2010 Edition of Black Pre-Law Magazine by Evangeline Mitchell

TO ADVERTISE YOUR BUSINESS IN THE NEXT EDITION, VISIT: HOUSTONBLACKBOOK.COM

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table of

contents 2010 Advisory Board Members................................ 5 Welcome from the Executive Director....................... 6 Welcome from the Honorary Chairperson................. 7

Hunton & Williams LLP is Proud to Sponsor The Sixth Annual National Black Pre-Law Conference and Law Fair.

2010 advisory board members 1

Letters of Support.............................................. 8-12 Keynote Speakers........................................... 16-17 Special Guests...................................................... 18 Power Session Seminar Speakers.......................... 19 Workshop Sessions & Panel Discussions......... 22-29 Schedule of Events......................................... 30-34

w w w. h u n t o n . c o m Atlanta • Austin • Bangkok • Beijing • Brussels • Charlotte • Dallas Houston • London • Los Angeles • McLean • Miami • New York Norfolk • Raleigh • Richmond • San Francisco • Washington

Law School Recruitment Fair.................................. 35

1. David E. Danner, Esq., Attorney at Law and Professor, Pre-Law Advisor, and Contract Specialist, Division of Research and Sponsored Programs, Tennessee State University (Nashville, Tennessee)

BAYLOR LAW SCHOOL

2. Cheryl Harris Diggs, Esq., Attorney at Law, Law Office of Cheryl Harris Diggs (Houston, Texas)

3. Angela L. Dixon, Esq., Attorney at Law,

WE ARE BAYLOR LAW. The study of law is a lifetime commitment. Our students choose to begin their journey at Baylor not only because of our 95% bar passage rate, nationally-ranked advocacy program, state-of-the-art facilities, diverse student body, experienced faculty and superior education, but also because we believe that the best belong at Baylor, where opportunity and excellence meet.

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4. April Yvonne Garrett, M.A., M.T.S., Founder and Chief Executive Officer, Civic Frame (Baltimore, Maryland)

5. DeMonica D. Gladney, Esq., Counsel,

13. Jo Saint-George, Esq., CEO, FHG

at Law (Houston, Texas)

Media Enterprises (Phoenix, Arizona)

8. Charles Holmes, Esq., Former

14. Oswald J. Scott, Esq., Attorney at Law

Professor and Director of the Reuben V. Anderson Pre-Law Program, Tougaloo College (Tougaloo, Mississippi)

and Municipal Court Judge, City of Houston (Houston, Texas)

15. Aaron N. Taylor, Esq., Ph.D., Assistant

9. Irene Oritseweyinmi Joe, Esq.,

Dean for Admissions, University of Arkansas at Little Rock William H. Bowen School of Law (Little Rock, Arkansas)

Assistant Special Litigation Counsel, Orleans Public Defenders (New Orleans, Louisiana)

10. Jean Johnson, Esq., President/CEO, LegalWATCH (Houston, Texas)

11. Reginald McGahee, Esq., Assistant

16. David Taylor, Esq., Attorney Advisor, U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (Alexandria, Virginia)

17. Victor V. Wright, Esq., Senior Legal

Dean and Dean of Admissions, Howard University School of Law (Washington, DC)

Counsel, TransCanada Corp. (Houston, Texas)

ExxonMobil (Houston, Texas)

THE BEST BELONG AT BAYLOR. Find out more about Baylor Law School at www.baylor.edu/law/ps

The Law Office of Angela L. Dixon, PLLC (Houston, Texas)

7. Ronda L. Harrison, Esq., Attorney

BaylorLaw@baylor.edu

254.710.2529

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6. Psonya Celeste Hackett, Esq., Staff Attorney, Mississippi Supreme Court (Jackson, Mississippi) OFFICIAL SOUVENIR PROGRAM GUIDE

12. BarbaraKaye Miller, Esq., Dean of Admissions, Phoenix School of Law (Phoenix, Arizona)

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Welcome!

Evangeline

Greetings Aspiring Black Lawyers!

Without the support from the following INDIVIDUALS & organizations, What a blessing to be celebrating our Sixth Annual National Black Pre-Law Conthis important annual event would ference and Law Fair 2010! For all of you who came out this year, your making not be possible: the effort to be here demonstrates your seriousness about learning as much as you can so that you can make yourself a more excellent, strategic, and competiDiamond Sponsor tive law school applicant. We are so glad that you are here, and I can assure you that this will absolutely be our best conference yet! This year, we have so many phenomenal things going on that I don’t know where to start. You all will benefit from the priceless knowledge, wisdom, and insight from truly outstanding keynote speakers who have literally come from all over the country just to be with you during this conference. Each and every speaker who has agreed to join us has demonstrated a sincere commitment to the African American community and diversifying the legal profession. We are so proud to welcome Conrad Johnson, a clinical professor at Columbia Law School whose recent study on African Americans and legal education brought national media attention to the disturbing fact that the majority (61%) of African Americans who apply to law school don’t get into any of the law schools they apply to. We welcome powerhouse entertainment attorney Karen Wishart, the Executive Vice President and Chief Legal Officer at TV One, a major African American cable/ satellite network that reaches over 50 million homes. We get the opportunity to hear from Kent Lollis, a lawyer who has worked tirelessly for numerous years at the Law School Admission Council (LSAC) on efforts to diversify American law schools. No one in our country can get into law school without going through LSAC, the organization that administers the application process and the Law School Admission Test.

As a University of Iowa College of Law graduate, it’s good to know that I will have both a former law professor and a fellow Iowa Law alumnus to address attendees. Adrien Katherine Wing, an extraordinarily accomplished law professor, writer, speaker, and citizen of the world, taught me in a course entitled “Race, Racism and American Law.” That is the one pivotal course during my law school career that I believe was “life-changing” as an African American and gave me a greater sensitivity to the facts regarding American law and race that I needed. The knowledge I was exposed to in that course helps inform the consciousness that I have this day. Professor Wing was always supportive of my efforts even as a young law student and she’s a wonderfully inspiring person who genuinely pours from the heart. Dennis Shields, a champion of diversity in legal education, previously served as the dean of admissions at the University of Michigan Law School. The admissions policies that he helped shape and was responsible for implementing were challenged and then upheld by the Supreme Court during the landmark 2003 Grutter v. Bollinger decision. This case has played a critical history-making role in maintaining needed affirmative action admissions policies that legalize admissions committees’ consideration of diversity factors in making decisions as to who they can admit. In addition, you all will have the honor of hearing from incredibly influential and well-respected Black lawyers including Gene Locke (Partner, Andrews Kurth), Angela Birch Cox (Chair, Board of Directors, Council on Legal Education Opportunity), Harrison Gregg, Jr. (President, Houston Lawyers Association), and Daniella D. Landers (Chair, Racial Diversity in the Profession Committee, State Bar of Texas). Moreover, you all have the opportunity to participate in almost 30 information-packed and always powerful workshop sessions and panel discussions covering everything you would want to know about making the decision to attend law school, law school admission, the law school experience, passing the bar exam, career options, and more, including diversity issues and concerns touching African Americans in particular. In every session, you will directly benefit from learning from the expertise and experiences of successful and community-oriented law students, attorneys, judges, and law school administrators from all over the United States. Moreover, you will have the unprecedented chance to get your individual questions answered during our Law School Admission & Preparation Advice Help Clinic™. Furthermore, we’ve added a new signature event this year as you are able to get real assistance with your application materials during our Personal Statement, Diversity Statement, Resume, and Addendum Practical Assistance Session. Experienced law school admissions professionals, pre-law advisors, and attorney-mentors will be available to help you. As always, conferees have the chance to connect with representatives from nearly 100 law schools from all over the country who are here to recruit you. Finally, you don’t want to miss the opportunity to network and make connections that can lead to long-lasting and meaningful friendships and professional relationships through our breakfasts, refreshment breaks, and networking mixers/ socials. We are making sure that we integrate our African American legal history throughout the conference. We don’t just want aspiring Black lawyers to walk away with the empowering information, resources, and connections – but also a critical consciousness of the struggle that has enabled us to have the opportunity to become lawyers in our great nation when at one time being Black was enough to make such an aspiration an impossibility. We must never forget that our legal system sanctioned and enforced slavery and segregation, and then freed our ancestors from bondage and mandated integration. The power of the law and our legal system cannot be denied. However, we all know that our struggle has not ended. Knowledge is power, and with greater knowledge we can close the gap and more African Americans with the desire to earn a legal education can become better equipped to be successful. Our prayer is that once you benefit from this conference and other such efforts and successfully get into law school, get through it, and become a lawyer, you too must make a commitment to “give back” to others that come behind you. Whenever I think about what my forefathers went through, I know that this is a social responsibility that we all have to the next generation. I urge all conference participants to fully take advantage of everything that is being offered throughout the entire conference weekend. Always remember that so many of us before you could only dream of an opportunity such as this one. Don’t take it for granted. Enjoy the conference! Maximize your experience! Just like so many who have participated in past years, I know it will be a wonderful, powerful, and life-changing experience for you as well! Treat it like a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity because it is. I look forward to meeting you and remaining in good touch throughout the years. I speak success into your lives and am confident that if you really want law school, you will get in, be successful, and make a positive mark on the world. Best and warmest regards, Evangeline M. Mitchell, Esq. Founder & Executive Director, National Black Pre-Law Conference and Law Fair

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Platinum Sponsor

Bronze Sponsors

Copper Sponsor

Patron Sponsors

Edward F. FERNANDES & Peggy Fernandes Saturday Breakfast Sponsor

T-Shirt Sponsor

National Media Sponsor

Black Pre-LawTM Magazine Publisher & Editor Evangeline M. Mitchell Graphic Design & Layout Amos & GRANT ADVERTISING DESIGN Advertising and Article Submissions BlackPreLaw@gmail.com Copyright (C) 2010 Persistence of Vision LLC. All material in this magazine is copyrighted by The National Black Pre-Law Conference and Law Fair and Persistence of Vision LLC. All rights reserved. Material in this publication may not be reproduced in any form without written permission from the publisher.

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602.682.6800 www.phoenixlaw.edu

2010 Recipient of 2010 Law School Admissions Council’s Diversity Matters Award 2009 Ranked #8 in Princeton Review for Most Diverse Faculty

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The University of Maryland School of Law. Real-World Thinking. Worldwide Reach. www.law.umaryland.edu 12 | NATIONAL BLACK PRE-LAW CONFERENCE

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commitment to

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CERTIFICATES Advocacy and Dispute Resolution Entertainment Law Environmental/Land Use/Real Estate Law (ENLURE) International Law Tax Law

877-CHAP-LAW or lawadm@chapman.edu NATIONAL BLACK PRE-LAW CONFERENCE | 15

FRIDAY OPENING KEYNOTE SPEAKER

SATURDAY OPENING KEYNOTE SPEAKER

Professor Conrad Johnson joined the Columbia faculty in 1989 after two years as an Assistant Professor at the City University of New York School of Law and many years as the attorneyin-charge of the Harlem neighborhood office of The Legal Aid Society of New York City. He served as Director of Clinical Education from 1992 to 1996. He co-founded, and for eleven years directed, the Law School’s Fair Housing Clinic, which specialized in civil rights litigation. In 2001, he co-founded the Lawyering in the Digital Age Clinic, a path-breaking offering that explores the impact of technology on law practice and the profession through client work and collaborative projects with major public interest legal organizations and prominent jurists. Professor Johnson is recognized nationally as a leader in innovative legal education, access to justice and technology.

Professor Adrien Wing is the Bessie Dutton Murray Professor at the Universty of Iowa College of Law. Additionally, she is the on-site Director for the London Law Consortium semester abroad program and the director of the summer abroad program in Arcachon, France. She served as the Associate Dean for Faculty Development from 2006-2009 as well.

Conrad Johnson, Esq.

Adrien Katherine Wing, Esq.

Clinical Professor of Law Columbia Law School New York, New York

Bessie Dutton Murray Professor of Law University of Iowa College of Law Iowa City, Iowa

FRIDAY LUNCHEON KEYNOTE SPEAKER Karen Wishart, Esq., the Executive Vice President and Chief Legal Officer for TV One, joined TV One in January 2005. In this position, she oversees the business and legal affairs department, as well as the human resources department for the company. Her responsibilities include the negotiation of agreements for all of the company’s business units, as well as corporate governance, risk assessment and strategic planning. In addition, she is the Secretary to the Board of Managers. . Wishart joined TV One from Scripps Networks, where she was Vice President of Business Affairs, serving as a lead negotiator of business agreements for the company’s domestic and international television and production units, including Home & Garden Television, Food Network, DIY-Do It Yourself Network, Fine Living, Shop At Home Network, and Scripps Productions. Karen Wishart, Esq. Executive Vice President and Chief Legal Officer TV One Silver Spring, Maryland

After receiving her bachelor of arts degree from Princeton with high honors in 1978, Professor Wing earned her master of arts degree in African studies from UCLA in 1979. She obtained her doctorate of jurisprudence degree in 1982 from Stanford Law School, and was awarded the Stanford African Student Association Prize. While in law school, she served as an editor of the Stanford Journal of International Law, as an intern with the United Nations Council on Namibia, and as Southern Africa Task Force Director of the National Black Law Students Association.

Before joining Scripps as a Director in 1997, Wishart spent the first five years of her career as an Associate Lawyer in the entertainment and administrative law division of Cassels Brock & Blackwell in Toronto, Canada. In 1994, she joined YTV, Canada, Inc. & GRC Productions as a Director in the business and regulatory affairs department. Wishart graduated from McMaster University in Ontario, Canada, with a B.A. degree in honors psychology. She earned a J.D. from the University of Windsor and an MBA from Emory University’s Goizueta Business School in Atlanta.

Professor Wing presently teaches International Human Rights, and Law in the Muslim World. She has taught US Constitutional Law, Critical Race Theory, Comparative Law, Comparative Constitutional Law, Race, Racism & American Law, Law in Radically Different Cultures, and the International and Domestic Legal Aspects of AIDS. She is, in addition, a member of the University of Iowa’s interdisciplinary African Studies faculty and North Africa/Middle East faculty groups. During fall 2002, she was a visiting professor at the University of Michigan Law School. Author of more than 100 publications, Wing is the editor of Critical Race Feminism -- A Reader and Global Critical Race Feminism: An International Reader, both from NYU Press. Her US-oriented scholarship has focused on race and gender discrimination, including topics such as the impact of Hurricane Katrina, gangs, mothering, affirmative action, the war on terrorism, and polygamy in Black America. Her international scholarship has emphasized two regions: Africa, especially South Africa; and the Middle East, in particular the Palestinian legal system. Constitutionalism, women’s rights, rape in Bosnia, Muslim headscarves in France, Tunisian secularism, and Turkish democracy are among the topics of recent articles. Professor Wing has advised the founding fathers and mothers of three constitutions: South Africa, Palestine, and Rwanda. She organized an election-observer delegation to South Africa, and taught at the University of Western Cape for six summers. She also advised the Eritrean Ministry of Justice on human rights treaties. An accomplished public speaker, Wing has lectured all over the world, including most recently in New Zealand, Australia, Egypt, and Indonesia. Having studied French, Portuguese, and Swahili, she served on delegations to many nations including Angola, Cuba, Egypt, Grenada, Israel, Jordan, Kenya, Lebanon, Mozambique, Namibia, Nicaragua, Palestine, Panama, Sudan, Tanzania, and Zimbabwe. She has conducted additional research in China, France, Hong Kong, Brazil, London, and Tunisia.

SATURDAY LUNCHEON KEYNOTE SPEAKER

FRIDAY LUNCHEON KEYNOTE SPEAKER

Kent D. Lollis, Esq.

Executive Director for Diversity Initiatives Law School Admission Council (LSAC) Newtown, Pennsylvania

Kent D. Lollis, Esq. is the Executive Director for Diversity Initiatives at the Law School Admission Council (LSAC). Mr. Lollis directs and implements the Council’s programs designed to increase the number of lawyers from underrepresented minority groups, monitors the Council’s equal opportunity efforts in employment and vending, and serves as the principal staff liaison to LSAC’s Diversity Committee. Prior to joining LSAC, he held faculty and administrative positions at the Ohio Northern University Claude W. Pettit College of Law and the University of Louisville Louis D. Brandeis School of Law. Mr. Lollis is admitted to the Kentucky and Pennsylvania Bars and has practiced corporate, labor, and employment discrimination law. He currently serves on the American Bar Association (ABA) President’s Advisory Council on Diversity, and the Bar Examination Committee of the ABA Section of Legal Education and Admission to the Bar. He has previously served on the ABA Section’s Diversity Committee and the ABA Division for Public Education Advisory Committee. For his work in equal access to the legal profession, he received the 2008 Saint Thomas More Award from St. Mary’s University School of Law. He has also received awards from the National Bar Association, Tougaloo College, the National People of Color Legal Scholarship Conference, and the Wingspread Law School Leadership Consortium. Mr. Lollis earned his juris doctor and master of management degrees at Northwestern University and a bachelor’s degree in political science from Brown University.

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Prior to joining the College of Law faculty in 1987, Professor Wing spent five years in practice in New York City with Curtis, Mallet-Prevost, Colt & Mosle and with Rabinowitz, Boudin, Standard, Krinsky & Lieberman, specializing in international law issues regarding Africa, the Middle East, and Latin America. She also served as a representative to the United Nations for the National Conference of Black Lawyers.

Dennis Shields, J.D. has enjoyed a distinguished career in higher education and law. Long associated with many of our nation’s premiere schools, Shields is an expert on law school admissions and diversity in legal education and has written extensively on the subject of diversity in education. Additionally, Mr. Shields is a frequent speaker and contributor at education conferences on diversity.

Dennis Shields, J.D.

Chancellor University of Wisconsin - Platteville Platteville, Wisconsin

Prior to his current position as Chancellor at the University of Wisconsin-Platteville, he served as the Vice President for Student Affairs at The City College of New York. He served as Dean at Phoenix School of Law (founded in 2005) and led the school to provisional approval by the American Bar Association. Chancellor Shields has served in leadership roles with several national organizations affiliated with legal education. Prior to joining Phoenix School of Law, Chancellor Shields served in senior administrative posts at the University of Iowa College of Law, the University of Michigan Law School and Duke University School of Law. He was instrumental in drafting the University of Michigan Law School admissions policy and had primary responsibility for its implementation. This policy was unsuccessfully challenged in Grutter v. Bollinger, in which the U. S. Supreme Court held that both the policy and the methods of its implementation were constitutional. Chancellor Shields received his bachelor’s degree in business administration from Graceland College in Lamoni, Iowa and his law degree from the University of Iowa College of Law. Vice President Shields is married to Aundra N. Shields and has three sons.

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2010 Special Guests

Angela Birch Cox, Esq. Chairperson Board of Directors, Council on Legal Education Opportunity (CLEO) Houston, Texas

Harrison Gregg, Esq.

President Houston Lawyers Association Houston, Texas

Daniella D. Landers, Esq. Chairperson Racial Diversity in the Profession Committee, State Bar of Texas Houston, Texas

PreConference

Gene Locke, Esq. Partner Andrews Kurth LLP Houston, Texas

Power Session Speakers

Eartha Jean Johnson, Esq., LL.M. Founder & President LegalWATCH Houston, Texas

Evangeline M. Mitchell, Esq., Ed.M.

Founder & Executive Director National Black Pre-Law Conference Houston, Texas

Kenya C. White, M.S.

Director of Continuing Education Lone Star College Houston, Texas

S H O O K , H A R DY & B A C O N is honored to sponsor the

2 0 1 0 N AT I O N A L B L A C K P R E - L AW C O N F E R E N C E & L AW S C H O O L R E C R U I T M E N T F A I R to give students tools for success in law school and in their communities. SHB lives its commitment to diversity every day. To learn more, please visit www.shb.com. Michelle P. Wimes Director of Strategic Diversity Initiatives

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Fundamental to the Future McGuireWoods knows that making the most of our resources is imperative for success. That’s one reason we promote talented lawyers into leadership – like Alan Cason.

Individual Differences Common Strength

Alan earned his bachelor’s and law degrees from the University of Maryland. He began as a Baltimore associate in our firm 15 years ago, because he saw opportunities here that he didn’t see elsewhere. Today, he’s managing partner of that office and a department chair.

At Bracewell & Giuliani, our ability to serve our clients is strengthened

He is a board trustee for the University of Maryland Foundation and a past president of the University of Maryland Alumni Association. Having chaired the firm’s 2010-2012 Strategic Planning Committee that created a plan that supports diversity initiatives as fundamental to the future, Alan continues to prove his dedication to helping young people of color gain access to opportunities similar to his.

For more information on our diversity initiatives, please visit www.bgllp.com/diversity.

Jacquelyn E. Stone, Hiring Partner and Diversity Committee Member 804.775.1046 | jstone@mcguirewoods.com

by diversity. Individual differences in talent, skill, and background are essential elements of the creative solutions our clients expect.

bgllp.com

www.mcguirewoods.com

Texas

University of St. Thomas

School of Law

We prepare students for excellence with • a mentor externship program ranked #1 nationally for most placements per full-time student (ABA data)

• The African American Pre-Law School Advice Guide • The African American Law School Survival Guide • Conquering the Bar Exam

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Washington, D.C.

Connecticut

Seattle

Dubai

Kazakhstan

London

Bracewell & Giuliani LLP

David E. Danner, Esq. (Nashville) Advisory Board Member National Black Pre-Law Conference & Law School Recruitment (NBPLC)

Resources for the Aspiring Black Lawyer

New York

• a quality of life students placed in the top five in the country, 2006-2010 (Princeton Review)

Congratulations to Evangeline Mitchell, NBPLC Founder, for her inspirational; vision and persevering action which have produced a successful forum for the advancement of inclusive opportunity within the legal profession. BLACKPRELAW.COM/2010

• a mission that integrates faith and reason Apply online and pay no application fee! For more information or to schedule a campus visit: (651) 962-4895 • (800) 328-6819, Ext. 2-4895 lawschool@stthomas.edu www.stthomas.edu/law

 MAKING A

Our firm is proud to support The Sixth Annual National Black Pre-Law Admissions & Preparation Conference and Law Fair

Washington, DC | New York | Los Angeles | Irvine

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The Sixth Annual National Black Pre-Law Admissions & Preparation Conference & Law School Recruitment Fair 2010 Thursday, November 11, 2010 through Sunday, November 14, 2010 The University of Houston | Houston, Texas

workshop sessions and panel discussions FOCUS: ORIENTATION/CONFERENCE PARTICIPATION

strong relationships and a loyal network throughout your career and life.

Pacheco, Esq., LL.M. (Resumes/Addenda) __________________________________

(Workshop) How to Maximize the Black PreLaw Conference and Law Fair Experience

Presenter: Eartha Jean Johnson, Esq., LL.M., Founder and President, LegalWATCH (Houston, Texas) __________________________________

FOCUS: THE LAW SCHOOL ADMISSIONS PROCESS

Description: This hard-hitting session provides a brief orientation of the National Black Pre-Law Conference and Law Fair, as well as strategies for taking full advantage of and truly maximizing the conference and law fair experience. It is designed to share with registrants the realities of what it takes to put a conference together, the unique opportunities that the conference offers, and the things they as aspiring law students need to do in order to make certain that they get the absolute most out of the experience. Those who participate will walk away with an important reality check and needed perspective regarding the special challenges and issues facing aspiring Black lawyers in particular and how special the opportunity presented to them is. This session is highly recommended for all pre-law attendees, even those who have attended during previous years. For pre-law students only! BONUS: All registrants will receive free access to Evangeline’s webinar “Creating a Strategic Action Plan for Law School Admissions Success.” Presenter: Evangeline M. Mitchell, Esq., Ed.M., Founder and Executive Director, National Black Pre-Law Conference and Law Fair (Houston, Texas) __________________________________ FOCUS: NETWORKING AND RELATIONSHIP BUILDING (Workshop) Networking 101: Essentials to Building Strong and Lasting Relationships and a Loyal Following Description: This interactive workshop is designed to teach you how to network effectively and give you tips on practices that can help you build

FOCUS: PROFESSIONAL IMAGE AND BUSINESS ETIQUETTE (Workshop) You Don’t Know What You Don’t Know: Learn the Rules and Play the Game Description: This power-packed session holds no punches. Put your best foot forward at all times by learning how to avoid the common pitfalls that professionals make every day. Learn how to effectively present a positive and professional image that will pave the way for nothing but success. In today’s environment, you must learn the rules if you want to play the game. Presenter: Kenya C. White, M.S., Director of Continuing Education, Lone Star College; Consultant, Talent Development (Houston, Texas) __________________________________ ATTORNEY-MENTOR TRAINING The training session is mandatory for all “attorney mentor” volunteers interested in assisting with the Law School Admission and Preparation Advice Help Clinic™ and the Personal Statement, Diversity Statement, Resume, and Addendum Assistance Session. The goal is to give them “good, solid, up-to-date information” to share with the pre-law students that they speak with one-on-one during the special sessions. Trainers: BarbaraKaye Miller, Esq. (Admissions Process); Aaron N. Taylor, Esq., Ed.D. (The Law School Admission Test), Collins Byrd, Jr., MBA (Personal Statement/Diversity Statement), Yvonne Cherena-

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(Panel Discussion) How the Law School Admissions Process Works and How to Make Yourself a Competitive Applicant Description: In this panel, knowledgeable law school admissions deans and directors discuss admissions requirements, what law schools are looking for in “competitive” applicants, and what minority candidates can do to stand apart from other smart and talented admissions candidates. These admissions “insiders” will also discuss affirmative action, and the role that “diversity” plays in the admissions process. Moderator: Reginald McGahee, Esq., Assistant Dean and Dean of Admissions, Howard University School of Law (Washington, DC) Panelists: Michele Hayes, J.D., LL.M., Director of Student Recruiting, University of Maryland School of Law (Baltimore, Maryland), Jimmi Nicholson, M.S., Assistant Director for Admissions & Minority Affairs, The Ohio State University Moritz College of Law, Jennifer Sims, Esq., Assistant Dean for Admissions, Cumberland School of Law at Samford University (Birmingham, Alabama), Ivy Washington-Marshall, J.D., Associate Director of Admissions and Student Affairs, The University of Akron School of Law (Akron, Ohio) __________________________________

Tamara MartinezAnderson

Shannon Baldwin, Esq.

can witness how admissions committee members really think and what they are looking for in selecting competitive applicants. Participants will gain the opportunity to follow along while looking at practical examples of the credentials being considered by the admissions committee at Any Law School USA. This panel discussion will provide invaluable “insider” insight pre-law students need to better understand how the highly competitive law school admissions selection process really works. Moderator: Sandra L. English, Esq., Assistant Director of Admission, Financial Aid and Multicultural Recruitment, Cleveland-Marshall College of Law, Cleveland State University (Cleveland, Ohio) Panelists: Yvonne Cherena-Pacheco, J.D., LL.M., Assistant Dean for Enrollment Management and Director of Admissions, City University of New York (CUNY) School of Law (Flushing, New York), Michele Hayes, J.D., LL.M., Director of Student Recruiting, University of Maryland School of Law (Baltimore, Maryland); Ivy WashingtonMarshall, J.D., Assistant Director of Admissions and Student Affairs, The University of Akron School of Law (Akron, Ohio); Anthony D. Pledger, J.D., Multicultural Affairs Officer, Widener University School of Law (Wilmington, Delaware) (Workshop) Getting Everyone into Law School: Advice for Students With Below Average LSAT Scores or Low GPAs Description: If you’re ready for some tough love, Dean Martinez-Anderson is ready to tell you what it’s going to take. There really are law schools out there that will admit students with below average numbers. To be one of those students, you’ll need to get the facts about the admissions process and you’ll also need to take a look in the mirror. This is not a session that will give you a magic pill, but you will hear real solutions from someone who knows how and why some make it in and others do not.

Anita Barksdale, Esq.

Hon. Mason D. Barrett

Presenter: Tamara Martinez-Anderson, Assistant Dean for Admission, Financial Aid and Marketing, Concordia University School of Law (Boise, Idaho) __________________________________ FOCUS: LAW SCHOOL ADMISSION TEST (Panel Discussion) Addressing the Law School Admission Test (LSAT) Achievement Gap: Keys to Excellent Preparation for Earning the Scores that Law Schools Expect from Competitive Applicants Description: This panel discusses the extremely important role that the Law School Admission Test (LSAT) plays in distinguishing applicants for admission and its usefulness as a predictor of success during the first year in law school. Panelists impart critical information on how applicants can best prepare themselves to perform at their highest level on this all-important exam. Test preparation and test-taking strategies will be shared. There will also be discussion about some of the factors that lead to African Americans’ underperforming on these exams, and how future test takers can avoid making common mistakes and buying into stereotypes and misconceptions about Blacks inability to “test well” that contribute to less than stellar scores. Moderator: Jamila Patten, J.D., Associate, Jackson Walker (Houston, Texas) Panelists: Akil Bello, Co-Founder, Bell Curves (New York, New York), Honorable W.E.B. Blackmon, Attorney at Law, Dennis Spurling, P.L.L.C. (Of Counsel); Former Adjunct Instructor, USAF Judge Advocate General School (Lieutenant Colonel - Retired); Former International Election Supervisor; Retired Jurist (Houston, Texas), Edward F. Fernandes, Esq., Partner, Hunton & Williams LLP (Austin, Texas) Reginald McGahee, Esq., Assistant Dean and Dean

Akil Bello

W.E.B. Blackmon, Esq.

of Admissions, Howard University School of Law (Washington, DC); Honorable Njeri Mathis Rutledge, Associate Professor of Law, South Texas College of Law; Municipal Judge, City of Houston (Houston, Texas); Victor V. Wright, Esq., Senior Legal Counsel, TransCanada Corp. (Houston, Texas) __________________________________ (Workshop) Law School Admissions Test (LSAT) Test-Taking Strategies Session Description: During this workshop, high stakes admissions test expert, Akil Bello, breaks down what is tested on the Law School Admissions Test, how to best prepare for the exam, and key test-taking strategies for working toward earning your highest possible score. You can’t afford to miss this session! Presenter: Akil Bello, Co-Founder, Bell Curves (New York, New York) __________________________________ FOCUS: ESSAYS - PERSONAL STATEMENT AND DIVERSITY STATEMENT (Workshop) The Personal Statement and the Diversity Statement: Similarities, Differences, Tips and Techniques Description: This workshop will cover the personal statement and the diversity statement. The personal statement is a written piece that is used by law school applicants, and reviewed by law school admissions officers. Many law school admissions offices also request a diversity statement. Come hear and see what the differences are between the two documents, and learn about the role that each one plays in the law school admissions process. Also, attendees will gain some vital information about what makes a good statement, and what makes a statement dysfunctional.

(Panel Discussion) Mock Law School Admissions Committee Description: Law school admissions professionals will discuss fictitious applicants openly as if they were in an actual law school admissions committee meeting. The purpose is so that attendees BLACKPRELAW.COM/2010

Hon.Arthur Burnett, Sr. Abimbola O. “B” Bukoye, Esq. OFFICIAL SOUVENIR PROGRAM GUIDE

Collins J. Byrd Jr., MBA

Joe R. Caldwell, Esq.

Cheryl Roche Yvonne CherenaCarter, Esq. Pacheco, J.D., LL.M. NATIONAL BLACK PRE-LAW CONFERENCE | 23

Jerome CoenicTaylor, Esq.

Matthew O. Coward, Esq.

Presenters: Collins J. Byrd Jr., MBA, Assistant Dean for Admissions, The University of Iowa College of Law (Iowa City, Iowa), Sandra L. English, Esq., Assistant Director of Admission, Financial Aid and Multicultural Recruitment, Cleveland-Marshall College of Law, Cleveland State University (Cleveland, Ohio) __________________________________ FOCUS: FINANCING LEGAL EDUCATION (Panel Discussion) How to Finance a Law School Education: Insider Information on Loans, Scholarships, Fellowships, Grants, and Loan Repayment Assistance Programs (and Money Management Tips) Description: During this panel discussion, the panelists will discuss how aspiring lawyers without personal or family wealth will be able to finance an expensive professional legal education. Information will be provided about those resources available (including loans, scholarships, fellowships, grants, as well as Loan Repayment Assistance Programs) and how incoming law students can qualify for them. There will also be discussion on debt management and how one’s debt load can impact their career decisions. Moderator: BarbaraKaye Miller, Esq., Dean of Admissions, Phoenix School of Law (Phoenix, Arizona) Panelists: Sandra L. English, Esq., Assistant Director of Admission, Financial Aid and Multicultural Recruitment, Cleveland-Marshall College of Law, Cleveland State University (Cleveland, Ohio), Jennifer Sims, Esq., Assistant Dean for Admissions, Cumberland School of Law at Samford University (Birmingham, Alabama), Aaron N. Taylor, Esq., Ed.D., Associate Dean for Admissions and Scholarships, University of Arkansas at Little Rock Bowen

Sandra L. English, Esq.

Edward F. Fernandes

Angela Birch Cox, Esq.

David E. Danner, Esq.

School of Law (Little Rock, Arkansas), Lillie V. Wiley-Upshaw, Vice Dean for Admissions & Financial Aid, University at Buffalo Law School – State University of New York (Buffalo, New York) (Workshop) What You Don’t Know Can Hurt You Description: Once you know where you plan to attend law school and how much financial support you can expect to receive from the law school, you will believe your financial concerns have ended, right? What about the seat deposit and relocation costs? In this session, law school applicants will become knowledgeable about additional hidden costs that arise during the first year of law school. These matriculation, ancillary, and bar admittance costs have a negative impact on students’ ability to stretch their financial aid funds. Come and learn how to avoid these unnecessary financial pitfalls. Presenter: Veronica Wilson, Assistant Director of Development, University of California, Irvine School of Law (Irvine, California) __________________________________ FOCUS: LAW SCHOOL SELECTION/CHOICE (Panel Discussion) How to Choose the Best Law School for You Description: Choosing a law school is an important decision warranting thoughtful and serious consideration. During this session, attorneys discuss the many factors one needs to carefully consider when making a decision about what law schools to apply to and which to ultimately attend. Your law school choice will follow you throughout your career and life, therefore it is crucial that you make the right choice about the law school that is the best fit for you, and that you can be proud of having chosen to attend.

Ginna Galbraith, Esq.

24 | NATIONAL BLACK PRE-LAW CONFERENCE

DeMonica D. Gladney, Esq.

Darrell J. Davis, Esq.

Govinda Davis, J.D. Candidate

Moderator: Darrell J. Davis, J.D., Assistant Dean for Students and Multicultural Affairs, Hamline University School of Law (Saint Paul, Minnesota) Panelists: Jerome Coenic-Taylor, Esq., Attorney at Law, Protecting Legacies LLC (Chicago, Illinois) (University of Iowa College of Law), Psonya Celeste Hackett, Esq., Staff Attorney, Mississippi Supreme Court (Jackson, Mississippi) (University of Mississippi School of Law), Shirley A. Jefferson, Esq., Associate Dean for Student Affairs and Diversity, Vermont Law School (South Royalton, Vermont) (Vermont Law School), Atonya McClain, Esq., Attorney, Law Offices of Atonya McClain PLLC (Houston, Texas) (Thurgood Marshall School of Law, Texas Southern University), Travis Alexander Torrence, Esq., Senior Associate, Fulbright & Jaworski (Houston, Texas) (Yale Law School), Diana N. Walker, Esq., Senior Associate, Tax Controversy Services Group, alliantgroup lp (Houston, Texas) (University of Houston Law Center) _________________________________ FOCUS: INTRODUCTION TO THE CASE METHOD AND THE SOCRATIC METHOD OF LAW SCHOOL INSTRUCTION Mock Law School Class Description: In this session, attendees have the chance to participate in an interactive “mock” law school class taught by real law professors. Students are expected to have prepared for the class beforehand by reading the assigned case or statute. A list of participants will be provided to professors and students will be required to place name cards on their desks. Any “law student” will be subject to being cold called by the professor. During the mock classroom experience, participants will be able to experience first-hand the case method and the Socratic method of class discussion as

Tamekia Goliday, Esq.

W. Bernard Goudeau, III, Esq.

BLACKPRELAW.COM/2010

Timberly Davis, Esq.

Frederick L. Day, Esq.

a learning tool to teach students how to “think like a lawyer.” Professors: Carla Pratt, Esq., Professor of Law, Penn State The Dickinson School of Law (University Park, Pennsylvania) Assignment: Brown v. Board of Education Elbert Robertson, Esq., Professor of Law, Suffolk University School of Law (Boston, Massachusetts) Assignment: Lambertson v. The United States Patricia Wilson, Esq., Professor of Law, Baylor Law School (Waco, Texas). Assignment: Texas Deceptive Trade Practices Act All assignments are posted online at: www.BlackPreLaw.com/2010. Extra copies of assignments will be available at the Registration Center. __________________________________ FOCUS: THE LAW SCHOOL EXPERIENCE (Panel Discussion) The Challenges and Rewards of Law School, and How to Best Prepare for A Successful Law School Experience Description: In this session, panelists will discuss what it is really like to be a law student – the academic expectations and the daily grind, as well as the competing demands and opportunities outside of the classroom. They will provide strategies for achieving success in the classroom, during study, and on exams, as well as through positive involvement and leadership in co-curricular and extra-curricular activities as well. They will stress the importance of both working hard, playing hard, and having a solid support system in place in order to achieve a positive and somewhat balanced law school experience. Moderator: Darrell J. Davis, J.D., Assistant Dean for Students and Multicultural Affairs, Hamline

Donna Davis-Gregory, J.D.

Carol Y. Guess, Esq.

OFFICIAL SOUVENIR PROGRAM GUIDE

Marva Fabien

Cheryl Harris Diggs, Esq.

University School of Law (Saint Paul, Minnesota) Panelists: Kapril Saunders, Third-Year Law Student, The University of Iowa College of Law (Iowa city, Iowa); Tamecia Glover Harris, Second-Year Law Student, The University of Houston Law Center (Houston, Texas); Catina Haynes, Esq., Associate, Fulbright & Jaworski (Houston, Texas); Shirley A. Jefferson, Esq., Associate Dean for Student Affairs and Diversity, Vermont Law School (South Royalton, Vermont); Keith Lampkin, Second-Year Law Student, Thurgood Marshall School of Law, Texas Southern University (Houston, Texas); Justin E. Pruett, Second-Year Law Student, Roger Williams University School of Law (Bristol, Rhode Island) _________________________________ FOCUS: THE LAW SCHOOL PREPARATION PROGRAMS

Robert A. Elliott II, JD Candidate

Panelists: Collins J. Byrd Jr., MBA, Assistant Dean for Admissions, The University of Iowa College of Law (Iowa City, Iowa) – Philip G. Hubbard Law School Preparation Program; Yolanda Ingram, Esq., Assistant Dean for Student Affairs, University of Memphis Cecil C. Humphreys School of Law (Memphis, Tennessee) – Tennessee Institute for Pre-Law; Aaron N. Taylor, Esq., Ed.D., Associate Dean for Admissions and Scholarships, University of Arkansas at Little Rock Bowen School of Law (Little Rock, Arkansas) – Pre Law Undergraduate Scholars (PLUS) Program; Duane Tobias, Esq., Law School Academic Coordinator, Council on Legal Education Opportunity (CLEO) (Washington, DC) _________________________________ FOCUS: DIVERSITY ISSUES

(Panel Discussion) Start Out Ahead of the Game: The Benefits of Participating in Law School Preparation Programs Description: Law school learning is different from what you have experienced in previous educational experiences. By gaining a better understanding of the case method, the Socratic method, legal research and writing, how law students are evaluated, and what is expected of you as a law student before you even apply to and start law school– you will gain an edge against your classmates in the highly competitive legal educational environment. There are several law school preparation programs designed to help prepare you for the experience. Learn more about some of the existing programs and how you can apply for and take advantage of them so you can start out ahead of the game – instead of behind. Moderator: Anthony D. Pledger, J.D., Multicultural Affairs Officer, Widener University School of Law (Wilmington, Delaware)

Psonya Hackett, Esq., MBA

Angela L. Dixon, Esq.

Lewis K. Harley, Esq.

(Panel Discussion) Life as a Black Law Student: Coping with the Additional Burdens of Racism and Prejudice, and Ways to Make Positive Contributions in the Law School Environment and Legal Work Setting Description: This session discusses the importance of diversity in law schools, and the challenges that this diversity can bring. Panelists address the realities of prejudice and discrimination in a diverse law school environment, particularly issues that Black law students must face. The discussion will provide helpful suggestions to assist future law students in understanding that they can use such instances as opportunities for teaching moments and leadership in the law school community precisely due to their unique experiences and perspectives. There will also be discussion about navigating racial issues in legal work settings while still a law student. Moderator: Darrell J. Davis, Esq., Assistant Dean for Students and Multicultural Affairs, Hamline University School of Law (St. Paul, Minnesota)

Jim Harper, Esq.

Angel S. Harris, Esq.

NATIONAL BLACK PRE-LAW CONFERENCE | 25

Courteney Harris, Esq.

Tamecia Glover Harris, J.D. Candidate

Panelists: Govinda Davis, Third-Year Law Student, Seton Hall University School of Law (Newark, New Jersey); Robert Elliott II, Third-Year Law Student, Valparaiso University School of Law; National Chairperson, National Black Law Students Association, College Student Division (Valparaiso, Indiana); Bianca D. Mack, Esq., Director of Diversity Services, George Mason University School of Law (Arlington, Virginia); Anthony D. Pledger, J.D., Multicultural Affairs Officer, Widener University School of Law (Wilmington, Delaware); Justin E. Pruett, Second-Year Law Student, Roger Williams University School of Law (Bristol, Rhode Island); Marva Fabien, Esq., Director of Professional Development and Diversity, Willamette University College of Law (Salem, Oregon) __________________________________ FOCUS: RACE AND GENDER ISSUES (Panel Discussion) The Double Minority: The Additional Challenges of Being Both Black and a Woman in the Legal Profession Description: Being Black in the legal profession is not easy, but Black women have certain additional issues they must face as well in not only dealing with racial stereotypes but also gender inequalities. This panel confronts the difficulties of life as a double minority, and provides suggestions as to how to deal with those sensitive issues with dignity and grace. There will also be a brief discussion of the American Bar Association reports HYPERLINK “http://www.abanet.org/women/VisibleInvisibilityExecSummary.pdf” “Visible Invisibility: Women of Color in Law Firms,” as well as HYPERLINK “http:// www.abanet.org/women/woc/VisiblySuccessful.pdf” “From Visible Invisibility to Visibly Successful: Success Strategies for Law Firms and Women of Color in Law Firms.” Please review these reports prior to the discussion.

Ronda L. Harrison, Esq.

Michele Hayes, J.D., LL.M.

Moderator: Eartha Jean Johnson, Esq., LL.M., Founder & President, LegalWATCH (Houston, Texas) Panelists: Anita Barksdale, Esq., Associate, Fulbright & Jaworski (Houston, Texas); Timberly Davis, Esq., Attorney at Law (Houston, Texas); Tamekia Goliday, Esq., Attorney, Goliday Law Firm (Jackson, Mississippi); Psonya Celeste Hackett, Esq., Staff Attorney, Mississippi Supreme Court (Jackson, Mississippi); Irene Oritseweyinmi Joe, Esq., Assistant Special Litigation Counsel, Orleans Public Defenders (New Orleans, Louisiana) (Panel Discussion) Black Men in the Legal Profession: Getting More of Us on the Other Side of the Law Description: It is widely publicized how a substantial number (one in four by some statistics) of Black men will be negatively involved in the criminal justice system and spend some time in jail during the course of their lives. In this panel, discussants will touch on the issues that Black men face in going to college, achieving in college, and then going on to law school and practicing law. The biases and prejudices that Black men in particular experience in law school and the legal profession, as well as the great need for higher Black male representation will be addressed. Panelists will consider ways to reverse these alarming statistics and interest more Black boys and men in wanting to become lawyers and interventions available to make sure that they achieve their goals. Moderator: David E. Danner, Esq., Adjunct Professor of Business Law, College of Business, Tennessee State University; Grants and Contracts Specialist, Division of Research and Sponsored Programs, Tennessee State University; Attorney-at-Law, Law Office of David E. Danner (Nashville, Tennessee) Panelists: Honorable Arthur L. Burnett, Sr., National Executive Director, National African Ameri-

Kevin Kelley, Esq.

Keith Lampkin, J.D. Jamila Boozer Lloyd, Esq. Candidate 26 | NATIONAL BLACK PRE-LAW CONFERENCE

Bianca D. Mack, Esq.

Catina Haynes, Esq.

Charles Holmes, Esq.

Yolanda Ingram, Esq.

Sylvia James, Esq.

can Drug Policy Coalition, Inc. (Washington, DC); Honorable Oswald J. Scott, Jr., Attorney and Municipal Judge, City of Houston (Houston, Texas); Travis Alexander Torrence, Esq., Senior Associate, Fulbright & Jaworski (Houston, Texas); Marlen Whitley, Esq., Associate, Thompson & Knight LLP (Houston, Texas) _________________________________

torney at Law (Houston, Texas); Jerome CoenicTaylor, Esq., Attorney at Law, Protecting Legacies, LLC (Chicago, Illinois); Jamila S. Mensah, Esq., Associate, Hunton & Williams LLP (Houston, Texas) _________________________________

FOCUS: THE BAR EXAM (MANDATORY ATTORNEY LICENSING EXAM)

(Panel Discussion) Whose Job Is It to Get You a Job? How to Most Effectively Work With Your Law School’s Career Services Office

(Panel Discussion) African Americans and the Bar Exam: What It Tests, Where We Stand, and What It Really Takes to Pass This Necessary Hurdle to Earning Your License to Practice Law Description: Panelists will discuss exactly what the bar examination is, what it tests, and the bar preparation courses, tutors, and materials available. They also examine statistics regarding African American bar passage rates, and the real reasons why the bar exam presents such an obstacle for many African American law graduates in becoming licensed practicing attorneys. Knowledgeable attorneys provide concrete suggestions and advice on how Black law students can ensure that they prepare well, persist, and get the support they need to ensure they succeed on this critically important, high-stakes exam – the passage of which presents the final hurdle to becoming a full-fledged “attorney and counselor at law.” Moderator: Ronda L. Harrison, Esq., Attorney at Law (Houston, Texas) Panelists: Honorable Mason D. Barrett, Administrative Judge, U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission, Birmingham District Office (Birmingham, Alabama); Abimbola O. “B” Bukoye, Esq., Associate, Jackson Walker (Houston, Texas); Deshonda Charles Tackett, Esq., At-

Monica B. Mason, Atonya McClain, Esq. JD, MBA BLACKPRELAW.COM/2010

FOCUS: THE JOB SEARCH/ CAREERS

Description: Many incoming and current law students may have unrealistic expectations about finding a job and the role of the career services office at their law school. In this session, law school career services professionals will honestly discuss what the role is of the law school career services office, as well as the personal responsibilities of the law students seeking assistance with their job search. They will also provide strategies as to what law students can do to work most effectively with them. Further, they will discuss what types of things future law students can do prior to law school and once they become a law student to increase their chances of finding work opportunities as a law student, and successfully secure job offers once they graduate from law school. Moderator: Michele Hayes, J.D., LL.M., Director of Student Recruiting, University of Maryland School of Law (Baltimore, Maryland) Panelists: Donna Davis-Gregory, J.D., Assistant Dean of Career Services, Thurgood Marshall School of Law (Houston, Texas); Ginna Gilbraithe, Esq., Director of the Career Resource Center, South Texas College of Law (Houston, Texas); Nikki Wise, Esq., Associate Director and Career Counselor, University of Houston Law Center (Houston, Texas) _________________________________

Mellany L. McDonald, Reginald McGahee, Esq. CPA, Esq. OFFICIAL SOUVENIR PROGRAM GUIDE

Shirley A. Jefferson, Esq.

Irene Oritseweyinmi Joe, Esq.

(Panel Discussion) African American Lawyers: Different Career Paths and Possibilities Description: Panelists will briefly discuss their educational and career backgrounds, as well as their current positions and the work they do as lawyers. This panel is designed to expose aspiring Black lawyers to various possibilities available to those possessing a professional legal education. Additionally, tips will be given as to how to gain entry into these various jobs. Moderator: DeMonica D. Gladney, Esq., Counsel, ExxonMobil (Houston, Texas) Panelists: Honorable Arthur L. Burnett, Sr., National Executive Director, National African American Drug Policy Coalition, Inc. (Washington, DC) (Various: Judiciary, Law Professor, Non-Profit); David E. Danner, Esq., Adjunct Professor of Business Law and PreLaw Advisor, College of Business, Tennessee State University; Grants and Contracts Specialist, Division of Research and Sponsored Programs, Tennessee State University; Attorney-at-Law, Law Office of David E. Danner (Nashville, Tennessee) (Various: Higher Education, Research Administration, Solo Law Practice, and Business Entrepreneurship); Frederick Day, Esq., Corporate Associate, Skadden, Arps, Slate, Meagher & Flom LLP (Houston, Texas) (Law Firm); Angel S. Harris, Esq., Staff Attorney, Orleans Public Defenders (New Orleans, Louisiana) (Public Interest); Courteney Harris, Esq., Attorney, Aldine Independent School District (Houston, Texas) (Education Law); Jacquelyn E. Stone, Esq., Partner, McGuireWoods (Richmond, Virginia) (Law Firm Practice) _________________________________ (Panel Discussion) African American Attorneys With Their Own Law Practices: The Challenges and Rewards of Being Legal Entrepreneurs

Virgie Lemond Mouton, J.D.

Jimmi Nicholson, M.S.

Eartha Jean Johnson, Esq., LL.M.

Robert A. Jones, Esq.

Description: This panel features African American attorneys who have chosen to become selfemployed legal entrepreneurs. They discuss the reasons why they started their own practices and what they did in order to learn how to successfully manage a law firm. They share both the positives and negatives of having one’s own law office, as well as the unique challenges and concerns African American solo and small firm practitioners face. Additionally, they recommend resources and organizations to assist those who have the courage to choose this route. Moderator: Carol Y. Guess, Esq., Principal, The Guess Firm, P.L.L.C. (Houston, Texas) Panelists: Shannon B. Baldwin, Esq., Attorney at Law (Houston, Texas); Robert A. Jones, Esq., Attorney at Law, Robert A. Jones, P.C. (Houston, Texas); Kevin Kelley, Esq., Partner, Kelley Witherspoon, LLP (Dallas, Texas, Tyler, Texas and Little Rock, Arkansas); Atonya McClain, Esq., Attorney, Law Offices of Atonya McClain, PLLC (Houston, Texas). Mellany L. McDonald, CPA, Esq., Attorney at Law, Law Office of Mellany L. McDonald, PLLC (Pearland, Texas and Houston, Texas) _________________________________ (Panel Discussion) The Road to In-House: How to Become an In-House Counsel at a Corporation Description: This panel features African American counsel for major corporations. They will openly discuss what they do as in-house counsel, and the paths they took in their legal careers in order to earn their current positions. This session is a “must attend” for any aspiring law student, law student, or lawyer who is interested in what it takes in order to become a lawyer for a corporation.

Jamila Patten, J.D.

Kimberly R. Phillips, Esq.

NATIONAL BLACK PRE-LAW CONFERENCE | 27

Anthony D. Pledger, J.D.

Carla D. Pratt, Esq.

Moderator: DeMonica D. Gladney, Esq., Counsel, ExxonMobil Chemical Company (Houston, Texas) Panelists: Angela Birch Cox, Esq., Former Assistant General Counsel, Coca-Cola North America (Houston, Texas); W. Bernard Goudeau, III, Esq., Counsel, BP America Inc. (Houston, Texas); Kimberly Phillips, Esq., Senior Counsel-Litigation, Shell Oil Company (Houston, Texas); Sundria R. Ridgley, Esq., Associate General Counsel, Radio One (Cincinnati, Ohio) _________________________________ (Panel Discussion) More Than the Traditional Practice of Law: What Law Grads Have Done With Their Legal Educations Beyond the Norm Description: There are other career options available to those who hold a law degree beyond the “traditional” practice of law. During this discussion, you will meet lawyers who have successfully pursued alternative paths. They will discuss what led them to alternative careers, how their legal training has proven to be an asset, and frankly address any of the obstacles they have encountered as lawyers in pursuing non-traditional careers. Moderator: Jamila Boozer Lloyd, Esq., Attorney (Houston, Texas) Panelists: David E. Danner, Esq., Adjunct Professor of Business Law and Pre-Law Advisor, College of Business, Tennessee State University; Grants and Contracts Specialist, Division of Research and Sponsored Programs, Tennessee State University; Attorney-At-Law, Law Office of David E. Danner (Nashville, Tennessee); Angela L. Dixon, Esq., MBA, Attorney and Counselor at Law, Law Office of Angela L. Dixon, PLLC; Adjunct Professor, Houston Community College, Adjudication Hearing Officer, City of Houston (Houston, Texas); Psonya Celeste Hackett, Esq., MBA, Staff Attorney, Mississippi

Justin E. Pruett, J.D. Candidate

Raymond G. Randle, Jr., Esq.

Supreme Court; Adjunct Professor, Several Colleges and Universities (Jackson, Mississippi); Charles Holmes, Esq., Retired Professor and Director of the Reuben V. Anderson Pre-Law Program, Tougaloo College (Tougaloo, Mississippi); Eartha Jean Johnson, Esq., LL.M., Chief Executive Officer, LegalWATCH (Houston, Texas) _________________________________ FOCUS: CAREER CHOICE, LIFE/WORK BALANCE, AND CAREER ADVANCEMENT (Workshop) “Life After” Your Law Degree: Optimizing Your Career in Conjunction With Your Life, Not in Spite of It Description: This seminar is designed to provide participants with tools to evaluate, prioritize and set their life’s direction. The seminar uses a series of interactive exercises to aid in establishing realistic, achievable personal and professional goals, setting the methods for measuring goal achievement and success, and designing and implementing a workable action plan that will empower you to actualize your potential more effectively. Participants will: Learn how their skills, values, interests, and personal preferences impact professional satisfaction; Create an individual development plan; and Learn to integrate personal and professional strategies. *** PLEASE NOTE: This is a highly interactive session. You will be expected to fully participate. Please bring your laptop, or even your iPhone, iPad, or smart phone. *** Presenter: Monica B. Mason, J.D., MBA, President & CEO, O.R.I., LLC (Washington, DC) _________________________________

Consuella Simmons Duane Tobias, Esq. Nydia D. Thomas, Taylor, Esq. Esq. 28 | NATIONAL BLACK PRE-LAW CONFERENCE

Travis Alexander Torrence, Esq.

Sundria R. Ridgley, Esq.

Elbert Robertson, Esq.

FOCUS: RELEVANT ISSUES CHARACTER AND REPUTATION (Panel Discussion) An Aspiring Lawyer’s Guide to Managing Your Reputation Description: In a world of social media and the Internet, the line between public and private reputation has become blurred. How do you carefully navigate the tangled web of powerful search engines, people trackers, and databases that could reveal images, video, and commentary that might cast an unflattering light on an otherwise stellar academic record or professional resume? Each aspiring lawyer must take the essential steps to carefully manage his or her reputation. This session will explore the extensive criminal, financial, and social media background information that can be revealed (formally and informally) to law schools, prospective employers, or professional licensing entities about you with the stroke of a keyboard. This session will provide participants with an overview of the methods and available resource tools to be proactive in discovering, managing, and protecting your own information, as well as the importance of truthfully addressing background history on employment, law school and bar applications. Moderator: Nydia D. Thomas, Esq., Deputy General Counsel, Texas Juvenile Probation Commission (Austin, Texas) Panelists: Cheryl Roche Carter, Esq., Solutions Consultant, Advanced Government Solutions Group, LexisNexis (Houston, Texas); Lewis K. Harley, Esq., Senior Managing Attorney, Harley Law Firm (Houston, Texas); Eartha Jean Johnson, Esq., LL.M., Founder and President, LegalWATCH (Houston, Texas); Virgie Lemond Mouton, J.D., MS.Ed., Assistant Dean for Student Development, Texas Southern University Thurgood Marshall School of Law (Houston, Texas) _________________________________

Diana N. Walker, Ivy WashingtonEsq. Marshall, Esq. BLACKPRELAW.COM/2010

Hon. Oswald J. Scott, Jr.

Jennifer Sims, J.D.

FOCUS: LAW SCHOOL/ PROFESSIONAL DEGREE PURSUIT DECISION MAKING (Panel Discussion) Is Law School Really Worth the Investment? (Or Why Do Some People Tell You NOT to Go to Law School): Addressing the Hard Questions about Why One Should Pursue Law School, Debt Burdens, the Marketability of the Law Degree, the Employment Landscape, and Others Description: There are several articles and popular blogs that discourage potential law students from going to law school. Many give several reasons not to go to law school. The naysayers do have some valid points. In this session, attorneys will discuss some of these controversial considerations. In making such a serious commitment and life-altering decision, it is important to try to thoroughly understand and consider the reasons for and against going to law school. The goal of this session is to expose prospective law students to a variety of opinions regarding this. Ultimately, it is the responsibility of the law school applicant to do their due diligence through rigorous research, talking to various people, weighing the pros and cons, and then making an educated decision for themselves about whether law school is the right next step of them for the career paths they envision for their futures. Moderator: Ronda L. Harrison, Esq., Attorney at Law (Houston, Texas) Panelists: Honorable Arthur L. Burnett, Sr., National Executive Director, National African American Drug Policy Coalition, Inc. (Washington, DC); Matthew O. Coward, Esq., Legal Counsel, TransCanada, U.S. Pipelines (Houston, Texas); Jim Harper, Esq., Special Litigation Staff Attorney, Orleans Public Defenders (New Orleans, Louisiana); Randle G. Raymond, Jr., Esq., Associate, Andrews Kurth LLP (Houston, Texas)

Marlen Whitley, Esq.

Lillie V.Wiley-Upshaw

OFFICIAL SOUVENIR PROGRAM GUIDE

Jamila S. Mensah

Jacquelyn Stone, Esq.

(Panel Discussion) Baker Botts Presents “Three Things I Wish I Knew About Law School and the Legal Profession Before Applying to Law School” Description: Sylvia James, the Diversity Counsel for the international law firm of Baker Botts, will moderate a discussion in which each panelist will be asked to discuss the three things he/she wishes he/she had known about law school and the legal profession before applying to law school. Learn valuable insights about law school and the profession from two highly successful African-American law firm partners - Joe Caldwell, Chair of the Washington, DC office litigation department, and Connie Simmons Taylor, Deputy Chair of the Houston office Global Projects Department and the first African-American female partner in the firm’s history. Moderator: Sylvia James, Esq., Diversity Counsel, Baker Botts LLP (Washington, DC) Panelists: Joe R. Caldwell, Esq., MPA, LL.M., Partner, Chair, Litigation Department, Baker Botts LLP (Washington, DC); Consuella “Connie” Simmons Taylor, Esq., Partner, Global Projects, Baker Botts LLP (Houston, Texas) _________________________________ EARLY OUTREACH: FOR HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS ONLY! (LAW SCHOOL AND LEGAL CAREER EXPLORATION)

Deshonda Charles Tackett, Esq.

Aaron N. Taylor, Esq., Ed.D.

dates. Concrete suggestions regarding academic performance, college choice, extracurricular involvement and leadership, research opportunities, summer programs, work experiences, preparation for the LSAT, career exploration, and more will be discussed. It is very important for students to be strategic and to consider how they can make themselves the very best students and leaders well before filling out their law school applications. The advice imparted will help high schoolers learn how to stand out and shine whether or not they ultimately decide to pursue law school or another graduate/ professional program or career choice. Moderator: Angela L. Dixon, Esq., MBA, Attorney and Counselor at Law, Law Office of Angela L. Dixon, PLLC; Adjunct Professor, Houston Community College, Adjudication Hearing Officer, City of Houston (Houston, Texas) Panelists: Jerome Coenic-Taylor, Esq., Attorney at Law, Protecting Legacies, LLC (Chicago, Illinois); Catina Haynes, Esq., Associate, Fulbright & Jaworski L.L.P. (Houston, Texas); Irene Oritseweyinmi Joe, Esq., Assistant Special Litigation Counsel, Orleans Public Defenders (New Orleans, Louisiana); Jamila S. Mensah, Esq., Associate, Hunton & Williams LLP (Houston, Texas) Honorable Oswald J. Scott, Jr., Attorney, Municipal Court Judge, Author, Speaker, Life Coach, (Houston, Texas); Nydia D. Thomas, Esq., Deputy General Counsel, Texas Juvenile Probation Commission (Austin, Texas)

(Panel Discussion) Preparation for Success Starts Today!: What You Can Do Now to Prepare to Become a Highly Competitive Law School Candidate (Strategies and Advice for Success in High School and College) Description: This session provides insight on things high school students can begin doing now to prepare themselves to become competitive law school candi-

Patricia Wilson, Esq.

Veronica Wilson

Nikki Wise, Esq.

Victor V. Wright, Esq.

NATIONAL BLACK PRE-LAW CONFERENCE | 29

events

schedule

Thursday, November 11, 2010 TIME EVENT

LOCATION (Some room assignments may be subject to change)

4:00 P.M. – 8:00 P.M. Registration

University Center Underground Floor World Affairs Lounge (Room 50)

4:00 P.M. – 5:00 P.M. Welcome Reception/Meet & Greet Refreshments will be served.

University Center Underground Floor World Affairs Lounge (Room 50)

5:10 P.M. – 6:00 P.M. Pre-Conference Workshop/Power Session Brief Orientation

University Center Underground Floor Mediterranean (Room 91)

Maximizing the Conference and Law Fair Experience

Questions & Answers

For Pre-Law Students ONLY!

Honorary Chairperson, Sixth Annual National Black Pre-Law Conference and Law Fair

Featured Keynote Speaker: Conrad Johnson, Esq., Clinical Professor of Law, Columbia Law School (New York, New York)

10:00 A.M. – 11:00 A.M.

Concurrent Workshop Sessions and Panel Discussions

University Center Second Floor

(Panel Discussion) Mock Law School Admissions Committee

University Center Ground Floor Cougar Den (Room 12)

(Panel Discussion) Start Out Ahead of the Game: The Benefits of Participating in Law School Preparation Programs

University Center Second Floor Tejas (Room 238)

(Panel Discussion) Addressing the Law School Admission Test (LSAT) Achievement Gap: Keys to Excellent Preparation for Earning the Scores that Law Schools Expect from Competitive Applicant

University Center Second Floor Spindletop (Room 242)

Mock Law School Class (Wilson) 11:15 a.m. – 12:45 p.m.

University Center Underground Floor Atlantic (Room 74)

Opening Keynote Luncheon

Special Guest: Gene Locke, Esq., Partner, Andrews Kurth LLP (Houston, Texas) Featured Keynote Speaker: Karen Wishart, Esq., Executive Vice President and Chief Legal Officer, TV One (Silver Spring, Maryland)

6:10 P.M. – 7:00 P.M. Pre-Conference Workshop/Power Session You Don’t Know What You Don’t Know: Learn the Rules and Play the Game

University Center Underground Floor Mediterranean (Room 91)

7:10 P.M. – 7:50 P.M. Pre-Conference Workshop/Power Session Networking 101: Essentials to Building Strong and Lasting Relationships and a Loyal Following

University Center Underground Floor Mediterranean (Room 91)

8:00 P.M. – 8:55 P.M. Special Pre-Conference Workshop (Workshop) Getting Everyone into Law School: Advice for Students With Below Average LSAT Scores or Low GPAs

University Center Underground Floor Mediterranean (Room 91)

Friday, November 12, 2010

Hilton University of Houston Hotel and Conference Center Second Floor Shamrock Ballroom

Featured Keynote Speaker: Kent D. Lollis, Esq., Executive Director for Diversity Initiatives, Law School Admission Council (Newtown, Pennsylvania)

1:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m. LAW SCHOOL RECRUITMENT FAIR

University Center Second Floor Houston (Room 251) Governor’s Hall and Underground Floor Cougar Den (Room 12)

4:00 p.m. – 4:30 p.m. Refreshment Break

University Center Second Floor Governor’s Hall

4:30 p.m. – 5:30 p.m.

Concurrent Workshop Sessions/Panel Discussions

University Center

TIME EVENT 8:00 A.M. – 9:00 A.M. Complimentary Continental Breakfast/Icebreakers

LOCATION University Center Second Floor Governor’s Hall

8:00 A.M. – 5:00 P.M. Registration

University Center Second Floor Houston Room – Ticket Booth Governor’s Hall

(Panel Discussion) How to Finance a Law School Education: University Center Insider Information on Loans, Scholarships, Fellowships, Grants, and Second Floor Loan Repayment Assistance Programs (and Money Management Tips) Tejas (Room 238)

9:00 A.M. – 9:50 A.M. Welcoming Ceremony/Keynote Speech Welcome Remarks: Ronald Green, Esq., Controller, City of Houston (Houston, Texas);

University Center Second Floor Houston (Room 251)

(Panel Discussion) Whose Job Is It to Get You a Job? How to Most Effectively Work With Your Law School’s Career Services Office

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(Panel Discussion) Three Things I Wish I Knew About Law School and the Legal Profession Before Applying to Law School

OFFICIAL SOUVENIR PROGRAM GUIDE

University Center Ground Floor Cougar Den (Room 12)

University Center Second Floor Spindletop (Room 242)

NATIONAL BLACK PRE-LAW CONFERENCE | 31

(Workshop) LSAT Test-Taking Strategies Session Sponsored by Bell Curves

University Center Underground Floor Atlantic (Room 74)

(Panel Discussion) The Road to In-House: How to Become an In-House Counsel

University Center Second Floor Bayou City (Room 202)

5:30 p.m. – 6:00 p.m. Group Photographs Photos in front of Step and Repeat Banner

University Center Second Floor Governor’s Hall

(Panel Discussion) More Than the Traditional Practice of Law: What Law Grads Have Done With Their Legal Educations Beyond the Norm

University Center Second Floor Lone Star (Room 280)

5:45 p.m. – 6:45 p.m. Attorney-Mentor Training

University Center Second Floor Tejas (Room 238)

(Workshop) Mock Law School Class (Robertson)

University Center Second Floor Bluebonnet (Room 250)

6:30 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. Networking Social/Mentorship Mixer Refreshments will be served.

University Center Second Floor Houston (Room 251)

12:45 p.m. – 2:00 p.m. Keynote Luncheon Special Guest: Harrison Gregg, Jr., Esq., President, Houston Lawyers Association (Houston, Texas)

University Center Second Floor Houston (Room 251)

Saturday, November 13, 2010 TIME EVENT 8:00 A.M. – 9:00 A.M. Complimentary Continental Breakfast/Icebreakers 8:00 A.M. – 5:00 P.M. Registration 9:00 A.M. – 10:00 A.M. Opening Keynote Speech Special Guest: Daniella D. Landers, Esq., Chairperson, Racial Diversity in the Profession Committee, State Bar of Texas (Houston, Texas)

LOCATION University Center Second Floor Governor’s Hall University Center Second Floor Houston Room – Ticket Booth Governor’s Hall University Center Second Floor Houston (Room 251)

Featured Keynote Speaker: Adrien Katherine Wing, Esq., Professor of Law, University of Iowa College of Law (Iowa City, Iowa)

10:15 A.M. – 11:15 A.M.

Concurrent Workshop Sessions and Panel Discussions

University Center

(Workshop) The Personal Statement and the Diversity Statement: Similarities, Differences, Tips and Techniques

University Center Second Floor Houston (Room 251)

(Workshop) Financial Literacy

University Center Second Floor Bayou City (Room 202)

(Panel Discussion) The Aspiring Lawyers Guide to Managing Your Reputation (Panel Discussion) Black Men in the Legal Profession: Getting More of Us on the Other Side of the Law

University Center Second Floor Lone Star (Room 280) University Center Second Floor Bluebonnet (Room 250)

(Panel Discussion) How to Choose the Best Law School for You 11:30 a.m. – 12:30 a.m.

Concurrent Workshop Sessions and Panel Discussions

(Panel Discussion) How the Admissions Process Works and How to Make Yourself a Competitive Applicant

32 | NATIONAL BLACK PRE-LAW CONFERENCE

Special Guest: Angela Birch Cox, Esq., Chair, Board of Directors, Council on Legal Education Opportunity (CLEO) (Houston, Texas)

Featured Keynote Speaker: Dennis Shields, J.D., Chancellor, University of Wisconsin Platteville (Platteville, Wisconsin)

1:30 p.m. – 5:30 p.m. Signature Event: Law School Admission and Preparation Advice Help Clinic™

University Center Underground Floor World Affairs Lounge (Room 50)

1:30 p.m. – 5:30 p.m. Signature Event: Personal Statement, Diversity Statement, Resume, and Addendum Practical Assistance Session

University Center Underground Floor Mediterranean (Room 91)

2:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m. LSAT Test-Taking Strategies and Diagnostic Mock LSAT Exam Sponsored by Princeton Review

University Center Second Floor Pacific (Room 90)

2:15 p.m. – 3:15 p.m.

University Center

Concurrent Workshop Sessions/Panel Discussions

(Panel Discussion) African American Lawyers: Different Career Paths and Possibilities

University Center Second Floor Houston (Room 251)

University Center Second Floor Bayou City (Room 202)

(Panel Discussion) African Americans and the Bar Exam: What It Tests, Where We Stand, and What It Really Takes to Pass This Necessary Hurdle to Earning Your License to Practice Law

(Panel Discussion) The Double Minority: The Additional Challenges of Being Both Black and a Woman in the Legal Profession

University Center Second Floor Lone Star (Room 280)

University Center Underground Level Mediterranean (Room 91)

(Panel Discussion) The Challenges and Rewards of Law School, and How to Best Prepare for A Successful Law School Experience

University Center Second Floor Bluebonnet (Room 250)

University Center

Mock Law School Class (Pratt)

University Center Second Floor Atlantic (Room 74)

University Center Second Floor Houston (Room 251)

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3:30 p.m. – 4:30 p.m.

Concurrent Workshop Sessions/Panel Discussions

University Center

(Workshop) “Life After” Your Law Degree: Optimizing Your Career in Conjunction with Your Life, not in Spite of It

University Center Second Floor Houston (Room 251)

University Center Second Floor Bayou City (Room 202)

(Panel Discussion) Is Law School Really Worth the Investment? (Or Why Do Some People Tell You NOT to Go to Law School): Addressing the Hard Questions about Why One Should Pursue Law School, Debt Burdens, the Marketability of the Law Degree, the Employment Landscape, and Others

University Center Second Floor Lone Star (Room 280)

(Panel Discussion) African American Attorneys With Their Own Law Practices: The Challenges and Rewards of Being a Legal Entrepreneur

University Center Second Floor Bluebonnet (Room 250)

University Center Second Floor Atlantic (Room 74)

4:30 p.m. – 5:00 p.m. Refreshment Break

University Center Second Floor Governor’s Hall

6:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. Closing Networking Social/Mentorship Mixer Refreshments will be served.

University Center Underground Level World Affairs Lounge (Room 50)

Sunday, November 14, 2010 TIME EVENT 8:30 a.m. – 9:00 a.m. Complimentary Continental Breakfast

LOCATION University Center Second Floor Governor’s Hall

9:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. Mock Diagnostic LSAT Exam Sponsored by Princeton Review

University Center Second Floor Bluebonnet (Room 250) and Bayou City (Room 202)

The National Black Pre-Law Network:

Information, Resources, and Support for Aspiring Black Lawyers

Below is a listing of the Participating Law Schools for this year’s

2010 Law School Recruitment Fair: Albany Law School Baylor Law School Boston University School of Law California Western School of Law Campbell University Norman Adrian Wiggins School of Law Cardozo School of Law Yeshiva University Case Western Reserve University School of Law The Catholic University of America Columbus School of Law Chapman University School of Law Charlotte School of Law Chicago Kent College of Law, Illinois Institute of Technology City University of New York (CUNY) School of Law Cleveland-Marshall College of Law, Cleveland State University Concord Law School, Kaplan University Creighton University School of Law Cumberland School of Law, Samford University DePaul University College of Law Emory University School of Law Florida A&M University College of Law Florida Coastal School of Law Florida International University College of Law George Mason University School of Law Gonzaga University School of Law Hamline University School of Law Howard University School of Law Indiana University School of Law - Indianapolis Lewis & Clark Law School Louisiana State University Paul M. Hebert Law Center Mercer University School of Law Mississippi College School of Law Moritz College of Law, The Ohio State University New England Law l Boston New York Law School North Carolina Central University School of Law

Thanks! Law School Recruitment Fair University of Houston University Center | Houston Room, Governor’s Hall & Cougar Den 1:00 P.M. - 4:00 P.M.

Meet with representatives from nearly 100 law schools from all over the country!

National Black Pre-Law Network P.O. Box 631234 | Houston, Texas 77263 blackprelawnetwork@gmail.com

Northeastern University School of Law Penn State University The Dickinson School of Law Phoenix School of Law Regent University School of Law Roger Williams University School of Law Saint Louis University School of Law Salmon P. Chase College of Law, Northern Kentucky University Seton Hall University School of Law South Texas College of Law Southern University Law Center Southern Illinois University School of Law Southern Methodist University Dedman School of Law Southwestern Law School - Los Angeles St. Mary’s University School of Law St. Thomas University School of Law (Miami Gardens, Florida) Stetson University College of Law Suffolk University School of Law Temple University Beasley School of Law Texas Tech University School of Law Thomas Jefferson School of Law Touro Law Center Tulane University Law School University of Akron School of Law University of Alabama School of Law University of Arkansas at Little Rock William H. Bowen School of Law University of Baltimore School of Law University of California - Berkeley Boalt Hall School of Law University of California, Hastings College of the Law University of Colorado Law School University of Detroit Mercy School of Law University of Houston Law Center University of Idaho College of Law University of Illinois College of Law (Urbana-Champaign) University of Iowa College of Law University of Louisville Louis D. Brandeis School of Law University of Maryland School of Law University of Memphis School of Law University of Michigan Law School University of Mississippi School of Law University of North Carolina School of Law at Chapel Hill University of Notre Dame Law School University of Oklahoma College of Law University of the Pacific McGeorge School of Law University of San Francisco School of Law University of St. Thomas School of Law (Minneapolis, Minnesota) University of Washington School of Law University of Wyoming College of Law Valparaiso University School of Law Vanderbilt University Law School Vermont Law School Villanova University School of Law Washburn University School of Law Western State University College of Law Whittier Law School Widener University School of Law Willamette University College of Law

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BLACKPRELAW.COM/2010

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ABU DAHBI AUSTIN BEIJING DALLAS DUBAI HONG KONG HOUSTON LONDON MOSCOW NEW YORK

The Depth Of Our Experience

SPEAKS VOLUMES. Each year, our firm grows stronger with the experience of an increasingly diverse team. We firmly believe that diversity among our lawyers and staff results in great service to our clients and we promote diversity through recruitment, retention and employee development programs. We have an unwavering commitment to diversity, and our efforts have not gone unnoticed. For four consecutive years, Multicultural Law magazine has recognized us as one of the

PALO ALTO

“Top 100 Law Firms for Diversity,” and in 2006, 2008 and 2009 it named us one of the “Top 25 Law Firms for Hispanic

RIYADH

Americans.” Additionally, in 2009 and 2010, we received a perfect score of 100 percent on the Human Rights Cam-

WASHINGTON

paign's Corporate Equality Index as one of the “Best Places to Work for LGBT persons.” Baker Botts is proud to sponsor the National Black Pre-Law Conference.

For more details, visit www.bakerbotts.com DEEPER UNDERSTANDING. BETTER SOLUTIONS.