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BRISTOL, R.I. – Rhode Island's top lawmaker, Attorney General Peter Neronha, visited �鶹ɫ��Ƭ in October for a panel discussion that brought together students interested in law, politics, and civil engagement. The event was co-sponsored by �鶹ɫ��Ƭ’s Campus Democrats and Mock Trial Club, representing an interdisciplinary collaboration between student-run clubs exploring the intersections of justice, government, and advocacy.

During the panel discussion, Neronha, who worked alongside former President Barack Obama, shared his experience as an attorney general at both the state and federal level, providing insights into the role of an attorney general and what he does now as state attorney general for the communities of Rhode Island.

The goal of the event was to inspire students in pursuing academic studies and a career pathway in public service-related careers and to provide all an opportunity to learn more about the working of state government and civic engagement. It was a major coup for the Campus Democrats and Mock Trial Club to get the Rhode Island Attorney General as the guest speaker at their first event of the year.

“Neronha answered questions at great lengths and in great detail, which was appreciated by attendees to hear from an individual of his political stature,” said Campus Democrats Vice President Kali Blackerby, a junior Public Relations major and Communication & Media Studies minor from North Easton, Mass. 

For members of the Mock Trial Club, the event offered a valuable perspective on how the justice system operates beyond the classroom. “As a Massachusetts resident, it was an amazing opportunity to learn more about Rhode Island politics,” said Mock Trial Co-President Ryleigh Costa, a junior Legal Studies 3+3 and Philosophy double major and Political Science minor from Westport, Mass.

During the question-and-answer portion, Neronha addressed recent speculation about a potential gubernatorial run, clarifying that he does not plan to seek the office. Costa noted that Neronha’s candor about his work and career goals offered students a glimpse into the challenges and responsibilities of public leadership. “While he may be ruling out running for governor, I would love to see another candidate with the vigor he exemplified at the event,” Costa said.

The event saw excellent turnout from students across disciplines and was lauded as a success by members of both sponsoring organizations, underscoring �鶹ɫ��Ƭ’s commitment to fostering meaningful conversations that connect theory, practice, and public service.