In our recent blog, Growing Together: Welcoming the 2025–2026 CWSP Class of Future Professionals, we highlighted the incredible group of students who joined Dordick Law Corporation through our partnership with Verbum Dei’s Corporate Work Study Program (CWSP). Among them were two standout seniors, Michael Valencia and Kendrick Johnson, both of whom brought curiosity, initiative, and a strong sense of purpose to the team from day one.
View this post on Instagram
Now, as they graduate from high school, Kendrick Johnson and Michael Valencia are not just closing one chapter; they’re stepping confidently into what comes next. That moment was brought to life during Verbum Dei’s 2026 Commitment Day, where they proudly revealed the universities they will be attending. Surrounded by classmates, family, and supporters, Dordick Law Corporation was there to celebrate alongside them, reinforcing the strong connection built throughout their time with the firm.
Michael Valencia
Michael Valencia, who assisted our team at Downtown Los Angeles, will continue his journey at Gonzaga University, where he plans to study political science while exploring criminology. His interest in the field had always been there, but his experience at Dordick Law Corporation helped shape it into a more defined goal. “I always wanted to study criminology… but after my time at Dordick, I feel like now I want to be a lawyer,” he shared.
That clarity came through hands-on exposure and meaningful mentorship. By working alongside attorneys, Michael gained insight into both the profession and the path ahead. “It’s just been like quick access to people,” he said. “All the lawyers helped solidify the idea that I wanted to go into law school.”
Graduation marked a moment of reflection on how far he had come. “I was excited and nervous… it felt like all my hard work added up to that day,” he said. Having members of the Dordick Law Corporation team there to support him made the milestone even more meaningful, reinforcing that his success was shared.
Reflecting on his journey, Michael expressed deep gratitude for the opportunity he received from Gary A. Dordick, Nava T. Dordick, the attorneys, and the staff he worked alongside. Their mentorship, from encouraging his interest in law to helping him with his college application, played a meaningful role in shaping his next steps.
Coming from South Central Los Angeles, Michael also recognized the broader impact of his journey. “I don’t really see too many people from my community go into law,” he said, something that has only strengthened his motivation to pursue a future that once felt out of reach.
Kendrick Johnson
Kendrick Johnson, our CWSP senior in Beverly Hills, will be attending the University of California, Riverside, where he plans to major in political science with the goal of pursuing a career in law. While his interest in the field was already forming, his time at Dordick Law Corporation helped solidify that direction. “Because of my time at Dordick Law, it pushed me to pursue political science… so I could further go into law,” he shared.
For Kendrick, the experience was defined by the people and the culture around him. “It wasn’t even just one experience… it was seeing the community and how everyone works together,” he explained. Observing how cases came together and the teamwork behind them gave him a new perspective. “It showed me how I want to be a part of that.”
On graduation day, Kendrick felt a mix of relief, pride, and excitement for what lies ahead. “I feel like the pressure’s off… I know where I’m going now,” he said. Seeing his peers reach the same milestone made the moment even more meaningful after years of shared effort.
Having the Dordick Law Corporation team there in support made a lasting impression. “It was a blessing… it made me less nervous,” he said. He also expressed appreciation for Gary A. Dordick, Nava T. Dordick, the attorneys who welcomed him into the firm’s culture and trusted him with meaningful responsibilities. This experience helped shape both his confidence and his goals.
Verbum Dei’s Corporate Work Study Program is more than just work experience; it’s about opening doors, building confidence, and helping students see what’s possible. Michael and Kendrick’s journeys are a powerful reminder of what can happen when students are given the opportunity to learn, contribute, and grow in a professional environment.
We’re proud to have been part of their journey, and we look forward to seeing where their paths take them next.
