The National Bar Institute (NBI) proudly celebrates the successful completion of its 2024–2026 Law Scholars Program Cohort, recognizing an important milestone for four outstanding scholars as they complete the program and begin the next chapter of their legal careers.
Over the past two years, Adriana Griffin of Florida A&M University College of Law, Ama-Birago Fosu of Howard University School of Law, Willie J. Butler III of Thurgood Marshall School of Law, and Marim Habib Istafanos of North Carolina Central University School of Law have represented the values at the heart of the Law Scholars Program: academic excellence, perseverance, leadership, and a commitment to service.
Throughout their participation in the program, the scholars received assistance designed to support them through law school and into the final stages of becoming attorneys. NBI’s support included scholarships, professional development opportunities, mentoring, and assistance with eligible bar examination expenses. By helping address some of the financial and professional challenges associated with completing a legal education, the program allows scholars to remain focused on achieving their academic and career goals.
A Milestone Worth Celebrating
Completing law school is an extraordinary accomplishment, and NBI is proud to have been part of each scholar’s journey. Their achievements represent not only years of hard work and determination, but also the promise of what lies ahead.
As they transition from law students to members of the legal profession, our 2024–2026 Law Scholars are prepared to pursue careers in advocacy, public service, corporate law, trial practice, community leadership, and other areas where their talents can make a meaningful difference.
Their completion of the program is not simply the conclusion of a two-year journey. It represents the beginning of new opportunities to lead, advocate, serve, and contribute to the communities and institutions that will benefit from their knowledge and experience.
Investing in the Future of the Legal Profession
The Law Scholars Program reflects NBI’s continued commitment to developing the next generation of legal professionals. Through meaningful financial and professional support, NBI seeks to create opportunities for talented law students and help strengthen the pipeline of future attorneys and leaders.
This work would not be possible without the dedication of the National Bar Institute Board of Directors, as well as the generosity of our donors, partners, supporters, and friends. Their continued investment allows NBI to provide resources that can have a lasting impact on scholars throughout law school, during bar preparation, and as they enter the profession.
As we close this chapter of the Law Scholars Program, we celebrate everything the 2024–2026 Cohort has accomplished and look forward to following the careers they build from here.
Congratulations, Adriana, Ama-Birago, Willie, and Marim!
The National Bar Institute is proud of your accomplishments and wishes you continued success as you move forward in your legal careers.