Western New England University School of Law is proud to announce that Jordana Harper has been honored with the 2025 Outstanding Externship Student Award by the Clinical Legal Education Association (CLEA). This prestigious national award recognizes the outstanding contributions of law students participating in Externship programs across the country.
Harper, a standout member of the WNE School of Law community, was nominated by the School's clinical faculty in recognition of her exemplary performance in three distinct Externship placements: the Massachusetts Attorney General's Office, the Greenfield Court Service Center, and Community Legal Aid. Across all three roles, she demonstrated a remarkable commitment to serving individuals and organizational clients through skilled legal advocacy and compassionate client relations.
“Jordana distinguished herself not only through the breadth of her work, but also through the depth of her engagement,” said Professor Laila Atta, Director of Externships. “Her ability to integrate legal knowledge with real-world application exemplifies the mission of our program and the values of the Western New England University School of Law.”
In each of her placements, Harper became a valued member of her team, providing meaningful support to legal professionals while enhancing access to justice in Western Massachusetts. In addition to her field work, she excelled in the seminar component of the Externship Program, demonstrating thoughtfulness and self-reflection as she explored complex legal, ethical, and strategic issues.
Reflecting, Harper shared, “This is an extraordinary honor! What an exciting surprise as I conclude my studies at WNE. I am fortunate to have participated in such rewarding externship experiences alongside my academic work. I was inspired by the tremendous good being accomplished in each of these placements. Most of all, I am deeply thankful to the dedicated faculty and staff for their unwavering guidance and support.”
Harper’s recognition by CLEA highlights not only her individual accomplishments but also the strength of Western New England’s commitment to experiential learning. Western New England University School of Law provides students with the opportunity to be immersed in a dynamic, hands-on learning environment that allows them to understand the practice of law more fully. These hands-on opportunities allow students to apply legal theory to real-world situations, developing essential lawyering skills under the supervision of experienced practitioners and faculty. Such experiences not only prepare students for the practice of law but also help them build professional networks and enhance their resumes.
