The Renata Turner Award, named in honor of Chief Judge Renata Turner, aims to support Atlanta's John Marshall Law School (AJMLS) students pursuing public interest legal work during the summer. The award is especially beneficial for those undertaking unpaid internships or jobs, helping them gain essential experience without financial obstacles.
By contributing to the Renata Turner Award, donors are directly supporting students engaged in critical issues such as civil rights, public defense, and legal aid. This initiative allows students to focus on public service without the burden of financial hardship.
Kaliyah Chisholm, a 2024 recipient of the Renata Turner Award, emphasized its importance: "My passion and purpose lie in public interest work and more importantly with the youth cycling through the criminal justice system. I am committed and willing to dedicate my life to seeing change within our legal system that will promote not only equality in legal access but equity for those who have started life in less favorable positions. With fewer distractions and financial worries, I will be able to fully dedicate my time to mastering the art of fair and competent legal representation of underprivileged youth."
Donations up to $10,000 will be matched dollar for dollar, doubling their impact. Contributors will be acknowledged in the AJMLS Honor Roll of Donors and join a community dedicated to advancing public interest law.
AJMLS underscores its commitment to public service through this campaign. Supporting the Renata Turner Award is portrayed as an investment in future public interest law practitioners and a tribute to Chief Judge Turner's legacy.