STU College of Law’s Palermo Mentorship Program Continues Legacy of Civic Education and Community Impact
St. Thomas University College of Law proudly continues its longstanding commitment to community engagement and civic education through the Honorable Peter R. Palermo Mentorship Program. The program remains a meaningful partnership between the College of Law and the Law Magnet Program at Miami Carol City Senior High School.
Established in 2013, the Palermo Mentorship Program was inspired by the late Judge Peter R. Palermo’s vision that future leaders, regardless of profession, should understand the foundational principles of the United States Constitution, civic responsibility, and the rule of law.
This year, more than 80 students from Miami Carol City Senior High School participated in program activities culminating in the C.H.I.E.F. Challenge, a six-week legal research and advocacy project designed to encourage students to identify and analyze systemic social, legal, or political issues affecting their communities. The winning team presented on the negative effects of deforestation and proposed policy reforms aimed at environmental protection and sustainability.
Assistant Dean and Associate Professor of Academic Success and Bar Preparation, Florencia Cornu Laport welcomed students, guests, families, and community members on behalf of the College of Law. Victoria Murciano and Tanisha Castro, former and current Presidents of the Palermo Mentorship Program, described the event as both humbling and inspiring, highlighting the remarkable confidence, preparation, and professionalism demonstrated by the participating students.
The event was further honored by the presence of Rosalyn “Sia” Baker-Barnes, President of The Florida Bar and a Shareholder at Searcy Denney Scarola Barnhart & Shipley, PA in West Palm Beach, who served as the keynote speaker. President Baker-Barnes shared with students the opportunities, mentors, and experiences that shaped her journey to becoming a successful trial attorney. She encouraged students to seek mentorship, embrace service, and remain prepared to seize opportunities while fully embracing their talents and potential. Her message deeply resonated with both students and practitioners alike.
Under the leadership of attorney Asiah Wolfolk Manning, Director of the Law Magnet Program at Miami Carol City Senior High School, the initiative continues to serve as a model of impactful academic and professional mentorship. Evidence of this impact was the participation of Ashley Turner, an alumna of Miami Carol City Senior High School, who first participated in the program as a high school student. Turner later served as President of the Palermo Mentorship Program while attending St. Thomas University College of Law and returned this year as a practicing attorney and volunteer judge for the competition. Her journey reflects the program’s enduring commitment to mentorship, leadership, and community engagement across generations.
This year’s event was made possible through the dedication of volunteer attorneys, alumni, faculty, and community partners committed to investing in the next generation of legal professionals. Special recognition was extended to longtime supporters Kubicki Draper and The Leon Foundation for their continued generosity and support of the program’s mission.
As the Palermo Mentorship Program continues to grow, St. Thomas University College of Law looks forward to strengthening its partnership with Miami Carol City Senior High School and continuing to inspire future generations of students to pursue leadership, service, and excellence within the legal profession and beyond.