Kitchel Injury Law Awards 2026 Defending Voices Without a Voice Scholarships to Aspiring Immigration Lawyers

Kitchel Injury Law, a Washington, D.C.-based personal injury firm, has announced the winners of its 2026 Defending Voices Without a Voice Scholarship: Zarah Vidriezca Mota and Lillian Welty. The scholarship, which provides $2,500 to an undergraduate and $5,000 to a graduate student, is aimed at students committed to becoming immigration lawyers. While Kitchel Injury Law does not practice immigration law, the firm recognizes the growing need for legal professionals to combat discrimination and injustice facing immigrant communities in the United States.

Zarah Vidriezca Mota is an incoming 1L at American University Washington College of Law in Washington, D.C. She completed her undergraduate studies in Legal Studies at the University of La Verne, where she also earned a Paralegal Certificate. Mota has volunteered with Meals on Wheels and the National Association of Latino Elected and Appointed Officials, and interned with the Madison Group in Washington, D.C. Before law school, she worked full-time as an Office Administrator with the Step Forward Foundation. Mota's motivation stems from a desire to give back to her immigrant community.

Lillian Welty is a junior at Northern Arizona University, majoring in history with a minor in criminology and criminal studies. She participates in her college's mock trial team and serves as Service Chair for the Blue Key Honor Society. Welty has interned under criminal defense attorneys in Washington, D.C., and found her interest in immigration law after reading Bryan Stevenson's Just Mercy. Both recipients impressed the scholarship committee with their drive and compassion, and they intend to use their academic experience to help people impacted by immigration law defend against wrongful deportations and mistreatment.

"Caring for people is at the core of what my firm stands for. We believe our immigrant friends and neighbors are at the heart of what this country is about, and we're thrilled to support these bright, tenacious women as they start their legal careers," said Kitchel.

This scholarship announcement holds significance for Texas and the broader legal landscape. Texas shares a long border with Mexico and is home to millions of immigrants, making the need for skilled immigration attorneys particularly acute in the state. By supporting students like Mota and Welty, Kitchel Injury Law is investing in the next generation of legal advocates who will address immigration issues nationwide. The firm's commitment underscores a broader trend of businesses and organizations stepping up to fill gaps in legal representation for underserved communities.

For Texas businesses, this news highlights the importance of supporting education and workforce development in fields that directly impact the state's demographic and economic fabric. Immigration law affects labor markets, family unity, and community stability—all factors that contribute to Texas's economic vitality. As Mota and Welty pursue their legal careers, their work will likely influence how immigration cases are handled, potentially setting precedents that could affect Texas employers and families.

Moreover, the scholarship serves as a reminder of the role that private firms can play in addressing social challenges. While Kitchel Injury Law focuses on personal injury, its initiative demonstrates that companies can contribute to solutions beyond their immediate industry. For readers in Texas, this story may inspire similar efforts to support education and legal aid for immigrant communities, fostering a more equitable and prosperous state.

To learn more about Kitchel Injury Law and its services, visit https://www.kitchelinjurylaw.com.