Late-night study sessions and the demanding challenges of Practice Court are central to every Baylor Lawyer’s experience in Waco. For Tori Rhodes, JD ’21, she notes that it was the mentorship and professional opportunities—supported in part by the Baylor Law Career Development Fellowship Program—that had a significant impact on her life and career. During her time as a student, Tori was grateful for the chance to observe accomplished attorneys through the American Inns of Court, intern with U.S. Magistrate Judges Jeffrey L. Cureton and Jeffrey C. Manske, and collaborate with John Palmer at Naman Howell—experiences that not only shaped her career but also strengthened her commitment to service and the practice of law.
“Benefitting first-hand from these highly respected and accomplished individuals paved the path for me to pay it forward,” Tori says. A proud Baylor Lawyer, she credits her education for preparing her exceptionally well for legal practice. “Baylor Law’s reputation is touted as one that will prepare its students to practice law, and now that I am one, I know that to be true. I experienced first-hand the skillset of a Baylor Lawyer compared to first-year associates from other schools. This head start helped further our careers.”
Tori has chosen to pay it forward by supporting Baylor Law’s Career Development Fellowship Program, which provides financial stipends to students pursuing unpaid or low-paid legal opportunities at not-for-profit or governmental organizations working with underrepresented populations. As a past recipient of the Fellowship, she understands its impact first-hand.
“Becoming a Baylor Law student is a tough but great accomplishment,” she explains. “The financial strain of law school affects everything from daily living to taking advantage of opportunities to, sadly, sometimes, even foregoing the dream of becoming a lawyer. I could not help my friends back then, but I can help others now. I hope my help makes students feel like someone is in their corner rooting for them to achieve their dream of becoming a lawyer.”
Financial challenges can limit many students’ ability to accept career-building opportunities. The Career Development Fellowship Program helps bridge this gap, ensuring that students can pursue meaningful, career-building experiences without worrying about financial limitations. Tori’s support—and the support of Baylor Law alumni—helps make this possible.
With Baylor Law’s Giving Day approaching on April 2, 2025, Tori urges her fellow alumni to consider the impact even small financial contributions can make.
“Every student’s path to Baylor Law School is different. Some paths were quite challenging, and because of this, I believe this message is important to share: Every student at Baylor Law earned his or her right to be there, and every student begins law school from the same starting line. That starting line is an opportunity to do the best that he or she can. A financial nudge from others who once stood in their shoes helps spur that message.”
She also reminds her fellow Baylor Lawyers that giving back doesn’t just help students—it also enriches the alumni experience.
“The job of a lawyer is, by nature, one that attracts ‘helpers.’ The help asked of us is never-ending, and we are often in short supply. Nevertheless, I encourage my fellow alumni to try giving a small amount toward helping the new generation of Baylor Lawyers at least once. You may find that in helping a student, you, too, benefit.”
On Giving Day, April 2, 2025, alumni have a chance to make a meaningful difference in the lives of future Baylor Lawyers. Your contributions to the Career Development Fellowship Program can help current students gain significant professional experience while receiving a small stipend to cover expenses, ensuring that the next generation of Baylor Lawyers is set up for success.
Tori’s story shows that even small acts of generosity can create a profound and lasting impact and shape lives and careers. By supporting the Career Development Fellowship Program, you can help law students pursue their dreams and gain the professional experience needed to succeed. Will you join Tori in making a difference?
Original source can be found here.