Spotlight: Jessica Booher

What Animal Legal Defense Fund student chapter activities are you proudest of and why?

This past semester, I was proudest of the speakers my SALDF chapter hosted virtually. We hosted a webinar with Will Lowrey of Animal Partisan about animal cruelty, public records laws, and careers in animal law, and our attendees were super engaged by Will’s presentation. We were also so thrilled to host as speakers Madeline Crasno of Justify and Mallory Cormier of Save the Buns, two nonprofits that focus on the humans and nonhumans harmed by animal research, respectively.

Any other noteworthy experience?

Last fall, we had several chapter members attend the Animal Law Conference in Chicago, which was so exciting. I was also very happy with the outcome of my SALDF chapter’s screening of “The Smell of Money,” a newer documentary. We had a great turnout AND a great reception; it was awesome to chat with so many people who were previously very unaware of the harmful effects of industrial animal agriculture.

What is an animal law related goal of yours for the upcoming academic year?

I want to host more interactive SALDF events to encourage more hands-on involvement with animals and animal law among members, as we’ve focused primarily on educational opportunities thus far. I also hope to get even more students to attend the upcoming animal conferences and learn to be more effective advocates.

In another vein, in the upcoming academic year, I aim to take several courses that frequently intersect with animal law, including Environmental Law, Legislation, FDA Law and Policy, and First Amendment.

What are your plans/goals for post-graduation?

I hope to find a job placement in animal law, whether that’s on the litigation or legislation side—as that’s why I came to law school in the first place. On the not-career side, I plan on continuing to rescue rats and whatever other critters I come across, keeping in contact with SALDF leaders still at SLU Law, and working with the St. Louis Animal Rights Team to advance animal protection in my locale.

What is one piece of advice that you’d like to pass on to other Animal Legal Defense Fund student chapter leaders?

Don’t underestimate your ability to reach and connect with other students, even if you think they have the same priorities as you! In my experience, it’s easy for animal advocates to get jaded to some extent and forget that most people really do care about animals and hope for a better world for them, just like we do. Seek support from friends and classmates to pull off successful events and collaborations, and don’t be scared to ask faculty and staff at your law school for advice. Finally, get creative when considering time and resource constraints! You don’t have to put on a gala to spark classmates’ interest in animal issues; awareness alone can be a great start. 

Learn more about the other 2026 Advancement in Animal Law Scholarship winners.