3L Raymond Nichols Receives Outstanding Service Award

HONOLULU, Hawaiʻi (Feb. 6, 2026) — William S. Richardson School of Law 3L Raymond Nichols was awarded the Judge Sandra Simms Outstanding Service Award at the Fall Alice Ball Black Graduation Ceremony. Named in honor of Judge Sandra Simms (Ret.), the first African American female judge in Hawaiʻi, the award recognizes extraordinary commitment to social justice, community organizing, and public service at UH Mānoa and beyond.

Ray was recognized for his outstanding service to the community, including completing his third year as a volunteer with Family Programs Hawaiʻi’s Project Visitation, where he helps preserve sibling bonds for children in foster care. During the past semester, he also became a Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA) representing children in Family Court, served as an Interim Civil Rights Commissioner for the State of Hawaiʻi, and held leadership roles as an Executive Board Member of the Honolulu Branch of the NAACP and a member of the UH Mānoa Student Success Student Advisory Council. In addition, Ray organized Richardson law students’ participation in Family Programs Hawaiʻi’s holiday party for foster youth.

“While I’m honored to receive this award, the spotlight in this moment should be on the organizations I serve,” said Nichols. “Their work depends on continued support, and I hope anyone recognizing this honor will also recognize the ongoing need to support them.”

Dean Camille Nelson praised Nichols’ dedication to service and leadership.

“We’re incredibly proud of Ray for this well-deserved recognition,” said Dean Nelson. “Ray is an exceptional student who brings both intellect and heart to everything he does, whether supporting and advocating for foster youth and children in Family Court or helping to strengthen our community through leadership and service. He reflects the wonderful spirit of Judge Sandra Simms’ legacy and reminds us what it means to live Richardson Law’s mission, which includes being professionally capable, ethically grounded, and dedicated to serving justice and our communities.”

Ray believes law school is a privilege to be paid forward and has dedicated himself to using the education and opportunities gained at Richardson to strengthen families, uplift communities, and advance justice through service.

---

About William S. Richardson School of Law

The William S. Richardson School of Law is a collaborative, multicultural community preparing students for excellence in the practice of law and related careers that advance justice and the rule of law. We develop highly qualified, ethical professionals through excellence in teaching, scholarship, and public service. We embrace Hawai‘i’s diversity and values and recognize a special responsibility to our state and the Pacific region.

MEDIA CONTACT

Collin Cedotal, Public Information Specialist
(808) 956-9391 | ccedotal@hawaii.edu