Born in Port-au-Prince, Haiti, and growing up in the coastal Miami area, Stacey Alphonse had grown accustomed to big cities.
“What attracted me to UToledo was the tight-knit community,” Alphonse said. “I wanted to experience that type of community once in my life. UToledo also gave me the opportunity to pursue a legal career that didn’t strain my pockets. The out-of-state fee was nothing compared to what other states were charging, and some of the scholarships I was able to receive were generous.”
CELEBRATING SUCCESS: UToledo recognizes the Class of 2025 with a series of stories featuring students receiving their degrees at spring commencement.
After receiving her bachelor’s degree in political science and criminology from Florida State University, Alphonse came to UToledo to earn her juris doctor.
“I chose law because it is so important,” she said. “Being a part of a field where you make invaluable change is a privilege. I love being able to advocate and support others.”
Graduating Sunday, May 11, as part of the College of Law’s commencement ceremony at 1 p.m. in Thompson Student Union Auditorium, Alphonse is a leader for law students on campus. She served as president of the Student Bar Association, was co-captain of the Mock Trial Team, an articles editor for the University of Toledo Law Review, and previously served as vice president of the Mindful Advocates Association and treasurer of the Black Law Student Association.
“One of my greatest successes at UToledo law was becoming the first Black woman elected as Student Bar Association president,” Alphonse said. “This means a lot to me because this achievement is less about me and more about paving the way and encouraging other people who look like me to continue forward.”
Marilyn Preston, a law professor for legal research and writing, called Alphonse a distinguished and compassionate student.
Stacey Alphonse is among the College of Law’s graduating students on Sunday, May 11, at 1 p.m. in Thompson Student Union Auditorium.
“Stacey’s achievements in academic excellence, her leadership and service in several law school organizations as well as her community service have allowed her to thrive both in and outside the classroom,” Preston said. “Stacey’s commitment to growth and community has made her stand out among her peers, and it’s been a privilege to support her along her journey. Her success is a testament to her hard work and inspiring determination.”
After graduation, and upon passage of the bar exam, Alphonse said she will move to Columbus to begin working as an assistant attorney general for the State of Ohio.
“I realized that government law is where I want to be because I’d be making the most impact and helping the most people,” Alphonse said. “That has always been the most important thing for me: How do I help people and how can I impact their lives?”
Alphonse said she thanks UToledo for supporting her legal journey.
“UToledo took a chance on me,” she said. “Everything happens for a reason and sometimes you’re meant to be somewhere you didn’t expect. I don’t think I would have been able to accomplish half of the things I have accomplished if it weren’t for the opportunities that UToledo gifted me.”
