Tributes to the Life of Michael Mello
November 25, 2008
Dear VLS Family and Friends,
Professor Michael Mello speaking before the Vermont Advisory Committee to the U.S. Commission on Civil Rights in July of 2008.
We are all deeply saddened by the death of Professor Michael Mello on Sunday afternoon. Michael, age 51, died at home while working on an article. An extraordinarily prolific scholar, his work included books, op-ed pieces, radio, and television, as well as advice on movies covering some of the death row and serial killer cases he had worked on.
Less widely known was his willingness to pitch in whenever asked (and often without asking) to be sure that there was a lively intellectual life at VLS outside the classroom. Michael could be counted on to enliven the debate on issues from Middle East policy to gay marriage to the Department of Homeland Security. He loved controversy, and if no one else volunteered, he would take the side of an argument that lacked adequate representation.
Michael also regularly reached out to students. He cared deeply about individuals, not just his class collectively. He was a mentor for many.
On a personal basis, I will miss Michael greatly. We had some great discussions about difficult issues. I will always remember his passion and innovative thinking as well as his friendship.
In Michael's honor, VLS is creating an LRAP scholarship for graduates who go into criminal defense work. If you would like to contribute, please contact Dorothy Heinrichs at dheinrichs@vermontlaw.edu.
Please join us on Jan. 30, 2009 in Oakes Hall, room 110, for a celebration of the life and reflections on the teaching, writing, and litigation legacy of Professor Michael A. Mello, 1957-2008.
3:30 p.m. - Reception
4:00 p.m. - Celebration and Remembrances
Jeff
Geoffrey B. Shields
President, Dean, and Professor of Law
Vermont Law School
Read Michael Mello's obituary.
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