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May 8, 2025

Championing Constitutional Rights: Donald Bullock ’25 Receives Woolverton Family Public Interest Award

Donald Bullock sees public service not simply as a profession but as a calling grounded in his experience, his community, and his commitment to constitutional justice. As a first-generation law student, Donald came to Southwestern determined to be more than just a participant in the legal system. He aimed to be what Charles Hamilton Houston once described as a “social engineer”—a lawyer who uses the Constitution to better the lives of underrepresented people.

This spring, Donald was selected as the 2025 recipient of the Woolverton Family Public Interest Award, a $5,000 honor bestowed annually upon a graduating student who has demonstrated exceptional commitment to public interest law. Established in 2017 by George Woolverton ’75 and Katrina Woolverton ’02, the award reflects Southwestern’s dedication to public service.

A Path Defined by Purpose

Donald’s passion for public interest law, specifically in criminal defense, took shape through his work at the Los Angeles County Public Defender’s Office, where he spent the past two years as a law clerk. There, he zealously advocated for clients whose constitutional rights were at risk—never losing sight of the real-world impact behind each case.

“Being able to directly impact the lives of those who need the most protection from our legal systems—that’s what’s most satisfying to me,” Donald said. “There’s no greater call than to use the law as a tool for change.”

One moment stands out in particular. As a second-year summer clerk, Donald argued a motion to suppress on behalf of a young client whose Fourth Amendment rights had been violated. The client’s ultimate goal was to enlist in the military—but the case was holding him back.

“After the motion was granted and the case dismissed, the client cried,” Donald recalled. “He told me he could finally move forward and serve our country. That moment reminded me why I do this work.”

Leadership on Campus and in Community

In addition to his clinical work, Donald played an active role in the Southwestern community. He served as a Dean’s Fellow, Teaching Assistant, and Research Assistant, while also taking on leadership roles with the Black Law Students Association and the Mass Incarceration Awareness Law Society. For his service as Attorney General of the Western Regional Black Law Students Association, he was honored with the Trailblazer of the Year Award. He also served as a Judge Harry Pregerson Public Service Fellow.

No matter the setting—classroom, courtroom, or community meeting—Donald remained focused on a singular mission: defending the dignity and rights of those most impacted by systemic injustice.

Advice to Future Advocates

Donald’s message to future Southwestern students is both empowering and grounded:

“Trust the process. You’re here for a reason. Whether your path is public interest law, entertainment law, environmental law, or something entirely different—your story matters. Your law degree has a purpose.”

He encourages students to believe in their own worth and capacity, even when the journey feels overwhelming.

“You are worthy. You are capable. And while you’re working hard toward your goals, don’t forget to take care of yourself along the way.”

With Gratitude

As he prepares to take the next step in his legal journey, Donald credits the people and mentors who stood beside him.

“I first want to thank Mr. and Mrs. George and Katrina Woolverton. Your generous contributions to students committed to public service are truly humbling, and I am eternally grateful.

To my family: I couldn’t do this journey without you. You’ve been patient when I was too busy to come home, and supportive through every stress-filled moment. I love you all.

To my friends: thank you for your never-ending laughs, support, and friendship. I couldn’t have survived law school without you.

To Dean Dickerson, Professor Gunning, Professor Caldwell, and Michelle Takagishi-Almeida: thank you for your mentorship and belief in me. You have each encouraged me to strive for excellence in public service and reminded me to give back to the community that raised me. I firmly believe that without your guidance, I would not be the lawyer I am about to become.”

Looking Ahead

After graduation and bar studies, Donald will return to the Los Angeles County Public Defender’s Office as a Post-Bar Senior Law Clerk—continuing his mission to uphold the Constitution, fight for justice, and serve those whose voices are too often silenced.