After a hiatus of several years, the Students for Public Interest Law (SPIL) Auction has returned to Catholic Law, continuing its tradition of supporting students who pursue unpaid summer public service internships. The event, which has been part of the school’s history for over three decades, began with a reception in the Law School Atrium and continued with the main auction in the Auditorium.
Ashleigh Wilson, SPIL President, welcomed attendees and highlighted how summer stipends enable students to participate in important public interest work that is often unpaid but provides significant professional and personal growth.
Faculty, staff, and administration contributed nearly 20 unique experiences to be auctioned. Professor Mary Graw served as auctioneer, encouraging bids on items such as pickleball matches with deans and trips to the Shenandoah Valley. The event brought together members of the Catholic Law community around their shared commitment to public service.
Ashleigh Wilson expressed appreciation for those involved: “On behalf of SPIL, I want to thank everyone who makes Catholic Law a place where students are encouraged to pursue experiences and careers in public interest to make a difference in their communities. Thank you to our dedicated staff and faculty who donated nearly 20 experiences for auction. Thank you to our students who showed up to support their peers as they pursue experiences in the public interest. Thank you to Dean Gemma Forest and Mariah McGuiness in the Student Life and Advancement Offices for all of their support in the logistics of bringing back this event. And a very enthusiastic thank you to Professor Graw, an unwavering supporter of public interest work, for being our fabulous auctioneer and helping make the night a success.”
The funds raised during this year’s auction will allow SPIL to offer two additional summer stipends. This expansion increases opportunities for students interested in gaining experience through public interest roles outside traditional classroom settings.
For more information about supporting SPIL summer stipends or viewing related content, visit this link.
