Alumni Spotlight: David Moreshead (JD ‘15) and Spencer Post (JD ‘20)

When David Moreshead (JD '15) enrolled at Pepperdine Caruso Law, part of his decision to attend was based upon the kind welcome he received from a professor. "One of the first people I spoke with about being a gay student at Pepperdine Law was Professor Schultz. He showed me that the school had someone who cared enough to address my concerns as a prospective student and who allayed my concerns. Later, when I was a student, he went out of his way to ask questions and show compassion and awareness of all that I experienced."

During that same year, the student-run LGBT Legal Society was formed. Now called Pepperdine OUTLaw, the group provides resources, support, and a sense of community for LGBTQ+ law students. For Spencer Post (JD '20), the group's presence helped him feel more at home when he started at Caruso Law. "That feeling of belonging inspired me to stand up and get involved myself. I had the privilege of serving as Pepperdine OUTLaw's vice-president and president during my 2L and 3L years."

Pepperdine OUTLaw continues to create a supportive environment for LGBTQ+ students with a presence that has grown from its origins in 2012. During the academic year, the group hosts speakers and workshops and participates in volunteer opportunities. "We stood on the shoulders of the Pepperdine students who fought for the creation of OUTLaw and kept it going," says Post. "In the end, I learned that, while the gatherings were fun and important, it was the simple act of showing up—being visible and creating space for our community—that often was the most powerful."

Now an associate at Munger, Tolles & Olson, Moreshead reminds his community that the need for support and community belonging is ongoing. "As an educational institution, Caruso Law has a unique opportunity to use its voice to educate and hold meaningful conversations around LGBTQ+ issues."

Post is an associate at O'Melveny & Myers, where the work he started with Pepperdine OUTLaw continues as part of the firm's LGBTQ+ affinity group. He also is a member of the Young Lawyers Committee of the LGBTQ+ Lawyers Association of LA. "I know in my heart that embracing and supporting LGBTQ+ students is an inevitable manifestation of the Caruso Law values of community, empathy, and service to others."

"To the current Caruso Law LGBTQ+ students, know that you are not alone," Moreshead continues. "Every person, regardless of whether they are closeted or out, and regardless of family situation and background, is loved and has people to uplift and stand behind you. The Caruso Law alumni network is close knit and here to support you."