Samford University's Cumberland School of Law welcomed 182 new students to campus this August as members of the Class of 2029, one of the largest and most academically accomplished classes in the school's history.
The class has established new academic benchmarks for the law school, with a median LSAT score of 157 and a median undergraduate GPA of 3.70, both the highest in Cumberland history.
"The Class of 2029 reflects the continued strength and momentum of Cumberland School of Law," said Dean Blake Hudson. "These students bring outstanding academic achievement, diverse life experiences and a genuine commitment to serving others. We are proud to welcome a class that will enrich our community, embrace the opportunities before them, and carry forward Cumberland's tradition of preparing practice-ready lawyers and principled leaders."
The class reflects a wide range of backgrounds and experiences. The average age is 23, though students range from 20 to 71, demonstrating the broad appeal of legal education to both recent college graduates and those pursuing a new professional chapter.
Incoming students represent more than 50 undergraduate majors, highlighting the diverse academic pathways that lead to the study of law. Students earned undergraduate degrees from 54 colleges and universities, with 20 institutions represented by two or more students.
“We are thrilled that each of these students chose Cumberland School of Law to pursue their legal education,” said Allie Saunders, director of admission for the law school. “The class brings a wonderful set of backgrounds and experiences to our community, and we look forward to seeing them grow as students, as people, and as future legal professionals.”
Before the start of the fall semester, nearly 40 members of the class participated in Cumberland's First-Year Summer Program, which provides incoming students an early introduction to law school and the academic skills needed for success. The program helps participants build relationships with classmates, faculty and staff before the full class arrives on campus.
READ: Learn more about students’ experience in the First-Year Summer Program.
Orientation Week Builds a Foundation for Success
Before classes began, members of the Class of 2029 participated in a four-day orientation program introducing them to the expectations of law school while fostering connections with classmates, faculty and staff.
Students were officially welcomed by Samford University President Beck A. Taylor, Provost David Cimbora and Dean Hudson and learned about the academic, professional and co-curricular opportunities available at Cumberland.
Throughout the week, students participated in mock law school classes, met faculty members, learned about Cumberland's nationally recognized advocacy programs, clinics and externship opportunities, and connected with representatives from a wide variety of student organizations.
One highlight of the week was a visit to the Jefferson County Courthouse, where students heard from a panel of judges representing multiple divisions of the court system. Moderated by Presiding Judge Elisabeth French, a 1997 Cumberland School of Law alumna, the discussion provided insight into courtroom procedures, judicial decision-making and the realities of legal practice while introducing students to members of Alabama's judiciary.
First-year student Emma Terry, Miss Alabama 2025, is excited to be a part of the new class.
“Beginning law school at Cumberland feels like the start of an incredibly exciting chapter,” Terry said. “Orientation showed me just how special the Cumberland community is and how deeply the faculty and staff are invested in each student’s success, both in the classroom and as we prepare for the next phase of our careers and lives. I am excited to be challenged academically, build lifelong friendships with my classmates, and discover how I can use my legal education to serve others and make a meaningful impact.”
Students also attended Justice for All: Contempt of Court, a presentation featuring attorney, journalist and author Mark Curriden, who discussed his book, which explores the role of the legal system in safeguarding constitutional rights and access to justice.
The week concluded with the school’s annual orientation service day, where first-year students participated in community service projects throughout the Birmingham area, reinforcing Cumberland's longstanding commitment to leadership through service and giving students an opportunity to make an impact beyond the classroom.
"At Cumberland, we want students to begin law school with confidence and a clear understanding of the resources available to help them succeed," said Lynn Hogewood, assistant dean for academic and bar success. "From the First-Year Summer Program through orientation week and beyond, our goal is to equip students with the skills, strategies and support they need to thrive from day one. We are committed to helping every student build a strong foundation for academic and professional success."
As the Class of 2029 begins its legal education, students enjoy a foundation rooted in academic excellence, professionalism and community engagement.
For Cumberland School of Law, the newest class represents a record-setting academic achievement and the next generation of advocates, counselors and leaders preparing to serve their communities.
