Taylor Ours West Virginia University – $1000 Sharon Daniels Scholarship + $2000 General Fund Scholarship
Growing up in West Virginia, I developed a deep appreciation for the natural beauty and resources of the Appalachian region. However, this appreciation was tempered by the knowledge that the exploitation of these resources often came at a high cost to the health and well-being of local communities. This reality hit home for me when, at the age of 26, I was diagnosed with cancer. I began researching environmental issues that contribute to someone developing cancer, which sparked my interest in the legal field surrounding energy and natural resources law.
When I began law school, I was particularly drawn to the complexities of the energy industry, which requires a thorough understanding of the legal frameworks that govern the extraction, distribution, and use of resources. My passion for this field of law was further fueled working as a Summer Associate. I was given the opportunity to work on projects specifically regarding renewable energy, which allowed me to learn about the issues facing the energy industry. I believe that attorneys have a unique responsibility to ensure that a clients’ actions align with a more sustainable future. In my future career, I intend to focus on helping clients navigate the legal complexities of the energy and natural resources industry, while promoting sustainable practices that will benefit both the industry and the environment.
These personal experiences have strengthened my resolve to use my legal skills and knowledge to make a positive difference in this field. Through my academic and personal experiences, I recognize the importance of the legal and regulatory frameworks that govern the energy industry, as well as the environmental and social impacts of resource extraction and use. I am particularly interested in the ways in which legal tools can be used to promote environmental justice and public health.
Looking to the future, I am eager to use my legal skills and passion to make a significant contribution to this field. Whether through litigation, policy advocacy, or community-based organizing, I am committed to working towards a more just and sustainable energy future. I am proud to call West Virginia my home, and I am dedicated to working with local communities and organizations to protect the health and well-being of all those impacted by the energy, mineral, and natural resources industries.