The American Bar Association has honored Barry University School of Law with its ninth consecutive National Achievement Award for the VITA (Volunteer Income Tax Assistance) program. The award was announced August 10, 2014, during the Law Student Division Assembly at the ABA Annual Meeting in Boston.
VITA is an IRS-funded tax preparation service for low- to moderate-income individuals. The Barry Law VITA site, launched in 2006, received the ABA Law Student Division's VITA Rookie Site Award and has received the National Achievement Award every year since.
By participating in VITA, Barry Law students gain valuable skills in tax preparation, build client-relation skills, and reach out to the Central Florida community while earning all pro bono hours in one semester. The students work under the leadership of faculty advisor Frank Schiavo, a Barry Law associate professor of law.
“This ninth consecutive award is a tremendous honor for our school and a testament to the hard work of our students who participate in VITA,” said Leticia M. Diaz, dean of Barry School of Law. “Service to our community is central to our Law School Mission, and VITA is one of the most visible ways in which we are able to give back to our neighbors.”