Middle Eastern Law Student Association

Mission Statement:

The Middle Eastern Law Student Association (MELSA) at Santa Clara University, School of Law is committed to promoting cultural awareness within the legal community and fostering professional development for Middle Eastern law students. As future members of the legal profession we feel it is our responsibility to create an academic and professional environment which promotes tolerance and excellence. We strive to fulfill this mission by working closely with faculty, staff, local attorneys and other student organizations. While we all come from different backgrounds a primary mission of MELSA is to unite all members of Middle Eastern community and host events where we can raise pressing legal issues affecting the Middle East and Middle Easterners around the world.

Description of the Club:

MELSA delivers on its mission by sponsoring speakers who promote dialogue on critical issues facing every law student, as well as hosting networking opportunities for all students to meet lawyers from all backgrounds. 

Board of Directors:

President: Brian Pakpour
Vice President: Saunauz Shariati
Vice President: Nedda Noori Salehi
Treasurer: Helenaz Moteabbed
Secretary: Angela Dib

TENTATIVE SCHEDULE OF EVENTS:

Hookah Socials
September 1, 2011, 7-10 p.m. at Smoke This!
January 24, 2012, 7-10 p.m. at Smoke This!

"Patriot Acts: Narratives of Post-9/11 Injustice”
September 22, 2011, 12-1 p.m. in Bannan

Alia Malek, author and civil rights attorney, compiled a book with the same name, which is a collection of oral histories from men and women who have faced post-9/11 backlash ranging from bullying and job discrimination to rendition and torture. Lunch will be provided.
 

Diversity Wine & Cheese Mixer
October 20, 2011, 5:30-7:30 p.m., location TBD
 

How Can I Help?
November 8, 2011, 12-1 p.m. in Bannan

Students often come to law school wondering how they can get involved in their community to apply what they learn in school. Leaders from several organizations actively involved in the community will talk about the opportunities available for law students for their organizations. Lunch will be provided.
 

Practicing Property Law in the West Bank
February 14, 2012, 12-1 p.m. in Bannan

Whether you are an Israeli or Palestinian lawyer, tracking, recording and accurately maintaining property records for the West Bank requires a creative approach to international and domestic property laws. Speakers will address this contentious issue from an academic perspective. Lunch will be provided.
 

SALSA/MELSA Annual Banquet
April 13, 2012, 6:30 p.m. to midnight

Called the best banquet every year, tickets are immensely affordable and everyone is welcome to attend. We sell out every year, so buy your tickets early