46th NBLSA Book Final_low

Road to

Striving to Balance Since 1968.

50 An Evolving Legacy

MARCH

12 16, 2014

NATIONAL BLACK LAW STUDENTS ASSOCIATIONWWW.NBLSA.ORG/NATIONALCONVENTION

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NBLSA | ROAD TO 50: AN EVOLVING LEGACY PAGE 3

46th AnnuAl nBlSA ConventionMilwAukee, wi

Table of ConTenTs

Welcome ............................................. 5

Convention Sponsors ................. 20

NBLSA Leadership ...................... 26

Agenda ............................................. 30

Competition Schedule .................34

Panels & Workshops ....................44

Honorees ..........................................46

Members of the Month ................50

An Evolving Legacy

Road to

50Striving to Balance Since 1968.

Milwaukee, WI | March 12 - 16, 2014Hilton Milwaukee City Center

NATIONAL BLACK LAW STUDENTS ASSOCIATION | WWW.NBLSA.ORG

An Evolving Legacy

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March 12, 2014 Dear NBLSA Family, On behalf of the National Executive Board, it is my pleasure to bring greetings to the members and friends of the National Black Law Students Association. Welcome to Milwaukee! This year has been a successful one for NBLSA and we have you, the members, to thank. NBLSA is known as more than just an association of law students: Due to the continued commitment and participation of our members, NBLSA has earned a reputation for being a service and advocacy organization with a firm commitment to the interests of minority law students and underserved communities. We are also known for the innovative strategies we use to address both old and new challenges facing our members and our communities. Without our members, NBLSA would not be the respected and impactful organization that it is. The need for the work of NBLSA continues to grow. Linchpins of equality, such as voting and access to education, are under attack. The future of our communities is facing a serious threat due to the devaluation and criminalization of our youth. The need for talented black attorneys with a commitment to uplifting black communities and strengthening the pipeline of future black attorneys is as great as it has ever been. You not only play a critical role in the continued success of NBLSA but in the success of our communities. As the 2013-2014 NBLSA term concludes and we celebrate the successes of our members individually and collectively, now is the time for all of us to reaffirm our commitment to the mission and work of NBLSA as law students and as attorneys. As we gather to celebrate our achievements, I implore you to take full advantage of all of the professional and networking opportunities that the convention has to offer. The National Executive Board has worked tirelessly all year long to not only bring you innovative and insightful programs and initiatives, but also an amazing and memorable convention experience. Thank you for joining us at this stop on our Road to 50 and thank you for allowing us to serve you. In NBLSA Love,

Victoria Walker National Chair, 2013-2014 George Mason University JD | MPP May 2014

Victoria Walker

NATIONAL CHAIR

Tiffany Fountaine Boykin

NATIONAL VICE-CHAIR

Shawn Greene NATIONAL SECRETARY

Yvonne Elosiebo

NATIONAL TREASURER

Janet Miles

NATIONAL FINANCIAL SECRETARY

Rashad Pendarvis

NATIONAL DIRECTOR-FREDERICK DOUGLASS MOOT COURT COMPETITION

Vacant

NATIONAL DIRECTOR-THURGOOD MARSHALL MOCK TRIAL COMPETITION

Darryl Wilson

NATIONAL DIRECTOR OF PROGRAMMING

Shantrice Anderson

NATIONAL DIRECTOR

OF COMMUNITY SERVICE

Jonathan Evans

ATTORNEY GENERAL

Latosha Ellis

MID-ATLANTIC REGIONAL CHAIR

Kevin Waklatsi

MIDWEST REGIONAL CHAIR

Clais Daniels-Edwards

NORTHEAST REGIONAL CHAIR

Johali Muzaliwa

ROCKY MOUNTAIN REGIONAL CHAIR

Ruth Tisdale

SOUTHERN REGIONAL CHAIR

Adrienne Holland WESTERN REGIONAL CHAIR

Roosevelt Donat

EXTERNAL CHIEF OF STAFF

LieAnn Van-Tull

INTERNAL CHIEF OF STAFF

Halimah Najieb-Locke NATIONAL DIRECTOR OF COMMUNICATIONS

Chloe Woods

NATIONAL DIRECTOR OF PUBLIC RELATIONS

Brittne Ballenger

NATIONAL DIRECTOR OF MEMBERSHIP

Vacant NATIONAL DIRECTOR

OF CORPORATE RELATIONS

Nia Duggins NATIONAL SOCIAL ACTION CHAIR

Temitope Ojo

NATIONAL DIRECTOR- NELSON MANDELA

INTERNATIONAL NEGOTIATIONS COMPETITION

Dalourny Nemorin

NATIONAL DIRECTOR OF EDUCATION

AND CAREER DEVELOPMENT

Vacant

NATIONAL DIRECTOR OF INTERNATIONAL

RELATIONS

Gobriella Davis

NATIONAL DIRECTOR OF THE

PRE-LAW STUDENT DIVISION

Simone Otenaike NATIONAL DIRECTOR OF ALUMNI AFFAIRS &

DEVELOPMENT

Nicole Morgan NATIONAL PARLIAMENTARIAN

Vacant

NATIONAL HISTORIAN

A.J. Cooper, Esq. IN-HOUSE COUNSEL

NATIONAL BLACK LAW STUDENTS ASSOCIATION

1225 11th Street. N.W., Washington, DC 20001


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March 12, 2014 46th Annual Convention National Black Law Students Association 1225 11th Street N.W. Washington D.C. 20001 GREETINGS! On behalf of the City of Milwaukee, I would like to extend a warm welcome to all the attendees of the 46th Annual National Black Law Students Association Convention. Milwaukees exciting attractions and a lively downtown area, combined with its renowned warmth and hospitality, assure all participants of a memorable visit. The magnificent kinetic wings of the lakeside Milwaukee Art Museum welcome visitors to experience its world-class collections. Interactive science, technology, and water science exhibits beckon at neighboring Discovery World. The one-of-a-kind Harley-Davidson Museum dazzles with its exhibits featuring motorcycles, history and American pop culture. You will find lively entertainment and a tempting array of dining options throughout the city. A charming RiverWalk links downtown to Milwaukees Historic Third Ward, where unique shopping awaits at the Milwaukee Public Market, featuring everything from locally made chocolates to spices, wine and seafood. The unique neighborhoods of Old World Third Street, Walkers Point, Brady Street, and Dr. Martin Luther King Drive all invite you to experience the Citys rich cultural tradition and diversity. I hope you have the opportunity to explore Milwaukee and see all our City has to offer. Best wishes on a successful convention! Sincerely,

Tom Barrett Mayor


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March 11, 2014 Dear Convention Participants: On behalf of the State Bar of Wisconsin, I would like to personally welcome you to our great state. We are honored that the National Black Law Students Association selected Milwaukee for its 46th Annual National Convention. The NBLSA National Convention provides a wonderful opportunity to connect with students from across the nation, and take a closer look at the profession and the education of our next generation of lawyers. The State Bar of Wisconsin proudly supports the NBLSAs goal of addressing the needs of black law students across the nation. This year's convention theme is Road to 50: An Evolving Legacy. This is a very fitting discussion to have in Wisconsin, as the legal community in this state has made a special commitment to support our students and lawyers as they grow and evolve professionally. Todays legal environment presents a multitude of unique challenges to members of the legal community, from the law student to the managing partner of a large firm. One of the critical issues facing Wisconsins legal community is its ability to attract and retain students and lawyers who reflect the ever-increasing diversity of the states population and the clients we serve. In an effort to educate and assist Wisconsin attorneys, law firms, corporations, and other organizations in joining forces, the State Bar of Wisconsin has formed a Diversity Task Force that, among many important activities, has held listening sessions throughout the state. These sessions will allow us to better to serve those attorneys who serve our community. The State Bar of Wisconsin also facilitates the Diversity Clerkship Program, a limited-term, summer employment opportunity that affords first-year law students of diverse backgrounds the opportunity to build legal practice skills and knowledge. The program offers employers and students a unique opportunity to share experiences and to promote diversity in the legal profession. The State Bar is committed to promoting diversity, and we applaud you for your efforts as students and professionals to work toward this important goal. Have a great convention, and please make yourself at home here in Wisconsin! Best Regards,

Patrick J. Fiedler State Bar of Wisconsin President

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Bartlit Beck is proud to support the work of the

NBLSA

GREAT THINGS HAPPEN IN MILWAUKEE.

Harley-Davidson welcomes the

NATIONAL BLACK LAW STUDENTS ASSOCIATION

to our hometown. May the city that inspired us to break boundaries and do great things inspire you too.

To learn more about our community involvement, visit us at www.harley-davidson.com

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is a proud sponsor of theNational Black Law Students Associations 46thAnnual National Convention

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DIRECTORS AND

OFFICERS

DeAngela M. Luna

President Emile Banks & Associates, LLC

Eric Andrews

President-Elect

Crivello Carlson, S.C.

Jazmin Taylor

Past President

University of WI-Milwaukee

Letissa Reid

Treasurer

University of WI-Milwaukee

Yvonne Ochilo

Corresponding Secretary

Ochilo Law Offices

S. Danielle White

Financial Secretary

Rockwell Automation

Warren Buliox

Director

Gonzalez, Saggio & Harlan

Steven DeVougas

Director

Hinshaw & Culbertson, LLP

Brittany Grayson

Director

Milwaukee County

District Attorneys Office

Hon. Nancy Joseph

Director

Eastern District Magistrate

P.O. Box 519

Milwaukee, Wisconsin

53201-0519 http://www.waalweb.

February 14, 2014

National Black Law Students Association

1225 11th

Street N.W.

Washington, D.C. 20001-4217

RE: 2014 National Black Law Students Convention

In 1892, William T. Green became the first African-American law school graduate in

the State of Wisconsin, and until his death in 1911, he was the only African-American

member of the Wisconsin Bar Association. Mr. Green was also the only African-American

lawyer in the great city you stand in today, Milwaukee. His courage in providing legal

representation to our communities was the start of a rich African-American legal history not

just for Milwaukee, but for the entire State of Wisconsin.

Wisconsin saw other pioneers further his passion for justice in the years after Mr.

Greens work had finished. Consider for example, the awesome work of the Honorable Vel

Phillips and her late husband, Attorney Dale Phillips. In 1951, Judge Phillips became the first

African-American female to graduate from the University of Wisconsin Law School. Judge

Phillips and her husband were the first husband-wife legal team to be admitted to the Federal

bar. Judge Phillips went on to serve as Milwaukees first Alderwoman and first African-

American alder, and a fierce civil rights advocate instrumental in passing the citys first Fair

Housing Law. And in 1971, Judge Phillips became Milwaukee Countys first female and first

African-American judge. The firsts did not stop there. Judge Phillips became Wisconsins

first female and first African-American Secretary of State in 1978.

Now, nearly 30 years later, the Wisconsin Association of African-American lawyers

honors the strides Attorney Green, and Attorneys Vel and Dale Phillips made through our

commitment to the growth of Wisconsins African-American legal community, the support of

new legal talent at two great law schools, and the continued quest for equal access to the

justice system for African-Americans in the state. We are so very proud of the Marquette

University Law School and University of Wisconsin Law Schools Black Law Student

Associations efforts in hosting the 2014 National Black Law Student Association Convention.

We welcome you to Milwaukee, to the wonderful state of Wisconsin, and of course, you are

always welcome to join us in practice in the future as we build on the legacy of those who

came before us.

Very truly yours,

The Wisconsin Association of African-American Attorneys

__________________________________________

DeAngela M. Luna

2013-2014 President


An Evolving Legacy

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March 2014

Dear Members of the National Black Law Students Association:

On behalf of the Marquette University Law School community, it is a great privilege for me to welcome you to Milwaukee, Wisconsin. We hope that your convention is a great success in enabling you to develop your professional skills and, not least, in helping you forge the beginning of lasting friendships. The fact that this is the National Black Law Students Associations forty-sixth annual convention suggests that, like your forbears, you will look back at this convention with pride and satisfaction.

We especially look forward to your joining us in Eckstein Hall, Marquette Law Schools home and the best law school building in the country, for your luncheon on Thursday, March 13. But it is a privilege for us at Marquette Law

School to be associated with your event more generally as well, and you will have occasion to engage with Marquette lawyers throughout your time in our city, in settings both formal (e.g., moot courts) and informal (e.g., receptions). These lawyers are part of a great tradition: Over the decades, no entity has done more to diversify and enrich the bench and bar in this region than Marquette Law School, as reflected, for example, on the cover of our Spring 2009 Marquette Lawyer magazine, featuring various of our alumni who are trial judges in Milwaukee (left to right, Judges Carl Ashley, M. Joseph Donald, Frederick C. Rosa, Maxine Aldridge White, and Derek C. Mosley). My thanks to Isioma Nwabuzor, our second-year law student, for

her work on this national conventionand to all of you: Without doubt, an extraordinary number of you have collaborated in this project. Thank you for your work on it and in your coming careers as lawyers.

Sincerely,

Joseph D. Kearney Dean and Professor of Law


An Evolving Legacy

Road to


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Diversity and Inclusion are core values at Andrews Kurth.

It takes a leader to know how to align business objectives

and resources. Working together, we have created an inclusive

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ANDREWS KURTH IS PROUD TO SUPPORT THE NBLSA 46TH ANNUAL NATIONAL CONVENTION

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State Bar of Wisconsin.

Supporting Equality.Celebrating Diversity.

The State Bar of Wisconsin is proud to welcome the NBLSA to Wisconsin and

support its goal of addressing the needs of black law students across the nation.

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bgllp.com Texas New York Washington, D.C. Connecticut Seattle Dubai London

Bracewell & Giuliani is proud to support the National Black Law Students Association.


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50Striving to Balance Since 1968. 46th Annual nBlSA Convention

sponsors

Title Sponsor

Official Host Schools

Gold Sponsors

NBLSA gratefully acknowledges the financial support of the following sponsors.

DIVERSITY IS WOVEN INTO OUR CULTURE.

ABU DHABI AUSTIN BRUSSELS BEIJING DALLAS DUBAI HONG KONG HOUSTON LONDON MOSCOW NEW YORK PALO ALTO RIO DE JANEIRO RIYADH WASHINGTON

Recognizing that experience and diversity are inextricably intertwined, Baker Botts is committed to fostering diversity in the firm, as well as in the legal profession. We believe diversity is a common thread that binds us together and brings valuable perspectives, knowledge and talents to the firm, thereby allowing us to be more creative and effective in the practice of law and in service to our clients.

The firms uncompromising commitment to diversity has lead to important diversity recognition. Baker Botts is consistently ranked among the Top 100 Law Firms for Diversity by Multicultural Law Magazine and on the American Lawyers annual Diversity Scorecard. In addition, we have received high marks, including perfect scores of 100, on the Human Rights Campaign Foundations Corporate Equality Index, which ranks organizations for policies, practices and benefits for LGBT employees.

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Allen & Overy is a proud sponsor of the National Black Law Students Associations 45th Annual National Convention

www.allenovery.comwww.us.aograduate.com

NBLSA 45th Annual National Convention (3.65x4.85 color)_Kirkland 2/22/2013 2:21 PM Page 1

Silver Sponsors

Bronze Sponsors

NBLSA is a 501(c)(3) organization that is run entirely by currently-enrolled law students. All of NBLSAs programming is made possible by the generous support of our sponsors.

For additional information on becoming a corporate sponsor, email us at [email protected].

www.bartlit-beck.com

BARTLIT BECK HERMAN PALENCHAR & SCOTT LLP

Bartlit Beck is proud to support the work of the

NBLSA

46th Annual nBlSA Convention

sponsors

Foley.com

2013 Foley & Lardner LLP

The unique differences of our people are whatunify us and make us successful. Foley is proud to

support the National Black Law StudentAssociations 2014 Annual Convention.

For more information about Foley, please contact Philip B. Phillips,Foleys African American Affinity Group leader, at [email protected].

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An Evolving Legacy

Road to


Special thanks to...

Visit Milwaukee

LexisNexis

JD Match

Next Level Site Selection & Events

LaVonne Coker

National Advisory Board

National Bar Association

National Black Pre-Law Conference

Themis

Milwaukee Area Technical College Paralegal Program

Lewis & Darby

American Bar Association

Lawyers of Color LLC

Community Service Luncheon SponsorMarquette University School of Law

Welcome to Milwaukee Reception SponsorWisconsin Association of

African American Lawyers

Workshop SponsorGodfrey & Kahn S.C.

Convention Bag SponsorJones Day

Convention Breakfast SponsorNorthwestern Mutual

2013 CBC-ALC Alumni Reception SponsorReed Smith LLP

2013 Congressional Kids Day SponsorBowman & Partners LLP

2013 Joint Board Retreat SponsorBracewell & Guiliani LLP

SMU Dedman School of Law

NBLSA Member of the Month SponsorBARBRI

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An Evolving Legacy

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victoria walker Chair George Mason University School of Law

tiffany Fountaine Vice Chair University of Baltimore School of Law

Shawn Greene Secretary The George Washington University Law School

Yvonne elosiebo Treasurer New York University Law School

Ja'net Miles Financial Secretary University of Kansas School of Law

nicole Morgan Parliamentarian Paul M.Herbert Law Center at Louisiana State University

lieAnn van-tull Internal Chief of Staff University of Baltimore School of Law

Roosevelt Donat External Chief of Staff Seton Hall University School of Law

latosha ellis Mid-Atlantic Regional Chair University of Richmond School of Law

kevin waklatsi Midwest Regional Chair University of Chicago Law School

Clais Daniels-edwards Northeast Regional Chair Seton Hall University School of Law

Johali Muzaliwa Rocky Mountain Regional Chair University of Houston Law Center

Ruth tisdale Southern Regional Chair Wake Forest University School of Law

Adrienne holland Western Regional Chair Pepperdine University School of Law

Rashad Pendarvis Director of the Frederick Douglass Moot Court Competition University of South Carolina School of Law

temitope ojo Director of the Nelson Mandela International Negotiations Competition University of Baltimore School of Law

halimah najieb-locke Director of Communications The George Washington University Law School

Chloe woods Director of Public Relations Washington University in St. Louis School of Law

Jonathan evans Attorney General Southwestern University School of Law

nia Duggins Director of Social Action University of Maryland Francis King Carey School of Law

Darryl wilson Director of Programming University of Mississippi School of Law

Shantrice Anderson Director of Community Service Seattle University School of Law

Dalourny nemorin Director of Education & Career Development CUNY School of Law

Brittne Ballenger Director of Membership Georgia State University College of Law

Simone otenaike Director of Alumni Affairs & Development University of Texas School of Law

Gobriella Davis Director of the Pre-Law Division William & Mary Law School

46th Annual nBlSA Convention naTional exeCuTive board

Marquette University Law School

welcomes to Milwaukee the 46th Annual

NAtioNAL BLSA CoNfereNCe

roAd to 50: AN evoLviNg LegACy.

We are honored to host the Community

Service & Advocacy Lunch on March 13.

law.marquette.edu

Growing up, my goal was to be the fi rst person in my family to earn a college degree. Thanks to the Air Force, I earned two. I never could have predicted that by age 27 Id be a lawyer and an offi cer responsible for defending my countrys defi ning principles in the courtroom. Every day I learn something new about honor, dedication and my own abilities. As a JAG, I dont just uphold the Air Forces high standards. I live them.

CAPTAIN JAZMINE A. RUSSELLU.S. Air Force JAG Corps

For more information, visitAIRFORCE.COM/JAG

20

12 P

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for

by th

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ir F

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CAPTAIN JAZMINE A. RUSSELL

Microsoft is proud to sponsor the NBLSA 46th Annual Convention

Microsoft supports the NBLSA in articulating and promoting the educational,professional, political, and social needs and goals of Black law students,to help ensure their success and preparedness for the legal profession.

Microsoft hires individuals with the passion to thrive in a rapidly changingbusiness environment. If you are interested in joining a team that is makinga real and lasting difference, visit http://careers.microsoft.com/

is proud to support

the 46th Annual National Black Law Students Association National Convention

March 12-16, 2014

New York | BeijiNg | hoNg koNg | LoNdoN | tokYo | toroNto | wAShiNgtoN, dC | wiLMiNgtoN

www.paulweiss.comPaul, weiss, rifkind, wharton & garrison LLP


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ReAzalia Allen National Finance Specialist Paul M. Herbert Law Center at Louisiana State University

Alfred Miller Jr National Finance Specialist Benjamin Cardozo School of Law

Adreanne Stephenson National Convention Specialist Notre Dame Law School

isioma nwabuzor National Convention Specialist Marquette University Law School

Myriah Downs National Graphic Design Specialist University of Tulsa College of Law

Shunta tidwell National Web Content Specialist Thomas M. Cooley School of Law (Tampa)

Ashley hodges National Legislative Advocacy Specialist Georgetown Law Center

Brandon hicks National Judicial Advocacy Specialist Washington & Lee University School of Law

erika evans Chapter Relations Specialist Seattle University School of Law

Courtney littlejohn National Frederick Douglass Moot Court Competition Specialist University of South Carolina School of Law

Jasmine liverpool National Frederick Douglass Moot Court Competition Specialist SUNY Buffalo School of Law

Alexia wallace National Education and Career Specialist Florida Coastal School of Law

Sabrina hall National Nelson Mandela International Negotiations Specialist Seton Hall University School of Law

Ashley Grisham National Corporate Relations Specialist Georgetown Law Center

Casaundra Johnson National Corporate Relations Specialist University of Miami School of Law

elizabeth lundi National Legal Pad Editor Rutgers School of LawNewark

Marvin James National Executive Board Pre-Law Fellow University of Baltimore


naTional speCialisTs

* In association with the Law Office of Salman M. Al-Sudairi

Abu Dhabi

Barcelona

Beijing

Boston

Brussels

Chicago

Doha

Dubai

LW.com

46th Annual National Black Law Students Association Convention

Latham & Watkins is proud to support the

Dsseldorf

Frankfurt

Hamburg

Hong Kong

Houston

London

Los Angeles

Madrid

Milan

Moscow

Munich

New Jersey

New York

Orange County

Paris

Riyadh*

Rome

San Diego

San Francisco

Shanghai

Silicon Valley

Singapore

Tokyo

Washington, D.C.


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DAY 1: Wednesday, March 12, 2014

11:30 AM 4:00 PM National Executive Board MeetingMacArthur, Hilton Milwaukee City Center

3:00 PM 7:00 PM Registration/Information Table4th Floor, Hilton Milwaukee City Center

6:00 PM 6:30 PM Pre-Certified Candidates MeetingCrystal Ballroom, Hilton Milwaukee City Center

6:00 PM 9:00 PM Victorias Welcome: Taste of Milwaukee & KaraokeWright Ballroom, Hilton Milwaukee City Center

DAY 2: Thursday, March 13, 2014

7:00 AM 9:00 AM Breakfast sponsored by Northwestern MutualRegency Ballroom, Hilton Milwaukee City Center

7:00 AM 5:00 PM Registration/Information Table4th Floor, Hilton Milwaukee City Center

9:00 AM 5:00 PM Exhibits/VendorsCrystal Ballroom Foyer, Hilton Milwaukee City Center

9:00 AM 5:00 PM Chapter of the Year InterviewsWright A, Hilton Milwaukee City Center

9:00 AM 5:00 PM Region of the Year InterviewsWright A, Hilton Milwaukee City Center

8:00 AM 11:30 AM Community ServiceMilwaukee Justice Center, Courthouse Room G9, 901 North 9th Street

11:30 AM 1:00 PM Community Service Lunch sponsored by Marquette University School of LawMarquette University School of Law, 1215 W Michigan Street

1:30 PM 2:30 PM Engage: Speed MentoringRegency Ballroom, Hilton Milwaukee City Center

2:30 PM 3:15 PM Digital Fingerprints: Social Media Guide for Law StudentsMitchell, Hilton Milwaukee City Center

3:30 PM 5:30 PM Plenary 1: Presentation of Annual Report & Floor NominationsCrystal Ballroom, Hilton Milwaukee City Center

5:30 PM 6:00 PM Floor Candidates MeetingCrystal Ballroom, Hilton Milwaukee City Center

6:00 PM 8:00 PM Welcome to Milwaukee Reception & Charity Silent Auction sponsored by the Wisconsin Association of African American LawyersPotawatomi Bingo Casino, 1721 W Canal Street


agenda



DAY 2: Thursday, March 13, 2014 (continued)

9:00 PM 10:00 PM All Eyes on ScandalDoubleTree by Hilton Hotel, 611 W Wisconsin Ave

10:30 PM 1:00 AM Convention Host Committee Presents The Elite: An All-Black AffairEmpire Ballroom, Hilton Milwaukee City Center

DAY 3: Friday, March 14, 2014




9:00 AM 5:00 PM Chapter of the Year InterviewsWright A, Hilton Milwaukee City Center

9:00 AM 5:00 PM Region of the Year InterviewsWright A, Hilton Milwaukee City Center

8:30 AM 11:30 AM Plenary 2: Constitution & Bylaws AmendmentsCrystal Ballroom, Hilton Milwaukee City Center

12:00 PM 1:00 PM A. Leon Higginbotham Luncheon honoring The Honorable Sterling Johnson Jr. and featuring The Honorable Ann C. WilliamsBallroom C, Wisconsin Center

1:00 PM 2:30 PM InfoExpo - Wisconsin CenterBallroom C, Wisconsin Center

2:30 PM 3:30 PM Panel 1: Careers on the Horizon: Energy and Environmental Law sponsored by Perkins Coie LLP Wright B, Hilton Milwaukee City Center

Panel 2: Life in Big Law: A View from the Inside sponsored by Foley & LardnerWalker, Hilton Milwaukee City Center

3:30 PM 4:30 PM Panel 3: Career Paths - Doing The Deal: The Transaction Side of Practicing Law sponsored by Perkins Coie LLPWright B, Hilton Milwaukee City Center

Panel 4: You Cant Handle the Truth!: A Conversation with Judge Advocate GeneralsWalker, Hilton Milwaukee City Center

4:30 PM 6:30 PM Plenary 3: Election SpeechesCrystal Ballroom, Hilton Milwaukee City Center

4:30 PM 6:30 PM Social Media & Ethics Continuing Legal Education PanelWalker, Hilton Milwaukee City Center

6:30 PM 8:30 PM Legacy of NBLSA Reception & Alumni Hall of Fame InductionEmpire Ballroom, Hilton Milwaukee City Center

10:00 PM 1:00 AM Suite LifeSuite Nightclub, 1103 N Old World 3rd Street


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DAY 5: Saturday, March 15, 2014



8:30 AM 11:30 AM Plenary 4: Election SpeechesCrystal Ballroom, Hilton Milwaukee City Center


12:00 PM 1:30 PM Sadie T.M. Alexander Luncheon honoring The Honorable Vel PhillipsBallroom C, Wisconsin Center

1:30 PM 3:00 PM National Advisory Board MeetingWright A, Hilton Milwaukee City Center

1:30 PM 2:30 PM Panel 5: Navigating the 2014 Job Market sponsored by Godfrey & KahnMitchell, Hilton Milwaukee City Center

Panel 6: Behind the Screen & Off the Court: Everything You Want to Know About Sports and Entertainment Attorneys and the LawWalker, Hilton Milwaukee City Center

2:30 PM 3:30 PM Brother-to-Brother: A Moment of Truth MitchellMitchell, Hilton Milwaukee City Center

Sister-to-Sister: Getting It All & Keeping It AllWalker, Hilton Milwaukee City Center

6:30 PM 9:30 PM Pre-Gala Reception sponsored by Foley & LardnerBallroom C/D Foyer, Wisconsin Center

7:30 PM 9:30 PM 46th Annual Awards GalaBallroom C/D, Wisconsin Center

10:00 PM 2:00 AM New Politics: The Afterglow featuring DJ Poizon IvyCrystal Ballroom, Hilton Milwaukee City Center

DAY 6: Sunday, March 16, 2014

9:30 AM 10:30 AM Prayer BreakfastWright A/B, Hilton Milwaukee City Center

10:30 AM 11:00 AM Appointed Officers Interest MeetingWalker, Hilton Milwaukee City Center

11:00 AM 1:00 PM Elected Officers Transition MeetingWalker, Hilton Milwaukee City Center


agenda

NBLSA REGIONAL JOB FAIRS

!!HUNDREDS OF NBLSAS BEST AND BRIGHTEST LAW STUDENTS

!HUNDREDS OF LEGAL EMPLOYERS INCLUDING BIG FIRMS, GOVERNMENT AGENCIES, MID-SIZE/SMALL FIRMS, NON-PROFIT ORGANIZATIONS

!MULTIPLE OPPORTUNITIES TO PARTICIPATE: MID-ATLANTIC REGION NORTHEAST REGION ROCKY MOUNTAIN REGION SOUTHERN REGION WESTERN REGION

Contact [email protected] or visit www.nblsa.org for more information

Coming in August 2014


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50Striving to Balance Since 1968. 2013 2014

frederiCk douglassMoot Court Competitions

wednesday8:00 PM - 9:00 PMCompetitors MeetingRoom: Walker

thursday7:00 AM - 9:00 AMBreakfastWisconsin Center District Room: Foyer 203

8:30 AM - 10:30 AMPreliminary Round 1Wisconsin Center District Room: 101A 101D, 103A 103E

11:00AM - 1:00 PMPreliminary Round 2Wisconsin Center District Room: 101A 101D, 103A 103E

12:00 PM - 2:00 PMLunchWisconsin Center District Room: Foyer 203

2:30 PM - 4:30 PMPreliminary Round 3Wisconsin Center District Room: 101A 101D, 103A 103E

Friday7:00 AM - 9:00 AMBreakfastWisconsin Center District Room: Foyer 203

9:00 AM - 11:00 AMQuarterfinal RoundWisconsin Center District Room: 101A 101D, 103A 103E

12:00 PM - 2:00 PMLunchWisconsin Center District Room: Ballroom C

2:30 PM - 4:30 PMSemifinal RoundWisconsin Center District Room: 101A 101D, 103A 103E

5:00 PM - 6:30 PM3rd Place RoundWisconsin Center District Room: 101A 101D, 103A 103E

Saturday9:00 AM - 12:00 PM1st Place RoundMilwaukee County Courthouse 901 N 9th St, Milwaukee, WI 53233

We are proud to sponsor the National Black Law Students Associations

46th Annual National Convention


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wednesday5:30 PM - 7:00 PMCompetitors MeetingRoom: Mitchell

thursday7:00 AM - 9:00 AMBreakfastWisconsin Center District Room: Foyer 203

8:30 AM - 12:00 PMPreliminary Round 1Wisconsin Center District Room: 201A -202E


1:30 PM - 5:00 PMPreliminary Round 2Wisconsin Center District Room: 201A -202E


8:30 AM - 12:00 PMQuarterfinal RoundWisconsin Center District Room: 201A -202E


1:30 PM - 5:00 PMSemifinal RoundWisconsin Center District Room: 201A -202E

Saturday8:30 AM - 12:00 PM1st & 3rd Place RoundsMilwaukee County Courthouse 901 N 9th St, Milwaukee, WI 53233

2013 2014

Thurgood MarshallMock trial Competitions

Client

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To Appear In

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Job # Filename

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Marines_Halp_Page MARINES_Half_Page.indd

U.S. Marines

Fighting With Purpose

Black Law Student Assoc.

7.75 x 5.1

7.5 x 4.85

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1/2 Page 4/CB

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This Ad Prepared By UniWorld Group, Inc.

MARINES.COM/IMPACT

MISSIONS MAY CHANGE, BUT OUR COMMITMENT NEVER WILL.

S:6.5S:4

T:7.5T:4.85

B:7.75B:5.1


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thursday7:00 AM - 9:00 AMBreakfastRoom: Hilton - Regency Ballroom

8:00 AM - 9:00 AMCompetitors MeetingHilton Wright Ballroom B


2:30 PM - 4:00 PMRound 1AWisconsin Center District Room 102A-E

4:30 PM - 6:00 PMRound 1BWisconsin Center District Room 102A-E


8:00 AM - 9:30 AMRound 2AWisconsin Center District Room 102A-E

10:00 AM - 11:30 AMRound 2BWisconsin Center District Room 102A-E


6:00 PM - 7:30 PMQuarterfinal RoundWisconsin Center District Room 102A-E

Saturday8:30 AM - 10:00 AMSemifinal RoundWisconsin Center District Room: 102A - B


2:30 PM - 4:00 PM1st & 3rd Place RoundsWisconsin Center District Room: 102A - B

2013 2014

nelson Mandelainternational negotiations Competitions

For information on our commitment to diversity, visit us online at www.quarles.com/diversity/ or contact Director of Diversity,

Employee Relations, and Corporate Social Responsibility Darlene Austin at (414) 277-5000 / [email protected].

/quarles-&-brady-llp www.quarles.com/quarlesandbrady/quarlesandbrady

Chicago Madison Milwaukee Naples Phoenix Tampa Tucson Washington, D.C.

Welcome to Milwaukee!Law firm Quarles & Brady proudly supports

the NBLSA, celebrating its 46th anniversary.

For information on our commitment to diversity, visit us online at www.quarles.com/diversity/ or contact Director of Diversity,

Employee Relations, and Corporate Social Responsibility Darlene Austin at (414) 277-5000 / [email protected].

/quarles-&-brady-llp www.quarles.com/quarlesandbrady/quarlesandbrady

Chicago Madison Milwaukee Naples Phoenix Tampa Tucson Washington, D.C.

Welcome to Milwaukee!

proudly supports the NBLSA, celebrating its 46th anniversary.

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Reed Smith is proud to support the National Black Law Students Association annual convention.

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Mid-Atlantic RegionGeorgetown University Law Center

University of Richmond School of LawWilliam & Mary Law School

Northeast RegionBoston University School of Law

Harvard Law SchoolNortheastern University School of Law

Southern RegionFlorida State University College of Law

Lincoln Memorial University Duncan School of Law

Louisiana State University Paul M. Herbert Law Center

University of Florida Levin College of Law

Midwest RegionIndiana University Maurer School of LawMichigan State University College of Law

University of Chicago Law SchoolUniversity of Wisconsin Law School

Rocky Mountain RegionSt. Marys University School of LawTexas A&M University School of Law

University of Oklahoma College of Law

Western RegionSeattle University School of Law


ChapTer of The Year


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2013 2014 was a busy year for NBLSAs advocacy team. NBLSA utilized partnerships with key organizations to produce innovative programming and advocacy efforts. We responded rapidly to pressing social events and judicial decisions. Also, we planned events that were informative and beneficial to our members. 2013 2014 was a great year for NBLSA advocacy!

A key part of NBLSAs success is the strength of our partnerships. In April 2013, NBLSA worked with the NAACP Legal Defense and Educational Fund (LDF) to coordinate Decision Day, a response to the Supreme Courts Fisher decision. In May, NBLSA partnered with LDF for Six Decades After Brown: The Legacy of Thurgood Marshall and the Current Fight over Judicial Nominations, a webinar discussing Justice Marshalls path to the Court, the number of African American jurists on the bench today, and the ongoing battles over todays judicial nominees. In August, NBLSA joined the amicus brief of the Leadership Conference on Civil and Human Rights in Schuette v. Coalition to Defend Affirmative Action, in which the Supreme Court examined whether a state can amend its constitution to prohibit the use of race or sex in public university admissions decisions. In January, NBLSA worked with the staff of the Congressional Black Caucus to actively oppose the adoption of ABA Proposed Standard 316, which many feel would have had an adverse impact on diversity in law schools if adopted. These examples highlight how partnerships are some of NBLSAs most valuable advocacy assets.

Another strength of NBLSAs advocacy team is our ability to rapidly respond to current

events and legal happenings. In June 2013, the advocacy team drafted responses to the Supreme Courts decisions in Fisher and Shelby County that were widely praised by our members for being issued on the day the decisions were handed down. In addition, during July 2013 members attended rallies and vigils in the wake of the jury verdict in the George Zimmerman trial. During the fall semester, members of the NBLSA advocacy team were seen on social media with the hashtag #WhatDiversityLooksLike, as the Supreme Court again took up consideration of affirmative action in higher education.

Perhaps the brightest highlights of the year were NBLSAs advocacy events. In September, members from around the country converged on Washington, D.C. for our Congressional Black Caucus Annual Legislative Conference events, which included a star studded panel featuring Congressman Hank Johnson, Phillip Agnew of the Dream Defenders, Yolanda Young of Lawyers of Color LLC, Leigh Chapman of Advancement Project and Representative Bakari Sellers. On the first Monday of October, we held a webinar that previewed Supreme Court cases for the upcoming term. In January and February, we executed three Hill Days in Sacramento, Albany, and Washington, D.C., confronting issues such as the school-to-prison pipeline and student debt.

From coast to coast and for the entire year, NBLSA advocates have made their faces seen and their voices heard. Our experiences have shown us that by working together we can accomplish great things. In 2013 2014, teamwork was the key to NBLSAs advocacy success.


advoCaCY reCap

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NBLSA 46th AnnualConvention.


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panels & WorkshopsThursday, March 13, 2014 | 2:30 PM - 3:15 PMMitchell RoomDigital Fingerprints: Social Media Guide for Law Students

Social media can be both a blessing and a curse. Social media can serve as a launching pad for your professional career or it can serve as your personal and professional downfall. Regardless of your intent, your social media presence contributes to your personal and professional brand. Learn how to properly leverage social media to enhance your job prospects, legal career, professional reputation and professional brand.

FacilitatorYolanda Young, Lawyers of Color LLC

Friday, March 14, 2014 | 2:30 PM - 3:30 PMWright A BallroomCareers on the Horizon: Energy and Environmental LawSponsored by Perkins Coie LLP

There is a future in Energy and Environment Law!! This panel will explore different aspects of environmental and energy law practice. Panelists will discuss employ-ment opportunities in these fields, how to prepare for those, and how the field may expand as a result of alternative energy, new technologies, environmental justice initiatives, recent regulatory pushes, and the emerging scarcity of clean water, farmable land, and other resources.

PanelistsTom Lindley, Partner, Perkins Coie LLPJason Allen, Partner, Foley & Lardner LLPDalayna Tillman, Esq., The Goldstein Environmental Law Firm, P.A.

Friday, March 14, 2014 | 2:30 PM - 3:30 PMWalker RoomLife in Big Law: A View from the InsideSponsored by Foley Lardner

Is there such a thing as work/life balance in big law? Is the race to become partner really as cutthroat as outsiders think it is? Is it true that associates really work 80-100 hours per week? Why are there so few black attorneys and black partners in big law? You hear big law horror stories all the time. Find out what life is really like in big law by hearing from panelists who walk the walk.

PanelistsPhil Phillips, Foley & Lardner LLP (Moderator)Trent Johnson, Foley & Lardner LLPNicholas Austin, Foley & Lardner LLPSara Madavo, Foley & Lardner LLPSharon McDonald, Foley & Lardner LLPStephanie Quick, Foley & Lardner LLP

Friday, March 14, 2014 | 3:30 PM - 4:30 PMWright A BallroomDoing the Deal: The Transaction Side of Practicing LawSponsored by Perkins Coie LLP

Are you about business? Close the deal! Panelists will discuss the various types of transactional law including business, real estate, mergers and acquisitions, licens-ing and technology, venture capital, and finance. The discussion will also focus on employment opportunities in these areas in law firms and corporations and how to prepare for a career on the transaction side of practicing law. PanelistsBruce Dick, Partner, Perkins Coie LLPRichard Ross, Partner, Perkins Coie LLPHarry Hutchinson, Founder and Principal, Alchemy NetworksMichelle Speller-Thurman, Senior Counsel, Abbott Laboratories, Inc.



Friday, March 14, 2014 | 3:30 PM - 4:30 PMWalker RoomYou Cant Handle the Truth!: A Conversation with Judge Advocates

There is a lot more to the nations Judge Advocate Generals Corps (JAG) than what is portrayed in movies like A Few Good Men and Rules of Engage-ment. Judge Advocates provide legal advice on a wide range of issues including military law, laws of war and international relations, government contracts and administrative law. Join representatives from Navy JAG, Marine Corps Judge Advocate Division, Army JAG and Air Force JAG for an insightful panel on the ins and outs of life as a Judge Advocate.

PanelistsLT Roni Beasley, US Navy JAGCPT Vivian Leavens, US Army JAGCPT Levicy Crawford, US Air Force JAGRepresentative, Marine Corps Judge Advocate Division

Saturday, March 15, 2014 | 1:30 PM - 2:30 PMMitchell RoomNavigating the 2014 Job MarketSponsored by Godfrey & Kahn

In a profession where there are few universal truths, most law students and attorneys agree that the legal job market is tough to navigate as a new attorney. With a large number of law students competing for fewer jobs, it is important for new attorneys to have a strategy for their job search. This panel will discuss the current state of the legal job market and provide advice and insights for how new attorneys can best navigate the choppy waters.

PanelistsWade Harrison, Godfrey & Kahn Marvin Bynum, Godfrey & Kahn Marcia Facey Drame, Northwestern MutualErin Binns, Marquette University School of Law

Saturday, March 15, 2014 | 1:30 PM - 2:30 PMWalker RoomBehind the Screen & Off the Court: Everything You Want to Know About Sports and Entertainment Attorneys and the Law

Many have a glamorized idea of what sports and entertainment attorneys do. This panel of attorneys and industry professionals will have an in-depth discussion about the role of attorneys in sports and entertainment law; the various bodies of law that

converge to form sports and entertainment law; and, how young attorneys that aspire to practice in this area of law can best position themselves to break into this competitive field.

PanelistsChuck Egbuonu, CE Strategic GroupPaul Anderson, Marquette University School of LawEvita Kaigler, Law Offices of Evita G. KaiglerChukwuemeka Onyejekwe (Mekka Don), Hip-Hop Artist

Saturday, March 15, 2014 | 2:30 PM - 3:30 PMMitchell RoomBrother-to-Brother: A Moment of Truth

Hear from a diverse panel of Black men on what it is really like being a Black man in todays legal profession. The panel will explore various issues that arise including stereotypes; personal and profes-sional presentation; dating and mating; and, common obstacles and pitfalls to navigate as young Black male attorneys making their way in to the legal profession. This is an intimate and honest discussion about the Black male attorneys experience.

PanelistsCAPT Rob Sanders, U.S. Navy JAGCesar Stinson, Milwaukee Public SchoolsAhmed Jenkins, Racine County Public Defenders OfficeSteven DeVougas, Hinshaw & CulbertsonWarren Buliox, Gonzalez, Saggio & HarlanSam Owens, Owens and Freema

Saturday, March 15, 2014 | 2:30 PM - 3:30 PMCrystal BallroomSister-to-Sister: Getting It All & Keeping It All

This panel will feature a diverse group of Black women who are in various practice areas and stages of their legal careers. They will discuss their experiences and provide insights for aspiring Black female attorneys. Panelists will discuss the professional impact of negative stereotypes on Black female attorneys; the notion of Its lonely at the top; and, if it is really possible to have it all and keep it all. PanelistsTheresa Cropper, Perkins Coie LLP (Moderator)LT Mishonda Mosely, US Navy JAGJazmin Taylor, University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee Office of Equity/Diversity ServicesLatrice Milton, Milton Family LawDeangela Luna, Emile Banks & AssociatesDanielle White, Rockwell Automation


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46th Annual nBlSA ConventionlunCheon honorees

The Honorable Velvalea Rodgers Vel Phillips

Born Velvalea Rodgers on Milwaukees South Side on February 18, 1924, Ms. Phillips was the second of three

daughters in a family she has described as comfortable but by no means rich. After graduating from North

Division High School in 1942, Ms. Phillips won a national scholarship to attend Howard University where she

earned a Bachelor of Arts degree and pledged Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated. Ms. Phillips studied

law at the University of Wisconsin-Madison Law School and in 1951 became the first African-American woman

to graduate from the law school.

In 1953, Ms. Phillips ran for a seat on the school board and was the first black candidate to make it past the

primary. In 1956 Ms. Phillips became the first woman and the first African-American member of the Common

Council in Milwaukee.

Throughout the 1960s, Ms. Phillips participated in nonviolent protests against discrimination in housing,

education, and employment that culminated in the violent summer of 1967. Arrested at a rally following the

firebombing of an NAACP youth center, Ms. Phillips, as the only arrested city official, which brought national

media attention to the city.

Ms. Phillips resigned from the Common Council in 1971 and was appointed to the Milwaukee County judiciary,

the first woman in Milwaukee and the first African-American judge in Wisconsin. In 1978 Ms. Phillips, again, made

national history as the first woman and first African American elected secretary of state in Wisconsin. During the

absence of both the governor and lieutenant governor, Phillips served as acting governor. Ms. Phillips was the

highest-ranking woman to win state office in Wisconsin in the 20th century. A lifelong Democrat, she was also

the first black to be elected as a member of the National Committee of either of the major U.S. political parties.

Since leaving office, Phillips has remained active in the community, serving on numerous boards including

the Wisconsin Conservatory of Music and Americas Black Holocaust Museum. She has been awarded the

Distinguished Professor of Law at the Marquette School of Law and chaired the successful congressional

campaign of Gwendolynne Moore, Wisconsins first African-American and second female Congressional

representative.

Ms. Phillips was the recipient of The Robert and Belle Case La Follette Award for Distinction in Public Service.

She serves on the board of the Vel Phillips Foundation, a charitable foundation created in 2006, whose mission

is to help establish equality and opportunity for minorities through social justice, education, equal housing

opportunities, and jobs. In August 2011, the University of WisconsinMadison announced that it had renamed

one of its residence halls for Phillips.

SADie tAnneR MoSSell AlexAnDeR lunCheon honoRee



The Honorable Sterling Johnson, Jr.

On September 9, 1991, appointed by President Bush, Sterling Johnson, Jr. took the bench as a Federal District Judge in the Eastern District of New York. He now presides over an enormous case load including roughly 500 civil and 200 criminal matters.

Sterling Johnson was appointed Special Narcotics Prosecutor in 1975 and served until 1991. In this capacity, Mr. Johnson had jurisdiction for the investigation and prosecution of felony narcotics offenses committed within the five boroughs of the City of New York.

As Special Narcotics Prosecutor for New York City, Mr. Johnson devoted sixteen years combating the drug crisis. He believes that the solution to the drug problem can be achieved through the integration of enhanced education, prevention and law enforcement efforts. Under his leadership, the Office of the Special Narcotics Prosecutor emerged as an effective deterrent against drug traffic in New York City and a law enforcement model that has been emulated in many municipalities across the country. He has traveled all over the world and has lectured throughout the United States, Europe, South America, the Caribbean and the Near East on drug enforcement and prosecution techniques.

A product of New York City, Mr. Johnson grew up in the Bedford Stuyvesant section of Brooklyn. He attended the Citys public schools graduating from Boys High School in Brooklyn. He served in the U.S. Marine Corps for three years. In 1956, after his discharge from the Marine Corps, he joined the New York City Police Department as a Police Officer. During his tenure with NYPD, he was promoted to Detective and later, to the rank of Sergeant assigned to supervise detectives.

In 1963, he obtained his Bachelors degree from Brooklyn College. While working full time at night as a detective and going to law school full time during the day, he went on to earn a LL.B. degree in 1966 from Brooklyn Law School, graduating among the top ten percent of his class.

After law school, he served as Assistant United States Attorney for the Southern District of New York where he tried a variety of criminal cases and argued several appeals. Three years later, in 1970, Mr. Johnson returned to city service as Executive Director for the Civilian Complaint Review board in New York City. In 1974, Mr. Johnson was named Executive Liaison Officer for the Drug Enforcement Administration in Washington, D.C.

Among his noted extracurricular accomplishments are memberships on the United States Sentencing Commission, the Second Circuit Task Force on Gender, Racial, and Ethnic Fairness in the Courts, the Police Athletic League, the Presidents Advisory Council on the National Drug Strategy and John Cardinal OConnors Blue Ribbon Panel on Drug Abuse Prevention in the metropolitan area.

A. leon hiGGinBothAM lunCheon honoRee


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Gilda Daniels

Gilda Daniels is an Associate Professor of Law at the University of Baltimore School of Law, where she teaches critical legal theory, election law, and civil procedure. She is a voting rights expert and national speaker. She served as a Deputy Chief in the Department of Justice, Civil Rights Division, Voting Section under the Clinton and Bush administrations. Her scholarship focuses on the intersections of race law and democracy. Her law review articles have appeared in Cardozo Law Review, Indiana University Law Review (Indianapolis), Denver Law Review, New York University Journal of Legislation and Public Policy. Her writings have also been published in the Huffington Post and various other publications.

Daniels has specialized in voting rights/election law for almost twenty years. She has litigated voting rights cases under the Voting Rights Act, including those involving single and multimember districts, minority language requirements and compliance with other voting rights statutes, such as the National Voter Registration Act. She has also conducted settlement negotiations and sought legislative remedies. She has testified before United States House and Senate Judiciary committees on voting rights and election law issues.

While election law is her primary interest, she is often asked to speak on issues involving civil and human rights, gender and the law issues, and religion and democracy. She is sought after consultant and expert, as well as, a frequent contributor for media and conference panels.

Prior to beginning her voting rights career, Daniels was a staff attorney with the Southern Center for Human Rights representing death row inmates and bringing prison condition cases in Georgia and Alabama. She clerked in the United States Circuit Court of Appeals, Eleventh Circuit with the Honorable Joseph W. Hatchett and is a graduate of New York University School of Law, where she was a Root Tilden Scholar and Grambling State University. She is a native of Louisiana and currently lives in Maryland with her husband and two children.

2014 nBlSA hAll oF FAMe inDuCtee



The Honorable Vanessa Gilmore

In 1994 when Judge Vanessa Diane Gilmore was sworn in, she was then the youngest sitting

federal judge in the nation. The native of Silver Spring, Maryland was also the youngest member

of her freshman class at her alma mater, Hampton University in Virginia. Gilmore decided to

undertake a career in law after she represented herself and won a minor civil lawsuit. She

graduated from the University of Houston Law Center in 1981.

In 1982, Gilmore began a 13-year tenure at a Houston law firm known as Vickery, Kilbride, Gilmore

and Vickery where she specialized in civil litigation. Gilmore also became an active member of the

Houston civic community, serving on the boards of a number of civic and charitable organizations.

She also became involved in the Texas political arena while serving as counsel and teacher in the

area of election law.

Her civic activities outside of the courtroom brought her to the attention of Governor Ann Richards

who in 1991 appointed Gilmore to the Texas Department of Commerce Policy Board, where she also

served as chairperson from 1992 to 1994. Her appointment to that board made Judge Gilmore

the first African-American to serve on this board responsible for increasing business, promoting

tourism and developing job training in Texas. In 1993, she also served as chairperson of Texans for

NAFTA. In this capacity, she worked regularly with diplomatic leaders, including the President of

Mexico, to increase U.S. trade opportunities. Judge Gilmore was nominated to the federal bench by

President Bill Clinton in 1994 and became the first University of Houston graduate to be appointed

to the Federal bench.

Judge is Gilmore is the co- author of A Boy Named Rocky, a book for the children of incarcerated

parents and is a frequent speaker and lecturer on issues related to these children and their families.

She has assisted with and instituted initiatives to help these families with access to resources for

their children, including the development of a legal clinic at Texas Southern University. Her latest

book, Saving the Dream, is a fiction novel that Gilmore hopes will encourage other families and

single people to pursue their own dreams of parenting through adoption. She is the recipient of

numerous civic awards for community service and currently serves as a member of the Board

of Trustees for Hampton University and on the board of Inprint, a literary arts organization for

readers and writers.

2014 nBlSA hAll oF FAMe inDuCtee


An Evolving Legacy

Road to


MABLSAJasmine McKinney University of Richmond, T.C. Williams School of Law Candidate for Juris Doctor, May 2015

Jasmine McKinney is a native of Hampton, Virginia. Jasmine graduated magna cum laude receiving her Bachelor of Arts degree in English from Virginia Tech. While at Virginia Tech, Jasmine participated in a number of activities on and off campus including the National English Honors Society, Sigma Tau Delta. It was at Virginia Tech where Jasmine was initiated into the Mu Alpha Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated. Jasmine is currently a second year law student. She currently serves as the Director of Programming for the University of Richmonds Black Law Students Association; she is also an Associate Manuscripts Editor on Richmonds Journal of Law and Technology. Last year, Jasmine was a recipient of the Virginia Law Foundation Summer Stipend.

MWBLSAWhitney Stepp University of Kentucky College of Law Candidate for Juris Doctor, May 2015

Whitney was raised in Versailles, Kentucky. She obtained a Bachelor of Arts in Criminology and Criminal Justice from the University of Maryland College Park, a Masters of Education from George Mason University, and is currently pursing her Juris Doctor at The University of Kentucky College of Law (UK Law). She is a member of The First Baptist Church of Versailles serving on the nursing and tutoring ministries and is the founder of the Of Noble Character, a hopeful non-profit that aspires to serve and emotionally support incarcerated women and their children. Whitney has served in various leadership capacities throughout her educational and professional career. She is the former President of the Theta Nu Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha (AKA), former Co-Chairperson of the North Atlantic Region Conference for AKA, and the current President of her local BLSA chapter to name a few. Currently, Whitney works as a judicial extern for the Honorable Tamra Gormley in the Family Court Division of the 14th Circuit of Kentucky. She strives to live by the saying share your blessings!


MeMbers of The MonTh



NEBLSAMatthew Martinez University of Richmond, Quinnipiac University School of Law Candidate for Juris Doctor, May 2016

Matthew Martinez was born in Yonkers, New York. At an early age his parents instilled in him the necessity of hard work and the importance of education. Matthew demonstrated his commitment to the aforementioned qualities while obtaining his Bachelors degree in Political Science at Stony Brook University in Long Island, New York. While at Stony Brook Matthew became a member of Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Incorporated and used the various partnerships he made within the fraternity to facilitate several service initiatives with several other organizations such as the March of Dimes and the American Cancer Society. After leaving Stony Brook, he worked for Senator Andrea Stewart-Cousins. Matthew is most proud of his work with the Young Believers Sports Camp; a not-for-profit camp; serving the Westchester, NY area. Upon admission he was awarded the Deans Fellow Scholarship for both his academic achievements and his commitment to social change.

RMBLSAMegan Callier University of Oklahoma College of Law Candidate for Juris Doctor, May 2014

Megan Callier was born and raised in Houston Texas. Her parents always emphasized the need for education and leadership. She graduated from Texas A&M University where she earned her degree in Nutritional Sciences. In the summer of 2011, she began law school at the University of Oklahoma College of Law where she is now in her 3L year. During law school, she participated in the OU study abroad in Oxford England, clerked for Justice Medina on the Supreme Court of Texas and this past summer worked for a civil litigation firm in Houston. Currently, she is working as a legal intern and coordinator for the Supreme Court of Oklahoma mediation program. Megan has developed an interest in mediating civil claims along with litigation and hopes to pursue that in her future practice. Since coming to OU, BLSA has been a support system for Megan and has given her the opportunity to compete on the mock trial team and serve as treasurer for the past two years.


An Evolving Legacy

Road to


SRBLSALeslie M. Simpson University of South Carolina School of Law Candidate for Juris Doctor, May 2014

Leslie M. Simpson is a native of Houston, Texas. She graduated Cum Laude from Claflin University (Orangeburg, SC) with a Bachelor of Science degree in Biology with a minor in Chemistry. She is currently a third-year law student at the University of Carolina (USC) School of Law. At USC, Leslie serves as the Vice President of the Matthew J. Perry Chapter of BLSA, where she also served as the Social Committee Chair for the 2012-2013 school year. Since her first year, Leslie has been very active in the continued success of her BLSA chapter by planning or participating in several activities, including the Martin Luther King Day of Service, 1L Mentoring Program, Meet the Professor Mixer, the Annual End of the Year Banquet, and other programs that have served the community and her fellow BLSA members. Leslie is very focused on increasing awareness and minority participation in the legal profession and is able to assist in this effort by serving in a number of other organizations. Lastly, Leslie tries to set a positive example for minorities and is able to do so by mentoring undergraduate and pre-law students.

WRBLSAStacy Smith Seattle University School of Law Candidate for Juris Doctor, May 2014

Stacy Smith is originally from Arizona where she obtained her A.A. in in Public Administration from Rio Salado College, B.A. in Political Science from Arizona State University, and her M.A. in English with emphasis in Technology and Professional Writing from Northern Arizona University. Currently, Stacy is in her third year of law school at Seattle University School of Law in Seattle, Washington. Ms. Smith actively aided Dean Annette Clark, Professor Margaret Chon, and the Seattle Journal for Social Justice in their scholarly works in the areas of immigration reform; social awareness; and legal education reform. Ms. Smith has also had an active role in the following scholarly writings: Race, Rights, and Reparation: Law and the Japanese American Internment; Ethics of Pseudoscience and the Tuskegee Experiment; and the forthcoming If Martin Luther King, Jr. had a Twitter Account: A Look at Collective Action, Social Media, and Social Change. Ms. Smith has also taken on various leadership positions in the Student Bar Association including: Communications Director and Student Newspaper Editor. Ms. Smith obtained a coveted position as a Legal Intern at Microsoft, where she amongst other things worked on drafting memorandums on e-commerce, cloud computing, and privacy rights. Ms. Smith currently works as a Legal Intern doing transactional work on e-commerce, contracts, and international law for Amazon Corporation. Upon graduation, Ms. Smith looks forward to a bright future legal career in technology and intellectual property law.


MeMbers of The MonTh



Rodney Pulliam Scholarship Recipients

Deshauna Lee

Anetta Sookhdeo

Nelson Mandela Pre-Law Scholarship Recipients

Derecka PurnellBianca Mathabane

Jessica DouglasBryan Davis

Queen Ekejija

Outstanding Student Leader Scholarship Recipients

Jody Johnson

Sandy M. Brown Memorial Scholarship Recipients

Jeremy OrrRuby GarrettAriel Martin

Erin Keith


sCholarship reCipienTs

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LAWYERS OF COLOR FOUNDATIONPIPELINE TOUR 2014TOGETHER WE CAN CHANGE THESE NUMBERS! POPULATION* LAWYERS**

HISP/LATINO 16.4% 3.7%BLACK 12.6% 4.8%ASIAN 4.8% 3.4%

*Census Figures **ABA Figures

For sponsorship inquiries, email [email protected]

w w w . n b l s a . o r g

Convent ionHilton Portland & Executive Tower

Portland, OregonMarch 11th - 15th, 2015

National Black Law Students Association

47th Annual

Save the Date

Connect with NBLSA | [email protected] | 202.618.2572

PORTLAND WELCOMESNBLSA 2015

Step into Postcard Perfect. When the meeting is over, the experience begins.

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