The University of Miami Law Review marked a historic milestone this year with its 80th volume anniversary. To commemorate eight decades of legal scholarship, editorial excellence, and community impact, the University of Miami School of Law hosted a celebration on Wednesday, March 25, 2026.
The event was held at the Ibis House in Miami. The ceremony and reception served as a centerpiece of the law school’s broader Centennial year, honoring the oldest and most prestigious student-run legal publication at the University.
A legacy of excellence
Founded in 1947 as the Miami Law Quarterly, the University of Miami Law Review has published 80 volumes shaping the legal landscape in Florida and beyond. It holds the distinction of being the longest continuously running student legal publication in the state.
Over the decades, UMLR has evolved from a fledgling quarterly into a powerhouse of legal thought, known particularly for its annual symposium and its dedicated Eleventh Circuit issue, which provides critical analysis of the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Eleventh Circuit.
“It is truly an honor to be part of an institution shaped by so many dedicated editors before us. UMLR reflects years of collaboration and commitment to excellence, and it is incredibly meaningful to help carry that legacy forward. I look forward to seeing how it continues to grow in the years to come,” said Volume 80 Editor-in-Chief Jackie Macia.
The 80th anniversary celebration
The celebration at Ibis House brought together generations of UMLR alumni—former editors and staff members—alongside current students, faculty, and distinguished members of the bench and bar.
The evening focused on honoring the scholarship that has defined the Law Review and the tight-knit community that sustains it. Following opening remarks by 3L Macia and Dean Patricia Sanchez Abril, the ceremony transitioned into two "TED-style" talks designed to highlight the intersection of rigorous scholarship and the personal connections formed within UMLR.
The first talk featured adjunct professor Francis Citera, J.D. ’83, and Julia Steiner, J.D. ’25, who discussed their co-authored article published in Volume 79. Their collaboration was noteworthy as the first article co-authored by an alumnus and a current law review member.
Next, the father-and-daughter alumni duo, Martin and Tori Simkovic, took the stage. Martin Simkovic, J.D. ’90, and his daughter, J.D. ’22, both published articles during their time on UMLR and offered a rare multi-generational perspective on the enduring legacy of the Law Review.
A highlight of the night was the presentation of a new award recognizing the Most Outstanding Executive Board Member, an accolade intended to become an ongoing tradition for future volumes. The award was presented to 3L and Volume 80 Executive Editor, Kate E. Altman.
Bridging history and the future
This year has already been marked by high-level academic engagement. In February 2026, the Law Review hosted its annual symposium, "The Constitutional Mosaic: The Balance of Federal Powers in Modern America," which featured keynote speaker Professor Aditya Bamzai and a "Fireside Chat" with legal expert Elizabeth Price Foley.
As the Law Review looks toward its next century, the 80th celebration serves as both a reflection on its storied past—from its founding just after World War II to its modern digital presence—and a reaffirmation of its mission: preparing students for the practice of law while providing a vital forum for new legal ideas.
“The amazing growth of the Law Review over the past almost 80 years has been utterly incredible. Since I served as Editor-in-Chief in 1957, I have seen a law review in its infancy grow into a leading publication in the nation. Congratulations to the present staff for memorializing the Review’s remarkable journey,” said Sonny Holtzman, J.D. ’57, the oldest-living Editor-in-Chief who oversaw Volume 11.
For those interested in supporting the Law Review’s next 80 years, the School of Law has also established the University of Miami Law Review Fund, which will support student initiatives and the continued publication of world-class legal research.
Read more about the School of Law’s law reviews and journals.
