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8th ANNUAL NATIONAL
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Conference and Law Fair 2012 POST-CONFERENCE IMPACT REPORT The Westin Galleria Houston, Texas
Friday, November 2, 2012 and Saturday, November 3, 2012
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TABLE OF CONTENTS Letter from Conference Founder & Executive Director........................................................................................................................................................ 3 About The National Black Pre-Law Conference and Law Fair ........................................................................................................................................... 4 Quick Facts ................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................ 5 2012 Pre-Law Registrant Demographic Information ........................................................................................................................................................... 6 The 2012 Conference Weekend ....................................................................................................................................................................................................... 8 • Friday Opening Keynote Session ..................................................................................................................................................................................... 8 • Saturday Opening Keynote Session ............................................................................................................................................................................... 9 • Workshop Sessions and Panel Discussions ...............................................................................................................................................................10 • Mock Law School Classes....................................................................................................................................................................................................13 • Law School Recruitment Fair............................................................................................................................................................................................14 • Attorney Continuing Legal Education (CLE) Courses............................................................................................................................................16 • Networking and Making Connections Meet & Greet Social Mixer ................................................................................................................17 • LSAT Preparation and Test-Taking Strategies Session ........................................................................................................................................19 • Diagnostic Mock LSAT Administration .......................................................................................................................................................................19 • Law School Admissions & Preparation Help Advice Clinic™ and The Personal Statement, Diversity Statement, Resume and Addendum Practical Assistance Session™ .....................................................................................................................................20 • The Legacy Builders Awards Ceremony and Aspiring Lawyers Pinning Ceremony ..............................................................................22 Conference Alumni Testimonials ..................................................................................................................................................................................................31 2012 Attendee Testimonials ...........................................................................................................................................................................................................32 2012 Featured Panelists and Presenters ..................................................................................................................................................................................37 2012 Partners .........................................................................................................................................................................................................................................42 2012 Sponsors .......................................................................................................................................................................................................................................43
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Letter from Conference Founder & Executive Director Evangeline M. Mitchell, Esq., Ed.M. Dear Sponsors and Partners:
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hank you so much for your wonderful support of our 8th Annual National Black Pre-Law Conference and Law Fair 2012. This past year’s event took a lot of hard work and dedication, but I am proud to say that it was a great success. I am extremely grateful for your demonstrated commitment to this effort to increase African American representation and diversity in law schools and in the legal profession. This conference truly matters because we are empowering aspiring law students with the information, resources and contacts they need in order to gain the confidence required to pursue this challenging path. We are equipping them with the tools necessary to be successful. With your help, we have maintained our standing as the nation’s premier information-sharing and networking empowerment event for Black pre-law students. In this special impact report, we have detailed the facts along with actual pictures to show you what was accomplished during our 2012 conference weekend. We were excited to have an estimated total attendance of 429 people throughout the two days of the conference. I hope that you will be impressed and choose to support us again for our upcoming 9th Annual National Black Pre-Law Conference and Law Fair 2013, which is set to take place on Friday, November 15, 2013 and Saturday, November 16, 2013 at the beautiful Westin Houston, Memorial City. Please plan to join us for another powerful and awe-inspiring event for a greatly needed and important cause. Although we know that the attendees gained so much during our power-packed conference weekend, I truly believe that the impact that was made from all that we poured into them will stay with them for a lifetime. We hope that many of them will stay the course and will have walked away inspired to do whatever it takes to achieve success despite the obstacles and difficulties they will surely face in striving to excel in any worthwhile endeavor. We also hope that we drove home the importance of their responsibility to pay it forward to assist others along the way and to advance the cause of expanding the pipeline and championing diversity throughout their own educational and career journeys. Thanks again! I sincerely look forward to connecting with you soon! Please don’t hesitate to reach out to me by phone or e-mail should you have any questions or concerns about the event. I am available and eager to communicate with you so we can continue to work together to change things for the better. Best and sincere regards,
Evangeline M. Mitchell, Esq., Ed.M. Founder & Executive Director National Black Pre-Law Conference and Law Fair
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ABOUT THE NATIONAL BLACK PRE-LAW CONFERENCE AND LAW FAIR
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t will also enable participants the opportunity to speak faceto-face with law school representatives sincerely interested in reaching out to prospective Black applicants.
The mission of The National Black Pre-Law Conference and Law Fair is to provide a comprehensive, high-quality, world-class national event, free to registrants, designed specifically for aspiring Black lawyers for the purpose of providing them with access to empowering information, resources, and contacts that will assist them in becoming more strategic and competitive college students, law school applicants and law students.
Just as importantly, we have found that many very talented and capable potential law school candidates lack confidence that they can become attorneys and are in dire need of positive role models that look like them and come from similar backgrounds and circumstances. Past participants have cited that finding people with
similar cultural backgrounds and stories who have achieved their goals of becoming lawyers has helped them a great deal in believing that they should move forward in pursuing this challenging path.
The bottom line: We genuinely want to help them prior to beginning their law school careers so they can have the critical “insider” information and encouragement they need to help them to better understand what it takes to be successful in their quest to become lawyers.
The National Black Pre-Law Conference and Law Fair offers the following opportunities to participants: • Keynote and special guest speakers • Numerous workshops and panel discussions • Power sessions on networking, relationship building and mentorship, character and reputation, and professional business image and etiquette • Special forums/town hall meetings • Introduction to the Socratic method and case method • Mock law school classes • Law School Recruitment Fair
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• • • • •
Networking/Making Connections socials LSAT preparation and test-taking strategies sessions Diagnostic Mock LSAT administrations Law School Admissions & Preparation Help Advice Clinic™ Personal Statement, Diversity Statement, Resume, and Addendum Practical Assistance Sessions™ • Certificate of Participation • Aspiring Lawyers Pinning Ceremony
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QUICK FACTS During the past eight (8) years, the Conference has: • Registered over 2,200 pre-law students representing 36 states, 1 U.S. territory (U.S. Virgin Islands), 1 foreign country (Canada). • Registrants represented over 284 colleges and universities. • Attracted 180 ABA-approved law schools, the majority of U.S. law schools. (There are 202 ABA-approved law schools.) • Hosted over 215 mock law school classes, clinics, workshops, panels, and other sessions. • Featured 32 keynote speakers, 35 special guest speakers, and 360 community leaders, law students, lawyers, law school administrators, test preparation experts, and judges who have served as featured panelists, moderators, and workshop presenters. • Earned the support of over 59 local, state and national elected officials, and key leaders of influential bar associations. The National Black Pre-Law Conference and Law Fair targets African Americans/ Blacks. However, we do not discriminate. We understand and greatly value all diversity (racial, ethnic, nationality, gender, sexual orientation, socioeconomic, religious and disability). We genuinely welcome anyone to our event interested in law school regardless of racial or ethnic classification. www.blackprelawconference.com |
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2012 REGISTRANT DEMOGRAPHIC INFORMATION
Cities Represented: 87
Pre-Law Registrants: 279
Cities Represented (In alphabetical order): Addison, Allen, Arlington, Atlanta, Austin, Baltimore, Baton Rouge, Beaumont, Bethesda, Birmingham, Boston, Brooklyn, Cedar Hill, Chicago, Cleveland, Columbus, Conroe, Cypress, Dallas, Denton, Desoto, Duncanville, Durham, Fort Worth, Freeport, Fresno, Frisco, Galveston, Garland, Gettysburg, Grand Prairie, Harker Heights, Hattiesburg, Hempstead, Houston, Humble, Huntsville, Jamaica Plain, Jasper, Kansas City, Katy, Killeen, Langston, Laurel, Lewisville, Los Angeles, Mansfield, Manvel, Memphis, Missouri City, Morrow, Moss Point, Mt. Ranier, Nacogdoches, New Orleans, New York, Normal, North Highlands, North Little Rock, Northville, Omaha, Orlando, Paterson, Pearland, Philadelphia, Pittsburgh, Plano, Portsmouth, Prairie View, Princess Anne, Richmond, Ridgeland, Riverview, Sacramento, San Antonio, Shelbyville, Social Circle, Southfield, Spring, Springfield, Stafford, Tampa, Upper Marlboro, Waxhaw, Youngstown
Gender Mix:
Female - 70% Male - 30%
States Represented:
22 and the District of Columbia Alabama Arkansas California Florida Georgia Illinois Louisiana Maryland Massachusetts Michigan Mississippi Missouri
Nebraska New Jersey New York North Carolina Ohio Oklahoma Pennsylvania Tennessee Texas Virginia and the District of Columbia.
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Age Mix:
Under 25 - 55.6% 25-34 – 26.7% 35-44 – 10.7%
45-54 – 8.8% 55-64 – 0.9% 65 and Above - 0.4%
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Colleges and Universities Represented: 86 Adelphi University
Langston University
Temple University
Alabama A&M University
Lemoyne-Owen College
Tennessee State University
Argosy University
Loughborough University (England)
Texas A&M University
Ball State University
Louisiana Tech University
Texas Christian University
Belhaven University
Loyola Marymount University
Texas Southern University
Bentley University
Midwestern State University
Texas State University
Bloomfield College
Mills College
Texas Wesleyan University
Bowling Green State University
Morehouse College
Troy State University Montgomery
California State University San Bernardino
Morgan State University
University of Arkansas at Little Rock
Carnegie Mellon University
Mount Ida College
University of the District of Columbia
Cleveland State University
Norfolk State University
University of Houston
Columbia University
North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University
University of Houston – Downtown
North Carolina Central University
University of Michigan-Ann Arbor
Cornell College Dallas Baptist University DeVry University East Texas Baptist University Eastern Illinois University Fontbonne University Fort Valley State University Georgetown University Georgia State University Grambling State University Harvard College Houston Community College Houston Baptist University Howard University Huston-Tillotson University Illinois State University Lamar University
Northwestern State University Oakland Community College
University of Maryland, College Park University of Missouri
Old Dominion University
University of Nebraska University of New Orleans
Our Lady of the Lake University
University of North Texas
Paul Quinn College
University of Oklahoma
Penn State University
University of Phoenix
Pittsburgh State University
University of Pittsburgh
Prairie View A&M University
University of San Francisco
Saint Joseph’s University
University of South Florida
Sam Houston State University
University of Southern Mississippi
Southern Methodist University
University of Southwestern Louisiana
Southern University at New Orleans
University of Texas at Arlington
Spelman College
University of Texas at Austin
St. Edwards University
University of Texas at Dallas
Stephen F. Austin State University
Valencia College
Suffolk University
Youngstown State University www.blackprelawconference.com |
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THE 2012 CONFERENCE WEEKEND Our 8th annual event featured two keynote sessions, one on the morning of Friday, November 2, 2012 and another on the morning of Saturday, November 3, 2012. They shared their own journeys of pursuing a legal education and their career paths, as well as advice that they felt would inspire and serve aspiring Black lawyers.
Friday Opening Keynote Session
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n Friday, November 2, 2012, our featured keynote speakers were Carla D. Pratt, Esq., Associate Dean of Academic Affairs and Professor of Law at Pennsylvania State University The Dickinson School of Law in University Park, Pennsylvania and Sherry D. Williams, Esq., Senior Vice president and Chief Ethics and Compliance Officer at Halliburton in Houston, Texas.
Special guest speakers during this session included C.E. Rhodes, Esq., President of the Texas Young Lawyers Association and U.S. Operations and Compliance Counsel to Baker Hughes Incorporated, Deshonda Charles Tackett, Esq., President of the Houston Lawyers Association and Owner of the Tackett Firm PLLC, and Ronald C. Green, Esq., MBA, Controller of the City of Houston.
Photos: Ronald C. Green, Esq., MBA (Top Left) Carla D. Pratt, Esq. (Top Right) Sherry D. Williams, Esq. (Bottom Left) C.E. Rhodes, Esq. (Bottom Middle) Deshonda Charles Tackett, Esq. (Bottom Right)
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Saturday Opening Keynote Session
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n Saturday, November 3, 2012, our featured keynote speakers were Brian Nelson, Esq., Special Assistant Attorney General, California Department of Justice in San Francisco, California, and Leonard Baynes, Esq., MBA, Professor of Law and Director of the Ronald H. Brown Center for Civil Rights and Economic Development at St. John’s University School of Law in Queens, New York.
Special guest speakers included Stanley Settle II, J.D. Candidate, National Director of the Pre-Law Division of the National Black Law Students Association and Third-Year Law Student at Southern University Law Center, Bryan D. Snoddy, Esq., Chair of the African American Section of the State Bar of Texas and Assistant Attorney General of the State of Texas, and Tiffany D. Thomas, Policies and Procedures Chair of the National Urban League Young Professionals (standing in for Brandi Richard, President of the National Urban League Young Professionals).
Photos: Bryan D. Snoddy, Esq. (Top Left) Brian Nelson, Esq. (Top Right) Stanley Settle II (Bottom Left) Leonard M. Baynes, Esq., MBA (Bottom Middle) Tiffany D. Thomas (Bottom Right)
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WORKSHOP SESSIONS AND PANEL DISCUSSIONS Fourteen (14) workshops and panel discussions were offered. They covered everything someone considering law school would need to know, including: law school admission, personal statements and diversity statements, financial aid and the impact of student loan debt, law school selection, the law school value proposition, law school preparation, the law school experience, the bar exam, career choice, life as a lawyer, and non-traditional career options. Featured Workshops and Panels Included: Focus: The Law School Admissions Process Mock Law School Admissions Committee Focus: Competitiveness and Strategy Models of Success: What It Took to Earn Acceptances into the Most Selective Law Schools in America Focus: The Law School Admission Test (LSAT) African Americans and the LSAT: The Truth About What It Takes to Conquer This All-Important, High-Stakes Entrance Exam Focus: Essays: Personal Statements and Diversity Statements The Personal Statement and the Diversity Statement: Similarities, Differences, Tips and Techniques Focus: Financing a Legal Education How to Pay for a Law School Education and Manage Student Loan Debt Focus: Law School Selection Where You Choose to Go to Law School Matters: How to Select the Best Law School for You Focus: The Law School Experience The Challenges and Rewards of Law School, and How to Best Prepare for a Successful All-Around Law School Experience 10 | www.blackprelawconference.com
Focus: Diversity Issues in Law School Life as a Black Law Student: Coping with the Additional Burdens of Racism and Prejudice, and Concrete Ways to Make Positive Contributions in the Law School Environment and Legal Work Setting Focus: The Bar Exam 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 Focus: The Job Search and Career Advancement Law Firms May Be Committed to Diversity and Inclusion, But Why Is That Advantageous to Pre-Law Students? Presented by The Association of Law Firm Diversity Professionals (ALFDP) Focus: Career Options African American Lawyers: Different Career Paths and Possibilities Beyond the Practice of Law: Alternative and Non-Traditional Career Choices Law Grads Can Pursue Focus: Law School Pursuit/Value of the Law Degree The Law School Value Proposition: Is Law School Really Worth the Investment?
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African American Lawyers Panel (Left to Right) Felix Chevalier, Esq., Lynn Pride Richardson, Esq., Karen Wishart, Esq., and Moderator Raymond Randle, Esq.
Alternative and Non-Traditional Career Choices Panel (Left to Right) Angela Birch Cox, Esq., Allison Odom-Bashir, Esq., Angela Dixon, Esq. (Moderator, Middle), Virginia Essandoh, Esq. and Arthur Bryan, II, Esq.
Bar Exam Panel (Left to Right) Danny Norris, Esq., Lewis Harley, Esq., Ronda Harrison, Esq. (moderator), and Audrey Moorehead, Esq.
The Challenges and Rewards of Law School Panel (Left to Right) LaToya Burrell, Esq., Kendra Brown, Esq., LaKeisha M. Forte, Esq., Njeri Mathis Rutledge, Esq., Cassandra L. Hill, Esq., and Chukwudi Egbuonu, Esq.
Choosing a Law School Panel (Left to Right) Robin Ingli, MAM, Carlton Mark Waterhouse, Esq., M.T.S., Ph.D., Gabriel Jones, Esq., Rashida A. Maples, Esq., MBA, Angel S. Harris, Esq., Tiffany Bingham Briscoe, Esq., and Chibundu Nnake, J.D.
Law Firm Diversity Panel (Left to Right) Keith Earley, Esq., Virginia G. Essandoh, Esq., Marredia Rogers, MPA, Sylvia James, Esq., and Joe Caldwell, Esq.
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Law School Value Proposition (Left to Right) Bianca D. Mack, Esq., Irene O. Joe, Esq., Troy A. Riddle, Esq., MBA, and Aaron N. Taylor, Esq., Ed.D. and Ronda Harrison (Moderator, Not Pictured)
Mock Law School Admissions Panel (Left to Right) Michele Hayes, Esq., LL.M., Chloe Reid, Esq., Aaron N. Taylor, Esq., Ed.D., Collins Byrd, MBA (Moderator), Yvonne Cherena-Pacheco, Esq., LL.M. and Duane Tobias, Esq.
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African Americans and the Law School Admission Test Panel (Left to Right) Reginald McGahee, Esq., Akil Bello, Kent Lollis, Esq., Carlton Mark Waterhouse, Esq., M.T.S., Ph.D.
Models of Success Panel (Left to Right) Brian Nelson, Esq., Anita Barksdale, Esq., Kourtney James Perry, Esq. (Not Pictured.) Michael T. Murphy, Esq. and Reginald McGahee (Moderator)
Dean Collins Byrd leading the Personal Statement and Diversity Statement Workshop
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MOCK LAW SCHOOL CLASSES
wo mock law school classes were conducted on Saturday, November 3, 2012. The first mock law school class taught by Professor Carlton Mark Waterhouse, Esq., M.T.S., Ph.D., Associate Professor of Law and
Dean’s Fellow at Indiana University’s Robert H. McKinney School of Law. It was held from 1:15 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. in the Imperial Suite on the 24th Floor of The Westin Galleria.
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he second mock class was taught by Professor Artika R. Tyner, Esq., MPP, Ed.D., Director of Diversity and Clinical Faculty Member at the University of St. Thomas School of Law. Her class entitled “Writing As Advocacy: Using Your Legal Skills to Create Transformation” was held from 3:50 p.m. to 4:50 p.m. in the Kirby Room on the Fourth Floor of The Westin Galleria. In her class, students studied real-life fact scenarios and drafted related advocacy letters. www.blackprelawconference.com |
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LAW SCHOOL RECRUITMENT FAIR On Friday, November 2, 2012, we held our annual Law School Recruitment Fair from 1:30 p.m. until 5:30 p.m. in Woodway II & III Ballrooms in The Westin Galleria Houston. 100 law schools from all tier levels from all across the nation participated in the fair to share information about admission to our conference attendees. The Law School Admission Council (LSAC) also participated. The following law schools participated in the Law School Recruitment Fair: yy Albany Law School yy Atlanta’s John Marshall Law School yy Baylor University School of Law yy Benjamin N. Cardozo School of Law Yeshiva University yy California Western School of Law yy Case Western Reserve University School of Law yy Charleston School of Law yy Charlotte School of Law yy Chicago-Kent College of Law Illinois Institute of Technology yy Columbia Law School yy DePaul University School of Law yy Drake University Law School yy Drexel University Earle Mack School of Law yy Florida Coastal School of Law yy Florida International University College of Law yy Fordham University School of Law yy George Mason University School of Law yy Golden Gate University School of Law yy Gonzaga University School of Law yy Hamline University School of Law yy Harvard Law School
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yy Howard University School of Law yy Indiana University Robert H. McKinney School of Law yy The John Marshall Law School (Chicago, Illinois) yy Lincoln Memorial University Duncan School of Law yy Loyola Law School of Los Angeles yy Loyola University New Orleans College of Law yy Marquette University Law School yy Massachusetts School of Law at Andover yy Mercer University School of Law yy Mississippi College School of Law yy New England Law | Boston yy New York Law School yy Northeastern University School of Law yy Northern Kentucky University Salmon P. Chase College of Law yy Notre Dame Law School yy Ohio Northern University Claude W. Pettit College of Law yy Oklahoma City University School of Law yy Pennsylvania State University The Dickinson School of Law yy Phoenix School of Law yy Regent University School of Law yy Roger Williams University School of Law yy Saint Louis University School of Law yy Santa Clara University School of Law
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yy Seattle University School of Law yy Seton Hall University School of Law yy Southern Methodist University Dedman School of Law yy Southern University Law Center yy South Texas College of Law yy Southwestern Law School yy St. John’s University School of Law yy St. Mary’s University School of Law yy St. Thomas University School of Law (Miami Gardens, Florida) yy Stanford Law School yy Stetson University College of Law yy SUNY Buffalo Law School yy Temple University Beasley School of Law yy Texas Southern University Thurgood Marshall School of Law yy Texas Tech University School of Law yy Texas Wesleyan University School of Law yy Thomas Jefferson School of Law yy Touro College Jacob D. Fuchsberg Law Center
yy Tulane University Law School yy University of Alabama School of Law yy University of California Irvine School of Law yy University of California at Los Angeles School of Law yy University of Colorado School of Law yy University of Denver Sturm College of Law yy University of the District of Columbia David A. Clarke School of Law yy University of Florida Levin College of Law yy University of Houston Law Center yy University of Idaho College of Law yy University of Iowa College of Law yy University of Kansas School of Law yy University of Maryland School of Law yy Michigan Law School yy University of Minnesota Law School yy University of Mississippi School of Law yy University of Missouri School of Law yy University of Nebraska College of Law yy University of New Hampshire School of Law yy University of Oregon School of Law
yy University of the Pacific McGeorge School of Law yy University of San Diego School of Law yy University of San Francisco School of Law yy University of Southern California Gould School of Law yy University of St. Thomas School of Law (Minneapolis, Minnesota) yy University of Texas School of Law yy University of Washington School of Law yy University of Wisconsin Law School yy Valparaiso University School of Law yy Vanderbilt Law School yy Vermont Law School yy Wasburn University School of Law yy Washington and Lee University School of Law yy Whittier Law School yy Widener University School of Law yy Willamette University College of Law yy William Mitchell College of Law yy William S. Boyd School of Law at University of Nevada Las Vegas
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ATTORNEY CONTINUING LEGAL EDUCATION (CLE) COURSES
On Friday, November 2, 2012, two Continuing Legal Education (CLE) courses were presented by the Houston Lawyers Association from 5:30 p.m. until 7:30 p.m. in the Kirby Room on the 4th Floor of The Westin Galleria. “How to Get the Most Out of Free Online Legal Research, CaseMaker and More” was presented by Danny Norris, Esq., Principal Partner of Norris & Norris, L.L.P. “An Update in Sports Law 2012” was presented by Walter T. Champion, Jr., The George Foreman Professor of Sports and Entertainment Law, Texas Southern University Thurgood Marshall School of Law. The intention of conducting the CLEs was to offer the incentive of free CLE credits and attract attorneys who need them and to encourage those participating attorneys to stay after for our free networking social so they could connect with pre-law student attendees.
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Walter T. Champion, Jr., Esq.
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NETWORKING AND MAKING CONNECTIONS MEET & GREET SOCIAL MIXER On Friday, November 2, 2012 from 7:30 p.m. until 9:30 p.m., we hosted a Networking and Making Connections Meet & Greet Social Mixer. This event took place at Tango Malbec, an upscale Argentinian restaurant located across the street from The Westin Galleria. Our gathering took place in the Montevideo Room. Attendees were provided with complimentary hor d’oeuvres and offered $5 drink specials throughout the evening. Approximately 60 people participated in this social event.
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LSAT PREPARATION AND TEST-TAKING STRATEGIES SESSION The LSAT Test-Taking Strategies Session took place on Saturday, November 3, 2012 from 6:10 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. in the Chevy Chase Room on the 3rd Floor of The Westin Galleria Houston. It was designed to help pre-law students learn how to conquer the LSAT. Through using sample questions from the LSAT diagnostic
exam, Akil Bello, President and CEO of Bell Curves, LLC, an experienced LSAT preparation expert, broke down the nuances of the exam. He helped participants gain a better understanding of the exam, learn test-taking strategies, and put together a plan for preparation.
Approximately 20 pre-law students took part in this session.
DIAGNOSTIC MOCK LSAT ADMINISTRATION A diagnostic mock LSAT was administered on Saturday, November 3, 2012 from 1:15 p.m. until 4:15 p.m. by Bell Curves, LLC. Approximately 12 students participated.
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LAW SCHOOL ADMISSIONS & PREPARATION HELP ADVICE CLINIC™ AND THE PERSONAL STATEMENT, DIVERSITY STATEMENT, RESUME, AND ADDENDUM PRACTICAL ASSISTANCE SESSIONS™
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he Law School Admission and Preparation Advice Help Clinic was held on Friday, November 2, 2012 starting at 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. in Woodway I on the 4th Floor of The Westin Galleria. The clinic offered attendees an opportunity to receive one-on-one assistance where they could get specific questions about law school admission and preparation answered. We had law students, law graduates, attorneys, and law school administrators available to assist all students seeking guidance.
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The Personal Statement, Diversity Statement, Resume and Addenda Practical Assistance was held during the same time block and in the same location. Any students seeking advice on their admissions materials were able to ask for informed opinions about those things they were most concerned about. An eager group of students waited in a long line for the chance to take part in this event.
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Volunteer advisors included the following law students: Zoe Cadore (First-Year Law Student, University of Houston Law Center), Cedrick D. Forrest (First-Year Law Student, University of Houston Law Center), Stewanna Miskell (Second-Year Law Student, University of Houston Law Center), Josephine Sorgwe (Second-Year Law Student, University of Houston Law Center), Mia Breaux Lorick (Second-Year Law Student, University of Houston Law Center), and Kieone H. Cochran, J.D. (LL.M. Student, University of Houston Law Center). Additionally, law graduates, lawyers and law school reps who signed on to assist included but was not limited to the following: Justin Dandridge Smith, J.D., Yvonne Cherena-Pacheco, Esq., LL.M., Arthur Bryan II, Esq., Troy Riddle, Esq., MBA, Reginald McGahee, Esq., Thomas Jurney, Esq., and Lillie Wiley Upshaw. When people saw the popularity of these sessions and the many pre-law students eagerly awaiting to speak with someone, several additional law school representatives volunteered to serve. APPROXIMATELY 50 STUDENTS WERE ASSISTED.
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THE LEGACY BUILDERS AWARDS CEREMONY AND ASPIRING LAWYERS PINNING CEREMONY On Saturday, November 3, 2012 from 8:00 p.m. to 12:00 midnight, we held The Legacy Builders Awards Ceremony and Aspiring Lawyers Pinning Ceremony. This elegant event took place in the beautiful Monarch Ballroom on the 24th Floor of The Westin Galleria, which overlooked the night lit city of Houston.
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t this event, John Crump, Executive Director Emeritus of the National Bar Association and Judge Arthur Burnett, Esq., National Executive director of the National African American Drug Policy Coalition were honored as legacy builders who achieved distinguished careers and also sacrificed a great deal to give back to assist up and coming aspiring lawyers. The following people served as keynote and special guest speakers at the event: Angela Rye, Executive Director & General Counsel, Congressional Black Caucus, Demetris Cheatham, Esq., MBA, Executive Director, National Bar Association, Lisa M. Tatum, Esq., President-Elect, State Bar of Texas, Brian Tippens, J.D., Director, Compliance and Social Responsibility, Global Procurement, Hewlett-Packard Company, and Kendra Brown, J.D., National Chairperson, National Black Law Students Association. The following individuals also spoke at the event: Reginald McGahee, Assistant Dean and Dean of Admission, Howard University School of Law, Chibundu Nnake, J.D., Immediate Past Chair, National Black Law Students Association, Jeffrey Boney, President and CEO, Texas Business 22 | www.blackprelawconference.com
Alliance, Audrey Moorehead, Attorney at Law, and James Goodwille Pierre, General Counsel and Vice President of External Affairs, CBC Construction & Development, LLC and 4 City Steel Fabrication, Inc. About 75 pre-law students were pinned by current lawyers with a gold eagle pendant in which the eagle symbolizes the characteristics that they too would have to demonstrate and embody in their pursuit of the legal profession – courage, strength and tenacity, etc. The aspiring lawyers also received a black velvet pouch which contained sunflower seeds. The significance of the ceremony was to plant seeds of confidence in students to let them know that as a community we believe that if they take the knowledge they’ve gained and actually apply it and work with consistency and persistence towards their goals, they would achieve them. The seeds were also a reminder that they had a social responsibility to share what they have learned during the weekend and in life in order to help others in the same way they we invested so much to sow into them. Approximately 140 people attended this event.
KEYNOTE SPEAKERS
Keynote Speaker Angela Rye, Esq., Executive Director and General Counsel, Congressional Black Caucus and Co-Founder and Director of Strategic Partnerships, IMPACT (Washington, DC)
Keynote Speaker Brian Tippens, Esq., Director, Compliance and Social Responsibility, Global Procurement, Hewlett-Packard Company (Houston, Texas)
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MASTER OF CEREMONIES
Isiah Carey, Reporter, Fox 26 News
INTRODUCERS
Audrey Moorehead, Esq., Attorney at Law, Introducing Lisa M. Tatum, Esq.
Goodwille Pierre, Esq., Vice President and General Counsel, CBIC Construction and Development, LLC and 4 City Steel and Fabrication, Introducing Demetris Cheatham, Esq.
Chibundu Nnake, J.D., Past Immediate Chair of NBLSA, Introducing Kendra Brown, J.D.
Jeff Boney, President and CEO, Texas Business Alliance Introducing Keynote Speaker Brian Tippens, Esq.
Reginald McGahee, Esq., Assistant Dean and Dean of Admissions, Howard University School of Law, Introducing Keynote Speaker Angela T. Rye, Esq. www.blackprelawconference.com |
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SPECIAL GUEST SPEAKERS
Special Guest Speaker Kendra Brown, J.D., National Chairperson, National Black Law Students Association (Washington, DC)
Lisa Tatum, Esq., President-Elect, State Bar of Texas (San Antonio, Texas)
Demetris Cheatham, Esq., MBA, Executive Director, National Bar Association (Washington, DC)
LEGACY BUILDER HONOREES
Legacy Builder Honoree Senior Judge Arthur Burnett, Esq., National Executive Director, National African African American Drug Policy Coalition
Legacy Builder Honoree John Crump, Esq., Executive Director Emeritus, National Bar Association 24 | www.blackprelawconference.com
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THE PINNING CEREMONY
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THE AWARDS, PINS AND GIFT SEED POUCHES
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THE BANQUET
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THIS CONFERENCE DOES MAKE A DIFFERENCE. ASK OUR ALUMNI. “The National Black Pre-Law Conference truly is the preeminent event for minorities who are contemplating the study and practice of law. The conference is very well organized and yields SO much information that will help to guide you on your journey. I personally attended the conference and the wealth of information and contacts that I had access to were invaluable. … Because of the skills and concepts that I gleaned from conference, I was able to successfully make my way through the admissions process. I was ultimately accepted to the University of Maryland, University of Baltimore, and Howard University Schools of Law.” Vincent Brown Law Student, University of Maryland School of Law, Baltimore, Maryland “I attended the conference and it has by far been the best pre-law event that I’ve attended. Being surrounded by so many African American judges, lawyers, and administrators was a breath of fresh air and an assurance that I too could join the ranks of Black lawyers. Had it not been for the conference, I don’t think that I would have walked away with the confidence I needed to navigate the admissions process nor would I have met a judge which led to me joining a local non-profit and a research opportunity for this summer. I was accepted to the University of California, Berkeley, University of Michigan-Ann Arbor, University of Pennsylvania, Duke, Georgetown, Cornell, and University of Southern California. None of that would be possible without the encouragement, amazing advice and instruction, and hope I received after attending the National Black Pre-Law Conference.” Chayla C. Jackson, Law Student, Georgetown University Law Center, Washington, DC “I didn’t know many people that were on the same path as me and I didn’t have anyone to turn to for guidance and felt that I would find some sense of relief by attending the conference. . . .Of the 14 or so schools that I applied to, I got accepted to all but about 4 of them, some of which offered awesome scholarships!. . . I really don’t feel that I would have the confidence in myself or the motivation that I have if it wasn’t for The National Black Pre-Law Conference. Before the conference, I was only thinking inside the box, but now I feel that I can accomplish anything that I really work hard for and put my all into. I urge anyone who is interested in law school to attend the conference.” Ashley Cloud, Law Student, Howard University School of Law, Washington, DC
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2012 PRE-LAW ATTENDEE TESTIMONIALS “This conference was AMAZING! I will be telling everyone I know about it! I attended the National Black Pre-Law Conference with the hope that I would be motivated to apply to law school since I have been out of school for five years. I certainly gained more than I bargained for. From the sessions provided to the quality of the presenters, everything was simply amazing! I can honestly say that there was not one session that was not beneficial or even crucial to me preparing to apply to school. I appreciate the fact that you can attend this conference at little or no cost and that it is designed purely for its attendees to succeed! Even the panelists and speakers expressed their pleasure with the quality of the sessions and wished they had this conference as a resource when they were applying to law school. The conference organizer, Mrs. Evangeline Mitchell, is so generous with her time and resources and it is evident in the amount of information she pours into you before, during and after the conference. I’ve never seen anyone more dedicated to giving others the same opportunity they’ve been afforded. Mrs. Mitchell and the rest of conference
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organizers are truly committed to the mission of better equipping black students with the resources to be competitive when applying to law school. I really appreciate everything you all have done. “ Danielle N. Jenkins Graduate, Tennessee State University Kansas City, Missouri “The National Black Pre-Law Conference provided an extraordinary opportunity for aspiring lawyers of all ages to understand the lack of our representation in the legal profession and the need for our services. After meeting with so many like-minded professionals and students I feel assured in my path in life, knowing that I am not alone. I greatly appreciate all the guest speakers, panelists, and volunteers for their hard work in putting together this event. Being surrounded by people that look like me and understand what I will be
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going through was encouraging. Everyone was so open and forthcoming making for a comfortable environment. Not only did each person go out of their way to make sure students with questions got their answer but they were kind with great senses of humor. Thank you so much for granting me this incredible and unforgettable opportunity. I look forward to future events.” Michaela Clark Graduate, Sam Houston State University Houston, Texas “Thank you for all of the hard work that went forth in order to create such an event. The number of takeaways I had was enormous. I know that one day I will come back and participate just as the others have.” Jamila Moore Brooklyn, New York “Attending the National Black Pre-Law Conference was an experience that impacted me in so many positive and powerful ways. It placed a confidence in me that it is possible to achieve my dreams of becoming a lawyer. The myriad of resources and opportunities that were presented was astonishing. I am truly grateful and thankful to everyone who was a part of ensuring the success of this spectacular event.” Crystal Aitaegbebhunu Student, The University of Texas at Austin Austin, Texas “I would like inform you that the conference was outstanding. I was so empowered, and I learned so much. If everything works out next year, I plan to sponsor two Jr./Sr. High School students to attend this conference. Keep up the great work. This conference is needed by every black student who wants to pursue a career as a lawyer. Again, thank you so much.” Lenola Wyatt-Tutt Graduate, Stephen F. Austin State University Shelbyville, Texas
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“There was such a wealth of information at this conference that I took out time to call everyone I knew, in Dallas, and told them my experience. From the panel discussions to the mock application reviews; from the LSAT preparation panel to the LSAT pre-test; from the mock interviews to the pinning ceremony, it all was very well put together. It was especially interesting to see all the young people that were there from different states. I had the opportunity to befriend many of these young people and I was inspired by them as well. … I have been to a lot of conferences over the years but I have never had such a mind-changing experience like I did at the 8th Annual National Black Pre-Law Conference this past weekend. Thank you sooooo much Evangeline Mitchell for your hard work and dedication to the cause of helping to shape aspiring lawyers. Thank you.“
“I want to first start off by saying thank you so much for creating this conference. This was by far one of the greatest things I have ever experienced in my life. The knowledge I gained from this conference was great beyond words. The relationships that I gained were priceless. Thanks to your conference I am fueled and ready to enter the legal field. I promise to do my part and spread the word about this conference to my fellow aspiring lawyers here at North Carolina Central University. Again thank you so much.“
Sylvia Mayfield Student, Paul Quinn College Dallas, Texas
“I also want to take the opportunity to say THANK YOU for creating this event. All of my expectations were completely and unequivocally exceeded. Words cannot express my gratitude to you and those who helped you realize your vision to help guide us through the challenges of deciding to go to law school, getting into law school, performing well in law school, passing the bar and illuminating the options available to us after passing the bar exam. . . . My
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William Anyu Student, North Carolina Central University Raleigh, North Carolina
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peers would say I’m borderline obsessive and I assumed that I was equally motivated to become an attorney. Since your conference, the words that convey how I feel now about being a lawyer; I must quote our President, I am “FIRED UP AND READY TO GO!” My purpose, my vision, my path, my future, my destiny are so clear now. . . . I can’t wait to help with the conference next year.” Charles J. Barnes, MBA Graduate, Texas Southern University and The University of Phoenix Houston, Texas “If I had to sum it up in one sentence I would say this pre-law conference is the best preparation tool that African Americans can use to prepare for law school. The people at this conference are extremely helpful and sincere. The varieties of successful lawyers are inspiring and refreshing at this conference. The founder Evangeline Mitchell is beyond amazing. She makes every attendee feel as if she was their one-on-one mentor. Even after the conference Mrs. Mitchell’s team provides you with information such as internship opportunities, further tips on law school, and helpful updates. There is no doubt that I will be in attendance for the 2013 conference.” Ashley Minter Student, Prairie View A&M University Prairie View, Texas “I wanted to personally thank you for the opportunity to attend this year’s National Black PreLaw Conference. I thoroughly enjoyed the event and was amazed by the abundance of valuable information, resources, and educational advice afforded to the participants. Although I was unable to attend all the events, I found the legal readings to be very interesting and appreciated the wealth of knowledge that the panelists provided in regards to LSAT preparation, law school admissions, and the scope of the work that you are expected to perform while enrolled in law school. The various legal panels were very informative and engaging, and I accrued a deeper understanding and appreciation of the immense power afforded by obtaining a law degree. The conference provided exceptional resources, tremendous networking opportunities, and invaluable insight from minority leaders in the legal field.” Hector A. Matteer Graduate, Harvard College Houston, Texas
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“I, along with Dr. Paul and Michel’le, had a great time at this year’s conference and gained a lot of insight and useful information that we are now sharing with the rest of the student body here at Huston-Tillotson University. The conference was indeed an eye-opener and we are truly grateful for all the work that you and your team put into this effort. We are really looking forward to partnering with you and the National Black Pre-Law Conference in the future so as to get more students aware and involved next year. Again, thank you so much for everything and we really look forward to working with you in the near future.” Yohannis Job Student, Huston-Tillotson University Austin, Texas “After being forced into submission by the resounding words of Ms. Sherry Williams, Esq., then without warning placed under the watchful eye of Mr. Brian Nelson, Esq., after which quickly whooshed into a ballroom with the likes of Angela T. Rye, Esq., all examples of so many people who have worked so hard and accomplished so much leaves me without the words to express
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the gratitude and deep feelings I hold to this day. The outpouring of resources and the mass of information are awesome. I pray that I will not fall short of my expectations and the expectations of your WILL for me and the other aspiring law students. . . . Thanks to you and your efforts and that of your team. Ironically I can only muster one word for my experience OUTSTANDING. . . . AWESOME Experience.” J. Felix Nelson Graduate, Pittsburgh State University Duncanville, Texas “I have always wanted to attend the National Black Pre-Law Conference since I heard about it several years ago. By the grace of God, I was able to attend the conference this year. I did not know what to expect but I was amazed at the wealth of knowledge I obtained from your speakers. Thank you for arranging such a powerful conference.” Zeania Tynes Graduate, Bloomfield College Houston, Texas
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2012 FEATURED PANELISTS & PRESENTERS
Idris Akinpelu,
Leigh R. Allen II,
Law Student, The University of Texas School of Law
Director of Mentoring and Development, Council on Legal Education Opportunity (CLEO)
Anita Barksdale, Esq., Associate, Jackson Walker LLP
Akil Bello,
Tiffany Bingham Briscoe, Esq.,
Co-Founder and CEO, Bell Curves, LLC
Arthur Bryan, II, Esq.,
Amber Burton, J.D.,
Collins J. Byrd Jr.,
Joe R. Caldwell, Esq.,
Claims Specialist, Bechtel Oil, Gas and Chemicals, Inc.
Judicial Coordinator, Harris County Democratic Party
MBA, Assistant Dean for Admissions, University of Iowa College of Law
Partner, Baker Botts LLP
Associate, Vorys, Sater, Seymour and Pease LLP
Elizabeth A. Campbell, Esq., Partner and Chief Diversity Officer, Andrews Kurth LLP
Karen Wishart, Esq., Executive Vice President and Chief Legal Officer, TV One
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Yvonne CherenaPacheco, Esq., LL.M., Associate Director of Admission, University of Denver Sturm College of Law
Virginia G. Essandoh, J.D., Chief Diversity Officer, Ballard Spahr LLP
Felix Chevalier, Esq., Managing Partner, Chevalier Helms, PLLC
Donale Evans, Third-Year Law Student; President, Black Law Students Associaton, Thurgood Marshall School of Law, Texas Southern University
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Angela Birch Cox, Esq.,
Angela L. Dixon, Esq.,
Keith Earley, Esq., M.S.,
Relationship Manager, Donor Relations, United Way of Greater Houston
Attorney, Law Office of Angela L. Dixon, P.L.L.C.
Director, Diversity and Inclusion, Finnegan, Henderson, Farabow, Garrett & Dunner
LaKeisha M. Forte’, Esq.,
Famose Garner, Esq.,
Lewis K. Harley,
Angel S. Harris, Esq.,
Federal Judicial Clerk to The Honorable Jeff Bohm, United States Bankruptcy Judge
Senior Managing Attorney, Harley Law Group
Trial Attorney, Calcasieu Parish Public Defender’s Office
Attorney at Law, Lynn Tillotson Pinker & Cox, LLP
Chukwudi Egbuonu, Third-Year Law Student, Thurgood Marshall School of Law, Texas Southern University; Chair, Rocky Mountain Region of the National Black Law Students Association
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Ronda L. Harrison, Esq., Attorney/Educator/ Trainer
Gabriel Jones, Esq., Associate, Fulbright & Jaworski L.L.P.
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Shawnda Havard,
Michele Hayes, J.D., LL.M.,
Cassandra Louise Hill, Esq.,
Director of Student Recruiting, Office of Admissions, University of Maryland School of Law
Director of Legal Writing and Associate Professor of Law, Texas Southern University Thurgood Marshall School of Law
LaToya JonesBurrell, Esq.,
Daniella Landers, Esq.,
Alison Velez Lane, Esq.,
Associate Attorney, Neblett, Beard & Arsenault
Partner, Sutherland Asbill & Brennan LLP
Founder and CEO, Campaign Train Group
Third-Year Law Student; President, Black Law Students Association, South Texas College of Law
 Robin C. Ingli, MAM,
Sylvia James, Esq.,
Director of Admissions, Hamline University School of Law
Diversity Counsel, Baker Botts LLP
Kent D. Lollis, Esq.,
Bianca D. Mack, Esq., MBA,
Executive Director for Diversity Initiatives, Law School Admission Council (LSAC)
Director of Diversity Services, George Mason University School of Law
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Rashida Maples, Esq.,
Reginald McGahee, Esq.,
Audrey Moorehead, Esq.,
Virgie Lemond Mouton, J.D.,
Michael T. Murphy, Esq.,
Chibundu Nnake, J.D., MBA Candidate,
Founder and Managing Partner, J. Maples & Associates, Inc.
Assistant Dean and Dean of Admissions, Howard University School of Law
Attorney at Law
Assistant Dean for Student Affairs, Texas Southern University Thurgood Marshall School of Law
Associate, Vinson & Elkins, LLP
Southern Methodist University Cox School of Business
Danny Norris, Esq.,
Allison OdomBashir, Esq.,
Lawrencina Oramalu, Esq.,
Kourtney James Perry, Esq.,
J. Goodwille Pierre, Esq.,
Raymond G. Randle, Esq.,
Human Resources Specialist-Equal Employment Opportunity, M.D. Anderson Cancer Center
Assistant Dean and Director of Multicultural Affairs, William Mitchell College of Law
Assistant Director, Career Development
General Counsel and Vice President of External Affairs, CBC Construction & Development, LLC and 4 City Steel Fabrication, Inc.
Of Counsel, Andrews Kurth LLP
Principal Partner, Norris & Norris, L.L.P.
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Associate Dean and Dean of Admissions, University of Southern California Gould School of Law
Lynn Pride Richardson, Esq.,
Troy A. Riddle, Esq., MBA,
Marredia Rogers, MPA,
Chief Public Defender, Dallas County
Multicultural Affairs Officer, Widener University School of Law
Diversity & Inclusion Manager, Bracewell & Giuliani
Aaron Taylor, Esq., Ed.D.,
Nydia D. Thomas, Esq.,
Duane Tobias, Esq.,
Artika R. Tyner, Esq., MPP, Ed.D.,
Professor of Law, St. Louis University School of Law
Attorney, Office of the General Counsel, Texas Juvenile Justice Department
Chloe T. Reid, J.D.,
Assistant Director of Admission, University of the District of Columbia David A. Clarke School of Law
Director of Diversity, University of St. Thomas School of Law
The Honorable Njeri Mathis Rutledge, Esq.,
The Honorable Oswald J. Scott, Jr., Esq.,
Professor of Law, South Texas College of Law; Associate Judge, Houston Municipal Courts
Municipal Judge, City of Houston
Carlton Mark Waterhouse, Esq., M.T.S., Ph.D.,
Marlen D. Whitley, Esq.,
Associate Professor of Law, Dean’s Fellow, Indiana University Robert H. McKinney School of La
Partner, Thompson & Knight, LLP
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THANK YOU TO OUR 2012 PARTNERS AND SPONSORS! 2012 PARTNERS NATIONAL MEDIA PARTNER
LOCAL MEDIA PARTNERS
COMMUNITY AND ORGANIZATIONAL PARTNERS
D-Mars.com Radio One EVENT/CONFERENCE PARTNERSHIPS
One Woman National Business Conference
National Black Law Students Association
National Convention Southwestern Black Student Leadership Conference 42 | www.blackprelawconference.com
100 Black Men Metropolitan Houston Chapter
Houston Area Urban League Young Professionals
100 Black Women of Houston
Houston Style Magazine
Texas Business Alliance KTSU Choice 90.9 FM
Rolling Out Magazine TEST PREPARATION PARTNER
Bell Curves, LLC
Urban League Young Professionals
STRATEGIC PARTNERSHIPS AND ALLIANCES
Association of Law Firm Diversity Professionals
Houston Lawyers Association
On Being a Black Lawyer National Bar Association
National Black Law Students Association
State Bar of Texas – African American Lawyers Section
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2012 SPONSORS LAW FIRM SPONSORS GOLD SPONSORS
Baker Botts LLP
CORPORATE SPONSORS
CONTRIBUTING SPONSORS
Proctor & Gamble
Andrews Kurth LLP Jackson Walker L.L.P.
Weil, Gotshal & Manges
Kirkland & Ellis LLP
Avalon Spa & Bodyworks
Bracewell & Giuliani
Sidley Austin LLP Edwards Wildman Thompson & Knight LLP
Finnegan Microsoft
IN-KIND SPONSORS
Ballard Spahr
BRONZE SPONSORS
Huron Consulting Group
CONTRIBUTING SPONSORS
Galleria Chamber of Commerce
Macy’s
McDonald’s
Greater Houston Convention and Visitors Bureau
Starbucks Coffee Company
Sonesta ES Suites
SuperShuttle
Steptoe & Johnson LLP
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The
8th ANNUAL NATIONAL
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Conference and Law Fair 2012 Join us for
The 10th Annual National
Black Pre-Law
Conference and Law Fair 2014! November 2014 * The Westin Houston, Memorial City Houston, Texas
National Black Pre-Law Conference and Law Fair P.O. Box 631234 Houston, Texas 77263 Phone/Fax: 281.247.4026 Website: www.blackprelawconference.com E-Mail: info@blackprelawconference.com