Naun A. Benitez

30 students, including Naun A. Benitez of Texas, are participating in the Indiana Conference for Legal Education Opportunity (ICLEO) Summer Institute in Indianapolis, Indiana.  ICLEO is a program designed to assist Indiana minority, low income or educationally disadvantaged college graduates in pursuing a law degree and a career in the Indiana legal community.

ICLEO was established in 1997 by the Indiana General Assembly and Governor Frank O’Bannon at the urging of Chief Justice Randall T. Shepard.  Chief Justice Shepard explained, “These are intelligent and eager students who will be welcome additions to the legal profession.  Many of them have overcome great obstacles to gain academic success.  This program is a stepping stone to help them achieve their dreams.”    

Each year, ICLEO accepts 30 college graduates into the program.  The students attend a six-week Summer Institute held at one of the four Indiana law schools.  This year, the program is at Indiana University School of Law-Indianapolis.  The students are introduced to areas of law which they encounter during their first year of law school.  They also receive tips for law school success and professional development advice. With challenging scholastics and practical advice, ICLEO is designed to prepare the students for the rigors of their upcoming law school experience.  The Indiana Supreme Court’s Division of State Court Administration provides staff support and financial management for ICLEO.

After successful completion of the Indiana CLEO Summer Institute, students are eligible for an annual stipend ranging from $6,500 - $9,000.   Stipends may be awarded for up to three successive years if the student remains eligible.  After graduation, ICLEO Fellows continue to have a supportive network of legal mentors comprised of alumni and program supporters.