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 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.  

On March 2, 2026, LUCHA hosted its Corporate Law Panel at Nashville School of Law featuring Van Santos (Senior Counsel, Metropolis), Joshua Mayo (Senior Corporate Counsel, Cracker Barrel), and Lamar Moore (Vice President & Senior Credit Officer).

With leadership represented from in-house corporate counsel and executive financial management, the panel offered students direct insight into corporate governance, risk management, transactional strategy, and the realities of practicing law within large organizations. The discussion was practical, forward-looking, and highly engaging, with strong student attendance and thoughtful questions throughout the program.

The presence of senior corporate decision-makers provided students with a clear understanding of how legal strategy integrates with business operations, making the event both substantive and professionally impactful for all in attendance.