Masks and proof of vaccine OR a negative COVID-19 test are REQUIRED. Be sure to read about the event policies before you complete your purchase. Due to the recent surge in COVID-19 cases throughout the region, the University of Michigan will require a proof of COVID-19 vaccination or negative-test protocol for indoor events. All guests and working personnel ages 12 and older will be required to show proof of COVID-19 vaccination OR a negative COVID-19 PCR or rapid test taken within 72 hours of the event. Face masks continue to be required and must be worn during all events.

The Kevin E. Kennedy Memorial Gala, known as Gayla, is the annual affinity banquet for Outlaws, the University of Michigan Law School's LGBTQ+ student group. The event will take place starting at 6:00pm on the evening of Saturday, March 12, 2022 on the 2nd floor of the historic Michigan League (911 N. University Ave., Ann Arbor, MI 48109).


Named in honor of Kevin E. Kennedy ('89 LAW), an LGBTQ+ activist and lawyer, the Gala is a chance for the broader UM community to come together for an evening of celebration and remembrance.

The event will feature a cocktail & hors d'oeuvres reception at the start, then a more formal speaking program with remarks by: members of the Michigan Law Outlaws Executive Board, Denise Brogan-Kator (Chief Policy Officer, emeritus, of Family Equality and first openly transgender MLaw student), Lousene Hoppe (President of the National LGBTQ+ Bar Association), Kerene Moore (Judicial Attorney, 22nd Circuit Court, and Candidate for Michigan Court of Appeals, District Three), Sarah Warbelow (Legal Director of the Human Rights Campaign), and Sen. Jeremy Moss (the first openly gay Michigan state senator). The recipient of the 2022 Outlaws Public Interest Fellowship will also be recognized. 
After the speakers, the event will transition to a night of passed food (lots!), desserts (plenty!), and drink (again, two cash and credit card bars and non-alcoholic punch). Necto Pride Night's very own DJ DigiMark will be spinning tunes for those who want to hit the dance floor. The evening will also feature a number of drag performances by local queen Chanel Hunter. We anticipate the bar to close shortly after the 10p hour. Likewise, throughout the night, there will be representatives from 35+ local and national law firms who are interested in making connections with MLaw students. 

Note that we ask guests to wear face coverings when not consuming food and drink, and encourage guests to wear fun masks. In fact, a prize will be given out to the attendee donning the most glamorous mask of the evening.

Any questions can be directed to: Annie Sloan (amsloan@umich.edu) and Ryan Sharpstene (rsharps@umich.edu)