10/18/2026
Meet Morgan Sanders, a Lieutenant Commander in the U.S. Navy JAG Corps and current LL.M. student in International Human Rights and Humanitarian Law at American University Washington College of Law.
Morgan has served on active duty for more than 10 years and specializes in military justice. Throughout her career, she has served in a variety of roles, including capital defense counsel, special victim trial counsel, victims’ legal counsel, and appellate defense counsel.
She currently serves with the Military Commissions Defense Organization and represents Mr. Ramzi Bin al Shibh, a high-value detainee at Guantanamo Bay.
💬 Reflecting on why she chose the LL.M. program, Morgan shares:
“I chose to pursue an LL.M. in International Human Rights and Humanitarian Law due to my work in the Military Commissions. I wanted to better educate myself to best represent my client. Because my job requires frequent travel to Guantanamo Bay, I needed flexibility and the hybrid track fit perfectly into my life.”
One of her favorite courses, Rights of Disadvantaged and Vulnerable Groups, has allowed her to explore institutional barriers and the protection of dignity for high-risk populations, particularly individuals with mental health conditions. She also credits Advanced Human Rights with sharpening her ability to litigate complex international violations and develop strategies addressing state-level accountability.
Applications for Spring 2027 are now open, and scholarships are available!
📝 Apply here: american.edu/wcl/academics/degrees/llm/how-to-apply
📩 Contact: [email protected]
🌐 More information: american.edu/wcl/impact/initiatives-programs/hracademy/llm
Disclaimer: Morgan Sanders currently serves as a Lieutenant Commander in the U.S. Navy. The views expressed are her own and do not reflect those of the Department of War or the Department of the Navy.
