This August, Syracuse University College of Law proudly welcomed the newest members of its on-campus J.D. program to Dineen Hall. Over the course of orientation week, students connected with classmates, faculty, and staff while learning about the many resources that will support their success over the next three years.
One-hundred-and-seventy-one students from 28 states and four countries outside of the U.S. make up the Class of ’28. With an average age of 24 and a wide range spanning from 20 to 41, this class reflects a mix of traditional and non-traditional students, each bringing unique experiences, passions, and perspectives to the study of law.
“We are so pleased to welcome this year’s class of on-campus J.D. residential students, who have already begun to make their mark on Dineen Hall with their academic strength and energy,” says Associate Dean for Academic Programs and Teaching Professor Shannon Gardner. “We look forward to seeing all that this remarkable group accomplishes in their time here and as they launch impactful careers in the legal profession.”
Students of the On-Campus J.D. Class of 2028
Our on-campus J.D. students come from diverse backgrounds, united by a shared commitment to pursuing law as a way to create impact. Most are beginning their legal education directly after their undergraduate studies, while some bring professional experience, military service, or community leadership with them to the classroom.
Meet a few members of the On-Campus J.D. Class of 2028:
Christopher P. Fox L’28
Hometown: Webster, New York
Christopher Fox comes to Syracuse Law with a wealth of experience. He is a graduate of St. John Fisher University, a father to a 10-year-old son, a Freemason with a dedication to supporting charities in his community, and a disabled combat veteran of the United States Army, who was deployed to Iraq for Operation Iraqi Freedom.
Why did you choose Syracuse University College of Law?
“I chose Syracuse not only because it is a university where my mother met my father and told me stories of hearing Malcolm X give a speech but also because of the kind of education I wanted to receive in law. Every lawyer I have interned under or know personally that graduated from Syracuse Law is more than the personification of a professional, as well as a wealth of knowledge and a lover of the legal system. These Syracuse Law graduates are the men and women whose footsteps I desire to follow.”
What are your goals for your future in law?
“Interning under District Attorney Jim Ritts in Ontario County, New York, sealed my love for prosecution. I admire how his team not only fought so hard for the victims of crimes but also were looking for justice more than just another winning case. I hope to become an assistant district attorney in the same office in the future.”
Mira Gaitanis L’28
Hometown: Tallahassee, Florida
Mira Gaitanis is a 2023 graduate of Florida State University with a bachelor’s degree in media and communications studies and a minor in sociology, as well as a certificate in conflict resolution and consensus building from Florida International University. In her spare time, she loves to draw, write poetry and customize action figures. Her band, Flat Moon Theory, just released their third studio album, Give Your Flowers.
Why did you choose Syracuse University College of Law?
“Syracuse Law has the oldest and one of the most robust disability law and policy programs in the country, which I found out about through my mentor, Daniel Van Sant G’16, L’16, who is an alumnus. I was also drawn to the great selection of international study abroad programs and the opportunities to connect with students from a variety of backgrounds.”
What are your goals for your future in law?
“I am interested in pursuing international disability law and policy. My goal is to work with the United Nation’s Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities.”
Olivia Vermeire L’28
Mount Pleasant, Michigan
Vermeire recently earned a bachelor’s degree in politics and Russian and Eurasian studies from Mount Holyoke College. While there, she was the disability committee chair for the Mount Holyoke’s Student Government Association. One of her talents is the violin, an instrument she has played for the past 17 years.
Why did you choose Syracuse University College of Law?
“Syracuse Law’s Disability Law and Public Policy program are something not found at any other law school, which was a big factor in my choice, as was the variety of classes.”
What are your goals for your future in law?
“I am interested in pursuing public interest law, especially disability law.
Looking Ahead
As they begin their legal education, the Class of 2028 reflects Syracuse Law’s mission to prepare students to lead with skill, purpose, and integrity. Their diverse talents and perspectives will not only enrich their time at Dineen Hall but also shape the impact they make in the legal profession and beyond.
See here for more information on Syracuse Law’s on-campus J.D. program.