaningful experiential opportunities for law students across Nashville.
Nashville School of Law Gala
Nashville School of Law Gala
June 5, 2026 ◾Renaissance Hotel Nashville Downtown
Coming together at the Renaissance Nashville Hotel in downtown Nashville the Nashville School of Law family came together to celebrate two members of our NSL community.
Professor Kimberly Reed-Bracey Johnson and alumnus Tim Ishii who have both become well known for their dedication, generosity and commitment to helping others.
LUCHA was well represented with our entire leadership team, guest of Lewis Thomasson, Ronal Bueso, LUCHA President, Jesus Gonzalez LUCHA Vice President and Melanie Chavez, LUCHA Secretary.
Belmont BLSA Invitation
Belmont BLSA Invitation
July 23, 2026 ◾Belmont University's Janet Ayers Academic Center
LUCHA is proud to support Belmont Law's Black Law Students Association (BLSA) for Confections & Connections: Raising the Bar Night. This networking event brings together attorneys, law students, and future legal professionals for an evening of meaningful conversation, relationship-building, and community. Whether you are exploring a legal career, seeking mentorship, or looking to expand your professional network, this event offers a welcoming space to connect with others who are passionate about the law and justice. Join us on July 23 from 5:00–7:00 PM at Belmont University College of Law.
RSVP Required: Use this Form to RSVP
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