Villanova Law’s Student Organizations Encourage Connection Outside the Classroom

April 30, 2026 —  Extracurricular opportunities that allow for connection and engagement are just as important to the law student experience as the work that is done in the classroom. Villanova Law’s 40-plus student organizations build community, facilitate peer-to-peer collaboration, provide access to academic resources and help create a support system.

The organizations span a variety of interests, from anti-poverty to real estate law, as well as many dedicated to supporting various heritages, backgrounds and cultures. Students are encouraged to participate as early as their first year to pursue development and leadership outside of the classroom.

 “It’s important to get involved in your first year in any capacity,” said Alex Godiner ’27, former SBA representative and secretary of both OUTLaw and the Pro Bono Society. “The connections you make are invaluable, and something that you don’t just get through coursework; you have to seek that out by joining clubs.”

All student organizations are housed under Villanova Law’s Student Bar Association (SBA), which provides funding, oversight and guidance. Sadie Richardson ’26 served as SBA president during her third year after participating in several other organizations.  The strong relationships she has cultivated along the way are a highlight of her time in law school.

“Mentorship is one of the most important parts of student organizations here,” Richardson said. “I am the first in my family to attend law school, and I received great advice from more experienced students when I was in my first year. Whether it was something as simple as figuring out a class schedule or something as large as a job application and talking out career next steps, everyone was so welcoming.”

At the beginning of every academic year, all Villanova Law students are invited to attend the Ed Huber Student Activities Fair. They can connect with the school’s student organizations, meet current members and learn about each one’s programming and values.

Student organizations run lunch lectures and annual events such as the Public Interest Auction, hosted by the Walter A. Lucas Public Fellowship Program, and the Villanova Black Law Students Association Black History Month block party. These events bring together students, alumni and experts to network and discuss emerging legal topics.

Nancy Whalen, director of student affairs and wellbeing, works closely with law students as they navigate academic and social responsibilities. “I am continually impressed with the enthusiasm and effort our student leaders dedicate to their involvement in student organizations,” Whalen said. “Whether planning school-wide community events or lunchtime speaker panels, student leaders learn and grow as they gain valuable outside-the-classroom skills. Involvement in extracurriculars offers students opportunities to strengthen their leadership skills and enhance their personal and professional formation.”