Message from the President

Welcome to the website of the American College of Environmental Lawyers. Our College is a vibrant association of lawyers dedicated to improving the ethical practice of environmental law, the administration of justice, and the development of environmental law. We provide a forum to collaboratively discuss environmental issues and examine ways to make laws more effective in protecting the natural world and all members of society. The College analyzes potential improvements to environmental laws and policies, and – where feasible – it develops consensus recommendations for paths forward.

I am honored and excited to serve as President of this organization. The College is composed of exceptional attorneys across every aspect of environmental law, united by a shared commitment to improving the practice.

Fellows engage with the College to advance environmental law even beyond their individual practices. They contribute their time and expertise blogging on current topics and mentoring law students. Our Fellows, and the ACOEL Foundation we support, fund and implement pro bono projects to support environmental protection in the U.S. and throughout the world.

The foundations of environmental law are being challenged and all of us – our practices, clients, students, agencies, colleagues and systems – face increasing uncertainty. I am encouraged that the Fellows of the College continue to find ways to advance the profession together. We are strengthened by the diversity of our membership and our breadth of knowledge. I hope to support the College as we channel that strength into the field of environmental law.

In my year as President, I will focus on engagement – increasing opportunities for Fellows to participate in the College and its work. We will continue improving our internal and external communications, raising the visibility of the College and showcasing the expertise of its Fellows. We will expand opportunities to hear from Fellows on how to advance the College and its work.

I am grateful for the opportunity to serve in this role and look forward to working with each of you.

Sincerely,

Jessica Merrigan

President, American College of Environmental Lawyers

Partner, Spencer Fane LLP (Kansas City, MO)