110
2013-2014 Handbook National Black Law Student Association WRBLSA MWBLSA RMBLSA NEBLSA MABLSA SRBLSA
| Date post: | 09-Mar-2016 |
| Category: |
Documents |
| Upload: | national-black |
| View: | 215 times |
| Download: | 0 times |
2013-2014 Handbook National Black Law Student Association
WRBLSA
MWBLSA
RMBLSA
NEBLSA
MABLSA
SRBLSA
1
Table of Contents OUR THEME, MISSION, AND VISION ..................................................................................................................................... 2
MESSAGE FROM THE NATIONAL CHAIR ............................................................................................................................. 3
NATIONAL EXECUTIVE BOARD & NATIONAL SPECIALIST ......................................................................................... 4
NBLSA OVERVIEW ........................................................................................................................................................................ 9
NBLSA STRATEGIC PLAN ........................................................................................................................................................... 11
NBLSA SPEAKERS BUREAU ...................................................................................................................................................... 13
MEMBERSHIP ................................................................................................................................................................................. 15
PRE-LAW DIVISION ...................................................................................................................................................................... 17
ALUMNI DIVISION ........................................................................................................................................................................ 19
NATIONAL PROGRAMMING ..................................................................................................................................................... 21
NATIONAL EVENTS CALENDAR ............................................................................................................................................ 24
EDUCATION AND CAREER DEVELOPMENT ....................................................................................................................... 25
FREDERICK DOUGLASS MOOT COURT COMPETITION ................................................................................................. 27
THURGOOD MARSHALL MOCK TRIAL COMPETITION .................................................................................................. 30
NELSON MANDELA INTERNATIONAL NEGOTIATIONS COMPETITION ................................................................ 32
COMMUNITY SERVICE ................................................................................................................................................................ 34
INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS ................................................................................................................................................. 41
ATTORNEY GENERAL.................................................................................................................................................................. 44
SOCIAL ACTION ............................................................................................................................................................................. 49
PARLIAMENTARY PROCEDURE .............................................................................................................................................. 53
FINANCIAL OVERVIEW .............................................................................................................................................................. 60
CORPORATE RELATIONS ........................................................................................................................................................... 62
COMMUNICATIONS ...................................................................................................................................................................... 64
MID-ATLANTIC REGION ............................................................................................................................................................. 67
MIDWEST REGION ........................................................................................................................................................................ 75
NORTHEAST REGION .................................................................................................................................................................. 79
ROCKY MOUNTAIN REGION ..................................................................................................................................................... 86
SOUTHERN REGION ..................................................................................................................................................................... 94
WESTERN REGION ....................................................................................................................................................................... 104
2
Our Theme:
Permanent: Striving to Balance Since 1968.
2013-2014: Road to 50: An Evolving Legacy
Our Vision:
NBLSA is a global catalyst for the respect, acceptance and
engagement of Black law students in law schools, communities and
the legal profession.
Our Mission:
NBLSA develops talented, involved, diverse attorneys and serves as
the leading national advocate for Black law students.
3
National Chair’s Message NBLSA Family,
It is with great excitement that I bring you all greetings on behalf
of the 2013-2014 National Executive Board! The theme this year is
Road to 50: An Evolving Legacy. The history of this organization is one
filled with activism and a commitment to justice; community service,
engagement and advancement; and, leadership, academic and
professional development. This is our legacy. As we inch closer to
NBLSA’s 50th anniversary, we must continue the great work of our
organization and remain steadfast in our commitment to our
communities and each other. We must also respond to the changing
landscape in which we exist and find new ways to address the
challenges facing our communities, our law students and our
organization.
As we progress down this Road to 50, I invite you to join us! We will continue to bring you
our hallmark programs including the regional job fairs, issue forums at the CBCF’s Annual
Legislative Conference, service trips, receptions, conventions and more. We will leverage the
partnerships we have to maximize the impact of our resources in our communities and will take
advantage of technology to increase access to the many opportunities presented by NBLSA. We will
also begin to implement strategic plans that will ensure that the necessary structure is in place to
support a celebration befitting a 50th anniversary and to support the continued growth of our great
organization.
I am looking forward to working alongside of all of you this year. Please do not hesitate to
reach out to me, or any of the National Executive Board members, with any questions, comments,
suggestions, concerns or just to say hello.
Good luck with finals!
Wishing you only the best,
Victoria Walker
2013-2014 National Chair
National Black Law Students Association
George Mason University, JD/MPP Candidate 2014
4
National Executive Board
VICTORIA WALKER TIFFANY F. Boykin YVONNE ELOSIEBO
NATIONAL CHAIR NATIONAL VICE CHAIR SECRETARY TREASURER
George Mason University University of Baltimore Mercer University New York University
School of Law School of law School of Law Law School
MARVIN PENDARVIS TEMITOPE OJO JONATHAN EVANS
FDMCC DIRECTOR TMMTC DIRECTOR NMINC DIRECTOR ATTORNEY GENERAL
University of South Carolina University of Baltimore Southwestern University
School of Law Law School School of Law School of Law
DARRYL WILSON SHANTRICE ANDERSON LATOSHA ELLIS KEVIN WAKLATSI
DIRECTOR OF PROGRAMMING DIRECTOR OF COMMUNITY MID-ATLANTIC CHAIR MIDWEST CHAIR
University of Mississippi SERVICE University of Richmond University of Chicago
School of Law Seattle University School of Law School of Law Law School
5
CLAIS DANIELS-EDWARDS JOHALI MUZALIWA RUTH TISDALE ADRIENNE HOLLAND
NORTHEAST CHAIR ROCKY MOUNTAIN CHAIR SOUTHERN CHAIR WESTERN CHAIR
Seton Hall University University of Houston Wake Forest University Pepperdine University
School of Law Law Center School of Law School of Law
ROOSEVELT DONAT LIEANN VAN-TULL SHAWN GREENE HALIMAH NAJEB-LOCKE
EXTERNAL CHIEF OF STAFF INTERNAL CHIEF OF STAFF DIRECTOR OF CORPORATE DIRECTOR OF COMMUNICATIONS
Rutgers University-Newark University of Baltimore RELATIONS The George Washington University
School of Law School of Law The George Washington Law School
University Law School
CHLOE WOODS BRITTNE BALLENGER GOBRIELLA DAVIS SIMONE OTENAIKE
DIRECTOR OF PUBLIC DIRECTOR OF MEMBERSHIP DIRECTOR OF PRE-LAW DIVISION DIRECTOR OF ALUMNI AFFAIRS
RELATIONS Georgia State University William & Mary University of Texas
Washington University in College of Law Law School School of Law
St. Louis School of Law
6
NIA DUGGINS DALOURNY NEMORIN STEWANNA MISKELL NICOLE MORGAN
DIRECTOR OF PUBLIC DIRECTOR OF EDUCATION DIRECTOR OF INTERNATIONAL PARLIAMENTARIAN
RELATIONS & CAREER DEVELOPMENT RELATIONS Paul M. Herbert Law Center at
University of Maryland New York. Thurgood Marshall School of Louisiana State University
Francis King Carey School of Law Law School Law at Texas Southern University
Ja’net Miles
FINANCIAL SECRETARY
University of Kansas School
of Law
The National Executive Board has ultimate responsibility for all NBLSA programs and business dealings. The National
Executive Board directly oversees initiatives such as, but not limited to: The Congressional Black Caucus Weekend
and Charles Hamilton Houston Leadership Retreat, Hill and Government Day, 46th Annual Convention, Thurgood
Marshall Mock Trial Competition, Fredrick Douglass Moot Court Competition, Nelson Mandela International
Negotiations Competition, Chapter of the Year Competition and NBLSA Named Scholarships. Regional Initiatives with
National support include: Job Fairs, Academic Retreats, Regional Conventions, and Pre-Law Division Law Camps.
7
National Specialists
COURTNEY LITTLEJON D’ANN BEY ASHLEY HODGES LAVITA TUFF
FDMCC SPECIALIST NMINC SPECIALIST LEGISLATIVE ADVOCACY SPECIALIST CONGRESSIONAL LIAISON SPECIALIST
University of South Carolina Saint Louis University George town Law Center University of Baltimore
School of Law School of Law School of Law
DANIA LOFTON CASAUNDRA JOHNSON MYRIAH DOWNS ERIKA EVANS
PROGRAMMING SPECIALIST CORPORATE RELATIONS SPECIALIST GRAPHIC DESIGN SPECIALIST CHAPTER RELATIONS SPECIALIST
Ohio Northern University University of Miami University of Tulsa Seattle University
College of Law School of Law College of Law School of Law
ADREANNE STEPHENSON ISIOMA NWABUZOR Shaunta Tidwell Alfred Miller, Jr.
CONVENTION SPECIALIST CONVENTION SPECIALIST WEB CONTENT SPECIALIST FINANCIAL SPECIALIST
Norte Dame Marquette University Thomas M. Cooley Law School Benjamin Cardozo Law School
Law School Law School
8
Sabrina Porter Jasmine Liverpool Brandon Hicks
NMINC SPECIALIST FDMCC SPECIALIST JUDICIAL ADVOCACY SPECIALIST
Seaton Hall University SUNY Buffalo Law School Washington and Lee University
School of Law School of Law
9
NBLSA Overview
About NBLSA
History The National Black Law Students Association is a 501(c)(3) non‐
profit organization and the nation’s largest student-run
organization representing nearly 6,000 minority law students
throughout the United States and six other countries.
Founded in 1968 at New York University School of Law by
Algernon Johnson Cooper, today NBLSA has approximately 200
chapters at law schools throughout the country. These chapters
represent almost every ABA accredited law school, plus several
non-accredited law schools. Chapters are organized into six
regions—Mid-tlantic, Midwest, Northeast, Rocky Mountain,
Southern and Western—that encompass 49 states as well as the
Commonwealth of Puerto Rico.
Recently NBLSA established an international connection with law
students in Canada, England, South Africa, and the Bahamas who
have decided to model their student organizations after NBLSA.
NBLSA prides itself on giving law students an opportunity to
develop their advocacy, writing and business skills as they work to
promote diversity in legal education and the legal profession.
Statement of Purpose NBLSA’s purpose, as denoted in our Constitution, focuses on four critical areas. NBLSA exists to: Empower Our Communities
Instill in the Black attorney and law student commitment to the needs of the Black community;
Bring about meaningful legal and political change in the Black community;
Improve Ourselves
Articulate and promote the needs and goals of Black law students;
Foster professional competence;
Change Our Profession Improve the relationship between Black
law students, Black attorneys, and the American legal structure;
Encourage Black law students to pursue careers in the judiciary; and
Ensure Our Lasting Legacy
Adopt and implement policies of economic independence.
We use the collective resources of our 200 chapters and our nearly 6,000 members to achieve these aims.
10
NBLSA Structure
National
NBLSA is governed by its National Constitution and Bylaws,
which are ratified by the NBLSA membership. The NBLSA
Constitution establishes a National Executive Board (NEB). The
NEB is comprised of both elected and appointed officers and is
led by an elected National Chair. The NEB is responsible for
upholding NBLSA’s vision and purpose; ensuring NBLSA has
adequate resources to fulfill its mission; setting the policies,
direction, and priorities of the Association; providing fiduciary
oversight; and maintaining and developing highly effective
leadership. The NEB, under the direction of the National Chair,
also manages and oversees the property, affairs and day-to-day
operations of the Association.
In addition to the NEB, the National team also includes National
Specialists, technical experts in a given programming area, and
NBLSA Fellows, members of the Pre-Law Division that have
shown incredible leadership potential. Specialists and Fellows
are appointed, non-voting members of the National leadership
team and are not considered members of the NEB.
Regions
NBLSA is divided into six geographic regions: Mid-Atlantic,
Midwest, Northeast, Rocky Mountain, Southern and Western.
Regions function as the conduit between the national
organization and its chapters. Each region has a Regional
Executive Board (REB). The REB, which is modeled after the
National Executive Board, provides chapters with
programmatic direction and supports chapter activities. The
REB is led by a Regional Chair. The Regional Chair, who reports
to the National Chair, sits on both his or her Regional Executive
Board and the National Executive Board.
Chapters
Chapters, located at schools across the nation, are NBLSA’s
foundation. Chapters develop creative programming that
furthers NBLSA’s strategic goals. Chapters are also a critical
component of the NBLSA membership experience. Chapters
help NBLSA maintain its financial health by facilitating the
membership dues collection process. Each chapter has an
executive board comprised of elected and/or appointed
positions.
11
NBLSA Strategic Plan
Strategic Goal Area #1 | Lay groundwork
for a more permanent infrastructure for
NBLSA that will allow the organization to
build the structural support it needs to
continue to grow.
Create job description for Executive
Director position.
Chair, Internal Chief of Staff continue
to work on creating and carrying out
plans for this goal.
Utilize the Advisory Board for support.
Strategic Goal Area #2 | Establish and
maintain partnerships that will further
the mission of the organization.
Co-sponsor events or initiatives.
Utilize members of the National Board,
Regional Boards, and Partners for op‐
portunities.
Continue to build upon and strengthen
our existing partnerships.
Establish new partnerships in every
key programmatic area.
Strategic Goal area #3 | Centralize and
standardize recordkeeping across all divi‐
sions; Pre-Law, Law Student, and Alumni.
Uniform tracking of chapter and mem‐
bership information for pre-law/
alumni/law students.
Utilize the membership software plat‐
form
Continued upkeep and tracking by the
Chair, Vice Chair, and the Membership
Team.
NBLSA has adopted the following strategic plan for the 2013-2014 year:
Strategic Goal Area #4 | Continue to en‐
hance the value of membership in the or‐
ganization for pre-law, law student, and
alumni members.
Create new membership benefits.
Ensure membership satisfaction
through members comments and sug‐
gestions.
Strategic Goal Area # 5 | Implement a
proactive advocacy strategy that embrac‐
es education, partnerships, agenda-
setting and grassroots activity (advocacy
in action).
Utilize our social media and attend‐
ance metrics.
Create awareness year round of advo‐
cacy initiatives.
Continued dissemination of infor‐
mation through the Chair, Vice Chair,
and Advocacy Team.
Strategic Goal Area #6 | Ensure efficient
national programming that encompass
intra-organizational partnerships to re‐
duce repetition.
Increase number of co-sponsored pro‐
grams.
Continue to create awareness of na‐
tional events.
Continue planning events with the
Chair, Vice Chair, Programming Team
and Regional Chairs.
Utilize National Board, Regional
Boards, and Partners in planning
events.
12
Strategic Goal Area #7 | Produce a “Road
to 50” plan that lays out benchmarks for
the organization for the next 4-5 years
and produce a NBLSA Transition Guide to
minimize the yearly transition period and
lag-time
Create a smooth , uniform, transition
plan for boards in the future.
Plan for the 50 year anniversary of
NBLSA.
Continued use of the Advisory Board.
Continued recordkeeping via the Sec‐
retary.
Strategic Goal Area #8 | Ensure short-
term and long-term financial sustainabil‐
ity by minimizing spending, diversifying
revenue streams and identifying 501(c)
(3)-compliant investment opportunities.
Reduce spending for the current term
and increase the revenue from diverse
sources.
Continue to keep a watch of our finan‐
cial standing.
Utilize the Chair, Financial Team, and
Convention team for revenue sources
and cuts.
Hold the National Board responsible
for their expenditures.
Utilize sponsors for events.
Strategic Goal Area #9 | Increase the ef‐
ficiency and effectiveness of communica‐
tions .
Continue to utilize social media met‐
rics.
Have more leadership involvement.
Continue to use National Blasts and
other e-mails.
Continue and improve National and
Regional journals.
Strategic Goal Area #10 | Increase the
profile of, and participation in, all of the
advocacy competitions .
Increate the number of teams and cov‐
erage amongst law school news out‐
lets.
Utilize the Chair, Vice Chair, and Com‐
petition Directors for promotion.
Fredric Douglas Moot Court
Competition
Thurgood Marshall Mock Trial
Competition
Nelson Mandela International
Negotiations Competition
13
NBLSA Speakers Bureau HISTORY AND PURPOSE
For over 40 years, the National Black Law Students Association has been a leading advocate for
diversity and inclusion in law schools across the nation. Our members are not only talented law
students, but also involved community advocates. Our alumni are among the most talented and
respected legal practitioners and are active and influential community leaders.
Our executive leadership team, comprised entirely of law students, is dedicated to living life with
purpose. NBLSA's leaders are tireless advocates for change who represent today's most talented
law students and tomorrow's most dynamic lawyers.
The NBLSA Speakers Program sends current NBLSA leaders to speak at luncheons, receptions,
annual dinners and other special events. Members of our executive board have visited local
chapters, college campuses, and conferences to share their experiences and to speak on a variety of
topics including leadership, juvenile justice, preparing for law school, women in society, student
advocacy, time management and networking.
Members of the Speakers Bureau are available to speak on behalf of NBLSA on your college
campuses and any functions related to legal and pre-law issues. We encourage you to direct
interested parties to the NBLSA Speakers Bureau for an approved speaker at a related engagement.
Requests for speaking engagements may be made at www.nblsa.org/speakersbureau/.
Speakers Bureau
Victoria Walker, National Chair, George Mason University School of Law (Arlington, VA)
Tiffany Fountaine, National Vice Chair, University of Baltimore School of Law (Baltimore, MD)
Ruth Tisdale, Southern Regional Chair, Wake Forest University School of Law (Winston-Salem, NC)
Isioma Nwabuzor, National Convention Specialist, Marquette University Law School (Milwaukee, WI)
Jonathan Evans, National Attorney General, Southwestern Law School (Los Angeles, CA)
Latosha Ellis, Mid-Atlantic Chair, University of Richmond School of Law (Richmond, VA)
Rashad Pendarvis, National Director of Frederick Douglass Moot Court Competition, University of South Caro‐lina School of Law (Columbia, SC)
Gobriella Davis, National Director of the Pre-Law Division, William & Mary Law School (Williamsburg, VA)
Halimah Najieb-Locke, National Director of Communications, George Washington University Law School (Washington, DC)
Dalourny Nemorin, National Director of Education/Career Development, City University of New York School of Law (New York, NY)
Shantrice Anderson, National Director of Community Service, Seattle University School of Law (Seattle, WA)
Nia Duggins, National Director of Social Action, University of Maryland Francis King Carey School of Law (Baltimore, MD)
Kevin Waklatsi, Midwest Chair, University of Chicago Law School (Chicago, WI)
Chloe Woods,, National Director of Public Relations, Arizona State University (Phoenix, AZ)
Clais Daniels-Edwards, Northeast Regional Chair, Seton Hall University School of Law (Newark, NJ)
Will You Be There?
15
Membership Membership Structure
NBLSA membership is a three-tiered membership system. A NBLSA member is a
member on the chapter level, regional level and national level. To be an active
member in NBLSA an individual must pay NBLSA membership dues and complete
any necessary administrative processes determined by the NBLSA National
Executive Board. A chapter may also determine its own dues in order to gain
membership in the organization. Upon satisfaction of these conditions, an
individual is entitled to all the privileges of active membership.
Chapters that elect not to pay dues during a given membership year are not
considered chapter members and shall not refer to themselves as the Black Law
Students Association, or use the logos of NBLSA or its regions. Members of these
inactive chapters will not be afforded the privileges enumerated in the NBLSA
Constitution.
2013 - 2014 Membership Objectives
Increase Member Satisfaction : Deliver relevant, quality programming to
members and improve member communication so that every member is an
informed member. Actively seek member feedback to improve NBLSA’s
execution. Use the new membership platform; YourMembership; to register
members and as another means to keep in contact with members.
Increase Membership Numbers: Use the new membership platform;
YourMembership; to register members. YourMembership will serve as another
tool for the Membership Team and other select members of the board to keep
in contact with members.
Membership Communication: Effectively communicate what NBLSA is, does,
and provides for our members. Implement a variety of means of
communication to ensure that members are informed of upcoming programs,
networking opportunities and career development initiatives.
Members of the Month
NBLSA will select six financially active members to become Members of the Month;
one Member of the Month from each respective region. The Members of the
Month will be selected based on an essay of no more than 500 words that
describes how the nominee has contributed to his or her community, contributed
to his or her fellow NBLSA members, and implemented this year’s National
Theme “Road to 50: An Evolving Legacy.”
National Members of the Month Nomination forms must be submitted by the 20th
of each month per the timeline below.
Member of the Month Nomination Timeline
October WRBLSA Member of the Month submissions are due September 20, 2013
November RMBLSA Member of the Month submissions are due October 20, 2013
December SRBLSA Member of the Month submissions are due November 20, 2013
January NEBLSA Member of the Month submissions are due December 20, 2013
February MABLSA Member of the Month submissions are due January 20, 2014
Brittne Ballenger
National Director of
Membership
Georgia State University College of
Law, Class of 2014
16
All members are encouraged to nominate themselves or fellow NBLSA members.
Please note that members on the National Executive Board, including National
Specialists, and the Regional Executive Board members are not eligible for
nomination .
The selected members will be recognized on the NBLSA website, and in a NBLSA
Communication Blast. The selected Members of the Month will need to submit a
professional headshot of themselves to accompany in publications.
Membership Registration
Members register for NBLSA with local chapters at their law schools via online
registration. More information will be given to the chapter leaders in the beginning
of the 2013-2014 academic school year.
The national membership dues for the 2013-2014 term is $35 per person.
However, local chapters maintain a right to collect an additional fee per person.
Each person that registers for the 2013-2014 term after November 1, 2013, will be
assessed a $15 late fee. Individuals that start their first year of law school in the
spring semester will pay $35 per person until February 15, 2014. However, these
individuals must notify the National Director of Membership about their status
prior to February 10, 2014.
NBLSA Chapter Emails
Each chapter will be given a nblsa.org email address, powered by Google. This email
address will be used by NBLSA or all official chapter correspondence. Chapters are
free to use the nblsa.org account exclusively or to forward nblsa.org mail to an
existing account.
Membership Benefits
Members of NBLSA receive discounts on a variety of products and services. These
membership benefits include but are not limited to bar review course discounts,
hotel discounts, and car rental discounts. Membership benefits will be added
throughout the year. For more information, please visit www.nblsa.org/
membership/.
Chapter Chartering and Reactivating
For assistance in reactivating or chartering a local BLSA chapter please contact the
National Director of Membership.
Membership Team
Brittne Ballenger
National Director of Membership
Erika Evans
National Chapter Relations
Specialist
Erin McIntire
WRBLSA Director of Membership
Betty Gentle
MWBLSA Director of Membership
Mark St. Vil
SRBLSA Director of Membership
Courtney A. Thomas
MABLSA Director of Membership
17
Pre-Law Division Pre-Law Division Regional Law Camps [replace Moot Court Competition]
Each of NBLSA’s six regions hosts annual pre-law camps. Undergraduate and
graduate students considering a career in law participate in a full day of activities
covering a variety of topics including applying to and paying for law school and
preparing for the LSAT. Attendees also have the opportunity to participate in a
mock law school class and enjoy words of wisdom from current law students and
practicing attorneys.
Pre-Law Division at the National & Regional Conventions
On our Road to 50: An Evolving Legacy, the Pre-Law Division (PLD) is gearing
up to prepare our pre-law members for what the legal world has in store for
them. At our 2014 National Convention, there will be several opportunities to
network with current law students and alumni, as well as participate in
workshops focusing on LSAT preparation, the law school application process, and
the life of a law student. There will also be similar activities at each of the
Regional Conventions in an effort to better serve our PLD members. This is a
great chance to meet and connect with other committed pre-law NBLSA members
both regionally and nationally.
Pre-Law Division Law Day
Law Day is implemented by local chapters for current and prospective PLD
Members. Local chapters are encouraged to design programs exposing
participants to the law school admissions process, financing a legal education and
mock 1L classes. The purpose of Law Day is to expose minority students
interested in attending law school to an in-depth view of what life is like as a law
student. Engaging with current law students, professors, and admissions staff,
attendees of law day will gain more insight into the expectations of law school
and decide which school is the best fit to catapult them into their legal careers.
Pre-Law Mentoring
NBLSA members have traditionally served as mentors to Pre-Law members, and
this year, we ask you to help us continue this strong tradition of mentorship by
encouraging your members to volunteer to become PLD mentors. By serving as
mentors, NBLSA members will build relationships with PLD members who hold
similar interests. Moreover, they will serve as a guide to mentees as they navigate
the law school application process. Please encourage the members of your local
chapter to become mentors. Mentor applications are available at www.nblsa.org/
prelawdivision/.
Pre-Law Division Chapter of the Year/Member of the Month
The Pre-Law Division Chapter of the Year competition and Member of the Month
Program provide an opportunity to recognize the achievements and
contributions of PLD chapters and members. We will select six Pre-Law members
as Members of the Month throughout the year. The PLD Member of the Month
will be selected based on an essay of no more than 500 words describing how the
nominee has contributed to his or her community. These essays will be submitted
Gobriella Davis
National Director of the Pre-Law
Division
William & Mary Law School, Class of
2014
18
(continued from previous page)
to the corresponding regional PLD director.
The Pre-Law Division will also recognize the chapter that has made a difference
in its community and has improved the quality of its undergraduate institution.
This chapter will be recognized at the 2014 National Convention in Milwaukee,
Wisconsin.
Nelson Mandela Scholarship
The Nelson Mandela Scholarship is offered exclusively to two (2) Pre-Law Divi‐
sion members to be applied towards law school expenses. This scholarship recog‐
nizes the exceptional pre-law member who exemplifies Nelson Mandela’s dedica‐
tion to justice and equality. Applicants must complete an application and re‐
spond to the posted essay question in order to be considered for this distin‐
guished award. Scholarship recipients will be announced at the 2014 NBLSA Na‐
tional Convention held in Milwaukee, Wisconsin.
Pre-Law Division Team
Gobriella Davis
National Director of the Pre-Law
Division [email protected]
Kenneth Mitchell
MABLSA Director of the Pre-Law
Division
Tiffany Watkins
SRBLSA Director of the Pre-Law
Division
Cedrick Forrest
RMBLSA Director of the Pre-Law
Division
Alisha Trotter
WRBLSA Director of the Pre-Law
Division
19
Alumni Affairs
Simone Otenaike
National Director of Alumni
Affairs
University of Texas School of Law,
Class of 2014
An Introduction to Alumni Affairs and Development
NBLSA is committed to serving its members, both past and present. NBLSA has a legacy of community service and excellence that transcends law school. In hopes of remaining connected with NBLSA members well beyond graduation, the Director of Alumni Affairs and Development serves as the liaison to bridge the gap between past and present members. Programs are developed and implemented to foster a strong, long lasting relationship between alumni and student members. We aim to encourage alumni involvement and meaningful interaction.
Alumni Achievement Awards
NBLSA greatly appreciates the countless contributions our alumni are making to the legal community and society as a whole. To celebrate these achievements, NBLSA honors alumni through the Alumni Achievement Initiative, a nation-‐‐wide program that recognizes the outstanding accomplishments of our alumni. To nominate an exceptional alum, please visit www.nblsa.org/alumni/.
20
Alumni Networking Receptions
NBLSA will host Alumni Receptions in various locations throughout the year. The receptions provide for an opportunity for alumni to connect, interact, and network with other alumni and current NBLSA members. The locations of the receptions will be announced in the monthly Alumni Newsletter. Electronic invitations will be sent to all registered NBLSA Alumni. Please visit www.nblsa.org/alumni to register. We look forward to seeing you and our alumni at the upcoming receptions.
Alumni NetWORKS Program
NBLSA realizes the importance of networking and the valuable
knowledge our alumni can provide to current members.
Through the Alumni NetWORKS Program and partnership with
the National Bar Association, NBLSA strives to connect current
members and young alumni with mentors who can provide
career guidance, life experience, and invaluable advice.
Alumni Affairs Committee
The Alumni Affairs Committee is an opportunity for members to get involved in NBLSA’s alumni outreach efforts. Committee members develop and implement programs to encourage alumni involvement. Members also interact regularly with alumni, disseminating NBLSA information and fostering relationships with alumni. Finally, the Committee is responsible for the development of alumni chapters, which include membership benefits and potential partnerships with corporations. To join the Alumni Affairs Committee or to obtain more information please email [email protected].
Alumni Affairs Team
Simone Otenaike
National Director Alumni Affairs
Chaloea Williams
Northeast Regional Director of Alumni
Affairs & Development:
Evelina Rene
Mid-atlantic Regional Director of Alumni
Affairs & Development:
Ashley Upkins
Southern Regional Director of Alumni
Affairs & Development:
Britney Bouie
Midwest Regional Director of Alumni
Affairs & Development
21
Programming
Held annually during NBLSA’s Congressional Black Caucus Weekend, CHH offers
the opportunity for chapter leadership to meet and intimately interact with
National Board Members. The purpose of the retreat is to give local chapter
leaders the tools, information, and skills that are essential to having a successful
tenure as a NBLSA leader. The retreat gives attendees an overview of national
programming plans and guidelines for the year. This year the retreat will be
comprised of multiple, interactive breakout sessions covering such areas as
recruitment and retention of members, fundraising, garnering corporate
sponsorships and managing chapter finances. The retreat will also focus on
educating attendees about the 2013‐2014 NBLSA initiatives. Specifically, this
portion of the retreat will focus on issues surrounding increased advocacy,
increased academic excellence, and financial stability.
NBLSA Chapter Grant Program
The Chapter Grant Program was established in 2010 in an effort to give needed
additional funding to NBLSA chapters and Pre-Law Divisions that hold events in
line with national objectives and programmatic thrusts. Chapter grant requests
are approved by an ad hoc committee composed of the National Chair, National
Director of Programming, National Director of Membership and National
Treasurer. For further information and/or to apply, please visit http://
www.nblsa.org/chaptergrantprogram/.
Budget
The annual budget for the chapter grant program is $3,000-$1,500 per semester.
Approval Guidelines
A proposed event must be in line with national objectives found in the NBLSA
Constitution and Bylaws. A law school chapter or pre--law student division is
only eligible for one chapter grant per year. Chapter grants are limited to a
maximum request of $250.
Darryl A. Wilson
National Director of
Programming
University of Mississippi School of law,
Class of 2014
Programs that Evolve the Legacy
Charles Hamilton Houston Leadership Retreat
Saturday, September 21, 2013
8:00am –2:00pm
Location: TBD
22
General Application Information
Names and Signatures of Chapter Executive Board
Name, Location, and Type of Chapter
Number of Financially Active Members
Member Submitting
Date of Submission
Abstract
Application Requirements
A description of how the event promotes the mission and goals of NBLSA.
A detailed description of the event/activity, including origin of program, purpose
of program, targeted audience, list of all planned participants/ speakers
(including their titles and affiliations).
Clear and comprehensive list of goals of the program/event/activity.
Budget requests must include a detailed budget of all anticipated expenses and
projected revenue/funding. Expenses for food (please specify) and beverage
(please specify) should be detailed by per person costs.
A list of all sources of funding and the amounts. Please explain if the law school/
administration will provide funding and if so, how much. If no funding from the
school/administration has been allocated, please explain.
An explanation of the necessity of funding for this program/activity. What, if any,
expenses can you eliminate if NBLSA funding is not secured?
How will this program benefit law students, the legal profession and the
community?
What is the likelihood that this program/activity will continue next year? Please
explain.
What level of involvement does your law school/student organizations currently
have in NBLSA or other law groups?
What support have you received for your chapter towards your program?
What involvement does your chapter have on campus?
Post Event Requirements
Grant recipients are required to submit an After Action Report and a final
itemized budget within two weeks of the scheduled event. In addition, the
committee requires submission of pictures from the event and electronic copies
of any printed materials for records and to highlight programs held by grant
recipients.
Submit application and supporting documents at least 30 days before event.
Programming Team
Darryl Wilson
National Director of the
Programmingn [email protected]
Samantha Wiggins MABLSA Director of Programming
Remington Jackson MWBLSA Director of Programming
Asia-Sierra Millette NEBLSA Director of Programming
Maxie Gallardo RMBLSA Director of Programming
Donald Williams, Jr. SRBLSA Director of Programming
23
Application Process/ Timeline
Submit application and supporting documents— 30 days before event
Committee Review of Application— Approximately 2 weeks
Notification of Approval, Request for Additional Information or Denial
Treasurer Issue Award— Approximately 1 week
Mandatory After Action Reports— Due within 2 weeks of the event
Notification of Acceptance of AAR and final budget— Approximately 1 week
24
June 2013
14-16 7th Annual Joint Leadership Retreat; Dallas, TX |
16 National Executive Board Meeting; Dallas, TX |
July 2013
27- Aug. 1 88th Annual National Bar Association
Convention | Miami Beach; Miami, FL
National Executive Board Meeting; Miami, FL
August 2013
1 Registration for Congressional Black Caucus
Annual Legislative Conference & Charles Hamilton Houston Leadership Retreat Opens
September 2013
2 Registration for the 46th Annual NBLSA National
Convention Opens
Registration for Frederick Douglass Moot Court Competition Opens
Registration for Thurgood Marshall Mock Trial and Nelson Mandela International Negotiations Competitions Opens
18-21 NBLSA’s Congressional Black Caucus Weekend;
Washington, DC
19 National Executive Board Meeting; Washington,
DC
20 Community Service: Congressional Kids Day;
Washington, DC
Tenth Annual Networking & Alumni Reception; Washington, DC
21 Charles Hamilton Houston Leadership Retreat;
Washington, DC
30 International Book Drive
October 2013
1-31 International Book Drive Continued
24-26 International Law Weekend
26 Founder’s Day of Service
November 2013
1-4 International Book Drive Continued
9 National Board Community Service Event | Newark, NJ
9 National Executive Board Meeting | Newark, NJ
December 2013
1 World Aids Day Program
January 2014
2-8 NBLSA CARES Service Trips
18 National Board Community Service Event |
Sacramento, CA
19 National Executive Board Meeting | Sacramento, CA
February 2014 TBD NBLSA Hill and Government Day | Washington, D.C.
March 2014
11-16 46th Annual NBLSA National Convention;
Milwaukee, WI
11 National Executive Board Meeting; Milwaukee, WI
National Calendar of Events
25
Education & Career Development
Professional Development Series
In an effort to “Enhance the Dream,” this year we will continue the
Professional Development Series by utilizing the NBLSA blog and
the Legal Pad (magazine) to allow professionals to write articles
about emerging issues in the law and highlight non-traditional
areas in the law. We will also be actively updating out symplicity
account with internship opportunities for the fall and spring on a
rolling base. While highlighting all opportunities for permanent
positions that are available.
Academic Retreat
NBLSA is ensuring that we are at the forefront of creating brilliant,
legal trained minds that can effectively navigate in their academics
and career. Our Regional Academic Retreats are structured to
provide our membership with academic support that is necessary
to thrive as a law student. They are held in the fall in each region.
Scholarship Information
Rodney Pulliam Scholarship
The Executive Board of the National Black Law Students Association is pleased to announce the Rodney Pulliam Scholarship. This scholarship is in honor of the late Rodney Pulliam, who served as the 1998-‐‐ 1999 NBLSA National Chair. A minimum $500 BARBRI Bar Preparation Course scholarship will be awarded to deserving third or fourth year law students who are graduating in Spring 2013.
The Sandy Brown Scholarship
The Executive Board of the National Black Law Students Association is pleased to announce the annual Sandy Brown Memorial Scholarship. The scholarship is named after the late Sandy Brown, a past NBLSA western regional director and will be given in her honor. To be eligible for this award, entrants must currently be in their first or second year of law school.
Dalourny Nemorin
National Director of Education &
Career Development
City University of New York; Class of
2014
26
(Scholarship Information Continued)
NBLSA Student Leader Scholarship
The Executive Board of the National Black Law Students Association is pleased to announce the annual NBLSA Student Leader Award. The purpose of this award is to recognize NBLSA mem‐bers who have excelled academically, in addition to being active in their BLSA chapter and com‐munity. To be eligible for this award, entrants must be first, second, or third year law students.
Fellowship Information
The Executive Board of the National Black Law Students Association is pleased to announce two outstanding fellowship opportunities:
The NBLSA | NBA Fellowship
Fellows will have the opportunities to work with black attorneys who are leading scholars and
practitioner in the area of law that is of interest to the Fellow. The Fellow will also have the
opportunity to produce a writing piece that could either be published in the NBLSA blog, mag‐
azine, or a regional law review journal. This opportunity can provide for potential mentorship
that will assist the fellow with his/her educational and career goals.
The CBC | NBLSA Fellowship
This year, the Congressional Black Caucus (CBC) has partnered with NBLSA to offer an amazing op‐portunity to rising 2Ls, 3Ls, and LL.M. Candidates. Legal Fellows will work with the CBC, Member offices, outside stakeholders, Senate, and the Executive Branch agencies on the CBC’s legislative priorities. Fellows undertake projects involving sophisticated legal research and writing, analysis and drafting of legislation and administrative regulations, legislative and regulatory advocacy. During the Fall and Spring, the Fellows will work full or part-‐‐time for 13 weeks. During the Sum‐mer, Fellows are required to work full-‐‐time for an 11-‐‐week term. The fellowship is for academic credit.
27
Frederick Douglass
Moot Court Competition
Marvin Pendarvis
National Moot Court Director
University of South Carolina School of
Law, Class of 2014
History of FDMCC
One of the cornerstones of NBLSA programming is the Frederick
Douglass Moot Court Competition (FDMCC). Since its inception in
1975, the FDMCC as consistently provided NBLSA members with
excellent training in appellate advocacy through oral arguments
and brief writing. Each year, between 100 and 125 teams
compete across the nation within the six Regional Competitions,
culminating in the top three teams from each region competing at
the national level during NBLSA's Annual Convention. Each year, the
FDMCC provides competitors with the opportunity to argue issues
that are at the forefront of debate in the legal profession and this
year will prove to be no different. This year marks the 38th
anniversary of this competition and the theme for this year will
be "Furthering the Legacy: Building Influence Through Advocacy to
Shape the Changes of Tomorrow."
Purpose of FDMCC
The FDMCC program was created to provide NBLSA members
with an opportunity to enhance their brief writing and advocacy
skills. NBLSA is dedicated to providing minority law students with
the skills necessary to succeed in the legal profession. The FDMCC is
a significant aspect of NBLSA programming which seeks to provide
minority law students who are NBLSA members with the opportunity
to hone their appellate advocacy skills in an atmosphere of zealous
competition and spirited camaraderie.
Important Dates and Fees
September 1 ‐ October 1, 2013: $300 Early Bird Registration period. Registration between these dates will be avail‐
able at the discounted rate of $300 per team.
September 1 ‐ October 15, 2012: The discounted rate of $300 per team will be extended to chapters registering
two or more teams for the competition (one discount will be applied per team).
September 15, 2013: The problem will be released on Westlaw via the FDMCC sponsored by BARBRI Twen Site.
October 2 ‐ November 4, 2013: $350 Regular Registration period.
November 4, 2013: Registration deadline.
October 31, 2013 (midnight EST): Answers to substantive questions, scoring rubric and sheets.
November 22, 2013: All team briefs are due.
November 29, 2013: Deadline for late service of briefs.
March 11-16, 2014: 2014 National Frederick Douglass Moot Court Competition sponsored by BARBRI will take
place in Milwaukee, WI.
28
Competition Improvements
In keeping with NBLSA's
commitment of service to its
members, the FDMCC Planning
Board has implemented exciting
new changes to the Competition.
In an effort to create a more
effective forum for the cultivation
of superior written and oral
advocacy skills, the following
changes have been made to improve
logistics for this year's competition.
First, FDMCC competitors will no
longer be required to pay a separate
registration fee for the convention. A
single registration fee will cover
registration for the competition as
well as the convention.
Second, the FDMCC rules have
been amended to implement a
third place round on the regional
level to ensure that the best
advocates advance to the National
Frederick Douglass Moot Court
Competition.
Third and finally, the
administration of the FDMCC
Problem will be returned to the
Westlaw TWEN site to facilitate
easier communication between
competitors and the FDMCC
Planning Board during the writing
stage of the competition.
Competition Goals
Increase participation overall by
80%
Seamless registration process
Regional Moot Court
Directors
Jasmine Liverpool
NEBLSA Moot Court Director
Caroline Mapp
MABLSA Moot Court Director
Jayniece Higgins
SRBLSA Moot Court Director
Wismick Saint-Jean
WRBLSA Moot Court Director
Federick Douglass National
Moot Court Competition Team
Rashad Pendarvis
National Moot Court Director
Courtney Littlejohn
National FDMCC Specialist
Jasmine Liverpool
National FDMCC Specialist
Charles Tucker, Jr., Esq.
National FDMCC Advisor
Dee Baker
National Advisory Board
Adrian Bispham
National Advisory Board
Brandon Cox
National Advisory Board
Major Chantelle Higgins-Bless,
Esq.
National Advisory Board
Donald LaRoche
National Advisory Board
Siana McLean
National Advisory Board
Kirsten Staples
National Advisory Board
29
30
Thurgood Marshall Mock Trial
Competition In March of 2002, at NBLSA's General Convention, the body
voted to create a National Mock Trial Competition, in order to
develop future lawyers with strong courtroom skills as they
prepare for various components of a trial. Each year, hundreds
of competitors compete on the regional level in the hopes of
ultimately becoming one of the top three teams in the Nation.
To date, the Thurgood Marshall Mock Trial Competition
(TMMTC) is one of the largest, most respected law school mock
trial competitions in the country and is proud to be celebrating
its eleventh year.
Important Dates and Fees September 1 – October 1, 2013: Early bird registration period
September 1 – October 15, 2013: Multiple Team Discount registration period
September 15, 2013: Problem released on NBLSA website
October 2 – November 4, 2013: Regular registration period, scoring information released
October 2013 – November 2013: Answers to substantive questions received during the
registration period
November 4: Registration deadline
November 15, 2013: Deadline for competitors and coaches to send questions and concerns
about the problem to [email protected].
November 30, 2013: Answers to substantive questions received after registration period
closes.
January 2014 – February 2014: Regional Competitions
March 11 – 16, 2014: 2014 National Thurgood Marshall Mock Trial Competition will take
place in Milwaukee, WI.
31
32
Nelson Mandela International
Negotiations Competition
Temitope Ojo
National International Negotiations
Competition Director
University of Baltimore School
of Law, Class of 2014
Internationalcompetition@nblsa.
org
The Nelson Mandela International Negotiation Competition (NMINC) is the
only non-litigation competition offered by our organization, providing
students with a unique opportunity to develop useful negotiation skills while
creating awareness of important global issues.
The purpose of the annual NMINC is to hone vital negotiation skills.
Competition problems are selected in an effort to illuminate issues affecting
the globe. Negotiating these cross-border transactions and disputes helps
prepare students for negotiation in their future careers. Students will have
the opportunity to receive constructive feedback from legal practitioners
while interacting with other students that may have a different negotiating
style. This competition helps law students become aware of and experience
the unique aspects of international legal negotiations including various
ethical and social norms, a broad spectrum of business practices, and the
difficulty of cross-cultural communication.
This upcoming year will mark the 8th Annual NBLSA Nelson Mandela
International Negotiations Competition. The competition will be held at the
NBLSA National Convention on March 12th-16th, 2013 in in Milwaukee, WI.
Important Dates and Fees
September 9, 2013: Registration Opens
September 9, 2013 - October 31, 2013: Early Bird Registration period.
November 1, 2013- December 2, 2013 – Discounted rate of $100 per team will be extended to chapters registering two
or more teams for the competition.
November 1, 2013-December 2, 2013- $150 Regular Registration period
December 3, 2013- December 15, 2013- $175 Late registration period
December 15, 2013 at midnight: Registration Deadline
January 13, 2013: The Nelson Mandela International Negotiation Competition Problems will be released on
www.nblsa.org/inc/.
January 31, 2013: Deadline for competitors and coaches to send questions and concerns about the problems and rules
February 10, 2013: Answers to substantive questions released on www.nblsa.org/inc/.
March 12, 2013-March 16, 2013: The 2014 Nelson Mandela International Negotiation Competition will take places in
Milwaukee, WI. Registered teams will receive confidential information for the competition at a mandatory competitors
meeting on March 12, 2013.
33
Competition Improvements
In keeping with NBLSA’s tradition of serving the needs of its membership,
the International Negotiations Competition Team will further improve
upon an already functioning competition. There were many systemic
improvements that were made over the past few years that we will
continue to implement. It is also our hope that these systemic
improvements will help us to expand the competition this year and in the
years that follow. By growing the competition we are looking to the future
of the INC and the prospects of eventually moving to regional
competitions.
With our prospective expansion we will ensure that coordination efforts
among participants, coaches and judges are seamless. The following
changes will be made to improve the competition and provide students
with an enhanced experience that will help strengthen important legal
advocacy skills:
All guest judges will be asked to meet for a session on scoring
uniformity. This session will orient judges and set expectations
regarding the INC scoring rubric. All judges will receive uniform
training and preparation before the competition to promote
consistency of judging and fairness in each negotiation session.
Judges will be randomly assigned to competition rooms. An official
assignment roster will be provided to specialists. Each room will have
a designated specialist assigned to it. The specialist is responsible for
ensuring that judges are in their assigned rooms so that each round
begins promptly.
The competition schedule has been restructured to provide students
with adequate time to prepare for each round, while also enabling
competitors to participate in as many National Convention panels,
luncheons, forums, and social events as possible.
All teams will receive their completed score sheets at the end of the
competition.
Teams will receive notice of their quarter finals placement
electronically. In addition the rankings of each quarter finalist will be
electronically disseminated and displayed.
In an effort to recognize and reward contestants, a “best” negotiator
will be selected for each round of the competition. The judges will also
select an individual to be named “best” negotiator overall.
Nelson Mandela International
Negotiations Competition
Team
Temitope Ojo
National International Negotiations
Competition Director
Internationalcompetition@nblsa.
org
D'Ann Bey
National INC Specialist
Sabrina Porter
National INC Specialist
34
Community Service Community Service Program Objectives
Creation of a Military Children’s Mentorship Program
Develop community service programming that is related to and focused the
theme of “Road to 50: An Evolving Legacy”
Continue to improve the Chapter of the Year program by increasing fairness
and transparency, and increasing participation among chapters
Community Service Areas of Focus
Youth Empowerment
Prison Reform/Prisoner Rehabilitation
Human Rights Awareness (National and International)
An evolving History
National Community Service Initiatives
Today’s Youth, Tomorrow’s Leaders
All chapters are encouraged to participate in community service projects within
the following national schemes:
Model Behavior Series: Chapter members are encouraged to serve as
mentors to youth in their communities, particularly focusing on
military youth and the unique situations in which they are placed.
This mentorship should focus on homework help, peer pressure/
other social issues
The key to creating success is to keep in touch with youth in
the community, and to advocate for them whenever possible
A Healthier YOUth Series: Chapters are encouraged to host or
volunteer for a health awareness event for youth in their
communities.
Continuing the Journey Toward Freedom: Prison Reform & Prisoner
Rehabilitation
All chapters are encouraged to participate in community service projects within
the following national schemes:
Innocence Project Series: Chapters are encouraged to host an
innocence project event in their community that promotes
awareness and/or involves fundraising.
Liberating Minds Series: Chapters are encouraged to volunteer for and/or
donate books to programs that provide books to prisoners.
Shantrice Anderson
National Director of Community
Service
Seattle University School of law, Class
of 2014
35
(Continued from previous page)
No Return Series: Chapters are encouraged to educate juvenile offenders on
legal issues, such as Fourth Amendment rights and diversion programs. The
goal of this series is to reduce recidivism rates among juveniles in hopes that
they will not return to the criminal justice system as repeat offenders.
Universal Human Rights Awareness
All chapters are encouraged to participate in community service projects within
the following national schemes:
Born Free & Equal Series: Chapters are encouraged to educate youth
and adults on their basic Human Rights; chapter can utilize the
Universal Declaration of Human Rights and local human rights
legislation as a teaching tool.
Change Starts With Us: Even though the United States is seen as a
pioneer in many respects, it still stands behind other countries in
terms of human rights. Chapters are encouraged to host a
symposium or guest speaker and discuss what specific issues of
individual human rights can be enacted/changed/suspended in the
US.
Chapters should compare and contrast the American system
with other nation states.
Road to 50: An Evolving Legacy
Before we move forward as an organization, it is necessary to look back at the
people and forces that brought us where we are today. All chapters are
encouraged to participate in community service projects within the following
national schemes:
Founder’s Day of Service: Chapters are encouraged to host a
community service event on October 26th, to honor the vision of our
founder.
Martin Luther King: Chapters are encouraged to host a United Way
MLK Day of Service event in order to honor Dr. King’s legacy with a
day on, not a day off
Black History Month: Chapters are encouraged to host an event
highlighting any compelling moments of black history that occurred
in their region.
Community Service Team
Temitope Ojo
National Community Service
Directory
Yasmine Imani-McMorran
NEBLSA Director of Community
Service
Myumi Grigsby
NEBLSA Director of Community
Service
Amber Hardy
SRBLSA Director of Community
Service
Tenae L. Smith
MABLSA Director of Community
Service
Chikogize Ezirike
RMBLSA Director of Community
Service
Ki’ara Cross
MWBLSA Director of Community
Service
36
Regional Community Service Initiatives
Southern Region Theme: S.O.S: Sensational Outstanding Service
1. Impacting Our Future Leaders
a. Chapters should partner monthly with local schools in their area and mentor youth in that school.
Should focus on homework assistance, peer pressure, and social issues. If partnering with a school is
not feasible Chapters can partner with any local organization that caters to youth in the area, includ‐
ing military bases. The target age group for this initiative are teenagers.
2. Book Drives:
a. “Free Your Mind”:
i. Chapters are to host a book drive that raises books for local prisons and donate said books
to programs or initiatives that raises books for prisoners.
b. “1,2,3, Read with Me”
ii. Chapters are to host a book drive that raises books for local schools in their area. This year
chapters should personally deliver the books to the school and pick a class to sponsor an ice
cream party or pizza party. (Suggestion: host a challenge whatever class reads the most
books in a month will receive a pizza or ice cream party)
3. Modern Day Slavery
a. Chapters are to host a panel discussion were the invite community leaders to come and discus human
trafficking and the effect this has on human rights internationally. The panel should discuss these
issues in detail and Chapters should partner with organizations that further this cause and donate
any proceeds to the organization. Attendees should be encourage to tweet, Facebook, or instagram
throughout the evening to shine light on the cause. Hashtag to be used: #SRBLSA#SLAVERYEXISTS
4. Trayvon Martin: Never Forgotten
a. On the shooting death of Trayvon Martin chapters should host a program that revisits the timeline of
the incidents and discusses the final judgment made at trial. At this point the jury should have deliv‐
ered a decision and Chapters should be able to discuss that discussion and different opinions.
(Suggestion: participants wear black hoodies to the event)
i. Suggested Topics:
1. Was there a good jury selection?
2. Was the decision fair?
3. What mistakes were made during trial?
4. What would you have done differently?
5. Martin Luther King Events & Black History Month Events
a. “Rediscovering Lost Values”
i. Chapters should do their part in hosting an event (program, panel discussion, symposium,
play, skit, or community event) that discusses the various legal contributions African Ameri‐
can’s have made throughout history. If possible this program can be taught to high school
students taken some legal or history related course.
37
(Continued from previous page)
b. Martin Luther King Event
i. This event will be directly mimicked from the national initiative. Chapters should partner
with United Way (or some other local organization) and participate in a MLK Day of Service
Event.
6. “Let’s Move”
a. This fun filled event is to support or First Lady’s initiative to curb childhood obesity. Chapters are to
partner with schools, local organizations, after school programs, to discuss healthy eating habits.
Chapters are also encouraged to get active with children and play games, activities, and dance with
the children. This event is geared towards a younger audience, as they will be more likely to get up
and move around! Suggestion do the Beyonce Get me Bodied remix for this event)
7. Operation Christmas Child
a. Chapters will partner with this national organization and work to provide boxes filled with toys to
send overseas to underprivileged children.
Mid-Atlantic Region Theme: Scholars. Advocates. Professionals.
Overall Objective: provide more community service opportunities that are pro-bono type legal services. This will al‐
low members the opportunity to add the event to their resume and become productive advocates and professionals.
Goals:
Continue and enhance Youth Empowerment Initiatives Continue the annual service trip Increase male mentorship/leadership Promote/increase awareness of Multiple Sclerosis (MS) Programs to Accomplish Goals:
Youth Empowerment Operations HOPE- work with Operation HOPE, to teach youth basic financial literacy including checking
and savings accounts and credit, from the Banking on Our Future (BOOF) program. Annual Service Trip
MABLSA’s Second Annual Service Trip Baltimore, MD (regional meeting being held there) Expected Dates: October 11th, 12th and 13th Objectives on any of the three days
Operation HOPE Legal Service
Increase Male Mentorship/Leadership Encouraged local chapters to establish a program or hold an event that provides professional, leadership
and practical advice to young males. Teach them to become leaders in their respective communities, or‐ganization and BLSA (focus on PLD)
Chapters should implement how they so choose Promote/Increase Multiple Sclerosis Awareness
Walk MS (already has ended in most areas) Fundraising for National Multiple Sclerosis Society chapters Implement the National MS Society’s (NMSS) initiatives to create and/or reform certain laws by sending
letters to public officials
38
(Continued from previous page)
Additional Programs
AIDS Walk Held in D.C. Always the last Saturday in October.
World AIDS Day Encourage local chapters to host/volunteer in an event in recognition of World AIDS Day We will highlight events on our website
MLK Day Create a petition on Change.Org with one of MLK’s speeches Ask members to sign petition in order The students will pledge to honor and continue the mission of Dr. King’s vision. The students will be
asked to send the petition to at least two other people outside of their law school. The school who has the most signatures will receive a gift card to use toward an event.
International Book Drive Actually a NBLSA international initiative Some chapters fall just short of receiving funding for shipping and handling from NBLSA, so we will try to
provide funding to some chapters. Community Service in Philly
Regional Board meeting being held there Can strive to achieve one of the national goals
Community Service at Convention Will provide a legal service and strive to achieve one of the national goals Looking at Wills for Heroes
Operation HOPE Training This program is only located in DC, Baltimore, and Philadelphia. In order to get the entire region involved, training webinars will be held. New volunteers must be trained in the BOOF program. Members (who are trained) who are not in DC, Baltimore or Philly, then can implement the program how
they choose.
Midwest Region In our region there has been a lack of awareness regarding our presence on campus and in the community. As a re‐
sult, one of our main goals as a region is to increase and enhance our community service events. In order to make this
a success there are three targets I wish to focus on: Commitment, Unity, and Awareness.
Commitment: I want each chapter to commit to doing at least one community service event per month. In an attempt to get them to do so, I have planned a community service event for the first Monday of each month that each chapter can do. I chose Mondays because weekends tend to be dedicated to studying or business trips. In an attempt to gain more participation, Mondays seemed promising because most students are pre‐sent on Mondays. I also thought that pre planning universal events (i.e. every city has a food pantry) each chapter would be able to participate and encourage them to take part in the movement.
Unity: All too often MWBLSA chapters find themselves planning events for the same day. I hope that through our
region’s community service events we can form a united front and grow together as a region. By working together we will be aware of each chapter and its events as well as show to the individual communities are commitment to unite and serve.
Awareness: I often hear people from different chapters say that they did not participate in certain regional or
national activities because they did not know about it. With community service being one of our region’s big‐gest objectives, I plan to combat this by distributing monthly newsletters starting at the end of July. I also wish to maintain constant contact with each chapter’s president in an attempt to increase participation. Dur‐ing the month of February I plan to raise awareness about significant African American attorneys who have greatly served our community.
39
Chapter of the Year Please find included in this guide the Chapter of the Year (COY) Scoring Formula and Rubric. Every region will use this national rubric and application and each chapter will be graded on a numeric scale and can receive up to a total of ‐‐‐‐‐265 points to obtain a raw score. This raw score will be your final score. It is critical that chapters submit a master sign in sheet with the names of all members in their chapter and the events that they attended to determine the participation score. Participation is worth 30 points. There are three parts to the process of becoming Chapter of the Year: 1. The Application 2. The Scrapbook and Event Documentation 3. The Interview This year, three Chapter of the Year Awards will be disseminated. Chapters will be categorized as “Large,” “Medium,” or “Small” based on membership. (Large=41+ members, Medium=20-40 members, Small=Less than 20 members) Members are those people who have paid NBLSA dues for the 2013-2014 year. A chapter in each category will receive a Chapter of the Year Award, so your chapter will only be competing against chapters of comparable size. Please read the COY Scoring Rubric carefully and in its entirety prior to the start of the academic school year. Each part contains vital information. If you have any questions, please contact Shantrice Anderson, National Director of Community Service at commu‐[email protected].
SCORING RUBRIC 50 pts-SOCIOPOLITICAL AWARENESS National Attorney General Activities (25 pts)*
CBC Weekend (5 pts) Hill and Government Day (5 pts) Other Activities (15 pts)
Chapter/Regional-sponsored Social Action Activities (25 pts) The following participation criteria for overall Sociopolitical Awareness MUST be met: Large Chapters: at least 3 activities Medium Chapters: at least 2 activities Small Chapters: at least 1 activity *As an alternative to the National AG events, chapters may also earn points in this area if they have events in their com-munities that are closely related to the events that the AG has organized. Chapters must submit proposals for such events to the National Director of Community Service in advance and obtain approval for the event to earn COY points. 50 pts-COMMUNITY SERVICE National Community Service Initiatives (25 pts)*
Youth Empowerment (5 pts) Prison Reform & Prisoner Rehabilitation (5 pts) Human Rights Awareness (5 pts) Road to 50: An Evolving Legacy (5 pts) MLK Day of Service (1 pt) Founder’s Day of Service (1 pt) National Convention (3 pts)
Regional Community Service Events (25 pts) Chapters will earn a maximum of 25 pts for participating in regional community service events
The following participation criteria for overall community service MUST be met: Large Chapters: at least 8 activities Medium Chapters: at least 5 activities
Small Chapters: at least 2 activities
40
(Continued from previous page) *As an alternative to the National Community Service Initiatives, chapters may also earn points in this area if they have events in their communities that are closely tailored the National Initiatives. Chapters must submit proposals for such events to the National Director of Community Service in advance and obtain approval for the event to earn COY points. Few events that were completed between March 2013 and the start of the 2013-2014 academic year can be eligible for COY points, pending approval from the National Director of Community Service. 40 pts-PRE-LAW DIVISION/ALUMNI RELATIONS Pre-law Programming (25 pts)
Large Chapters: at least 3 activities Medium Chapters: at least 2 activities Small Chapters: at least 1 activity
Alumni Participation (15 pts) Alumni attendance (10 pts)*
Large Chapters: at least 6 alumni Medium Chapters: at least 4 alumni Small Chapters: at least 2 alumni
Alumni Impact (5 pts)* *For alumni participation points to be awarded, the minimum amount of alumni must be present at each chapter’s events. This number represents the cumulative amount of alumni present at the chapter’s total events, NOT the number of alumni present at every chapter event. *Alumni Impact points are awarded to chapters who submit a letter from an alumni, as a supplement to the application (see Event Documentation and Presentation section). This letter should be written by a chapter alumni who can speak about the impact NBLSA had on their legal career and/or the successful efforts of the chapter in their respective commu-nity. For more information, please contact the National Director of Community Service. 40 pts-EDUCATION AND CAREER DEVELOPMENT Academic Programming (10 pts) 1L Support (10 pts) Professional career Events (10 pts) BLSA Membership Recruitment (10 pts)*
Large Chapters: at least 3 activities Medium Chapters: at least 2 activities Small Chapters: at least 1 activity
*Membership Recruitment will be based on number/percentage of new members 12 pts-REGIONAL PROGRAMMING Job Fair Participation (3 pts) Academic Retreat Participation (3 pts) Competition Participation (3 pts) Regional and Intraregional Participation (committees, sponsorship, board membership, etc) (3 pts) 12 pts-INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS NBLSA C.A.R.E.S. International Service Trips (1 pt)* World AIDS Day (5 pts) International Law Weekend (1 pt) International Book Drive (5 pts) *Chapters get credit for their members submitting applications 11pts-INTERVIEW 15pts-EVENT DOCUMENTATION AND PRESENTATION Event documentation: maintained accurate records (including attendance) (5 pts) Presentation: Scrapbook (10 pts) 5 pts-SOCIAL EVENTS Internal relationship development (parties, socials, mixers, dinners) 30pts-PARTICIPATION
265 POINTS TOTAL
41
International Relations International Relations
Over the years, NBLSA has developed strong roots both within the United States and beyond. It is our goal as an organization to increase our global reach and to continue expanding our relationships with legal organizations all over the world.
International Law Association Membership
All NBLSA members interested in learning more about the legal aspects of international relations and global affairs are encouraged to become student associates of the American Branch of the International Law Association. Membership is completely free! Additional details can be found at http://www.ila-americanbranch.org/Membership_Student.htm.
International Book Drive
NBLSA is proud to partner with the International Book Project. In 2012, NBLSA members donated well over 2000 books and more than $500 to a school in Zimbabwe that is in need of books. This year, in an effort to promote literacy around the globe, NBLSA will be donating books and raising funds toward the creation of a library in another developing country. All BLSA chapters are expected to organize a children's book drive, fundraiser, or both between September 30, 2013 and November 4, 2013. 100% of the donations will be shipped to the International Book Project
International Law Weekend
Each October, the American Branch of the International Law Association presents International Law Weekend (ILW) in New York City. This two-and-a-half day conference features over 30 panels, and is participated in by many of the world's leading international lawyers and diplomats. Additionally, in the past, gala receptions have been hosted by the Finnish, Belgian, and British missions to the United Nations.
Recent ILWs have attracted an audience of 800-1,000 students, academics, diplomats, and practitioners. Registration for the ILW is free of charge for the Branch's student associates. We encourage NBLSA members to attend! If you will be attending ILW, please contact the Director of International Relations at [email protected]. To view the ILW schedule and for additional details about how you can register to attend, please visit the American Branch of the International Law Association's website at http://ila-americanbranch.org/intl_law_wknd.aspx.
World AIDS Day
December 1st is the globally designated day to bring awareness to the HIV/AIDS epidemic that plagues the world. Each local chapter is encouraged to organize and implement a program on this day to bring awareness to the global HIV/AIDS epidemic.
Stewanna Miskell
National Director of
International Relations
Thurgood Marshall School of Law,
Class of 2014
International Committee
Members
Shawn Greene National Director of Corporate Relations [email protected]
Johali Muzaliwa Rocky Mountain Regional Chair [email protected]
Jonathan Evans National Attorney General [email protected]
Shantrice Anderson National Director of Community Service [email protected]
Simone Otenaike Director of Alumni Affairs & Development [email protected]
42
43
2014 Haiti Service Trip Opportunity
The Zafen Project, based in Haiti, is an initiative ded‐
icated to transforming the Haitian economy by cre‐
ating jobs, expanding already existing small busi‐
nesses, and empowering citizens by educating them
on the economic benefits and legal aspects of entre‐
preneurship.
In January 2013, ten (10) NBLSA student members
from all over the country traveled to Haiti where
they assisted the directors of the Zafen Project with
various legal microfinance and legal projects. Partic‐
ipants familiarized themselves with the Haitian legal
system, and its application to economic develop‐
ment.
The 2014 Haiti Service Trip will be open to all inter‐
ested NBLSA members following an application pro‐
cess during the upcoming fall semester. Please
check back in the fall for more information.
2014 Nigeria Service Trip Opportunity
The Women's Consortium of Nigeria (WOCON) is a grassroots
human rights organization located in Lagos, Nigeria. The or‐
ganization is committed to addressing the issues of human
trafficking, illegal child labor, women's rights, and civil educa‐
tion in Nigeria.
In January 2013, ten (10) NBLSA student members from all
over the country traveled to Lagos, Nigeria to volunteer at the
WOCON office. Students assisted with rescue, rehabilitation,
and reintegration efforts of trafficked persons. Additionally,
they helped raise awareness of issues such as illegal child la‐
bor and gender based violence. Finally, participants had the
opportunity to visit with a Nigerian law firm and learn about
law practices in Sub-Saharan Africa, and the legal aspects of
human trafficking.
The 2014 Nigeria Service Trip will be open to all interested
NBLSA members following an application process during the
upcoming fall semester. Please check back in the fall for more
information.
44
Attorney General
Congressional Black Caucus Annual Legislative
Conference (CBC-ALC)
The goal of the Congressional Black Caucus (CBC) is to "promote the
public welfare through legislation designed to meet the needs of millions
of neglected citizens." Currently 42 members strong, the CBC holds an
Annual Legislative Conference (ALC) which attracts over 12,000 business,
industry, and community leaders to address social justice issues and
solutions for those problems. NBLSA will be conducting numerous events
throughout the weekend including the Tenth Annual NBLSA CBC
Reception. NBLSA's theme for the year is "Road to 50: An Evolving
Legacy". In order to fulfill our credo, our programming will continue
building upon the advances that have been made in education and equal
justice over the years with the support of our sponsors, alumni and
current law students.
This year's CBC Weekend will take place in Washington, DC on
Wednesday, September 18, 2013 through Saturday September 21, 2013.
This year's events will include:
"#EveryoneAnAdvocate: 21st Century Community Strategies for the
Civil Rights Movement": A panel of political leaders and social
commentators discussing new strategies NBLSA can employ to
protect the important civil rights gains of previous generations and
how NBLSA members can best utilize their collective voice to effect
positive outcomes for the community at the crossroads of social
media, politics, and the law.
The Charles Hamilton Houston (CHH) Leadership Development
Retreat
The Tenth Annual NBLSA CBC Reception
Congressional Kids Day
Networking Receptions offering opportunities to meet and greet
notable figures from politics, government, and community
organizations
Jonathan D. Evans
National Attorney General
Southwestern Law School, Class of
2014
"Don't ask what the world
needs. Ask what makes you
come alive, and go do it.
Because what the world needs
is people who have come
alive." - Dr. Howard Thurman
45
JUDICIAL ADVOCACY
NBLSA‘s judicial advocacy team gives members the opportunity to use their
legal research and writing skills to make changes in the community. In an
effort to demonstrate our commitment to change, NBLSA has implemented an
Amicus Brief and White Paper writing program. As part of the programs,
members will write amicus briefs, public comments for draft legislation, and
white papers in furtherance of NBLSA’s advocacy initiatives.
Amicus Brief Program
The Amicus Brief Program is a competitive opportunity that enables NBLSA
students to empower communities by drafting and submitting amicus curiae
briefs supporting judicial decisions affecting minorities, especially the Black
community. Participation in this program allows students the opportunity to
research current appellate cases and assist in the preparation of briefs that
advocate for reforms consistent with NBLSA's initiatives.
White Paper Program
NBLSA will continue its participation in government regulatory advocacy
through the White Paper Program. White papers are used to educate and
advise on policies or legislation. The first issue NBLSA will be addressing will be
revisions to Stand Your Ground laws in continuance of our efforts in
seeking #JusticeForTrayvon and similarly-‐‐situated people. NBLSA will also
attempt to address other issues as they arise. If you would like to assist the
White Paper Program, contact [email protected].
Public Comments
Public Comments are also used to ask important questions and send
comments to agencies that are drafting regulations. Each agency must be
responsive to these comments and use this information to draft a
comprehensive regulation. NBLSA will be drafting public comments on
behalf of the organization for questions important to our communities and
constituency.
Advocacy Team
onathan D. Evans
NATIONAL ATTORNEY GENERAL
Nia Duggins
NATIONAL DIRECTOR OF SOCIAL
ACTION
Ashley Hodges
LEGISLATIVE ADVOCACY
SPECIALIST
LaVita Tuff
CONGRESSIONAL LIAISION
Brandon Hicks
JUDICIAL ADVOCACY SPECIALIST
VACANT
ELECTIONS SPECIALIST
Towanda Luckett
Mid-Atlantic Region Attorney General
Tracy L. Gragston, Jr.
Midwest Region Attorney General
Ariel Woodward-Stephens
Northeast Region Attorney General
Ashley Kellum
Rocky Mountain Region Attorney
General
Dorian Woolaston
Southern Region Attorney General
Skye Anderson
Western Region Attorney General
Quote: “I cannot say
whether things will get bet-
ter if we change; what I
can say is that they must
change if they are to get
better.”
― Georg Christoph
Lichtenberg
46
National Hill and Government Day
NBLSA coordinates a National Hill and Government day each year where law students from across the
country come to Washington, D.C. to advocate for a national initiative with members of Congress and their
staff. This year, NBLSA members will also have the opportunity to attend regional Government Days
focused on state legislative advocacy and timed to coincide with NBLSA's advocacy efforts on Capitol Hill.
National Hill and Government day takes place in February 2014.
Preparing for legislative outreach
One of our goals is to educate our membership before doing outreach throughout the year. Our goal is to
make "everyone an advocate".
Introductory advocacy presentations at academic retreats
The regional attorneys general will host a short presentation educating members on the advocacy
initiatives for the upcoming year during the regional academic retreats. Members will be given a timeline
of key dates and information on how they can get involved.
Grassroots advocacy
After the presentations at the regional retreats, we are asking our local chapters to help identify issues in
their communities that may be of interest to the national organization. Chapter leaders will be encouraged
to reach out to their regional attorney general and/or the national advocacy team. Pertinent issues can
include those listed in the five-point plan, as well as social action issues that may arise from current events
and demand a rapid response. Legislative priorities for the regional government days will be largely driven
by the input we received from chapter leaders. Chapters are encouraged to work with organizations in the
community including civic clubs, churches, and other agencies that may also be interested in forwarding
these priorities. Chapters must have their programs approved by the national advocacy team prior to
commencement.
“Every good law or case you study was once a dream. Every good
law or case you study was dismissed as impossible or impractical for
decades before it was enacted. Give your creative thoughts free
reign, for it is only in the hearts and dreams of people seeking a bet-
ter world that true social justice has a chance." - Bill Quigley
47
Five Point Plan NBLSA implemented a five year advocacy strategy during the 2011-2012 which took effect during the
2012-213 administration. Previously, the organization would choose new advocacy issues each year as
chosen by each year's new leadership. While great work was done, the organization would move to new
issue after building a presence around an issue and partnerships with other organizations.
The Five Point Plan encompasses issues (Education, Elections & Voting, Criminal Justice, Environmental
Justice, and Rapid Response) which the organization is dedicated to advocating over the next five years.
The structure gives the organization time to build a brand within a certain issue area, falls in line with the
time take for legislative action on a bill, and allows us to truly build worthwhile partnerships with other
organizations. Furthermore, it takes time to educate and train the membership on issues. With the
consistency of this plan, members will be more aware of the issue areas during their law school career.
Within the Five Point Plan, the administration has put forth advocacy objectives to guide the organization
during the 2013-14 term.
OVERVIEW OF 2013-14 ADVOCACY OBJECTIVES EDUCATION, including:
-Ending the School-to-Prison Pipeline
-Affordability in Higher Education
-Diversity in Higher Education
-Increasing Number of African-Americans in Law School
ELECTIONS & VOTING, including:
-Fighting and/or Narrowing Voter ID Laws
-Election Protection
-Contributing to Dialogue on Reforming Election Processes
-Educating on Felon Disenfranchisement
LEGAL PROFESSION AND JUDICIARY, including:
-Building Career Pathways for African-American Law Students
-Increasing Number of African-American Professors in Law School
-Increasing Number of NBLSA-approved Judicial Nominees
SOCIAL ACTION, including:
-Eliminating Stand Your Ground Laws
-Reducing Gun Violence
-Exposing and Overturning Institutionally-Imposed Inequality
48
3-6-9 School Outreach & Social Action Programming
NBLSA's purposes include utilizing our collective voice to influence the legal community by bringing about
meaningful legal and political change that addresses the needs and concerns of the Black community. To
that end, we are engaged in social action efforts to end the school-to-prison pipeline. Also, we seek to
encourage younger students to attend law school, hoping to increase the number of Black law students.
Both of these objectives merge in our new "3-6-9 School Outreach."
The aim of 3-6-9 is to eradicate the effects of school-to-prison pipeline by establishing peer-to-peer
relationships between NBLSA chapters and local Black youth in grades 3, 6, and 9.
Beginning in the fall at the start of the school year, chapters can choose from a list of pre-selected schools
in predominantly African American communities. Working from lesson plans developed by the National
Director of Social Action, chapters will work with students to improve reading skills (grade 3), learn
techniques for conflict management (grade 6), and broaden leadership skills (grade 9). Throughout the
program, students will utilize materials that will educate about African-American history, civics,
government, and law. In addition, younger students will have frequent opportunities to talk with NBLSA
members about the path to law school.
At the beginning of the fall semester, the National Advocacy Team will host online training for interested
chapter presidents and distribute lesson plans. School visits will begin in September.
If your chapter plans to participate, please contact the Attorney General [email protected] or the Director of Social Action at [email protected] for more information
49
Social Action NBLSA has always been an organization devoted to social advocacy. Our goal for the 2013-14 year is to work to strengthen the advocacy arm of the organization, and to ensure that all members are working to become great social engineers. Our programs for the year are designed to challenge the advocate in each NBLSA member. Our primary advocacy focus areas for the year are: working to end the school-to-prison pipeline, voting rights, and educational issues.
Social Action Agenda:
3-6-9 Outreach Program
The 3-6-9 Initiative is a program that will give NBLSA members the opportunity to work to end the school-to-prison pipeline. NBLSA members will serve as mentors and advocacy educators to students in grades 3, 6, and 9. Members will provide students with a series of brief advocacy crash courses throughout the school year. The courses will focus on the legislative process, voting rights, and a basic understanding of legal rights in an effort to empower students to be leaders in their communities.
Voting Rights
In light of the recent Shelby County Supreme Court decision, NBLSA members will continue to advocate for the protection of voting rights. We will also partner with other grassroots organizations to ensure that members are equipped with accurate information on challenge discriminatory voting practices and laws. Over the next year, it is our goal that NBLSA members are proactive in being informed about state laws and voting rights. We hope that members in their respective states will work to build relationships with state legislators so that our voices can be heard.
Educational Issues (College Affordability & Student Loans)
The increasing cost of college and professional school coupled with high student loan interest rates is disconcerting to NBLSA members. It is essential that NBLSA members remain on the front line of educational advocacy, by working to advocate for college affordability and lower student loan rates. We will continue to partner with other advocacy organizations on college affordability and student loan issues.
Nia K. Duggins
National Director of Social
Action
University of Maryland Francis King
Carey School of Law, Class of 201
50
Social Action Awards Oliver Hill Social Action Award
The Oliver Hill Social Action Award is for those individuals who are active in the communi‐ty, advocating on
behalf of social justice initiatives. Oliver White Hill, Sr. was a civil rights attorney from Rich‐
mond, VA. In 1940, Hill won his first civil rights case in Virginia, and in 1943, he joined the
U.S. Army and served in the European Theatre of World War II. Five years later, he was the
first African American elected to the Richmond City Council since Reconstruction. Those
who continuously promote equality and justice for all mankind should apply. In addition,
the award will recognize an individual who has used creativity and hard work to successfully
implement NBLSA's national initiatives.
Requirements
1. BLSA member in good standing.
2. Must have participated in at least five of the following efforts:
Promoted discussion through local programming designed to Strengthen Equal Oppor‐tunities in Education by working with organizations such as the Council on Legal Education Opportunity (CLEO) to advance minority representation in the legal arena. Each program should be pre-‐‐approved by a Regional Director of Social Ac‐tion or an Advocacy Team member.
Submission of ideas of ways to advocate at a local or regional level for the NBLSA Best Practices Manual (must be in final format).
Attend one of the following: National Hill and Government Day, Regional Lobby Day or Regional Conference, or a National Social Action event.
Promoted Election Protection or Participation with local chapter or through the Re‐spect my Vote!
Coalition or Voter ID Coalition or other pre-‐‐approved coalitions (please notify a Region-al Director of Social Action before beginning work).
Promoted Access to Healthcare by participating in social action programming includ‐ing NBLSA’s
Dying to Live Campaign, Regional BLSA social action Healthcare Awareness pro‐gramming or creating other pre-‐‐approved events through local grassroots organiza‐tions.
51
Oliver Hill Social Action Award (continued)
3. Applicant must explain how his/her actions have influenced their local community, in 550 words or less.
The applicant should describe events that have occurred throughout the year.
4. Applications must be received electronically or postmarked by February 15, 2013 at 11:59 p.m. EST.
Applications received after deadline will not be considered.
5. Award recipient must be present at the National Convention.
The Johnnie L. Cochran Social Consciousness Award
The Johnnie Cochran Social Consciousness Award recognizes social ac2on at the chapter level. Johnnie L.
Cochran dedicated his life to prac2cing law, aHer being inspired by Thurgood Marshall and his victory in Brown v.
Board of Education. Cochran felt his career gave him an opportunity to fight for equal protec2on as he challenged
inequality.
When Cochran died in 2005, family and friends proclaimed they "were most proud of the work he did on behalf
of those in the community.” He "was willing to fight for the underdog,” and was oHen referred to as “the
people's lawyer." In fact, many described him as the Thurgood Marshall of his era.
Each year NBLSA chooses a chapter who illustrates the initiatives and programming that best represents Mr.
Cochran’s life work. To receive The Johnnie Cochran Social Consciousness Award the following criteria must be
met:
Requirements
1. BLSA chapter in good standing.
2. Must have participated in the following Social Action programs:
NBLSA’s Social Action Town Hall (CBC weekend) or National Hill and Government Day 2013 (chapters
120 miles away or less must have at least 5 members present to qualify and chapters more than 120 miles away must have at least 2 members present, extenuating chapter circumstances will be considered).
Participation at a regional social action event including summits and forums and/or Regional Hill and
Government Day (chapters 120 miles away or less must have at least 4 members present to qualify and chapters more than 120 miles away must have at least 2 members present, extenuating chapter cir-cumstances will be considered).
Election Protection or Participation Programming through the Respect my Vote! Coalition or Voter ID
Coalition or other pre-‐‐approved coalitions (please notify regional social action chair before start-ing work).
Access to Healthcare involvement through attending and actively participating in social action
programming including regional social action healthcare programming or creating other pre-‐‐ ap‐proved events through local grassroots organizations. This can include creating pre-‐‐approved chapter program or having at least two persons per chapter on the NBLSA Advocacy Team webinars and discussing local impact when appropriate.
Voter Participation Programming created by the Regional Advocacy Team and Elections Special‐ist (specifically a program geared towards combating the disenfranchisement of convicted felons or the Young Professional Voter).
Minimum of 60 hours of community service (hours must be verified by a Regional Director of Social
Action and/or Attorney General and documentation may be necessary to verify hours).
52
Promote or rally in local community for a social justice initiative with pre-‐‐
approval of the Regional social action chair and/or attorney general. (e.g.
D.R.E.A.M. Act) This can include a local chapter rally for increased voter
participation, local town hall meeting to discuss efforts to increase access to
education, promote awareness of how the Affordable Care Act affects the
local community to name a few.
3. Chapters must explain how their social conscious initiatives impacted
their local community, in 600 words or less (quality pictures are highly
encouraged in email format).
4. Applications must be received electronically or postmarked by February
15, 2013 at 11:59 p.m. EST. Applications received after deadline will not
be considered.
5. Award recipient must be present at the National Convention.
Special Note: A chapter applicant and an individual applicant must separately
meet the respective requirements for the two awards. Please support all
applications with pictures and proof of participation. The Regional Social Action
Chair, if possible to avoid potential conflicts, should approve each program.
However, a regional advocacy team member must approve the information. If a
program is not approved properly, it will not count towards the awards. Please
send the Regional Social Action Chair a description of three to five sentences at
least five days before the program for confirmation. If you have any questions
please contact the National Director of Social Action for more details.
Contact Ms. Nia Duggins at [email protected] if you need further
information.
Regional Social Action and Grassroots Work
The regional social action team determines the grassroots framework and
develops the initiatives. Events include regional town hall meetings, collaborating
with non-‐‐profit organizations and community organizers, rallies, and education
on national initiatives, amongst others. Your regional social action chairs are here
to assist your chapter in community building. The regions will primarily focus on
Engaging Social Media to bring awareness to the areas of Access to Healthcare
(i.e. the Affordable Care Act), Voter Protection, and Strengthening Educational
Opportunities for minorities in the legal arena. As they work to assist the
National Director of Social Action, they are your first point of contact in
grassroots work and for the 2012-‐‐2013 Social Action Awards. Please contact
your regional social action chair about implementing community-‐‐based work at
your local chapters.
53
Parliamentarian
Plenary Rules
Maintenance of Quorum
Quorum must be maintained at all times in order to carry on the business of the
session. Accordingly, once plenary begins, each delegate will be required to sign
in and out of the session, so that a proper accounting of quorum may be
maintained.
Proxy Rules
A chapter who wishes to proxy all or some of its votes must (1) be in good
standing (2) transfer their proxy to a chapter in good standing (3) complete the
required proxy form and obtain the National Director of Membership’s
signature (4) the completed form should be presented to the National
Recording Secretary for tender. All proxies must be completed by the end of the
morning session of plenary. Once proxied, the vote is relinquished for the
remainder of the plenary session specified.
Recognition of Speakers
A member may not speak unless recognized by the speaker. If a member
speaks out of turn, they will lose their turn at the microphone. Once
recognized the member must introduce themselves for the record.
(Example: Charles Hamilton Houston, Howard University.) In order to remedy
the “rush to the microphone,” NBLSA will employ both precedent (number of
times a speaker has spoken) and order in which a speaker is recognized.
This system facilitates both fairness and a free exchange of different ideas and
opinions in the legislative process.
Decorum
During plenary, certain issues may be controversial. However, in order to
conduct the business of NBLSA, we must always remember to maintain
decorum. Each member shall speak with respect and civility when
addressing the body. A member will be asked to leave plenary for the
remainder of the day if they are disruptive to the plenary session.
Debate Rules
Debate will be conducted by alternating Pro/Con statements at the
respective microphones. In the interest of time and fairness, debate time will be
limited to 10 minutes. Requests to extend debate time shall be made through
unanimous consent motions. It is important that the process of dealing with
the issues the body wants to entertain happens, but it is just as important that
this process not become too timely with respect to the overall conduct of
the sessions. As such members should consider what is to be said, reflect if the
comment is necessary (i.e. has someone already said it, will this further the goals
of plenary), and then make a decision whether or not to speak.
Nicole Morgan
National Parliamentarian
Louisiana State University, Class of
2014
54
Vote
Votes will be caste by show of hands of the delegates present. All votes
will be approved according to the Constitution and Bylaws. Constitutional
amendments require a 2/3 vote and Bylaws require a simple majority
vote. If an amendment is presented as a Constitutional amendment yet
fails to achieve the 2/3 vote required, but does achieve a simple majority,
the amendment does not pass.
Roll Call Vote
In the event that a motion is too close to recognize, a formal roll call vote
may be required. The Recording Secretary will use the current sign-‐‐in
sheets
to solicit the vote of each chapter. An immediate tally will be calculated
and
the decision announced thereafter.
Questions and Concerns
Questions, comments, and concerns shall be directed to the information
desk. If a member desires to file a grievance that will also go to the
information desk. All grievances will be handled by the grievance
committee, headed by the Vice Chair.
55
Chapter Constitution & Bylaws
A Constitution and Bylaws provides the direction, leadership and cohesiveness to achieve chapter goals. All chapters must have a current, electronic version of their Constitution and Bylaws on file with NBLSA, as well as copies of the Affiliation Agreement signed by chap‐ter leadership.
Below is a listing of the required elements:
NBLSA’s Statement of Purpose
Non-‐‐Discrimination Membership Statement
Explanation of National and Local Dues Structure
Officer and Committee Descriptions
Officer Elections and Terms
NBLSA National and Regional Parliamentarians are available to help Chapters draft or improve their governing documents.
Chapter Affiliation Agreement
The NBLSA chapter affiliation process is straightforward. To be affiliated with
NBLSA, a new Chapter must submit to the NBLSA National Director of
Membership:
A completed and signed charter application.
A copy of the Chapter’s proposed governing documents (e.g., Constitution & Bylaws).
A roster of the chapter’s charter members.
A completed and signed chapter affiliation agreement.
Chapter affiliation will be approved by the NBLSA Executive Board.
Local Leadership
Whether you are beginning to structure your chapter or looking to revitalize
your chapter, a strong and cohesive leadership structure ensures your
chapter meets its goals. NBLSA recommends at a minimum, the following
three positions: President, Secretary, and Treasurer. Due to chapter size,
chapters have the discretion to determine if the same person can hold these
offices.
56
Treasurer
Financial Overview
The National Black Law Students Association (NBLSA) is a 501(c)(3), non-
profit organization, and is exempt from federal income tax. The 501(c)(3)
designation is specifically reserved for organizations operated exclusively for
religious, charitable, scientific, testing for public safety, literary, or
educational purposes.
For tax purposes, chapters are legally distinct from NBLSA. NBLSA does not
manage chapter bank accounts, direct chapter fundraising efforts, approve
chapter budgets or expenditures, or otherwise financially govern chapters.
Moreover, while each chapter agrees to operate in accordance with NBLSA’s
Constitution and Bylaws, policies, and purpose, NBLSA does not determine the
specific programs chapters undertake.
Because chapters are separate legal entities, chapters do not fall within NBLSA’s
501(c)(3) designation. Each chapter is responsible for its own finances and
federal and/or state reporting obligations. Although chapters may still
independently qualify for federal tax exemption, they are responsible for seeking
it. In addition, just as NBLSA meets the IRS federal tax filing requirements for
NBLSA (both National and each of the six Regions), chapters must meet the
requirements by (1) filing tax returns on their own, (2) filing their returns under
their law school, or (3) filing their returns under their university.
The Relationship between NBLSA National, Regions, and Chapters
Chapters are separate legal entities from NBLSA, but are affiliated with
NBLSA. If they choose, chapters must independently qualify for federal tax-‐‐
exempt status. Chapters may not under any circumstances use NBLSA’s federal
tax identification number.
National and each of the six (6) Regions comprise NBLSA, a 501(c)(3) non-
profit organization. The NBLSA Executive Board oversees and manages the
fundraising, bank accounts, contracts, and governance.
Yvonne Elosiebo
National Treasurer
New York University School of Law,
Class of 2015
This section is not intended
to be financial, tax, or legal
advice and should not be con
strued as such. Please consult
with a tax preparer, attorney,
or your university to deter
mine the best course of ac
tion for your chapter.
57
Federal Tax Status – A Primer
In order to qualify as a tax exempt organization (i.e., exempt from
Federal taxation under Internal Revenue Code (IRC) Section 501
(a)), an organization must generally be a type of organization
described in IRC Section 501(c). Organizations that meet the
requirements of IRC Section 501(a) are generally exempt from
federal income taxation. In addition, charitable contributions made
to some section 501(a) organizations by individuals and
corporations are deductible as charitable contributions under IRC
Section 170.
Because chapters must operate in accordance with NBLSA’s
purpose, chapters will likely qualify for exemption as a charitable
organization 501(c)(3).
In order to support its entitlement to this exemption, every
organization should have a written Constitution, Bylaws, and/or
Article of Association, which would typically include the following
basic information:
1. The name and purpose of the chapter;
2. A description of the chapter’s activities in terms that indicate its
tax-‐‐exempt character;
3. A description of the chapter’s membership (e.g., how does
someone become a member?);
4. A list of officers and a description of how officers are chosen;
5. An indication of how and for what purposes the chapter
disburses its funds;
6. A dissolution provision stating that if the chapter dissolves, its
assets will be distributed to NBLSA or to some other designated
tax-‐‐exempt organization.
501(c)(3) Restrictions:
An absolute requirement for federal tax exemption under IRC
Section 501(c) (3) is that none of the chapter’s net income or profits
can be of use to the benefit of private interests. Further, an
organization exempt from taxation under IRC Section 501(c)(3) is
limited in its ability to attempt to influence legislation and is
prohibited from intervening in a political campaign for or against
any candidate for public office.
Financial Team
MWBLSA- Neal Hutchinson
MABLSA- Antwan Williams
WRBLSA- Steven Rodenbach
SRBLSA-Marcus Billie
NEBLSA- John-Raphael
Pichardo, II
RMBLSA- Ayomide Shittu
58
Obtaining Federal Tax Exempt Status
The benefits of 501(c)(3) status include exemption from federal income tax and eligibility to
receive tax-‐‐deductible charitable contributions. To qualify for these benefits chapters must file
an application with and be recognized as exempt under IRC Section 501(c)(3) by the IRS if the
contribution will be accepted in the name of the organization. Chapters who wish to achieve
exemption under 501(c)(3) with Gross Receipts of Less than $5,000 Per Year Chapters that
normally gross receipts of less than $5,000 per year (see gross receipts test below) and which are
organized and operated exclusively for tax-‐‐exempt purposes will generally be recognized as tax
exempt under IRC 501(a) without applying to the IRS for approval of IRC Section 501(c)(3)
status.
Chapters who wish to achieve exemption under 501(c)(3) with Gross Receipts of More than
$5, 000 Per Year
Chapters that normally gross receipts of more than $5,000 per year (see gross receipts test below)
and which are organized and operated exclusively for tax-exempt purposes must formally request
recognition of exemption by filing a IRS Form1023, in order to be recognized as an entity exempt
from federal income taxes.
Gross Receipts Test
For purposes of 501(c)(3) test outlined above, gross receipts are not more than $5,000 if:
i. during the chapter’s first taxable year the chapter received gross receipts of less than
$7,500;
ii. during its first two taxable years, the aggregate gross receipts received by the chapter
are $12,000 or less; and
iii. if a chapter has been in existence for at least three taxable years, the aggregate gross
receipts received by the chapter during the immediately preceding two taxable years plus
the current are year are $15,000 or less.
Annual IRS Filing Requirements
Chapters recognized as tax exempt under IRC Section 501(c)(3) are required to file an annual information re-turn. The type of annual filing is determined by the organization’s annual gross receipts and assets. Chapters with annual gross receipts of less than $25,000 per the year: Chapters with gross receipts that are not normally more than $25,000 per year (see gross income test below)
must electronically submit IRS Form 990---N, also known as the e---Postcard, annually (unless the organization chooses to file a complete Form 990 or 990---EZ). The e---Postcard is due by the 15th day of the 5th month after
the close of the chapter’s tax year. Chapters with annual gross receipts more than $25,000 per the year: Chapters with annual gross receipts more than $25,000 per year (see gross income test below) must file the IRS
Tax Return Form 990---EZ or Form 990 annually with the IRS. We strongly encourage the few chapters in this position to contact their respective law school foundation office to determine how to best meet the IRS filing requirements. Chapters that are not formally granted federal tax exempt status: Chapters that are not formally granted federal tax exempt status through the filing IRS Forms 1023, but that
are recognized as tax exempt (because their annual gross receipts are not more than $5,000 and they are
organized and operated exclusively for tax exempt purposes) should contact the IRS Account Services Unit
prior to the initial e---Postcard filing at (877)---829---5500 to request the IRS to set up the organization’s account to
allow filing of the e---Postcard. Organizations that received formal IRS approval of exempt status do not need
to contact the IRS prior to filing the e---Postcard. Further information on Form 990---N (E---Postcard) can be found at: http://www.irs.gov/charities/article/0,,id=177782,00.html
Gross Income Test
A chapter's gross income is considered normally to be in excess of $25,000 if the chapter is: up to a year old and has received, or donors have pledged to give, more than $37,500 during its first tax year; between one and three years old and averaged more than $30,000 in gross receipts during each of its first
two tax years; or, three years old or more and averaged more than $25,000 in gross receipts for the immediately preceding three
tax years (including the year for which the return would be filed). Further instructions on which form to file can be found on the Internal Revenue Service’s website at
http://www.irs.gov/charities/article/0,,id=184445,00.html.
60
NBLSA’s Federal Employer Identification Number (FEIN or TIN)
Chapters are not permitted to use NBLSA’s FEIN for any purpose. Any chapter that files information or tax returns (e.g., Form 990-‐‐N) and/or opens a bank account is required to have an FEIN. Chapters that do not have an FEIN, such as newly chartered chapters, can apply for an FEIN by completing IRS Form SS-‐‐4 online, by telephone, by fax or by mail. To avoid issuance of multiple FEINs, chapters should check their records to verify that an FEIN was not previously issued.
When completing the Form SS-‐‐4, requests a name and SSN for the responsible party (e.g., the chapter president or treasurer). Because chapter leadership changes annually, we recommend that the chapter update the contact information associated with the FEIN on a regular basis.
NBLSA keeps a record of all chapter FEINs and requires Chapter FEIN’s be provided immediately upon receipt from the IRS. Once your chapter is assigned a FEIN, please send an email containing your FEIN to [email protected].
Again, please use the Chapter’s FEIN to manage the chapter’s banking relationship. Under no circumstances should an individual’s social security number be used to obtain or maintain a chapter bank account. The IRS may treat the funds in the account as part of that individual's assets and any earnings on the account will be deemed earnings of the individual for income tax.
Record-keeping
Chapters must maintain complete financial records for at least six years. Failure to maintain proper records will make it difficult to substantiate to tax authorities that the chapter does not owe taxes, interest and penalties for prior years. Please check with your university to see if it can retain copies of your financial records for safekeeping since chapter leadership changes annually.
Public Disclosure Requirements
Chapters must, during the three-‐‐year period beginning with the due date (including extensions, if any) of the Form 990 (or Form 990-‐‐EZ), make its return available for public inspection upon request. The entire information return, with the exception of the schedule of contributors, must be made available. In addition, certain other information, including the Form 1023, must be made available for public inspection. Inspection must be permitted during regular business hours at the chapter's principal office.
Again, we strongly encourage chapters in this position to contact their respective law school foundation office to determine how to best meet filing requirements.
61
Budgeting in the Short-‐‐Run
For chapters that have never organized their finances, this section offers guidelines on how to calculate expenses.
Calculating Expenses
The first step in calculating annual expenses is to estimate the costs of your chapter’s planned activities, publications, office supplies, and other items. We recommend using a spreadsheet to track this information and building your expenses by event or program.
An example is below:
Activity Cost Description
Welcome Back $100 Pizza
Event for $5 Plates
Members $15 Soda______
$120
In this example, the total cost of the welcome back event is $120. Determine the estimated costs for all of your programs and then summarize the costs. The total will be the expenses for your chapter’s annual budget.
Performing Revenue Projections
The next step is to determine whether adequate funding exists to cover planned expenses. The revenue portion of a chapter’s budget will be a combination of your current bank account balance, local dues (if applicable), and the revenue you will receive from fundraising. Below is a straightforward formula for calculating revenue to determine your chapter’s one-‐‐year fundraising goal. In this example, the chapter’s total expenses are $1,000.
Fundraising Goal Revenue Calculation
$1,000 (expenses) $100 (bank balance) -‐‐ 700 (current funds) $300 (local dues) $ 300 (fundraising goal) $400 (current funds)
Preparing a Budget
Chapters that are able to meet their annual expenses, may be ready for advanced budgeting and planning. In addition to covering only specific programming, short-‐‐term expenses, chapters may want to set a fundraising goal that allows for a financial cushion. You might consider putting these funds in an interest-‐‐bearing account.
Another consideration is chapter growth. Chapters that wish to expand their activities, increase the number of chapter members who attend national meetings or purchase equipment (e.g., cameras, signage, .etc) need to plan for these expenses and identify new sources of funding. Chapters should formulate their budgets after their annual programs have been set to ensure that chapter finances are in line with chapter programs.
Please contact your Regional Treasurer for a chapter budget template. Please contact
[email protected] if you have any other questions.
62
Corporate Relations Greetings,
As the largest student-run nonprofit organization, our success greatly depends on
the generosity of corporate sponsors. Monetary support and in-kind donations
enable us to execute our yearly programming initiatives throughout the nation
and abroad.
In turn, sponsorship highlights companies, law firms and other organizations
ongoing commitment to diversity in the legal profession while advancing them as
industry leaders and agents of positive social change.
The end goal of corporate relations is to raise funds, and corporate sponsors are
most responsive to mutually beneficial partnerships that support their business
priorities. Both current and potential sponsors desire to gain meaningful
exposure to our stellar law students to increase minority recruitment, build
brand awareness and loyalty, introduce products and services, enhance
commitments to diversity, promote community advancement and network.
To effectively generate corporate funding for your chapter:
Prioritize a list of potential sponsors and research to learn more about the
types of organizations that they usually support.
Illicit the sponsor’s primary objectives through introductory emails and/or
telephone calls, and ensure your chapter is able to meet the potential
sponsor’s expectations of success.
Present your sponsorship offering in way that illustrates measurable benefits
for the sponsor, and follow-up to ensure the sponsor receives the most from
the benefits offered.
Finally, remain focused on strengthen the relationship with the sponsor
throughout the year with ongoing communications.
Only chapters who have obtained 501(c)(3) tax-exempt status are able to solicit
direct sponsorship using tax-deductibility as a benefit. Chapters who are not 501
(c)(3) chapters but who wish to offer the benefit of tax-deductibility may
coordinate a joint-fundraising program with NBLSA. If you wish to learn more
about this option, please contact your Regional Chair for additional guidance.
Chapters with multiple sponsorship opportunities should consider developing a
customized sponsor guide that offers a brief description of each opportunity
along with the cost of the sponsorship and chapter photography.
There are many tools, resources and example sponsor guides available to help
you succeed in raising corporate funds. For additional information and questions,
please contact me, a National Specialist or your Regional Corporate Relations
Director.
Kind regards,
Shawn F. Greene
Shawn F. Greene
National Director of Corporate
Relations
The George Washington University law
School, Class of 2015
63
National Corporate Relations Specialist
Justin Bettis
MABLSA Director of Corporate Relations
Dibora Berhanu
MWBLSA Director of Corporate Relations
Vanessa Coleman
NEBLSA Director of Corporate Relations
Lamar Fyall
SRBLSA Vice-Chair/Point of Con-tact
for SRBLSA Corporate Relations
Rian Ervin
RWBLSA Director of Corporate Relations
Adrienne Holland
WRBLSA Chair/ Point of Contact [email protected]
Casaundra Johnson
University of Miami School of Law, Class of 2014
Regional Corporate Relations Directors
64
AN INTRODUCTION TO COMMUNICATIONS
NBLSA is committed to ensuring its members are well informed of all the opportunities afforded them through seamless and timely communications. In making this a reality the Communications Team works to diversify the media in which information is given out and respond to any and all ideas for improving communications. The Director of Communications hopes that all NBLSA members are well informed and if there are any questions regarding the Communication policy, NBLSA Logo Use Guidelines, or general NBLSA questions, please do not hesitate to ask [email protected].
NBLSA LOGO USE GUIDELINES
The purpose of this document is to provide clarification about how the NBLSA logos and name should be used in all mediums. These include, but are not limited to, internal documents, print materials, websites, academic journals and publications, and promotional materials.
ABOUT THE NBLSA LOGO
Regional associations (MABLSA, MWBLSA, NEBLSA, RMBLSA, SRBLSA, and WRBLSA), official sponsors, and certain affiliate organizations are encouraged to use the NBLSA logos on their websites, brochures, sponsorship and promotional materials, and elsewhere. Any improper usage will result in termination of use. The main NBLSA logo is a registered trademark of The National Black Law Students Association, which is responsible for defending against any damaging or confusing use. Use of the NBLSA logos should be focused around the promotion of NBLSA and the NBLSA community. Derivative versions of NBLSA’s logos are prohibited, as they weaken NBLSA’s brand identity.
Communications Team
Chloe Woods
National Director of Public
Relations
Washington University School of
Law
Class of 2015
Jade Davis
National Historian
Loyola Law School
Class of 2015
Myriah Downs
National Graphic Design Specialist
University of Tulsa College of Law
Class of 2015
Shunta Tidwell
National Web Content Specialist
Thomas M. Cooley Law School
Class of 2014
Halimah Najieb-Locke
National Director of
Communications
The George Washington University law
School, Class of 2015
Communications
65
Femi Marsha
MABLSA Director of
Communications
Shaundra Fennell
MABLSA Regional Historian
Hermise Pierre
NEBLSA Secretary/Director of
Communications
Samone Hamilton
RMBLSA Director of
Communications
Elicia R. Day
SRBLSA Director of
Communications
Arle Wilson
SRBLSA Communications
Specialist
Maurice Thompson
SRBLSA Historian
Cameron Jean
WRBLSA Director of
Communications
(Continued from previous page)
LOGO ELEMENTS: MAIN LOGOThe main NBLSA logo has three
elements – a device, wordmark and trademark. The main logo is shown
below. These elements must be used together and may not be separated
or altered.
Device Wordmark Trademark
Key Guidelines
Neither the logos nor the NBLSA name may be used in any other or-
ganization name, service name, domain name, or website title.
The logos may not be altered, separated or otherwise distorted in its
perspective or appearance.
If you are not a NBLSA sponsor or particular affiliate region, organiza-
tion or partner, you may not use the NBLSA logo under any circum-
stances.
The color and proportions of each logo may not be altered in any way.
If you have any questions or concerns about usage, please contact the
NBLSA National Director of Public Relations at publicrela-
Six Regions;
One National Convention!
67
Mid-Atlantic Region The Mid-Atlantic Region (MABLSA) is comprised of the chapters in
the following states: Delaware, Maryland, New Jersey (southern), Pennsylvania, Virginia, West Virginia, and the District of Columbia.
68
Greetings MABLSA Family!
I am honored to serve as the 2013-2014 Regional Chair for the magnificent Mid-Atlantic region! Over the years, MABLSA has consistently remained in the forefront of advocacy on issues that impact minorities. This year shall prove no different as we continue to push ourselves to new heights of excellence.
As law students, we, undoubtedly, all want the same things: (1) To excel academi‐cally, (2) To be excellent advocates for others and ourselves, and (3) To have jobs when we graduate. As such, the theme for this year is “MABLSA Strong: Scholars. Advocates. Professionals.” This year, MABLSA plans to be very deliberate in the opportunities we offer members to become better scholars, advocates, and profes‐sionals. From our Annual Job Fair and Academic Retreats to pro bono community service events and staying abreast of advocacy issues affecting legal and political change – this year’s programmatic structure will demonstrate our commitment to providing members with opportunities to take advantage of resources to improve their grades, become better advocates for our communities, and enhance their resumes.
We will also continue to expand our MABLSA brand by maintaining our existing partnerships by taking measured steps to share “our story” and increase the awareness and commitment stakeholders and potential stakeholders have to MABLSA. Everyone should know about the amazing things our members and alumni do, the phenomenal opportunities our sponsors provide our members, and the value our chapters bring to their campuses. By initiating conversations with existing and prospective supporters, continuing to leverage social media, and so‐liciting testimonials from our members, we will be sure everyone knows the MABLSA story.
By becoming better scholars, advocates, and professionals, MABLSA will continue to be the epitome of the organization’s longstanding legacy and tradition of excel‐lence. Thank you for your dedication, support, and investment in MABLSA. I’m excited to meet all of you over the course of the year!
In MABLSA Love,
Latosha M. Ellis
2013-2014 Mid-Atlantic Chair
National Black Law Students Association
University of Richmond School of Law, J.D. Candidate 2014
[email protected]; 202 – 643-BLSA
MABLSA Theme:
MABLSA Strong: Scholars.
Advocates. Professionals.
MABLSA Vision:
To unite the region through
vibrant and poignant
programming and initiatives in
order to serves as advocates of
change, foster and encourage
competency and excellence,
and equip our members with
skills that will enhance their
professional and personal
development.
69
Mid-Atlantic Region Executive Board
70
71
72
June 2013
21 Cocktails & Conversations | 2013 Summer Happy Hour
Series; Washington DC Philadelphia, PA
28 Pittsburgh, PA
July 2013
12- Cocktails & Conversations | 2013 Summer Happy
Hour Series; Philadelphia, PA
13- Richmond, VA
25– Job Preparation Workshop & Reception |
Washington, DC
August 2013
2 Cocktails & Conversation | 2013 Summer Happy Hour
Series | Pittsburgh, PA
9-11 Mid-Atlantic Job Fair & Leadership Retreat
Alexandria, VA | Sheraton Suites Old Town Alexandria 801 North Saint Asaph Street
September 2013
7 Academic Retreat & Student Alumni Mixer |
Washington, DC Patton Boggs LLP
14 Academic Retreat | Philadelphia, PA Univ of Penn
Bi-weekly webinar training for Operation HOPE starts September 2 until MABLSA’s Annual Community Service Trip October 11-13
October 2013
5 Pre-Law Division Pre-Law Advisors Event
11-13 MABLSA 2nd Annual Community Service Trip |
Baltimore, MD
19 Pre-Law Division Law Camp | Pittsburgh, PA
26 27th Annual AIDS Walk | Washington, DC
30 Advocacy Prison to Pipeline Documentary Watch Party
& Social Media Town Hall
November 2013
2 Pre-Law Division Law Camp & Bridging the Gap Alumni
Mixer | Washington, DC
November is MABLSA community Service MS Awareness Month
December 2013
1 MABLSA World AIDS Day Advocacy
February 2014
5-9 46th Annual Mid-Atlantic Regional Convention
Portsmouth , VA | Renaissance Portsmouth Hotel & Waterfront Conference Center
MABLSA Calendar of Events
Please be sure to visit www.nblsa.org/mablsa for the most up to date event calendar. Existing pro‐gramming will be updated and new programming will be added throughout the year.
73
74
MABLSA Chapters American University Washington College of Law
Appalachian School of Law
Catholic University of America Columbus School of Law
Duquesne University School of Law
Earle Mack School of Law at Drexel University
George Mason University School of Law
George Washington University Law School
Georgetown University Law Center
Howard University School of Law
Pennsylvania State University The Dickinson School of Law
Regent University School of Law Rutgers University School of Law -Camden
Temple University Beasley School of Law
University of Baltimore School of Law
University of Maryland Francis King Carey School of Law
University of Pennsylvania Law School
University of Pittsburgh School of Law
University of Richmond School of Law
University of District of Columbia David A. Clarke School of Law
University of Virginia School of Law Villanova University School of Law
Washington & Lee University School of Law
West Virginia University College of Law
Widener University School of Law --‐ Delaware
Widener University School of Law --‐ Pennsylvania
William & Mary Law School
75
Midwest Region The Midwest Region (MWBLSA) is comprised of the chapters in the
following states: Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Michi-gan, Minnesota,
Missouri, North Dakota, Ohio, South Dakota, and Wisconsin.
76
Greetings to the Mighty, Mighty Midwest Region!
I write to you with excitement and gratitude for the opportunity to serve as your Regional Chair. Having served as the President of the Earl B. Dickerson BLSA Chap‐ter at The University of Chicago Law School, I have been blessed to experience the unique educational training, leadership development, and camaraderie that BLSA has to offer. My hope is that with the leadership of this year's Executive Board, your law school experience will be enriched and your memories of this wonderful organization will last a lifetime.
The regional theme for this year is "Bridging the Gap: Embracing Social Responsi‐bility." As law students, we have a unique opportunity to significantly impact many lives and many different aspects of society. It is important for us to be visible in the community and remember how truly blessed we are to have been afforded this opportunity. We have the ability to be role models for children in our community who can’t yet envision law school as a viable option. In relation to our theme for the year, MWBLSA plans to incentivize local BLSA chapters to put on exceptional programming, be leaders in their respective communities, and create formal men‐toring programs.
MWBLSA also plans to formulate a guide that synthesizes best practices amongst chapters in our region. The guide can be used to facilitate the planning of pro‐grams, help transition new board members, and increase the overall quality of BLSA chapters. The chapters who have done amazing things and the chapters who have overcome many obstacles can share their experiences and contribute to the collective wisdom of the region overall.
MWBLSA is continually evolving and seeking to meet the needs of the chapters that we serve. We will be further refining our funding and programming strategies so that membership in NBLSA is more rewarding now than ever before. We are the largest region and we must make sure that we are doing what is best for our schools. One of our goals is to disseminate resources among the various chapters while encouraging those chapters to work together and create programs that fos‐ter lasting relationships. To accomplish this goal, we plan to allow chapters to ap‐ply for funding for collaborative programming. Additionally, we will serve as ad‐vocates on behalf of BLSA members to firms and law school administrations and pledge to support chapters through any struggles they might have.
Regional Convention will be January 28-February 2, 2014 in Minneapolis, MN at the Marquette Hotel. This year, we look forward to revamping our regional pro‐gramming to include professional development workshops, panel discussions and sessions for future BLSA leaders, and a pre-law workshop series for the under‐graduates in Minneapolis. We hope to increase the number of members who are attending the conference and who are active on the regional level. We hope to ac‐complish this goal by soliciting feedback from all Midwest BLSA chapters on ways MWBLSA can be more relevant and useful to them.
Thank you for your dedication, support, and investment in MWBLSA. MWBLSA is a family and I am excited to see how we can come together to make this year mem‐orable. Feel free to contact me [email protected] if you have any questions, comments, concerns, or suggestions.
Best Regards,
Kevin Waklatsi J.D. Candidate, Class of 2014 Midwest Regional Chair 2013-2014 National Black Law Students Association The University of Chicago Law School
MWBLSA Theme:
Bridging the Gap: Embracing
Social Responsibility
MWBLSA Vision:
MWBLSA aspires to provide
opportunities for its members to
interact with leaders in the legal
community and to receive
instruction in the areas of
academic achievement,
financial empowerment and
career advancement in
conjunction with work-life
balance and civic engagement.
It is the goal of MWBLSA to
provide resources that will
enable our members to not just
be successful in their
professions, but also fully
embrace their role as leaders
and mentors in our
communities.
77
THE 2014 MWBLSA REGIONAL CONVENTION
Minneapolis, MN
January 28, 2014—February 2, 2014
78
MWBLSA Chapters
Capital University Law School Case Western University School of Law
Chicago-Kent College of Law Cleveland-Marshall College of Law Creighton University School of Law
DePaul University College of Law Drake University Law School
Hamline University School of Law Indiana University School of Law - Bloomington Indiana University School of Law - Indianapolis
Loyola University Chicago School of Law Marquette University Law School
Michigan State University College of Law Northern Illinois University College of Law
Northern Kentucky Univ-Salmon Chase College of Law Northwestern University School of Law
Notre Dame Law School Ohio Northern University Pettit College of Law
Ohio State University Law School Saint Louis University School of Law
Southern Illinois University School of Law The John Marshall Law School - Chicago The University of Akron School of Law The University of Chicago Law School
The University of Toledo College of Law Thomas M. Cooley- Ann Arbor
Thomas M. Cooley Law School--Auburn Hills Thomas M. Cooley-Grand Rapids
Thomas M. Cooley Law School-Lansing University of Cincinnati College of Law
University of Dayton School of Law University of Detroit Mercy School of Law
University of Illinois College of Law University of Iowa College of Law
University of Kansas School of Law University of Kentucky College of Law
University of Louisville Brandeis School of Law University of Michigan Law School
University of Minnesota Law School University of Missouri-Columbia School of Law
University of Missouri-Kansas City School of Law University of Nebraska College of Law
University of North Dakota School of Law University of South Dakota School of Law
University of St. Thomas School of Law University of Wisconsin Law School Valparaiso University School of Law Washburn University School of Law
Washington University in St. Louis School of Law Wayne State University Law School
illiam Mitchell College of Law
79
Northeast Region
The Northeast Region (NEBLSA) is comprised of 33 chapters in the fol-lowing states: Connecticut, Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, New
Jersey (Northern), New York, Rhode Island and Vermont
80
Greetings to the Notable, Noteworthy, Northeast Region!
I write to you humbled and excited to serve as your regional chair for the 2013-2014 term. Being a part of the Executive Regional Board since 2012, I have experi‐enced first hand the academic and professional development, as well as the net‐working and camaraderie that is NEBLSA fosters. As we head into a new year, I hope that the programs that this year’s Executive Board bring you enrich your law school experience.
This year’s regional theme is “Strengthening Communities through Service.” This theme embodies our goal of honoring the work of those who have come before us and renewing a commitment to increasing the diversity in the legal profession. 2014 marks the fiftieth year of the signing of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, which has served as a platform upon which strides have been made both in and out of the legal commu-nity in an effort to eradicate discrimination and segregation. Our goal, as NEBLSA lead-ers, is to continually strive to seize the opportunities given to us to make positive so-cial change, serve our communities and diversify the legal profession. By combining our resources, we are paving the way for future leaders and community empower-ment.
NBLSA was founded in the Northeast region in 1968 at New York University School of Law. Forty-five years later, NEBLSA supports 33 chapters and more than 1,100 members. Former NEBLSA members include countless esteemed attorneys, successful executives, general counsels, judges, senators, congressmen, Supreme Court Justices, attorney generals, and a United States President and First Lady.
This year, our programming and events will start in the Summer and continue through the Spring of next year. These programs will include opportunities to in‐crease academic skills, professional development, and networking skills. We will begin our summer with the Summer Professional Development Series, which will take us into August for our NEBLSA Job Fair and Leadership Retreat at New York Law School, on August 16-17, 2013. In the fall we will continue our programming through academic retreats, community service events, advocacy events, alumni receptions and many sub-regional specific programs. All of this will culminate with our 46th Annual Regional Convention in Albany, NY from January 22-26, 2014.
For updates regarding our region, programming, and events, visit www.nblsa.org/neblsa. On our website you will find important information such as a link to our Twitter, Tumblr and Facebook pages, as well which will contain additional NEBLSA-related information, event specific information, and contact information for the entire NEBLSA Executive Board. Please be sure to check our website throughout the year to stay informed. If at any point you have suggestions, ques‐tions, and/or concerns, please do not hesitate to contact me at north‐[email protected].
With NEBLSA Love,
Clais Daniels-Edwards Seton Hall University School of Law Northeast Regional Chair, 2013-2014 National Black Law Students Association [email protected]
NEBLSA Theme:
Strengthening Communities Through Service
NEBLSA Vision:
This year, NEBLSA members will gain the tools and skills necessary to be able to evolve and be the best legal professionals they can in an ever-changing world. The NEBLSA team hopes to provide programming to strengthen members’ academic and professional preparedness.
NEBLSA Mission:
We will increase professionalism, academic preparedness and community among members of the NEBLSA community through insightful and effective programming initiatives
81
Northeast Region Executive Board
82
83
NEBLSA Calendar of Events
84
85
NEBLSA Chapters
Albany Law School
Benjamin N. Cardozo School of Law Boston College Law School
Boston University School of Law Brooklyn Law School
Columbia Law School Cornell University Law School
CUNY School of Law at Queens College
Fordham University of Law
Franklin Pierce Law Center
Harvard Law School
Hofstra University School of Law
Massachusetts School of Law
New England School of Law
New York Law School
New York University School of Law
Northeastern University School of Law
Pace University School of Law
Quinnipiac University School of Law
Roger Williams University School of Law
Rutgers University School of Law
Newark Saint John's University
Seton Hall University School of Law
Suffolk University Law School
Syracuse University College of Law
Touro Law Center
University at Buffalo Law School
University of Connecticut School of Law
University of Massachusetts-‐‐Dartmouth
Vermont Law School
Western New England College School of Law
Yale University College of Law
86
Rocky Mountain Region The Rocky Mountain Region (RMBLSA) is comprised of the chapters
in the following states: Colorado, Idaho, Montana, Nebraska, New Mexico, Oklahoma, Texas, Utah, and Wyoming.
87
Greetings!
The executive board and I are so honored that we have the opportunity to serve you this year. The theme for the 2013-2014 year is "Daring. Dedicated. Driven." The theme highlights the boldness and dedication of our members to attain to the highest levels of success in their academic and professional careers, while effecting tangible change in their communities.
We know that you have invested into RMBLSA with an expectation that we will do our utmost to make sure that you obtain what you need to succeed as a minority law student and to equip you to reach out and impact your community and your world. We promise that you will not be disappointed. From our annual job fair, academic retreat, and regional convention to our community service and social events, we promise that we will make your experience as part of RMBLSA fun, re‐warding and meaningful.
This year, our job fair will be hosted in the beautiful city of Austin, Texas on Friday, August 2. Our academic and leadership retreat will be held in Houston, Texas on September 13-14. Our aim for the academic retreat is to equip incoming law stu‐dents with the tools they need to succeed in their first year of law school. For our community service projects, we plan to kill two birds with one stone, in a sense, by partnering with law firms on their days of service- thus doing community service while also being able to network with local lawyers. Another one of our goals this year is to establish more BLSA chapters in law schools in our region and to revive those chapters that have ceased to be or are barely active. We also plan on estab‐lishing strong pre-law chapters in every university in our region that has a local BLSA chapter. We will work on strengthening the camaraderie within and amongst our local chapters by putting together different social events throughout the year where BLSA members can meet and mingle. Finally, we will wrap it all up at our 45th regional convention, which will take place on February 19-23 in Austin, Texas.
We look forward to serving you this year and we hope that you will join us as to‐gether we make this year an unforgettable one.
Sincerely,
Johali Muzaliwa University of Houston Law Center, Juris Doctorate Candidate 2014 RMBLSA Chair, 2013-2014 National Black Law Students Association [email protected]
RMBLSA Theme:
Daring. Dedicated. Driven.
RMBLSA Vision:
The vision of RMBLSA for the 2013-2014 school year is to equip our members to succeed in every aspect of their academic and professional careers, while effecting tangible and lasting change in the communities around them.
88
Rocky Mountain Executive Board
89
90
91
92
93
RMBLSA Chapters
Brigham Young University J. Reuben Clark Law School
Oklahoma City University School of Law
South Texas College of Law
Southern Methodist University Dedman School of Law
St. Mary's University School of Law
Texas Tech University School of Law
Texas Wesleyan University School of Law
The University of Texas School of Law
Thurgood Marshall School of Law, Texas Southern University
University of Colorado
University of Denver Sturm College of Law
University of Houston Law Center
University of Montana School of Law
University of New Mexico School of Law
University of Oklahoma College of Law
University of Tulsa College of Law
94
Southern Region The Southern Region (SRBLSA) is comprised of the chapters in the
following states: Alabama, Arkansas, Florida, Georgia, Louisiana, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, and Puerto
Rico.
95
Greetings SRBLSA family,
It is indeed an honor to serve as the Regional Chair for the Sophisticated Southern Re-
gion of the National Black Law Students Association. I firmly believe that true leader-
ship begins with service and during the 2013-2014 school year, I, as well as the South-
ern Regional Executive Board, hope to serve you and make this year one to remember.
This year’s theme is “Pushing Progress Through the Pipeline.” The theme is based upon
the concept of reversing negative imagery and stereotypes into powerful messages of
change and progress. While society has bemoaned the school to prison pipeline and the
low success rate of African Americans, this year we want to change the perception and
instead re-channel the pipeline to be an avenue of achievement and success.
To accomplish this, we will push progress through our Job Fair efforts. We will hold
our annual Job Fair, August 23-24 in Columbia, SC. However, this year, we will ex-
pand our reach. For the first time, SRBLSA and the Southeastern Minority Job Fair
(SEMJF) have partnered together to ensure that SRBLSA students have all of the tools
necessary to succeed in the hiring process. SRBLSA will hold resume building and
mock interview workshops as well as several other programs at SEMJF to ensure that
students not only gain internships, but turn those internships into permanent positions
upon graduation. We will push progress through our education endeavors. We will con-
tinue to have five sub-region academic retreats as well as pre-law workshops to ensure
that students excel in the classroom as well as professional settings. We will push pro-
gress through our community service efforts, which will be highlighted by our Commu-
nity Service Weekend in September. We will push progress by increasing our Advoca-
cy efforts. In celebration of the 50th anniversary of the March on Washington, we will
have multiple advocacy programs throughout the year to ensure that we stay at the fore-
front of advocating for change. We will push progress through our networking efforts.
This year we will continue our happy hour series but we will also offer CLE credits to
attorneys to increase the exposure of our students to practicing professionals in the
field. We also will push progress through our communication efforts. As technology
changes, we want to stay on the cutting edge of social media communication. This year,
we will introduce our SRBLSA Youtube channel that will give members an opportunity
to address the everyday life of a law school student.
Our Regional Convention will be held February 12-16, 2013. This year, we hope to
push progress and increase the number of participants in our annual competitions as
well as offer excellent programming for our law school and pre-law students.
We look forward to continuing the standard of excellence that allowed the Southern
Region to be named “Region of the Year” last year. We are excited to continue to push
progress forward. If I can be of assistance to you in any way, please let me know. I’m
here to serve. I can be reached at [email protected].
In SRBLSA love,
Ruth L. Tisdale
Wake Forest University School of Law
Juris Doctor Candidate, Class of 2014
Southern Regional Chair, 2013-2014
National Black Law Students Association
SRBLSA Theme:
Pushing Progress Through the Pipeline
96
July 2013
7 SRBLSA Chapter President’s Converence Call
15 Networking Breakfast at the National Black
Prosecutor’s Job Fair; Orlando, FL
17 SRBLSA Advocacy Twitter Townhall
26 Pushing Leaders Forward Day of Programming
Southeastern Minority Job Fair; Marietta, GA
September 2013
1 Early Convention Registration Begins
6 Welcome Back Happy Hour Series; Florida, Georgia,
North Carolina, Tennessee, Louisiana, Alabama
8 SRBLSA Chapter President’s Conference Call
13-15 SRBLSA Community Service Weekend “Tearing
Down Walls, Building up Bridges”
27-28 Academic Retreat; Atlanta, GA / Sub-Region 5
Atlanta John Marshall School of Law
October 2013
4-5 Academic Retreat
Gainesville, FL / Sub-Region 4 University of Florida School of Law
11-12 Academic Retreat
New Orleans, LA / Sub-Region 2 Tulane University School of Law
13 SRBLSA Chapter President’s Conference Call
18-19 Academic Retreat
Knoxville, TN / Sub-Region 1 Lincoln Memorial University School of Law
25-26 Academic Retreat; Winston, Salem, NC / Sub
Region 3 Wake Forest University School of law
31 Early Convention Registration Ends
November 2013
10 Chapter President’s Conference Call
December 2013
1 SRBLSA World AIDS Day Commemoration
8 Chapter President’s Conference Call
January 2014
12 SRBLSA Chapter President’s Call
17 Happy Hours and CLE
20 SRBLSA MLK Day of Service
February 2014
12-16 SRBLSA 43rd Regional Convention; Jacksonville,
FL
SRBLSA Calendar of Events
97
98
99
100
101
102
103
SRBLSA Chapters
Ave Maria School of Law
Barry University - Dwayne O. Andreas School of Law
Belmont University College of Law
Birmingham School of Law
Campbell University School of Law
Charleston School of Law
Charlotte School of Law
Duke Law School
Elon University School of Law Emory University School of Law
Faulkner University--Thomas Goode Jones School of Law
Florida A & M University College of Law Florida Coastal School of Law
Florida International University College of Law
Florida State University
Georgia State University College of Law
John Marshall Law School- Atlanta
Lincoln Memorial University- Duncan School of Law
Louisiana State University Law Center
Loyola University New Orleans College of Law Mercer University School of
Law
Miles Law School
Mississippi College School of Law Nashville School of Law
North Carolina Central University School of Law
Nova Southeastern University Law Center
Samford University Cumberland School of Law
Southern University Law Center
St. Thomas University School of Law
Stetson University College of Law
Thomas M. Cooley School off Law—Tampa Bay
Tulane University Law School
University of Alabama School of Law
University of Arkansas at Fayetteville
University of Arkansas at Little Rock
University of Florida Fredric G. Levin College of
Law
University of Georgia School of Law
University of Memphis
University of Miami School of Law
University of Mississippi School of Law
University of North Carolina School of Law
University of South Carolina School of Law
University of Tennessee College of Law
Vanderbilt University Law School
Wake Forest University School of Law
104
Western Region The Western Region (WRBLSA) is comprised of the chapters in the
following states: Alaska, Arizona, California, Hawaii, Idaho, Nevada, Oregon, and Washington.
105
Greetings,
It is my distinct pleasure to serve you as the Western Regional Chair for the
2013-2014 academic year. This year’s executive board is comprised of some
highly talented and motivated individuals who have volunteered to help make
this year a huge success. It is our belief that the best way to achieve our goals
for the region is to take a foundational approach based on the mission of the
organization. In one way or another, all of our members are working towards
successful legal careers. Therefore, the theme for this year will be: “Lay First
The Foundation” with an eye towards creating opportunities for educational,
professional, political, and social support to each of our members.
As you well know, the Western Region of NBLSA is unique in many ways. No
other region faces the same challenges that we do in terms of membership base,
geographical separation, affirmative action, diminished diversity, etc. In select-
ing our theme for the year the executive board has considered the conversations
that we’ve had with many of you and noticed a few common threads that are
unique to the position of the Western Region. Accordingly, we are shaping our
programming to address issues like: enhanced connection to the national organ-
ization, feasibility of attendance at BLSA events, ease of access to NBLSA
competitions, and heightened sense of community.
This year we are planning to host job fairs in Phoenix, San Diego, Los Angeles,
and San Francisco in the early fall. In October, we will host an Academic Re-
treat in Las Vegas. You can also expect to see WRBLSA mixers in select cities
throughout the year as well as multiple opportunities for pre-law outreach
throughout the region. Finally, our Annual Convention will be held from Janu-
ary 16 – 18, 2014 in Sacramento, CA. As we confirm the details for these
events we will post updates on our website, Facebook, and Twitter. I hope that
you will plan to join us for as many of these events as possible.
My personal goal as chair is to ensure that we are doing everything we can to
meet your needs as members of the Black legal community. I hope that you
will help me accomplish this goal by contacting me or any other board member
with any suggestions, questions, comments, or concerns you may have. This
year is about you and we value your input. Please feel free to email me or leave
feedback on our facebook page or via twitter @WRBLSA. I look forward to
meeting you all over the course of the next year!
Very Truly Yours,
Adrienne Holland
Western Regional Chair
National Black Law Students Association
Pepperdine University School of Law, JD/MDR Candidate 2014
Connect with us at:
www.nblsa.org/wrblsa/
www.facebook.com/WRBLSA
www.twitter.com/WRBLSA
“Do you wish to rise? Begin by descending. Do you plan a tower that will
pierce the clouds? Lay first the foundation of humility.”
– St. Augustine
WRBLSA Theme:
Lay first the foundation
106
Western Region Executive Board Chair Adrienne Holland Pepperdine University SOL [email protected]
CR Director Korey Bell University of San Francisco [email protected]
Treasurer Steven Rodenbach University of Washington SOL [email protected]
Communications Director Cameron Jean Pepperdine University SOL [email protected]
Membership Director Erin McIntire Seattle University SOL [email protected]
Academic Director Sherrie Fields Southwestern SOL [email protected]
Mock Trial Chantel Knowling Phoenix SOL [email protected]
Moot Court Wismick StJean Trinity SOL [email protected]
Vice Chair Vice Chair Lauren Jacobs University of Washington SOL [email protected]
Pre-Law Director Alisha Trotter Seattle University SOL [email protected]
Pre-Law Specialist Megan Crenshaw University of Washington SOL [email protected]
Convention Coordinator Brittney Dobbins California Western SOL [email protected]
NW Subregional Director Charles Malmsten Lewis and Clark SOL [email protected]
Desert SR Director Kendra Abercrombie Phoenix SOL [email protected]
Southern SR Director John Adams Pepperdine University SOL [email protected]
Parliamentarian Leneer Hutchinson Whitier [email protected]
Attorney General Skye Anderson Thomas Jefferson [email protected]
107
July 2013
14-16 WRBLSA Executive Board Meeting, Dallas, TX
August 2013
10 WRBLSA Job Fair, Los Angeles, CA
September 2013
6 WRBLSA Mixer, Phoenix, AZ
14 WRBLSA Job Fair, San Francisco, CA
8 SRBLSA Chapter President’s Conference Call
TBD Mixer, Seattle, WA”
October 2013
4-5 Academic Retreat WRBLSA Executive Board Meeting,
Las Vegas, NV
TBD Comedy Show Mixer, Los Angeles, CA13 SRBLSA
Chapter President’s Conference Call
November 2013
TBD Pre-Law Outreach, University of Washington,
Seattle, WA
December 2013
Good Luck on your finals!
January 2014
16-18 Regional Convention and Competitions, Regional
Elections, Sacramento, CA
25 WRBLSA Job Fair, Phoenix, AZ
February 2014
TBD: 1st Annual Black History Month Golf Tournament
WRBLSA Calendar of Events
108
National Black Law Students Association
Striving for Balance Since 1968
CONTACT
Victoria Walker Brittne Ballenger
National Chair National Director of Membership
National Black Law Students Association National Black Law Students Association
[email protected] [email protected]
(202) 618-2572
