SBA E-BOARD
Get to know us!
Vanessa Vargas
SBA President
Ms. Vanessa Vargas is a 3L who was born in Lima, Peru, and raised in Orlando, FL. She graduated from UCF with a degree in Political Science. She has spent nearly eight years working in the areas of business and immigration law, both areas which she is deeply passionate about and hopes to continue practicing after graduation. During her time in law school, Ms. Vargas has developed a strong interest in Constitutional Law, which has been her favorite class so far.
This past summer, she split her time between studying abroad in Europe and working at an immigration firm. Outside of law school, she enjoys going to the gym. running her floral arrangement business. and spending time with her two cats, Nala and Ella. She also loves traveling. discovering new cultures, and finding creative outlets to balance the demands of law school.
Ms. Vargas is looking forward to making this school vear one for the books-bringing energy, creativity, and dedication to everything she's involved in. Just wait to see what's in store!
Thalia Mendoza
SBA Vice President
Ms. Thalia Mendoza is a 3L born in Havana, Cuba, and raised in Miami, Florida. She earned her bachelor's degree from Florida State University. Passionate about both criminal defense and immigration law, she plans to pursue a career in these areas after graduation.
In her free time, Ms. Mendoza enjoys visiting St. George Island, spending time with friends, and staying active with work.
A fun fact about her: at just 24, she worked on a capital death row case in Wakulla County. Her favorite law school class so far has been Pop Culture and the Law.
As Vice President of the Student Bar Association, Ms. Mendoza hopes to strengthen the connection between the administration, faculty, and student body.
Andrea Aponte
SBA Secretary
Ms. Andrea Aponte is a 2L from Gainesville, Florida, and will be serving as the Secretary for the Student Bar Association this year. She graduated from the University of Florida with a B.A. in Criminology. She has found her favorite law school class so far to be Legal Research and Writing. With a strong interest in immigration law, she hopes to build her career in that area after graduation.
Outside of law school, Ms. Aponte enjoys reading, going on walks, and drawing.
She also keeps busy caring for her bearded dragon and two energetic corgis. She is excited to bring her organizational skills and enthusiasm to SBA and looks forward to helping create meaningful opportunities for her classmates throughout the year.
Ryan Nolan
SBA Treasurer
Mr. Ryan Nolan is a 2L and a lifelong resident of Orlando. Florida. He studied Political Science at the University of West Florida before returning home to begin law school. His favorite class so far has been Criminal Procedure because of its connection to constitutional law and its real-world applications. He enjoys hiking. exploring public parks, and trying new foods.
This past summer, he had the opportunity to intern with the Public Defender's Office for Florida's Ninth Judicial Circuit, where he enjoyed assisting attorneys in upholding the constitutional rights of all clients. He looks forward to maintaining fiscal accountability and transparency in the SBA, as well as promoting the resources available through the school and SBA for fellow students.
Christine Haynes
ABA Representative
Mrs. Christine Haynes is a 3L currently serving as one of our ABA Representatives. Originally from Brooklyn, New York, she earned her undergraduate degree from Howard University in Washington, D.C., and went on to receive a Master's in Education in New York. Before attending law school.
Mrs. Haynes taught elementary education for six years and spent two years working with a nonprofit organization focused on Black breast cancer awareness.
In her role as ABA Representative, Mrs. Haynes works to bridge the gap between our student body and the American Bar Association, by promoting access to resources, initiatives, and opportunities that support law students nationwide.
She is passionate about providing her peers with tools for professional development, mentorship, and advocacy that enhance both their legal education and future careers.
Sherline Valentin
ABA Vice Representative
Ms. Sherline Valentin is a 3L originally from New Jersey and raised in Orlando, Florida. She earned her Bachelor's degree from Florida Atlantic University, where she majored in Sociology and Political Science.
As one of the ABA Representative for the Student Bar Association, she serves as the liaison between her law school and the American Bar Association, promoting student membership and representing her peers as a voting delegate in the ABA Assembly.
Her favorite law school courses include Torts and Wills, Trusts, and Estates. Outside of academics, Sherline enjoys staying active, learning new things, and serving at her church. After graduation, she plans to pursue a career in immigration law, where she hopes to make a meaningful impact on the lives of others.
SBA SENATORS
Meet our 2025-2026 Senators
3L SENATORS
- Anthony Tutera
- Ashley Zambrano
- Beechardie Jean-Baptiste
2L SENATORS
- Amber Falcon
- Christina Copeland
- Chloe Rogenus
- Jaylin Martir
- Jordan Casey
- Monica Rivera
1L SENATORS
- Alexis Dale
- Anjolina Retana
- Grant Gibson
- Hoss Heidari
- Mary Slater
- Victoria De Feria Weber
The Student Bar Association represents the collective voice of the Barry Law student body. Our Executive Board and Senate work hand in hand to advocate for student interests, address concerns, and bring forward ideas that strengthen our law school community.
Together, we serve as a bridge between students, faculty, and administration, ensuring that every student’s perspective is heard and valued. From improving campus life to advancing academic initiatives, the SBA is committed to creating an environment where students can thrive both personally and professionally.
Beyond advocacy, our members are dedicated to fostering unity, leadership, and service within the Barry Law community. Through collaboration, programming, and open communication, we strive to make law school not just a place of study, but a space for growth, connection, and opportunity. Every student plays a role in shaping our shared experience, and the SBA is here to make sure that your ideas and voices help guide the path forward.