The University of Miami School of Law clinicians conferred the 2025 CLEA Outstanding Team Award on the Human Rights Clinic’s Housing & Homelessness team, comprised of rising 3Ls Katirina Delviscio and Wilmy Dessalines and recent graduates Tiana Montague and Nicholas Tricarico. Additionally, they named Miami Law students Gregory Beeson and Eyga Williamson, who recently graduated in May, as winners of this year’s CLEA Outstanding Externship Student Award.
The Clinical Legal Education Association awards are presented annually to students from each law school for outstanding clinical coursework and contributions to the clinical community.
Human Rights Clinic’s Housing & Homelessness team: A model of advocacy
The Housing & Homelessness Team of the Human Rights Clinic received the CLEA Outstanding Team Award for their dedication and collaborative spirit in advocating for housing rights and addressing homelessness. Their work, supporting partner organizations, resulted in detailed reports and policy recommendations on key issues like racial justice, Indigenous rights, mental health, and the legal challenges faced by those experiencing homelessness.
One notable achievement was their submission to the United Nations Human Rights Council addressing the criminalization of homelessness and the decline of accessible housing in the U.S. They also engaged locally, collaborating with the Miami Coalition on Racial Equity, interviewing leading advocates, and building connections to the Haitian community. Additionally, they held workshops for artists with experiences of homelessness to express the seven dimensions of the right to housing through art.
Public engagement was central to their advocacy, with the team organizing two important art exhibits—one during Art Basel and another at the University of Miami's Beaux Arts Festival—focused on housing rights. Their leadership was further demonstrated through presentations in various forums, including a global webinar with the Ruff Institute of Global Homelessness and a podcast addressing the Haitian community.
“They are passionate advocates of housing rights, developing deep legal and human rights expertise,” said the Human Rights Clinic associate director, Tamar Ezer. “They go the extra mile in everything they do and are always supporting each other.”
Similarly, David Peery, executive director of MCARE, said, “Their contributions are vital to our mission of advancing racial equity and social justice throughout Florida,” emphasizing the teamwork and dedication that have propelled their success.
Celebrating externship excellence: Eyga Williamson and Gregory Beeson
Eyga Williamson and Gregory Beeson have been named the 2025 CLEA Outstanding Externship Student Award recipients, showcasing the exceptional standards set within Miami Law’s Externship Program.
Beeson has stood out for his tireless advocacy and commitment to public service through his Litigation Skills Externship Program work. His participation in three bench trials as a certified legal intern at the Miami-Dade County State Attorney’s Office and 150 additional pro bono hours underscores his dedication to the criminal justice system.
“What stands out about Greg is his work ethic and dedication,” said Jeannie Jontiff, director of the Litigation Skills Program, highlighting Beeson’s impressive track record and potential for future impact.
Williamson complements Beeson’s excellence with her remarkable adaptability and resourcefulness. She participated in two externships—one with the Federal Public Defender’s Office and another with the Honorable Adalberto Jordan of the Eleventh Circuit Court of Appeals. Williamson has built a reputation for her professionalism, attention to detail, and deep empathy for her clients.
Jessi Tamayo, director of the Externship Programs, applauded her contributions. “Eyga has made an indelible mark on those she has met and worked with.”
Williamson and Beeson exemplify the values of the School of Law, setting a high bar for future externs through their exceptional contributions and unwavering commitment to serving their communities.
“The Miami Law Externship Program has been instrumental in my securing opportunities that have significantly contributed to the development of legal skills,” Williamson said, reflecting on the impact of her practical experiences.” I am deeply grateful for the opportunity to be part of this program.”
Read more about Miami Law’s clinics.
