Harvard Law’s Danielle Mikaelian Named Nation’s Only Law Student to Receive Ms. JD Award

In a powerful moment that blended personal history and professional achievement, Harvard Law School student Danielle Mikaelian was named the only law student in the nation to receive Ms. JD's prestigious Limitless Leadership Award on April 24. The honor, presented at a gala in San Francisco, placed her alongside the Chief Legal Officers of eBay and Lowe's as a leader shaping the future of law.

Ms. JD, a nonprofit organization committed to advancing women in the legal profession, celebrates individuals who demonstrate outstanding leadership and work to empower future generations. For Danielle, the award means even more than recognition of her work—it is a symbol of her heritage, resilience, and a testament to the dreams carried across generations.

The timing of the award was especially meaningful. The gala took place on April 24, 2025—the 110th anniversary of the Armenian Genocide. On stage, Danielle made a bold and emotional choice: she honored her ancestors, survivors who fled unimaginable violence in search of hope and safety.

"My very presence at that podium was a testament to how far their dreams have carried," Danielle said in her speech. In front of hundreds of judges, lawyers, and executives, she spoke courageously about the Armenian Genocide, weaving her family's story into the broader narrative of leadership and resilience.

Her speech touched many. Attorneys, judges, and law leaders approached her afterward to share how deeply moved they were. Many recalled memories of Armenian friends, neighbors, and mentors who had left lasting impacts on their lives. Danielle reminded everyone of the power of storytelling, of what happens when one voice shares a truth with courage.

Danielle’s journey to this moment is a deep commitment to service. Throughout her education, she has worked to open doors for others. She has mentored aspiring law students, edited application essays for Armenian students, and spoken at universities across the country to offer guidance and encouragement. Her message has been consistent: "You belong here."

Before Harvard, Danielle served on the board of Columbia's Women in Law and Politics Organization and founded the Columbia Women in Law and Politics Journal—the first journal focused on women’s experiences in the legal field. She was also a United Nations Millennium Fellow, creating a global project called the Wonder Woman Project to spotlight the challenges women face worldwide.

At Harvard, she continued to lead, serving on the executive boards of the Harvard Association for Law and Business, the Journal of Sports and Entertainment Law, and the Armenian Law Students Association. She also mentored undergraduate students preparing for law school through organizations like UCLA's LeGal.

Her hard work and passion did not go unnoticed. One of her nominators for the Ms. JD Award said, "Danielle Mikaelian is the most passionate, hardworking, and resilient person that I know. No one implements ideas into reality like Danielle does."

For Danielle, being the first law student in her extended family adds another layer of meaning to the award. It is not just a personal achievement but a reflection of perseverance, community support, and the belief that no dream is too big.

"This milestone is a testament to the power of perseverance, community, and the belief that no dream is too big when you are surrounded by support and encouragement," she shared.

Now preparing to graduate from Harvard Law School, Danielle carries her heritage, her community, and her commitment to lifting others into her future career. The Limitless Leadership Award is not the end of her journey—it is a powerful beginning.

"The work continues—and we rise, together," she said, echoing the spirit of a people who have endured great tragedy but continue to rise with hope.

About Ms. JD

Founded in 2006, Ms. JD is a nationally recognized nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting women in the legal profession. Through mentorship, scholarships, leadership programs, and advocacy, it strives to promote gender equity and create a more inclusive future for the next generation of lawyers.

About Danielle Mikaelian

Danielle Mikaelian is an Armenian-American law student and advocate for gender equity. She has worked across campuses and organizations to create opportunities for women and underrepresented communities in law. As she steps into her legal career, Danielle remains deeply committed to building a future where all young people—especially those from communities shaped by resilience—know they belong at the table.

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