Hampden County
Western New England University School of Law Assistant Professor
Nicole Belbin, a member of the Massachusetts Bar Association's Lawyer Referral Service Committee, recently received the prestigious Association of American Law Schools (AALS) Pro Bono & Access to Justice Section Emerging Leader Award.
Belbin, who also serves as the associate dean for library and information resources at WNE Law, has dedicated her career to advancing access to justice and fostering community engagement. Since assuming her leadership role in 2022, she has developed and/or managed a series of impactful community service programs, including "Intro to Law," "Law School for a Day," "Future Lawyers of Springfield" and the "Judicial Youth Corps." These programs have provided transformative opportunities for middle and high school students, empowering them to explore careers in the legal profession and reinforcing the importance of diversity within the field.
Belbin has also been instrumental in fostering partnerships between WNE Law and the local legal community, creating a network of support that has enriched Springfield and its surrounding areas. In 2023, her efforts were recognized when WNE Law was named a finalist in Bloomberg Law's Law School Innovation Program. Her dedication to public service is further reflected in her pro bono work with the MBA's Dial-A-Lawyer program and her advocacy for veterans through the Department of Veterans Affairs.
Click here to read the full announcement.
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