Kate Roberts JD’25 becomes an advocate for survivors

On her first day of orientation at Willamette University’s School of Law, Kate Roberts JD’25 met fellow student Hannah Brenner JD’25, a connection that would prove pivotal to Kate’s experience.

“Hannah told me that even though many law schools are cut-throat and competitive, she believed that students who help and support each other end up making everyone better,” Kate recalls.

Willamette's culture of camaraderie and collegiality served Kate well; Hannah became her study buddy through the rigors of courses and exams. “I would not have done as well as I have done without her,” Kate says. After graduation, Kate and Hannah plan to work together to prepare for the Bar Exam.

Kate’s network of support extended to the Willamette faculty as well. She credits Associate Dean for Academic Affairs and Professor of Law David Friedman with bringing joy and collaboration to the classroom. “He has been genuinely open to learning from students and made learning fun,” Kate says.

She also valued the opportunity to work with Distinguished Professor of Practice Susan Cook JD'96 in Willamette’s Trust and Estates Clinic, where she gained hands-on experience in estate planning and elder law. She found it particularly rewarding to counsel clients from the Grand Ronde Tribe, who may not otherwise have had access to legal services. Along the way, Kate knew she would have Professor Cook’s experience and expertise behind her.

“Professor Cook believed I could jump in and do legal work,” Kate says. “She provided all the support needed for that goal to come to fruition.”

Advocating for others

As Kate looks towards her career, she hopes to pass on that spirit of support. Kate’s externship at BozLaw, PA — a firm representing child and adult sexual abuse survivors throughout the country — has led to a rewarding job opportunity helping to represent survivors.

As a survivor of sexual abuse herself, Kate is deeply committed to this work. She has already co-founded the Restored Voices Collective, a non-profit that provides a community for survivors of Adult Clergy Sexual Abuse. Now, she’ll have the tools to advocate for survivors as a lawyer.

Reflecting back, Kate sees her time in law school as a period of significant growth.

“My time at Willamette helped me to think logically, advocate fiercely, and have the confidence to serve my future clients.”