Thanks to the generosity of donors who support our named clerkships, Midwest Environmental Advocates is able to welcome a new class of law clerks each summer. MEA clerks work alongside our attorneys on the environmental cases and policy issues shaping Wisconsin’s future.
Elena Stites, University of Minnesota Law School
Recipient of the Matt & Luke Environmental Law Clerkship
Sponsored by Bill Lynch & Barbara Manger
The 2026 Matt & Luke Environmental Law Clerkship has been awarded to Elena Stites. Elena is a rising second-year student at the University of Minnesota Law School. She is particularly interested in issues related to climate change and clean energy. Elena earned her bachelor’s degree in environmental science and sustainability from Barnard College of Columbia University. Prior to law school, Elena worked as the Community Solar Program Coordinator for Minneapolis Climate Action and as the administrative coordinator for the Steger Center’s leadership retreats and environmental stewardship programs.
Claire Stocker, University of Wisconsin Law School
Recipient of the Teschendorf-Derheimer Environmental Law Clerkship
Sponsored by Glenn Teschendorf & Mary Anne Derheimer
The 2026 Teschendorf-Derheimer Environmental Law Clerkship has been awarded to Claire Stocker. Claire graduated from the University of Minnesota, where she earned her bachelor’s degree in fisheries, wildlife and conservation biology, with minors in American Indian Studies and environmental science. During her undergraduate career, Claire conducted research related to the conservation of endangered species, including the Hawksbill sea turtle and two species of federally endangered butterflies. As a rising second-year law student at the University of Wisconsin Law School, Claire is a member of the Indigenous Law Student Association and the Environmental Law Student Association.
Kate Carlson, University of Minnesota Law School
Recipient of the Don & Barbara Frank Environmental Law Clerkship
Established by Barbara Frank, with additional generous support provided by Charles & Linda Lee
The 2026 Don & Barbara Frank Environmental Law Clerkship has been awarded to Kate Carlson. Kate is enrolled at the University of Minnesota Law School, where she is a rising third-year law student. She has a strong interest in advancing environmental justice through state policy, administrative law, and government accountability. Her law school career has included internships with the Minnesota Senate, Southern Minnesota Regional Legal Services and Minnesota Justice Foundation.
Are you interested in establishing a named clerkship? Learn more here or contact MEA Development Director Kara O’Connor at (608) 251-5047 x 812 or koconnor@midwestadvocates.org.
