Student Spotlights
Meet the Future of Law
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At the University of Louisville Brandeis School of Law, our students bring their stories, values, and ambitions to life through their work in and beyond the classroom. The Student Spotlights series features members of our student community who represent the integrity, drive, and resilience that define a Brandeis Law education.
We highlight students whose journeys reflect our values—whether they are first-generation law students, public service advocates, future litigators, student parents, or aspiring legal scholars. Their stories offer insight into the lived experiences, motivations, and goals that shape their time at Brandeis and their impact on the world ahead.
Explore the Spotlights
From hometown pride and personal influences to career goals and favorite quotes, each spotlight offers a glimpse into the authentic experience of becoming a lawyer at Brandeis.
Hannah Reese
Student Bar Association President
Class of 2027
Hometown: Louisville, Kentucky
What you love about Brandeis Law: “The people. I’ve had the opportunity to meet some incredible friends and leaders, especially Morgan and Taylor, who have made my law school experience even more meaningful.”
Career goal: “After graduation, I hope to become a judge and serve my community by ensuring fairness and equal access to justice.”
Biggest influence: “My mom. She is the kindest, strongest, hardest-working, and most persistent person I know. She has always inspired me to keep going, no matter what challenges come my way.”
Favorite quote: “Do or do not. There is no try.” – Yoda
Ashley Ranger
Student Bar Association Executive Vice President
Class of 2027
Hometown: Bowling Green, Kentucky
What you love about Brandeis Law: “My favorite aspect of Brandeis is its supportive community. Everyone I have encountered has been eager to help me achieve my big dreams. Even the alumni I meet are invested in helping me succeed during law school and beyond. Law school is challenging, but it's the people who help lighten the load that make it worthwhile.”
Career goal: “After graduation, I plan to pursue a career in state government. My ultimate goal is to become Attorney General of the Commonwealth of Kentucky.”
Biggest influence: “My older brother has been my greatest influence. He inspired me to attend law school and has shown me what it means to advocate for clients with wholehearted dedication. I hope to make as meaningful an impact in my community as he has.”
Favorite quote: “Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life: and I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever.” – Psalm 23:6 (KJV)
Hannah Foster
Student Bar Association Director of Events
Class of 2027
Hometown: Corbin, Kentucky
What you love about Brandeis Law: “I love Brandeis Law for its amazing community. When I moved to Louisville, I didn't know anyone in the legal community here. Since coming to Brandeis Law, I've been able to build an incredible network of legal professionals and form lifelong friendships. The encouragement and support from the faculty and staff have been truly wonderful.”
Career goal: “I plan to pursue a career as a personal injury litigator, advocating for plaintiffs who have been injured.”
Biggest influence: “My grandfather, whom I call Pop, has been one of the greatest influences on my life. His unwavering faith, deep love for his family, and strong work ethic have shaped the way I approach both my goals and my life. He has always encouraged me, listened when I needed advice, and supported me in pursuing my dreams.”
Favorite quote: “Rejection is redirection. The opportunities that are meant for you will always find their way to you—but maybe not on your own timeline.”
Mark Weber
Class of 2027
Hometown: Cincinnati, Ohio
What you love about Brandeis Law: “Brandeis helps its students succeed rather than weeding out those who simply need support to become successful students and lawyers.”
Career goal: “I hope to work in nonprofit advocacy focusing on the separation of religion and government, as well as LGBTQ+ rights.”
Biggest influence: “My parents taught me to deal with the world as it is. While we may not always agree on what that world looks like, that perspective has shaped who I am and what I do.”
Favorite quote: “When we all do better, we all do better.” – Paul Wellstone
Anastasia Damrau
Class of 2027
Hometown: Louisville, Kentucky
What you love about Brandeis Law: “I honestly find law school less stressful than my last job before law school.”
Career goal: “I want to become a public defender.”
Biggest influence: “The people who have influenced me the most are the public defenders and activists who have written about the criminal justice system, the importance of public defense, and wrongful convictions. Their work convinced me of the need for compassionate, dedicated advocates and inspired me to pursue a career in criminal defense.”
Favorite quote: “There can be no equal justice where the kind of trial a man gets depends on the amount of money he has.” – Griffin v. Illinois, 351 U.S. 12, 19 (1956).
Salute the Unbroken
Honoring Brandeis Law students whose service and sacrifice strengthen our community.
James Jump
Class of 2028
A proud third-generation Marine
Hometown: North Vernon, Indiana
Undergraduate degree: History, Southern New Hampshire University
Why I chose to serve: “I wanted to serve because I needed discipline, direction, and leadership skills. I am most proud to be a third-generation Marine—my dad and grandfather both served in the Marine Corps before me.”
What I love about Brandeis: “I enjoy the small environment and hometown feel of Brandeis. I also appreciate how accessible the staff are and how willing they are to help.”
Career goal: “In five years, I hope to be a practicing attorney living on a farm with my wife.”
Favorite quote: “Man cannot remake himself without suffering, for he is both the marble and the sculptor.”
