Savannah Witte, a third-year student at the University of Houston Law Center, won the top prize in the prestigious Association of International Energy Negotiators’ annual Student Writing Competition.
“This year, one winner was selected from the papers submitted by universities and schools around the world,” wrote Marchia Ross, education/membership coordinator with AIEN in the notification letter sent recently.
Her winning paper “Uncontrolled Flaring: The True Story of the Wild West” will be published in the Journal of World Energy Law and Business. Witte, who aspires to have a legal career specializing in environmental and energy law, chose to focus her article on the excessive flaring of natural gas, which wastes valuable resources and raises environmental concerns.
“The rapidly changing policies surrounding natural gas usage and methane emissions have created a dynamic and complex legal landscape. At the [same] time, emerging regulations and evolving economic opportunities in the natural gas industry provided an interesting foundation for my paper,” she said. “I wanted to explore a timely subject that not only contributes to legal scholarship but also offers practical insights for policymakers and industry professionals.”
As the 2024-2025 winner, Witte also won a complimentary one-year AIEN student membership. She could also choose to attend – with complimentary registration and accommodations – either the Ninth Annual International Energy Summit (IES) in Istanbul, Turkey or the Model Contracts Workshop in Bali, Indonesia. Witte chose the workshop.
“I chose the AIEN Model Contracts Workshop because it offers a unique opportunity to enhance my understanding of energy contracts in a global context while expanding my professional network,” Witte said. “This experience will allow me to deepen my expertise and gain practical insights that will be instrumental in shaping my future legal career.”The workshop will be held Sept. 8-11, 2025.
Q&A with Savannah Witte
Why did you decide to participate in the AIEN Student Writing Competition?
SW: I initially wrote my paper for my Energy Law and Policy class, where I had the opportunity to explore a complex issue at the intersection of law and energy. With the encouragement and support of my professor, Professor Gina Warren, I decided to submit my work to the AIEN Student Writing Competition. The competition provided a valuable platform to engage with professionals in the field and gain recognition for my research.
Can you share a bit about the process of working on this article?
SW: The process began with extensive research on existing legal frameworks, recent case law, and industry trends, utilizing the research and writing skills I developed at UHLC. As I refined my argument, I aimed to include both policy and legal solutions to propose practical suggestions. Throughout the process, I received feedback from my professor, Professor Warren, and my peers in my Energy Law and Policy class, which helped strengthen my analysis and improve the clarity and effectiveness of my paper. I am grateful for the support of my professors, mentors, and peers throughout this journey.
What is your career goal?
SW: My ultimate career goal is to become a legal professional specializing in environmental and energy law. Building on my background in Chemical Engineering, I aim to work at the intersection of law, policy and industry, advocating for equitable and sustainable solutions within the energy and chemical sectors.
What led you to pursue a legal education at the UH Law Center?
SW: I chose to pursue my legal education at the University of Houston Law Center because of its esteemed academic reputation, distinguished faculty, and course opportunities in energy and environmental law. Situated in the Energy Capital of the World, the Law Center provides great opportunities to engage with the real-world practice of energy and environmental law.
How did you get interested in environmental issues?
SW: My interest in environmental issues stems from my background in chemical engineering and my experience in environmental consulting. Through my engineering studies, I developed an understanding of industrial processes, energy production, and their environmental impacts. My work in environmental consulting further exposed me to the regulatory and policy challenges that industries face in reaching sustainability goals. By combining these two perspectives, I can analyze environmental issues through both a technical and legal lens, allowing me to identify solutions that are not only scientifically and economically feasible but also equitable and environmentally responsible.
What are your favorite memories at UHLC?
SW: Some of my favorite memories at UHLC stem from the strong sense of camaraderie among students and the supportive academic environment. I have truly enjoyed connecting with classmates who share my passion for the law and engaging with professionals in Houston’s dynamic legal and energy sectors.
What advice do you have for other law students?
SW: Competitions like this provide invaluable opportunities for growth, and I hope my experience encourages other students to challenge themselves. I encourage law students to take advantage of writing competitions, journals, mock trial, moot court, and other extracurricular opportunities. These experiences are invaluable in honing legal skills, building confidence, and expanding professional networks. Developing and practicing legal skills beyond the classroom is essential for growth and success in the legal field.
Original source can be found here.