Empowered by Legacy: Goldman Fund Supports Rising Advocates for Justice

American University Washington College of Law's Program on Environmental and Energy Law (PEEL) is pleased to announce the first recipients of the Emily Claire Goldman Memorial Endowed Fund: Ashley Dominguez Garcia (1L) and Kate Collins Palmer (2L). Each student will receive $4,000 to support their public interest legal work this summer-continuing the legacy of an alumna whose life and career embodied justice, compassion, and action.

The Fund was established by Emily's mother, Elizabeth Davidson, in memory of Emily Claire Goldman, JD '16, who passed away in December 2022 at age 31. A passionate advocate for international human rights and environmental justice, Emily's career was defined by her commitment to holding powerful institutions accountable and amplifying the voices of those most often ignored.

Rooted in the Jewish principle of tikkun olam, or "repairing the world," Emily's work spanned human rights, corporate accountability, and immigration reform. She founded the ESG Transparency Initiative (ESGTI) to promote ethical corporate practices and also led Educators for Migrant Justice, pushing for the divestment of pension funds from private prison companies implicated in human rights abuses.

PEEL Director and faculty member Professor David Hunter-who deeply influenced Emily's journey as a lawyer-helped shape the Fund's vision. It is specifically aimed at students pursuing summer placements in public interest law, with a focus on human rights, environmental justice, and advocacy on behalf of Indigenous and marginalized communities. In supporting Ashley and Kate's legal internships, the Fund ensures Emily's spirit lives on through the work of the next generation of changemakers.