Touro Law Students Named Catalyst Fellows

Three Touro Law Center students are beginning their careers in public service this summer with the support of prestigious Catalyst Public Service Fellowships. Madeleine Laser, of Holbrook, is working with the Long Island Advocacy Center, a non-profit that protects the rights of students with disabilities; Kristen Lomando, of Sayville, is working at the Civil Division of the United States Attorney's Office for the Eastern District of New York, in Central Islip; and Megan Mulholland, of Bayport, is working at the Criminal Division of that office. The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District is one of the nation’s premier litigation offices, representing the United States in Brooklyn, Queens, Staten Island, Nassau and Suffolk.

Law Center Dean Harry Ballan stated, “The Touro family is proud of these three students who were chosen for their academic excellence and commitment to public service. The Catalyst Fellowships provide a great opportunity for them to gain valuable practical training while experiencing the satisfactions of public service. I know each of these students will excel.”

Catalyst Fellowships are funded by New York State Chief Judge Janet DiFiore, with surplus campaign funds from her service as Westchester District Attorney. The fellowships provide funding to encourage outstanding first-year law students to take public interest and public service legal jobs that would otherwise be unpaid. 

Some details about the new fellows:

Ms. Laser has a background in Human Services and was influenced to earn a law degree so she could become an advocate for students with special needs and their families. She has seen first-hand the difficulty that individuals with special needs experience when trying to have their educational needs met. “My family advocated for my sister who has autism and diabetes. I have witnessed advocacy at its best and have been inspired to help others in similar situations.”

Ms. Lomando’s desire to help others was instilled by her family, who taught her that serving the community is a privilege. She looks forward to learning more about the role of a U.S. Attorney and to furthering both her experience and her dedication to the community. She said, “I believe public service is deeply rewarding and I would be honored to be able to work with my community after graduation.” She hopes to one day work in the Suffolk County District Attorney’s Office. 

Megan Mulholland’s desire to serve the public as a government attorney is inspired by her father, who served as a Captain in the U.S. Army Judge Advocate General’s Corps. She said, “I believe public interest work holds the promise of intrinsic reward and increased career fulfillment. I aspire to serve one day as a federal prosecutor. I am eager to learn more about the U.S. Attorney’s mission and role in our government as well as what it is like to be part of the U.S. Attorney’s team.” 

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Patti Desrochers

Director of Communications

pattid@tourolaw.edu

(631) 761-7062