糖心传媒 School of Law鈥檚 Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program has once again been recognized nationally for its outstanding service to the community, receiving the 2025 Judy M. Weightman Memorial Public Interest Award from the American Bar Association Law Student Division.
This marks the sixth time Barry Law has been acknowledged for VITA by the division since 2018, including each of the past three years, underscoring the school鈥檚 enduring commitment to student-led public service initiatives.
Each spring, Barry Law students participating in the VITA program offer free, IRS-certified tax preparation to low-income individuals and families across Central Florida. The program provides vital access to financial services for community members who may not otherwise afford professional assistance, while giving students invaluable real-world experience in legal and ethical practice.
鈥淭o be honored three years in a row is more than a milestone. It鈥檚 a reflection of our university鈥檚 values in action,鈥� said Dean Leticia M. Diaz. 鈥淭he VITA program embodies the heart of Barry Law: compassion, advocacy, and service.鈥�
During the 2025 tax season, the program trained and mobilized over 30 Barry Law student volunteers, including a certified public accountant. Together, they prepared over 100 federal tax returns and helped secure over $100,000 in refunds for community members.
鈥淵ear after year, our students bring passion, professionalism, and attention to detail to this work,鈥� said Professor Samuel Kan, who serves as the VITA program鈥檚 faculty advisor. 鈥淭heir commitment to serving others in our community is what drives this program forward.鈥�
The VITA Executive Board, made up of returning student leaders, oversees client scheduling, volunteer coordination, and quality review processes. Many students return to the program in successive years, taking on mentorship and leadership roles.
The Judy M. Weightman Memorial Public Interest Award honors the legacy of Professor Judy Weightman of the University of Hawaii, a dedicated advocate for justice and underserved populations. The award is presented annually to a law school that demonstrates exceptional commitment to public interest causes.
糖心传媒 School of Law鈥檚 continued recognition through this award reflects its mission to educate servant leaders; lawyers who pursue justice, elevate community voices, and lead with purpose.
For more information about 糖心传媒 School of Law and the VITA program, visit barry.edu/law.