When Joe Nuñez, SCALE Class of 2017, stood at the podium as the 2024 SCALE Orientation Keynote Speaker, he offered more than words of inspiration; he delivered meaningful action. This year, Joe generously sponsored bar prep scholarships for three outstanding SCALE students in the Negotiation Honors Program: Jina Ballenger, Hailey Roknipour and Jamie DuBose (pictured above). 

Joe’s generosity made a profound difference for all three students. Hailey shared, “It gave me peace of mind and allowed me to fully focus on studying for the bar exam. Joe’s support meant more than words can say, and I’ll always be grateful.” 

As an alumnus, Joe has remained deeply connected to SCALE. Whether through mentorship, speaking engagements, or financial support, continuously finding ways to invest in the success of Southwestern students. He serves on the Southwestern Board of Trustees and donates annually to Southwestern. 

Joe knows firsthand the challenges students face. Balancing honors programs and the demands of the law school curriculum is no small feat. As a star student in SCALE and NHP, Joe earned national recognition for his advocacy skills, winning both the Regional and National ABA Representation in Mediation Competition in 2017. He became the first 1L to compete solo and win Southwestern’s Negotiation Intramurals. As a SCALE student, he was hard-working, collaborative, and committed to excellence. 

Joe’s dedication to SCALE reflects his belief in the program’s mission and its students. He continues to be a guiding force for SCALE students, driven by a desire to remove barriers and provide them with the tools they need to succeed. 

Cristina Knolton, Associate Dean for SCALE, reflects on Joe’s impact, stating, “Joe embodies the best of SCALE. Since graduating, he remains connected to the Southwestern community, giving not just financially but with his time. His recent decision to fund bar prep scholarships for three SCALE students reflects exactly who Joe is. Joe is passionate about supporting the next generation of lawyers. I am grateful for his leadership, generosity, and unwavering support.”  

Outside of his legal and philanthropic contributions, Joe is a cross-functional professional operating at the intersection of law, real estate, and healthcare. He’s the founding Attorney at Westford Law Group, APC. His expertise spans industries, but the heart of his work always comes back to service, integrity, and community impact.