National Lawyers Guild chapter honors local students

Two Wayne State University Law School students have been named Outstanding Law Students of the Year by The Michigan and Detroit Chapter of the National Lawyers Guild.

Marie Reimers of Saginaw and Madeline Sinkovich of Novi received the awards at the chapter's 81st Anniversary Dinner in February.

Reimers, a third-year law student, has been a member of the National Lawyers Guild for three years and has served on the organization's Civil Resistance Committee for two. She is a frequent legal observer and a champion for women's issues. Reimers said being involved in the guild opened her up to new connections and activism in the community.

"The guild has played such an important role in my law school education, serving as a constant reminder of how important it is to work for the people," said Reimers. "I am very lucky to get the opportunity to connect with such a fantastic group of lawyers, law students and legal workers. After law school I intend to begin a career in legal aid, helping women and children who cannot afford attorneys access justice."

Reimers earned her bachelor's degree from Central Michigan University with a triple major in political science, sociology and women's studies.

Sinkovich is a third-year law student who was drawn to Wayne Law because of the Damon J. Keith Center for Civil Rights. She's now chair of the Keith Students for Civil Rights and organizes panels, trainings and special events for the group. Sinkovich also leads educational events and discussions for the Wayne Law chapter of the National Lawyers Guild, and regularly serves as a legal observer. She said she went to law school to "use the law for social change."

"Receiving this award was a true honor and I am blessed to be a part of the progressive and passionate community of the National Lawyers Guild," said Sinkovich. "After graduation, I intend to sit for the Michigan bar exam and secure a job where I can serve those in need."

Sinkovich earned her bachelor's degree from Kalamazoo College with majors in Eastern Asian and African history, and also played on the softball team. She is co-convenor of the Coalition to End Unconstitutional Tax Foreclosures, an alliance of several long-standing Detroit community organizations.

Published: Wed, Apr 25, 2018