Podcast: Public Policy Institute

Jennifer Wilkins (’25), Director of the Public Policy Institute at Charleston School of Law, and Catherine Wilhoit (’11), an attorney, mediator, and founder of the non-profit Conflict Resolution for Kids, join the Charleston Law Podcast to discuss the formation of the public policy program and its partnership with community non-profit organizations.

Wilhoit’s Conflict Resolution for Kids served as one of the community partners for the student-led project in Spring 2026. The other two partners included Lowcountry Local First and Charleston Habitat for Humanity.

“A public service-oriented law school is important for our society, and it draws students who care,” said Wilhoit. “I am very appreciative to know that the Law School is investing in public service and supporting our community and continues to do so in ways that exceed my expectations, and I am so thankful for the students that worked with me, for Jennifer, and for this law school that I get to call home base, but also for serving the needs of our community.”

The Institute was established to transform legal education into a living engine for community impact by connecting law students with nonprofit organizations in need of rigorous research support. Through experiential learning, students develop practical research, analysis, and communication skills while contributing meaningful work that helps strengthen communities across South Carolina.

Throughout the semester, student researchers engaged with legal authorities, academic literature, stakeholder perspectives, and comparative policy models from across the country. Each team completed the program by presenting a comprehensive report of its findings to its community partner.

The Podcast at Charleston School of Law is where legal education meets real-world practice. In each episode, we sit down with faculty, alumni, and legal minds shaping the profession today—exploring the ideas behind the law, the careers it builds, and the issues making headlines right now. Whether you’re a student, a practicing attorney, or just curious about where the law is headed.

About the Public Policy Institute

The Public Policy Institute at Charleston School of Law is a nonpartisan experiential learning initiative dedicated to advancing evidence-based solutions to pressing public policy challenges. The Institute connects law students with nonprofit and public interest organizations to conduct high-quality legal and policy research that informs decision-making and promotes the public good. The Institute accepts proposals from potential community partners twice a year through a public RFP process. The program also engages volunteers with subject matter expertise to advise student research teams. To learn more about the Institute and how to get involved, check out our website at charlestonlaw.edu/ppi.