Coming to America: dozens choose U.S. citizenship

LOUISVILLE, Ky. - More than 30 people from 22 countries are expected to become American citizens Nov. 18 during a naturalization ceremony at University of Louisville’s Brandeis School of Law, Allen Courtroom.

The ceremony begins at 11 a.m. and U.S. District Judge David Hale, Western District of Kentucky, will preside. UofL’s vice provost for diversity and international affairs, Mordean Taylor-Archer, will give opening remarks and law professor Lars Smith will also speak. Smith’s remarks are expected to include comments about his mother, who was a green-card holder.

Law school dean Susan Duncan said the school is thrilled to host the event and to give law students a chance to witness the conclusion of an important legal and personal journey for a group of people who chose to become American citizens.

“The Brandeis School of Law is honored to host this ceremony, which marks an important milestone in the lives of these new citizens. As legal educators, we are always happy to see the real-world impact of the laws and legal processes we teach every day,” Duncan said.

While the event is open to the public, space will be limited and priority will be given to the candidates and their families.

Sara Sparling, a 16-year-old student at the Youth Performing Arts School, will sing the national anthem at the event.

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