Attorneys & Staff

Jennifer Cunningham-Minnick, Supervising Attorney
Jen is the Supervising Attorney with with Student Legal Services at Kent State, where she provides legal guidance to students facing both civil and criminal issues. With over a decade of legal experience, Jen brings extensive expertise in courtroom advocacy and client representation across diverse legal contexts.

Before joining SLS, Jen specialized in housing law at Community Legal Aid in Western Massachusetts. She represented tenants in eviction proceedings, advocated for necessary housing repairs, and addressed other legal challenges threatening her clients' homes. Prior to her work in Massachusetts, Jen served as a public defender in Dayton, Ohio, where she represented indigent clients in Municipal Court. Her caseload included offenses such as OVI (Operating a Vehicle Impaired), traffic violations, misdemeanors, and violent crimes. Jen routinely conducted trials, motion hearings, and court appearances, honing her skills as a tenacious advocate for her clients. Jen also has experience as a staff attorney for the 12th District Court of Appeals, where she developed her expertise in appellate law.

Jen earned her B.A. from The Ohio State University and her J.D. from the University of Cincinnati College of Law (magna cum laude, Order of the Coif).  She is licensed to practice law in Ohio.  Outside of her legal work, Jen enjoys reading, hiking, and spending time with her husband and three daughters.

Rachel E.C. Richards, Staff Attorney

Rachel is a staff attorney with Student Legal Services, where she provides legal guidance and representation to Kent State students facing a range of civil and criminal matters. She is committed to helping students understand their rights and navigate challenges with confidence.

A lifelong Northeast Ohio resident, Rachel grew up just south of Kent and is a graduate of Kent City Schools and Kent State University, where she earned her undergraduate degree in Parks, Recreation, and Tourism Management. During college, she served in the Army National Guard as a military police soldier while also participating in Kent State’s Army ROTC program. Upon graduation, she earned her commission and served as a military police officer. Her military experience shaped her commitment to public service and her approachable style, prioritizing clear communication and client understanding. She later earned her J.D. from the University of Akron School of Law.

Before joining Student Legal Services, Rachel practiced general civil litigation at a Northeast Ohio law firm, representing individuals and businesses in matters involving contracts, employment, landlord-tenant disputes, personal injury, consumer protection, and other issues. She is licensed to practice law in Ohio and is accredited by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs to assist veterans with disability benefit appeals. Outside of work, Rachel enjoys traveling, paddleboarding, and exploring local trails with her husband and their two rescue dogs, Pippa and Gordon.

Hayley Pendergast, Certified Legal Intern 

Hayley is a Certified Legal Intern, where under the supervision of SLS attorneys, she provides legal advice and representation to students navigating a variety of legal matters. She is passionate about helping students understand their rights and navigate the legal process with confidence.

A lifelong Northeast Ohio resident, Hayley grew up in a small community between Kent and Akron. She earned her undergraduate degree in Criminal Justice from the University of Akron, with a minor in Forensic Psychology and training in Conflict Management. She went on to earn her J.D. from the University of Akron School of Law, where she participated in the Trial Team program. She is currently awaiting the results of the July 2026 Ohio Bar Examination.  Prior to joining Student Legal Services, Hayley interned with the Summit Legal Defenders throughout law school, representing indigent clients in Municipal and Juvenile Courts and assisting with their criminal proceedings.

Outside of her legal work, Hayley enjoys reading fantasy novels, spending time with her cat and dog, and golfing with her husband.

Rea Gaugler-Lee, Legal Receptionist-Secretary

Rea is the secretary of Kent State Student Legal Services. She is a Kent State University graduate with a degree in Art History and a minor in Drawing. With her strong background in administrative support and client-facing roles, she is dedicated to helping individuals navigate complex systems with empathy and clarity. As the first point of contact for those seeking legal assistance, she strives to create a welcoming, informed environment where student feel heard, respected, and empowered.

Beyond the office, Rea is a Teaching Artist with SMARTS (Students Motivated by the Arts), where she teaches creative programs for PreK–12 students in the Youngstown area, blending her passion for the arts with her commitment to education and student well-being.

Molly R. Hegarty, Managing Director 

Molly Hegarty is a graduate of the Moritz College of Law at The Ohio State University and is licensed to practice law in Ohio. In 2011, Molly played a pivotal role in launching the newest Student Legal Services, Inc. office at Ohio State. Under her leadership, Ohio State SLS has doubled both its service provision and staff, significantly impacting the student community. Molly draws on her professional experience to direct office operations, human resources, university and community relationships, marketing and outreach and educational efforts of the largest Student Legal Services office in the country.

In 2024, Molly’s responsibilities expanded to include leadership of the Kent State University Student Legal Services office. She remains deeply committed to the SLS mission of helping students overcome barriers to academic success and is excited to contribute to the growth and success of the KSU SLS team.