By Kathryn Turner

Serving as an intern at the Judge Frank M. Johnson, Jr. Institute this past fall has been nothing short of transformative. From my first day, I was welcomed into an environment that honors history, civic advancement, and most importantly, relationships.

In the initial stages, I conducted research and background reading to fully understand the organization’s mission. During that time, I became familiar with Judge Johnson’s story, as well as countless others from the Civil Rights Movement. Although I learned about most events years earlier in school, getting a closer glimpse into the emotions and personal ties behind each narrative gave me a drive to honor people like Judge Johnson through my work. Later on, I assisted with projects that highlighted the Institute’s partnerships and ongoing efforts to promote civic education, reinforcing the idea that behind-the-scenes work supports public impact.

One of my favorite parts of the internship was observing courtroom procedures and learning how cases move through the judicial system. Shadowing U.S Magistrate Judge Kelly Pate gave me valuable insight into judicial responsibility, while observing Leadership Alabama’s visit to the courthouse showed me how civic leadership and the legal systems intersect. Both experiences made the law feel tangible and human.

As an aspiring law student, this semester has only affirmed my desire to pursue this field and to uplift others through equity-driven work. My time with this organization has reminded me that the law is ultimately about people and has given me a clearer vision of the kind of advocate I hope to become one day.”

Kathryn Turner, a senior at Auburn University, interned with the Johnson Institute in the Fall of 2025.