On the eve of graduation, we pause to honor the Appalachian School of Law Class of 2025.
Your years of hard work, perseverance, and purpose have brought you to this milestone. As we look forward to tomorrow’s ceremony, we share this message from our President and Dean, Col. D.J. Western, USAF, Ret.:
On behalf of the entire ASL community, I offer my heartfelt congratulations to each of you. Your resilience, passion, and commitment have brought you to this moment—and the world is better for it.
As you step into the legal profession, remember this: you are more than advocates—you are catalysts. Like the canaries once carried into the mines of Appalachia, you will go where others may not, bringing light to injustice, warning of harm, and calling attention to the issues that too often go unnoticed. Whether you stay in the mountains or take your fight to the far corners of the country, never forget that your voice matters. Use it boldly, use it wisely, and use it for good.
We are proud of you. We believe in you. And we can’t wait to see the difference you make.
Col D.J. Western, USAF, Ret.
President & Dean
Appalachian School of Law
