Building the Next Generation of Practice-Ready Legal Advocates
Building the Next Generation of Practice-Ready Legal Advocates
Law school teaches students how to think like lawyers. Becoming a successful attorney also requires mentorship, professional relationships, practical experience, and opportunities to serve others.
LUCHA bridges that gap by connecting students with attorneys, judges, alumni, and community partners through leadership, advocacy, experiential learning, and service.
Whether observing court proceedings, participating in LEAP, engaging with legal professionals, or leading community initiatives, LUCHA helps students develop the skills, confidence, and professional relationships that prepare them to become practice-ready legal advocates.
From an Idea to a Growing Community
Every meaningful legal career is shaped by the people we meet along the way. Mentors, classmates, professors, attorneys, judges, and community leaders all play a role in opening doors, sharing knowledge, and creating opportunities that extend far beyond the classroom.
LUCHA was founded on the belief that those relationships should begin on the first day of law school, not after graduation. By bringing students together with Tennessee's legal community through mentorship, advocacy, service, and experiential learning, LUCHA creates an environment where meaningful professional relationships can flourish.
From courthouse visits and community legal clinics to professional panels, LEAP, and advocacy partnerships, every initiative is designed to strengthen those connections while preparing students to become practice-ready legal advocates.
Today, LUCHA continues to grow, not measured by the number of members alone, but by the relationships it builds, the opportunities it creates, and the impact its members make throughout Tennessee's legal community.
The LUCHA Experience
LEADERSHIP
MENTORSHIP
ADVOCACY
EXPERIENTIAL LEARNING
Leadership: Develop confidence by organizing initiatives, serving the community, and leading meaningful student programs.
Mentorship: Build lasting relationships with attorneys, judges, faculty, alumni, and fellow students.
Advocacy: Engage in justice-focused initiatives that strengthen communities and expand access to legal resources.
Experential Learning: Gain practical legal experience through LEAP, courthouse visits, professional panels, and community partnerships.
LUCHA in Action
FIELD TRIPS
Observe the justice system beyond the classroom through courthouse visits and behind-the-scenes experiences.
PROFESSIONAL PANELS
Connect with attorneys, judges, and legal professionals who share practical insight and career advice.
COMMUNITY SERVICE
Work alongside community organizations expanding access to justice across Tennessee.
RESEARCH & ADVOCACY
Participate in projects that connect legal education with real community needs.
Meet the Student Leadership
Ronal Bueso
Co-Founder & President
Jesus D. Gonzalez Jr.
Co-Founder & Vice President
Ali Hendrix
Secretary
Ashley Martin
Director of Communications
Melanie Chavez
Director of Memberships
Faculty Advisor
Dr. Thorunn McCoy
Faculty Advisor
Your Legal Journey Starts Here
Whether you're beginning your first semester, looking for meaningful legal experience, or hoping to build lasting professional relationships, LUCHA welcomes students who are ready to lead, serve, and grow.
LUCHA | A Student Led Organization
At Nashville School of Law
4013 Armory Oaks Dr., Nashville, TN 37204
Email: NSL.Lucha@Gmail.com
We will respond to emails in 24-48 hours of receipt. Thank you for patience.