Our History
University of Maryland’s first pledge class events with their Alpha class in Fall 2018.
Our Founder, Jay Belanger
MISSION STATEMENT FROM FOUNDER AND FIRST PRESIDENT OF KAPPA OMEGA ALPHA – JAY BELANGER
Kappa Omega Alpha was founded in 2009 at the University of Michigan in Ann Arbor on the belief that the legal profession is not merely a career path, but a calling—one rooted in service, critical thinking, and a deep responsibility to the communities we serve. At the University of Michigan, where ambition and intellect converge, there was a clear need for a space that could unify students interested in law and public policy under a shared purpose: to develop not only strong applicants to law school, but principled future advocates, leaders, and change-makers. Kappa Omega Alpha was created to meet that need—to provide mentorship, foster intellectual growth, and build a community grounded in integrity, accountability, and professional excellence.
From its inception, the organization was never intended to be just another pre-professional group. It was designed to reflect the realities of the legal field: collaborative yet competitive, rigorous yet supportive, and always evolving. It sought to give members practical exposure to the law, meaningful connections with professionals, and the confidence to navigate an often opaque and demanding path. At its core, Kappa Omega Alpha stands for access—ensuring that students from all backgrounds have the tools, knowledge, and support necessary to pursue careers in law and public policy.
This vision would not have become a reality without the dedication, trust, and shared belief of the first Executive Board: Jay Belanger, Amanda Gramlich, Cathy Fan, Ezra Zimbler, Fouad Egbaria, Kaitlyn Ballard, Eric Vorenberg, Nick Lee, Samantha Belanger, and Kaydee Fry. Each of them played an indispensable role in building the foundation of what Kappa Omega Alpha has become. Their leadership, commitment, and willingness to take a chance on something new transformed an idea into an institution.
Kappa Omega Alpha exists today as a testament to that collective effort and to the enduring principle that the law (as well as Public Policy) is at its best when it is pursued with purpose. The organization remains committed to shaping individuals who will not only enter the legal profession but elevate it.
Signed,
Jay Belanger
Founder – Kappa Omega Alpha
Vice Chair – Board of Directors
The Founding Executive Board of the Alpha Chapter at the University of Michigan
University of Maryland
“I created KOA because I was searching for a community that aligned with my passion for public policy and making meaningful change. I wanted to be part of something relevant to my career aspirations and surrounded by people who shared the same drive to make the world better, one policy at a time. When that space didn’t exist, I decided to build it. My vision was to create a values-driven professional fraternity grounded in network, enthusiasm, service, and empowerment while also rooted in respect, integrity, and grit. I envisioned a community of future leaders who would challenge and uplift one another while pursuing change in their respective policy spaces. It quickly became more than an organization; it became a family.”
— Jacqueline Ford, Founder of the Gamma Chapter at the University of Maryland and Current Chair of the Board of Directors