UMass Law student Maggie Boettiger named 2026 Gants Scholar

3L recognized for commitment to public service and expanding access to justice

University of Massachusetts Dartmouth's School of Law (UMass Law) student Maggie Boettiger '27 has been selected as a 2026 Gants Scholar, earning recognition for her commitment to public service and expanding access to justice.

Named in honor of the late Massachusetts Supreme Judicial Court Chief Justice Ralph D. Gants, the Gants Scholarship supports law students dedicated to careers in public service while providing opportunities for mentorship and professional development.

This summer, Boettiger interned with First Justice Susan Tierney at the Barnstable Probate and Family Court, where she conducted legal research, drafted bench memoranda and other legal documents, observed court proceedings, and assisted with projects supporting the court's work.

"Receiving this scholarship is an incredible honor," said Boettiger. "Beyond the financial support, it represents a commitment to the values Chief Justice Gants championed, including expanding access to justice and serving the public. As someone passionate about public interest law, this recognition has been both affirming and inspiring."

"Receiving this scholarship is an incredible honor. Beyond the financial support, it represents a commitment to the values Chief Justice Gants championed, including expanding access to justice and serving the public. As someone passionate about public interest law, this recognition has been both affirming and inspiring."

Learning through service

This was Boettiger's second summer interning with Judge Tierney, allowing her to build on her previous experience in the courtroom and continue learning from members of the judiciary and court staff.

"I was grateful for the chance to continue learning from Judge Tierney and the rest of the court staff," Boettiger said. "These responsibilities allowed me to work on and observe a wide range of probate and family matters, including estate cases, property disputes, and domestic relations matters."

Supported by the UMass Law community

Boettiger credits UMass Law faculty and staff with encouraging her to pursue the scholarship.

"Assistant Dean Julie Cahill was one of my biggest cheerleaders throughout the entire process. Her encouragement and confidence gave me the motivation to pursue this opportunity, and I'm incredibly grateful for her support," Boettiger said. "I also appreciate Cassie Butler in Career Services for making me aware of the scholarship and encouraging me to apply. Their guidance helped make this opportunity possible."

"Maggie has been intentional about seeking out experiences that deepen her understanding of how the law can serve people and communities," said Cahill. "Some of the most important matters in people's lives are decided in the Probate and Family Court. Her decision to return for a second summer speaks to that commitment, and we are very proud that Maggie was chosen as a Gants Scholar to do this critically important work."

"I can't help but think that Chief Justice Gants would be especially gratified to see Maggie receive this scholarship in his name," said Dean Eric Mitnick. "Few people were as instrumental as Chief Justice Gants in working to bridge the access-to-justice gap across the Commonwealth, and Maggie's commitment to representing those who might otherwise face the legal system alone is both deep and unwavering."

About the Gants Scholarship

The Gants Scholarship honors the legacy of former Massachusetts Supreme Judicial Court Chief Justice Ralph D. Gants by supporting law students committed to public service, equal justice, and serving communities across the Commonwealth.