Building a culture of well-being at UC Klekamp Law

At the University of Cincinnati's Donald P. Klekamp College of Law, a meaningful shift is underway-one that recognizes the human side of the legal profession. Behind the work of attorneys, judges, staff, and students are demanding schedules, high expectations, and pressures that can take a toll on mental health and well-being.

In May, UC Klekamp Law renewed its commitment to the American Bar Association's Well-Being Campaign, reaffirming its dedication to supporting those who aspire to serve in the legal profession. Guided by the ABA Well-Being Pledge's Seven-Point Framework, the college continues to foster a culture where well-being is not an afterthought, but an essential part of the law school experience.

Assistant Dean Rudy Trejo sees that commitment in action every day.

"I'm proud that we are a leader in wellness and well-being initiatives for law students," he said. "We're creating meaningful opportunities for students to take care of themselves and thrive both inside and outside the classroom."

UC Law students have fun at trivia night!

Those opportunities take many forms. Students have access to an embedded counselor through Counseling Services, complimentary tickets to sporting and arts events, and programs that address challenges such as imposter syndrome. Partnerships with campus dining services promote healthy eating habits, while social media helps keep wellness resources visible and accessible. And sometimes, well-being is simply about creating moments of joy and connection-like the laughter and stress relief that accompanied a popular goat yoga event.

Support extends beyond Student Affairs. The college's Campus Life and Well-Being Committee hosts weekly Mind-Body sessions and provides stress-relief activities during exam periods, helping students build healthy habits and resilience throughout their legal education.

Together, these initiatives reflect a holistic approach to student well-being. At UC Klekamp Law, the goal is not only to prepare students for the demands of the legal profession, but to help them enter it as healthier, more balanced, and more resilient individuals. In doing so, the college is helping redefine what success in law looks like-one student, one conversation, and yes, one goat yoga session at a time.

Photo on left: A goat stands on the back of a student practicing yoga. Photo on right: Examples of well-being messages posted on Instagram by the UC Klekamp Law Student Affairs department. Lead photo: UC Klekamp Law students stand by atrium window during relaxation event.

Photos: provided by UC Student Affairs department.

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