During her time in the Kline School of Law’s Master of Legal Studies (MLS) program, Kelly Manegold, MLS ’18, decided that she wanted “a seat at the table.” As she advanced through the program, she grew in confidence and claimed one.

Before coming to Kline, Manegold was well-established in her role at Service Access and Management, Inc., but when the company began to expand she saw an opportunity for growth. She decided to pursue formal training on legal and regulatory requirements in healthcare to help her company. This led her to the MLS program and a concentration in healthcare compliance.

Manegold quickly realized that, in addition to helping her company, earning an MLS degree would be transformative for her. Professor David Hoffman, with whom Manegold had a class, told his students that they “need[ed] to have a seat at the table” in their chosen career. These words stuck with Manegold. “Professor Hoffman said many valuable things, but [this was] one of the most important statements,” she said.

Throughout her time in the MLS program and since completing it, Manegold has found her place. “This program has increased my knowledge and confidence to have a seat at the table. I am able to better research and respond to key questions,” said Manegold.

This confidence has led her to new experiences. Recently, she was called upon to complete a healthcare consulting project that was outside the scope of her usual work, but she used the skills she’s acquired at Kline to meet the challenge. Manegold said the MLS program “was one of the best things I’ve done for myself.”

Interview Highlights

Faculty and Staff

“My professors, including Professor Jacobus [and] Professor Flanagan, were very knowledgeable, gracious and professional, and made themselves available online as I imagine they would have done face-to-face. The IT department staff were also deserving of credit for ensuring the quality and timeliness of the lectures and access to requirements and projects.”

Online Learning

“There are many benefits to online learning. I worked full-time and maintained part time status in the program. I was able to review lectures and respond to discussion after work and at any time that I could (typically when everyone in my house was asleep!).”

A Challenging Program

“If you are willing to make the time commitment, and your family and friends are supportive, it is worth the effort. It is a challenging program, but in a very good way, and I know I am a better professional and person as a result…. I look proudly on my diploma.”