2025 Advocacy Project
Pitch Competition
Ban Beach Driving on Cape Cod - Brooke Applegate
Brooke Applegate is a rising second-year student at New England Law | Boston. She holds a degree in Coastal Environmental Science from Flagler College, where her research focused on invasive species, water quality, and the effects of plastic pollution on marine invertebrates. Her upbringing along the New Jersey coast, along with experience working at a wildlife hospital and rehabilitation center, deepened her commitment to conserving fragile ecosystems and the wildlife that depend on them. Her work as a legal assistant further refined her skills and strengthened her belief that meaningful environmental protection requires the integration of scientific knowledge and legal strategy. She is motivated to apply both her scientific background and legal training to support Defend Them All’s mission of creating lasting protections for wildlife and the ecosystems they call home.
Winning Hearts, Winning Minds, and Winning Rights for Nature in Bolivia - Noah Boudreault
Noah Boudreault is a second year law student at the University of British Columbia. He is passionate about environmental protection and is particularly interested in using constitutional law and nature rights to do so.
Ban Live Pig Auctions - Ryan Chien
My name is Ryan Chien and I am a rising second-year law student at New England Law | Boston. I am passionate about animal law, particularly the overlooked and systemic abuses in industrial agriculture. During college, I became aware of the live auction of pigs—a cruel and outdated practice that continues largely out of public view. I even went undercover to observe one of these auctions myself, and what I witnessed deeply disturbed me. The fear, neglect, and rough handling of the animals made it clear how far removed these practices are from any notion of humane treatment. These experiences have stayed with me and shaped my commitment to advocate for stronger legal protections for farmed animals. This summer, through my work with Defend Them All, I’ve been exploring how laws can address not only traditional factory farming but also practices like live animal auctions that persist in the shadows. I believe that bringing visibility and legal accountability to these issues is critical, and I am determined to use my legal education to push for change.
The Hidden Risks of Rodent Contraception - Kassidy Clark
I’m Kassidy Clark, a lifelong animal lover and current legal intern with a focus on animal and environmental protection. I’ve shared my life with a wide range of pets: rats, cats, snakes, tortoises, mice, a tarantula, fish, a donkey, a goat, and horses! Growing up around such a diverse group of animals, and volunteering at the San Diego Humane Society, gave me a deep appreciation for all species and a strong understanding of the bond between humans and animals. My current research focuses on the legal and ecological impacts of rodent contraceptives, particularly their effects on non-target species. I’m committed to using the law to help build a more humane, science-informed future for animals and the ecosystems they inhabit.
Shield the Shore - Jasmine Lawless
Jasmine Lawless is a law student at the University of San Diego School of Law with a strong interest in environmental and animal advocacy. She developed her passion for these issues while studying policy and law, recognizing environmental and animal policy as one of the most effective ways to create lasting change.
Tree Keeper Toolkit - Derek Nguyen
Derek Nguyen is a second-year law student at the University of Toronto Law School with an interest in environmental law. Early experiences in nature sparked a lifelong appreciation for the environment and animals. This upbringing, combined with a background in biology, fostered an awareness of the widespread environmental degradation caused by human activity and inspired a commitment to preserving as much of the natural world as possible.
Critical Review of Ontario’s Animal Welfare Service - Grace Nguyen
My name is Grace Nguyen, and I am a rising 2L student at the University of Windsor Faculty of Law. I have always had a passion for research and investigation, and interning with the DTA has allowed me to explore topics and areas I was unfamiliar with. As a dog mom, I was thrilled to learn more about animal law and become involved in an issue that was affecting our community. I aspire to be a lawyer who is dedicated, grounded, and authentic.
Stop Ecocide - Sadie Parker
Hi my name is Sadie Parker and I am a rising third-year law student at the University of San Diego School of Law. I have always wanted to pursue a career in environmental law, specifically in conservation. During my free time I enjoy being outside, especially near the ocean. During my time with Defend Them All I have learned a lot about the interworking of environmental non-profit work and different avenues to protect animals and the environment without resorting to litigation. This experience has been a significant point in my journey as I hope to continue working as an advocate for all of earth and its inhabitants.
Running with Wolves - Madison Rogers
Madison Rogers is a second-year law student at the University of Colorado Law School. She has a strong interest in environmental and natural resources law, particularly as it relates to land use, wildlife, and its intersection with American Indian law. Madison is President of the Colorado Law Animal Legal Defense Fund. She is passionate about coastal ecosystems and the overpopulation crisis of domestic animals in the U.S.
Protecting Passiflora - Cassidy Sullivan
Cassidy Sullivan is a third year law student with a deep rooted passion for animal welfare and environmental protection. Committed to promoting environmental stewardship both personally and professionally, Ms. Sullivan integrates sustainability into every aspect of her life. Interning with DTA represents a natural and meaningful step in her legal education, allowing her to combine advocacy for the natural world with growing expertise in law.
Slow the Cruise Ships - William Truong
William Truong is a second-year law student at the University of San Diego School of Law. He has been deeply concerned about environmental and animal welfare issues from a young age and is excited to learn how to use his legal education to advocate for these species.
Improving Animal Welfare Standards in Retail Stores - Sehar Zaidi
Sehar Zaidi is a law student at the University of Windsor, Faculty of Law. She has a broad range of legal interests, with a particular focus on environmental and animal welfare law. Having completed internships in both governmental and corporate settings, Sehar brings a diverse background to her legal studies. Her experiences have sharpened her skills in legal research, policy analysis, and advocacy. She hopes to continue advocating for animals and the environment as her legal career progresses, using the law as a tool for meaningful and lasting change.