Welcome to the Advanced Law and Justice Reform Program!

On Sunday, we welcomed interns from across the world to Georgetown University for the start of an exciting and transformative week in the Advanced Law and Justice Reform Program. Their arrival marked the beginning of a unique experience filled with learning, professional growth, meaningful service, and the opportunity to build lasting friendships with peers who share a passion for justice and advocacy.

Throughout the week, interns will work alongside The Second Look Project under the guidance of attorney Keah Beeftu. As part of this partnership, interns will assist in developing motions under the Incarceration Reduction Amendment Act (IRAA). This Washington, D.C., law provides individuals who committed offenses before the age of 25 an opportunity to petition the court for a reduced sentence after demonstrating significant growth, rehabilitation, and maturity during their incarceration. Through this work, interns will gain firsthand insight into the legal process while contributing to efforts that promote fairness, second chances, and meaningful criminal justice reform.

After interns arrived on campus and settled into their residence halls, they were officially welcomed to the program with a keynote address from Marshall Bailly, Executive Director of Leadership Initiatives. During his remarks, Mr. Bailly highlighted the organization's mission and outlined the expectations, objectives, and opportunities that would shape the week ahead.

Following the opening keynote, interns met Jenna Sackter, Director of the Advanced Law and Justice Reform Program, and Finnian Sandifer, the program’s Assistant Director. During this session, participants were introduced to Keah Beeftu and attended a keynote presentation focused on the importance of legal advocacy and the role individuals can play in creating meaningful change within the justice system. Interns learned about the impact of post-conviction advocacy, the importance of amplifying overlooked voices, and the ways legal professionals can help create a more equitable society. They also received the case files they will be working on throughout the week as they prepare IRAA motions on behalf of their assigned clients.

To conclude the day, interns traveled to the National Mall for a monument and memorial tour.  The tour provided an opportunity for interns to engage in team-building activities, take group photographs, and become better acquainted with their teammates and team leaders. As they walked through the heart of the nation’s capital, conversations flourished, connections were formed, and a strong sense of community began to develop among the cohort.

After a full day of travel, introductions, and immersive learning experiences, the first day of the Advanced Law and Justice Reform Program came to a close. From inspiring keynote speakers and meaningful discussions on criminal justice reform to exploring Washington, D.C. alongside new teammates, day one established a strong foundation for what promises to be an impactful and memorable week. The journey ahead will challenge interns to think critically, advocate passionately, and work collaboratively as they contribute to real-world legal reform efforts.