Introducing Maslon UPLIFT: Legal Institute for Teens

Maslon is pleased to announce Maslon UPLIFT: Legal Institute for Teens—a new after school mock trial program created to serve 8th grade students who reflect the rich diversity of the Twin Cities. Participation in Maslon UPLIFT will help students build confidence, develop analytical and speaking skills, foster long term vision, and create a framework to pursue academic excellence in high school.

Maslon UPLIFT will officially launch during the 2017-2018 school year at St. Louis Park Middle School, offering students engaging opportunities to learn about the legal profession, criminal justice, and the court system from volunteer attorneys. St. Louis Park Middle School, with its strong commitment to racial equity and a diverse student body, will be an ideal home for Maslon UPLIFT in its inaugural year.

"Minnesota has one of the largest achievement gaps between white students and students of color in the country," stated Catherine Ahlin-Halverson, Director of Maslon UPLIFT. "This threatens the strength and prosperity of our state. It is critical that we find a path towards equitable educational opportunities for all students. That is why we founded Maslon UPLIFT— we believe that through legal education and teamwork, we can help our students pursue academic community and excellence."

Catherine, a former partner at Maslon LLP, transitioned to the role of Public Interest Counsel for the firm in 2016 specifically to spearhead the mock trial program for local students. Prior to this, Catherine practiced in the areas of complex and class action litigation for 16 years and served as co-chair of Maslon's Litigation Group from 2011-2013. She is a 2000 graduate of Columbia Law School where she was a Harlan Fiske Stone Scholar and graduated cum laude from Smith College in 1996 with a B.A. in music. In addition to leading the mock trial program for local students, Catherine serves as a mentor and leader across all of Maslon's pro bono efforts.