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Prof. Laura Fox (JD/MELP'13) Honored as a Distinguished Alumnus of George Mason University's College of Humanities and Social Sciences

Laura Fox, tall with brown hair and jumpsuit, with Dean Ardis in black suit and scarf holding the award in front of a green wall with George Mason Now graphics
Prof. Fox (left) with GMU Dean Ann Ardis

We are delighted to announce that our very own Prof. Laura Fox, Director of Vermont Law and Graduate School’s Farmed Animal Advocacy Clinic, has been recognized as a distinguished alumnus of George Mason University’s College of Humanities and Social Sciences. This esteemed recognition is part of the "Community and Catalysts" award, a prestigious accolade that celebrates the luminaries whose leadership, research, service, and monumental contributions have not only enriched their respective fields but have also had a lasting impact on the communities they serve and George Mason University.

At the heart of Prof. Fox's success lies the profound philosophical foundation she received at Mason when pursuing her BA and MA in Philosophy. The discipline of Philosophy is not just about pondering life's deep questions but is a rigorous training ground for developing unparalleled critical thinking and logical reasoning skills. It is these very skills, honed during her time at GMU, that Prof. Fox credits as the cornerstone of her triumphs in the field of law.

Prof. Fox's journey in the realm of Philosophy was transformative. It laid the groundwork for her to critically examine society's ethical obligations, especially concerning the environment and nonhuman animals. As she transitioned into the legal world, her philosophical background empowered her with a unique perspective and approach. This potent combination of philosophy and law has enabled Prof. Fox to strategically navigate the intricacies of impact litigation, championing the advancement of animal interests.

Today, as an esteemed litigator and educator, Prof. Fox continues to leverage these skills to challenge conventional paradigms and advocate for a more compassionate and just legal framework for animals. Whether it's challenging the industrialized practices of factory farms or mentoring the next generation of legal minds, her work is a testament to the enduring power of a well-rounded education.

This award is not just a recognition of Prof. Fox’s contributions but also a testament to the importance of interdisciplinary education. It showcases how the skills and perspectives nurtured in one field, like philosophy, can profoundly influence and drive success in another, like law.

Congratulations, Prof. Laura Fox, for this well-deserved recognition. Your journey stands as an inspiring testament to the transformative power of education and the potential it holds for driving change in the world. We're honored to have you as part of our community and are excited to witness the continued impact of your remarkable work.