Larry Hayman receives national Gerald Wilson Award for leadership, service in pre law advising

Larry Hayman, Esq., director of legal engagement and the Pre Law Program at Ohio University, has been selected as the recipient of the Gerald L. Wilson Award for Excellence in Pre-Law Advising, a national honor presented by the Pre Law Advisors National Council (PLANC).

The award recognizes individuals who demonstrate exceptional service, leadership and commitment to the pre law advising profession. Named in honor of Gerald Wilson, a foundational figure in pre law advising, the award celebrates selfless service to the profession and sustained contributions that strengthen pathways into legal education.

Hayman was recognized for more than a decade of leadership at the regional and national levels, as well as his ongoing commitment to access, mentorship and professional collaboration.

Hayman has been an active leader within the Midwest Association for Pre Law Advisors (MAPLA) since 2015, including serving as president from 2022 to 2024. During his presidency, he guided the organization through a pivotal post pandemic transition, helping restore in person programming while prioritizing connection, professional development, and institutional support for advisors across the Midwest.

"Larry’s leadership was defined by a commitment to connectivity and professional development," said Erin Reichelt, president of MAPLA and nominator. "He ensured MAPLA remained a vital resource for advisors during a period of real uncertainty and change in legal education."

Reliability, integrity and a willingness to step forward when needed

At the national level, Hayman’s service to PLANC has been marked by reliability, integrity and a willingness to step forward when needed most. During the 2024 PLANC Conference in New Orleans, Hayman assumed the role of treasurer following the sudden illness and passing of the organization’s previous treasurer. Amid a period of organizational grief and logistical complexity, he ensured the stability and success of the conference.

"By taking on this high stakes responsibility under incredibly difficult circumstances, Larry exemplified the selflessness the Wilson Award seeks to honor," Reichelt added.

In addition to his advising leadership, Hayman brings the perspective of an engaged legal professional to his work. A 20 year member of the Ohio Bar, he serves on the Board of Directors for the ACLU of Ohio, helping bridge conversations between legal education, the profession, and the pre law pipeline.

"Through these roles, Larry brings forward essential perspectives on the experiences and challenges of students at the pre law stage," said Meg Pickens, director of Pre-Law Advising Services at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign and another nominator. "His work helps the legal profession better understand and support this critical point in the pipeline."

Working with OHIO students while also serving as a national leader

Colleagues consistently point to Hayman’s generosity as a mentor and collaborator as central to his impact.

"He is among the first people I turn to when facing a pre law dilemma," said Maya Russell, chair of PLANC who served with Hayman on the Board. "He listens thoughtfully, helps brainstorm solutions, and offers sound, practical advice. His contributions have meaningfully strengthened the field of pre law advising."

At Ohio University, Hayman leads initiatives that emphasize experiential learning, justice focused engagement and access to the legal profession. His national service reflects the same values that guide his work on campus: collaboration, humility, and a strong belief in the transformative power of mentorship.

The Gerald Wilson Award recognizes not only Hayman’s accomplishments, but also his enduring commitment to students, colleagues, and the national pre-law and legal community.