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The National Bar Association (NBA) Commercial Law Section (CLS) has long been dedicated to fostering excellence, promoting diversity, and creating opportunities for Black attorneys across the legal industry. One of its most impactful initiatives is the CLS Pipeline Project, which is designed to support and prepare the next generation of legal professionals. This program focuses on addressing the historical underrepresentation of African Americans in corporate law by providing mentorship, resources, and real-world experience to law students and early-career attorneys.

Why the Pipeline Project Matters 

The legal profession remains one of the least diverse sectors in the U.S. Despite progress in some areas, African Americans continue to be underrepresented in law firms and corporate legal departments, particularly in leadership roles. The NBA CLS Pipeline Project seeks to address these disparities by fostering long-term development and growth opportunities for aspiring Black attorneys.  

The NBA CLS’s Pipeline Project is more than just a movement toward greater representation, diversity, and equity in the legal profession. It is also an opportunity to build relationships and do good for those that are less fortunate. In 2024, the NBA CLS partnered with the Southwest Region of the National Black Law Students Association (BLSA) and a charitable nonprofit called Foster Love. As part of the 2024 Corporate Council conference, the NBA-CLS organized an interactive team-building event where we assembled, decorated, and donated over two dozen skateboards for local foster children. This event allowed local law students to interact and network with practicing lawyers while making a positive difference in the community.  

By investing in the success of young Black attorneys, the Pipeline Project is helping to create a legal industry that is more inclusive, equitable, and reflective of the diverse society it serves. For more information about the Pipeline Project and how to get involved, please visit the NBA CLS website.  

To learn more, please visit:  https://nbacls.com

On October 8, 2024, Vickie Turner, a dedicated Board Member, was honored with the prestigious Lifetime Laureate Award at the Junior Achievement Business Hall of Fame. This special recognition celebrates individuals for their outstanding business success, professional achievements, and exceptional contributions to the San Diego community through philanthropy. 

 The Junior Achievement Business Hall of Fame recognizes individuals whose leadership and dedication have made a significant impact, not just in their industries but also in the lives of those around them. Vickie’s commitment to education, economic empowerment, and community development has touched countless lives in San Diego. Her passion for giving back, along with her professional accomplishments, makes her an ideal recipient of this lifetime honor.

By becoming a Lifetime Laureate, Vickie joins a distinguished group of leaders who have made lasting contributions to their fields and communities. 

On September 14, 2024, the National Bar Institute held a virtual Orientation via Zoom for its Bar Passage Success Program, with 19 enthusiastic students in attendance. Hosted by Belinda Stith and Charlyn Stanberry, the session provided an opportunity for participants to ask questions, introduce themselves.

Students received a comprehensive overview of the program, structured to provide exclusive study materials and guidance on their state bar exams from JD Advising. They asked insightful questions about the program structure and gained clarity on what Phase One, starting on February 1, 2025, would entail.

Belinda and Charlyn facilitated discussions on effective study techniques, time management, and mental health strategies, fostering a collaborative and supportive environment.

The Orientation marked the beginning of each student’s journey to be equipped with resources aimed at helping them obtain a successful state bar examination result. Stay tuned for further updates as the program progresses!

The National Bar Institute (“NBI”) Board of Directors held its 2023-2024 and 2024-2025 Board of Directors Meetings at Caesars Palace in Las Vegas, Nevada during the National Bar Association 99^th Annual Conference. The 2023-2024 NBI Board of Directors convened in the morning to close out the program year and the 2024-2025 NBI Board of Directors met in the afternoon to welcome new NBI Directors, elect NBI Officers, and plan meetings for the upcoming year. This structured approach ensured that the organization remains forward-thinking and well-prepared for the challenges and opportunities ahead.

The NBI Annual Membership Meeting kicked off with Dr. Walter Sutton, Jr., Chair of the NBI Board of Directors, and committee Chairs sharing annual reports, providing a comprehensive overview of the past year’s accomplishments and setting the stage for the year ahead. The NBI membership approved and adopted the proposed amendments to the NBI Bylaws to ensure the organization remains dynamic and responsive to its members’ needs.

A highlight of the day was the election of six (6) new Directors to the NBI Board of Directors. Norma Hutcheson, Esq., Antoinette M. “Toni” Jackson, Esq., David Green, Esq., Vickie E. Turner, Esq., Kwamina Williford, Esq. and Belinda Stith, Esq., were elected commencing at the National Bar Association Annual Convention.

Following the NBI Annual Membership meeting, the NBI Membership Committee hosted a special luncheon for the NBI Life Members offering a perfect setting for networking and celebration. The luncheon underscored the strong sense of community and commitment among our members.

Overall, the NBI Annual Membership meeting was a resounding success, filled with productive discussions, meaningful connections, and a shared vision for the future. The energy and enthusiasm of the NBI Life Members were palpable, leaving everyone inspired and motivated.

We are thrilled to announce the recipients of the 2024 Affiliates Scholarship Award! Each of these exceptional students will receive a $5,000 scholarship and participate in the Bar Passage Success Program.

Meet the 2024 Affiliates Scholarship Award Recipients:

Chelsea C. Jones
Suffolk University Law School
Boston, MA
Region I

Darielle Matthews
Maurice A. Deane School of Law at Hofstra University
Hempstead, NY
Region II

Jessica Dufort
Rutgers University School of Law
Jersey City, NJ
Region III

Elijah Winborne
University of Pittsburgh
Pittsburgh, MD
Region IV

Chanté R. Barré
Southern University Law Center.
New Orleans, LA
Region V

Ashton S. Edward
University of Kentucky J. David Rosenberg College
Louisville, KY
Region VI

Leah S. Hall
University of Illinois at Chicago School of Law
Chicago, IL
Region VII

Jaylen Riley
Saint Louis University School of Law
St. Louis, MO
Region VIII

Nathan J. Lessa
University of California College of the Law San Francisco
San Francisco, CA
Region IX

Angela Griego
University of New Mexico School of Law
Albuquerque, NM
Region X

Jo’Anna Clayton
Samford University Cumberland  School of Law
Orlando, FL
Region XI

Maurice Roberson
Georgetown University Law Center
Upper Marlboro, MD
Region XII

Congratulations to these outstanding students! We are excited to support them as they embark on the next phase of their legal education through the Bar Passage Success Program.

The Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Drum Major for Justice Advocacy Competition recently brought together nine (9) exceptional high school students, each demonstrating their dedication to justice and equality. This event, steeped in the inspiring legacy of Dr. King, provided a platform for these young advocates to showcase their talents and passion.

The competition was fierce, and the students’ speeches were nothing short of remarkable. Each participant brought their unique perspective and voice to the stage, addressing critical issues and advocating for positive change. The atmosphere was charged with excitement and a shared commitment to the ideals that Dr. King championed.

Among the impressive participants, three (3) students emerged as the top winners, captivating the judges and audience alike with their eloquence and conviction:

1. Caleb Winbish from Region XI (Orlando, FL) earned the 1st prize with a $5,000 scholarship. Caleb’s powerful speech resonated deeply, as he articulated a vision for justice that was both compelling and inspiring.
2. Jordyn Pinkins from Region II (Brooklyn, NY) secured the 2nd prize and a $3,000 scholarship. Jordyn’s heartfelt presentation highlighted personal stories and broader societal issues, striking a chord with everyone present.
3. Sanaa Holston from Region IV (Bowie, MD) received the 3rd prize along with a $2,000 scholarship. Sanaa’s persuasive advocacy and moving narrative showcased her deep understanding of the challenges faced by many and her unwavering commitment to addressing them.

The event was more than just a competition; it was a celebration of young voices dedicated to making a difference. It underscored the importance of empowering the next generation to carry forward the torch of justice and equality. The students’ performances were a testament to their hard work, passion, and the enduring influence of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.

As the event concluded, the audience left inspired and hopeful, with a renewed belief in the power of youth advocacy. The Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Drum Major for Justice Advocacy Competition not only honored Dr. King’s legacy but also highlighted the bright future ahead, led by these remarkable young individuals.

Yale Law School recently celebrated the distinguished career of Associate Dean Mike Thompson, who retired at the end of the 2024 academic year after 34 years of dedicated service. Dean Thompson was honored at events such as the Diversity Homecoming in 2023 and the bicentennial community gathering. His farewell address emphasized the lasting connections formed at Yale. Dean Heather K. Gerken praised his ability to connect with students and alumni, noting his significant contributions and mentorship through various challenges, including major renovations and the COVID-19 pandemic.

In recognition of his impact, a portrait of Dean Thompson was unveiled and installed at Yale Law School. Congratulations to Dean Thompson on his remarkable achievements and unwavering commitment to the community.

The National Bar Institute (NBI) is thrilled to announce the latest class of students selected for the Affiliates Scholars and Bar Passage Success Program. This group of scholars has demonstrated exceptional dedication and promise in their legal studies and future careers.

The program will be administered by JD Advising (www.jdadvising.com) and is tailored for law students completing their second year in May/June 2024. This transformative experience is designed to accommodate 24 law students associated with Affiliates and other students attending specified law schools. The program is scheduled to unfold in February 2024 and conclude in January/February 2025.

Key Dates for the Program Cycle:

• February 29, 2024: Deadline for NBA Affiliates to submit one  nomination to its NBA Regional Director
• March 29, 2024: Deadline for NBA Regional Directors to select two nominees and targeted Law School Deans to select one nominee
• April 30, 2024: Deadline for NBA Regional Directors and targeted Law School Deans to submit Nomination Forms to the NBI
• May 31, 2024: NBI Announcement of selected law students

Affiliates and their Regional Directors should consider nominating law students who embody the following criteria:

• Have demonstrated a commitment to pursuing equality and justice through work or volunteerism.
• Are enrolled full-time at an accredited U.S. law school.
• Are starting their third year of law school in the Fall of 2024 with an expected graduation in 2025.
• Are members of the NBA Student Division.

All students will have the invaluable opportunity to participate in an online Bar Exam Strategy Course provided by JD Advising, a program set for enhancing their ability to pass their state bar examinations. The Strategy Course consists of two (2) intensive two-day sessions. Depending on the size of this second class of students, the NBI will award up to twelve (12) $5,000 scholarships to students selected by the Regions. The combination of scholarships and bar exam course study are integral components of the NBI’s Bar Passage Success Program.

To learn more about the Affiliates Scholarship Submission contact NBA Vice President James J. Carter, Jr. at vpregionsaffiliates@nationalbar.org.

Check the NBI website at www.nationalbarinstitute.org for more details.

In July 2023, the National Bar Institute (NBI) convened for its Annual Meeting in Minneapolis, Minnesota. As we reflect on the successes of this meeting, we are thrilled to unveil updates and forthcoming meetings.

Looking Forward: Board Meeting in San Antonio and Annual Meeting in Las Vegas

The Board is gearing up for its upcoming meeting in San Antonio, Texas, scheduled for February 2024. During this time, we will conduct a Board Meeting as well as attend events hosted by the National Bar Association Commercial Law Section. Additionally, the NBI will hold its annual meeting in the vibrant city of Las Vegas, Nevada, in July 2024. This meeting coincides with the NBA 99th Annual Convention. We eagerly anticipate the collective gathering of NBI members at this momentous event!

The National Bar Institute hosted a spectacular day of golf, community, and partnerships at the Clyde E. Bailey Sr. and Rapheal M. Prevot Jr. Annual Golf Tournament. Featuring two 18-hole courses and an executive nine, the picturesque venue set the stage for an event that brought together golf enthusiasts, sponsors, and community leaders for an enjoyable experience.

This tournament, with over 24 years of support, has raised over $1 million in proceeds for the signature programs of the NBI. These programs include scholarships for deserving law students and grants for educational and community-based projects, serving to educate the public and enhance the lives of people of color.

The NBI’s Golf Committee worked diligently to create a fun atmosphere for golfers of all ages, including youths from groups such as Bolder Options, Girls Taking Action, and The Fairway Foundation. These organizations promise to provide enriching experiences and structured programs for youths, and the Clyde E. Bailey Sr. and Rapheal M. Prevot Jr. Annual Golf Tournament delivered just that. Golf enthusiasts reveled in a day of friendly competition, networking, and fun, surrounded by the lush greenery of Majestic Oaks. As golfers navigated the challenging course, connections were forged, and the spirit of community was palpable.

We are pleased to announce that the National Bar Institute (NBI) has been honored with the prestigious CLEO Leadership Excellence Award by the Council on Legal Education Opportunity, Inc. (CLEO). This recognition reflects a genuine appreciation for the NBI’s outstanding contributions and unwavering dedication to advancing CLEO’s mission.

On October 11, 2023, our Board Member and Treasurer, Frank Seales, represented the NBI in accepting this award. The ceremony marked a momentous occasion where the NBI’s influence in promoting diversity and inclusion within legal education was celebrated. We, at the NBI, humbly accept this meaningful gesture and extend our deepest gratitude to CLEO for acknowledging our continuous support and remarkable commitment to their mission.

We also want to express our gratitude to Mr. Leigh Allen for his visit to Frank’s office, emphasizing the significance of this occasion.

Our heartfelt thanks go to the Council on Legal Education Opportunity, Inc. (CLEO) for bestowing upon the National Bar Institute this prestigious honor.

Black women attorneys in this country shared a collective victory when Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson was confirmed and sworn-in to the Supreme Court of the United States. Her triumph showed us that the highest levels of our beloved legal profession were accessible to Black women. However for many, the level of success achieved by Justice Jackson and others seems out of reach.

The National Bar Association (NBA) and Kanarys Inc. partnered to evaluate the state of Black women attorneys on matters of diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging. Members of the NBA Women Lawyers Division (WLD) were the source of the data, which showed that while a majority of us feel empowered, respected and supported in our workplaces, there are many that experience, or witnessed someone experience, discrimination or bias. Incidents of discrimination and bias are amplified when they occur at the intersection of being Black and being a woman.

Prior to the close of 2022, the NBI launched a new scholarship program designed for greater outreach to the National Bar Association’s (NBA) Regions and Affiliate bar associations.  All NBA Affiliates were solicited to nominate a second-year law student to their Regional Director for consideration to receive a scholarship and admission to the NBI Bar Passage Success Program.  Each Region had the opportunity to review the nominations submitted by participating Affiliates and select two students.  For the inaugural run of the program, Regions 7, 9 and 10 participated and sent their selections to the NBI.

The NBI designed the program so that 24 students from the Regions would be able to participate in two bar preparation courses occurring during the summer and mid-winter.  Twelve (12) of the 24 nominated students will also receive a $5,000 scholarship.  In addition to the Regional selections, seven (7) select law schools were invited to nominate a student to participate in the NBI Bar Passage Success Program.  The NBI is funding the program and has contracted with JD Advising (www.jdadvising.com) to administer the NBI Bar Passage Success Program. JD Advising is well-known for its bar prep course and one-on-one tutoring.  Key features of the programs are as follows:

Phase 1 (conducted virtually June 24-25, 2023)

1. Overview of the bar exam
2. Preparation for the bar exam (including classes to take)
3. Law school essays vs. bar exam essays
4. How to approach bar exam essays
5. Highly tested areas of law on the bar exam
6. An introduction to the Multistate Bar Exam (MBE) and Multistate Performance Test (MPT)
7. Office Hours for individual student inquiries and assistance

Phase 2 (scheduled for January 28, February 4, and February 11, 2024)

1. Day 1 – Bar Exam Overview, Essay Advice and MPT (Part 1) including lectures by JD Advising on how to take the Bar exam, general ground rules, review of sample essay question and model answer.
2. Day 2 – Essay review and practice questions with model answers and MPT (Part 2).  Take home essay questions and review/feedback by JD Advising.
3. Day 3 – MBE strategy, practice, and review.

By participating in the NBI Bar Passage Success Program, students will benefit from learning study techniques which will enhance their potential for success in passing the bar.

On June 14, 2023, she was inducted into the 98 year old Washington Bar Association Hall of Fame. Bestowed to mark a distinguished legal career, which includes service as the 77th President of the National Bar Association, induction into the National Bar Association Hall of Fame, and recipient of the National Bar Association’s highest honor, the C. Frances Stradford Award, Heman Marion Sweatt Award, and Sankofa Award.

On your promotion to Assistant General Counsel at General Motors and is now a Senior Executive. Stephanie Jones is responsible for intellectual property-related matters regarding General Motor’s autonomous vehicles, connectivity/infotainment, propulsion, research and development and data loss prevention. She negotiates strategic high-stakes IP agreements.

Congratulations to Daryl D. Parks, Board Member of the National Bar Institute. He will receive the Champion for Diversity Award from the Tallahassee Bar Association. This award honors the Tallahassee Bar Association member who has taken purposeful action and made long-term contributions demonstrating positive outcomes in achieving diversity, inclusion, and equity in the legal profession.

Congratulations Dean Alfreda Robinson for being appointed by the Department of Transportation, Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg, to serve on the Anti-Discrimination Subcommittee of the Aviation Consumer Protection Advisory Committee.

Dean Robinson is the former President and Chair of the Standing Committee on Judicial Selection, National Bar Association, Associate Dean for Trial Advocacy/Professor at George Washington Law, and representative of a national advocacy organization that represents diverse racial, ethnic, and religious communities.

Dean Robinson will be one of 19 members who will review airline policies, procedures, and practices to prevent discrimination against air travelers based on race, ethnicity, national origin, religion, ancestry, gender identity, and sexual orientation, and to make recommendations as to best practices to the Department of Transportation.

Congratulations to Dr. Walter L. Sutton Jr., Chair of the National Bar Institute, Past President of the National Bar Association, and long-standing champion of diversity and equity in the legal profession. Dr. Sutton received the Cora T. Walker Award given to an NBA member with a longstanding history of supporting the National Bar Association Commercial Law Section. In addition, Dr. Sutton is a mentor to black law students and lawyers across the country and serves as Chairman of the Wiley College Board of Trustees.

Cora T. Walker was a legal pioneer admitted to the New York State Bar in 1947 at a time when very few women and very few Blacks were practicing attorneys. On top of an inspiring legal career spanning over 50+ years, Dr. Sutton serves the community and supports diversity, equity, and inclusion in the legal profession.

In August 2022, the National Bar Institute Board of Directors selected six (6) students from historically black colleges and universities (HBCUs) as the latest Cohorts. The NBI Law Scholars Program was designed to assist a student at the beginning of his or her second year of law school. When a student completes his or her third year, the NBI will provide support as the student prepares to take the bar exam. Each student will receive a grant that will help cover the cost of a bar review course and the bar application fees.

This year’s Law Scholars represent schools located in Florida, California, Texas, Louisiana, and Washington, D.C. These Scholars have demonstrated an extraordinary commitment to pursuing the legal profession and a desire to serve their communities. They will complete their studies in 2024.

The Board extends its heartfelt congratulations and best wishes for a successful law school year!

The remaining six students received a one-time scholarship in the amount of $1,000. They are as follows:

• Amber Dean
  Thurgood Marshal School of Law
• Darryl Harris
  Florida A &M University College of Law
• Destiny Montemayor
  Southern University Law Center
• Favour Okhuevbie
  Howard University School of Law
• Grace Dunnehoff
  University of the District of Columbia
  David A. Clarke School of Law
• Janee’ Baldwin
  North Carolina Central University School of Law

Over the years, the NBI has awarded more than $360,000 to 76 outstanding law students with impressive grade point averages and service to their communities. This is the last class of the Fellowship Program which will be replaced by a newly created program that will focus on scholarship awards to a select group of students and assistance with bar review preparations to a larger group of students. An announcement about the new program will be forthcoming within the next few weeks.

Sponsored by Amazon, this national survey, will be the largest of its kind to gain a national scope on the future of the legal profession and how to address making the workplace more equitable. If you are interested in participating, please click on the link below. Please share this survey with your legal network in order to reach as many lawyers and law students as possible. The survey takes about 15 minutes. Responses are completely anonymous.

It was a beautiful day for golf when National Bar members boarded the bus at the Sheraton hotel to take the thirty-minute ride down to the Tunica Nation Golf and Tennis facility. There they were met with a hot breakfast and bag handlers to get them started on the way. The NBA members played alongside local golfers on a well maintained and laid out golf course.

The NBI Championship flight winners were the team of Will Dorse, Fred Dorse, NBA past president Mike Rosier and Richard Gaines. The Open Championship Flight winners were the team of Penny Hardaway, celebrity golfer and basketball coach at University of Memphis, Don Holmes, Charles Ewing and Thurman Glass.

Although the Memphis heat kept some golfers away this year, we are anticipating a great turnout next year in Minneapolis.

​In April, NBI Board Director Alfreda Robinson was honored by the Black Law Students Association (BLSA) with the establishment of “The Dean Alfreda Robinson Oral Advocacy Award.” Dean Robinson is Associate Dean for Trial Advocacy at George Washington University Law School.  A BLSA member excelling in oral advocacy competitions will be selected to receive the award at BLSA’s annual Patricia Roberts Harris Awards Dinner. The graduation dinner was founded by Dean Robinson in 1978, when she was a third-year law student at George Washington.

The inaugural award recipient is Chidima Osuchukwu, who will be joining Morgan Lewis law firm upon her graduation.  Among several honors, she is a scholar of the Morgan Lewis Foundation and Notes Editor for the George Washington International Law Review.

Congratulations to Dean Robinson and Ms. Osuchukwu!

Over the years, the National Bar Institute (NBI) has awarded more than $290,000 to approximately 67 outstanding students with impressive grade rankings and service to their communities. The fellowships range from $1,000 to $10,000. During the 2021 Annual Meeting, the NBI Board of Directors approved the award of fellowships to eight students representing several law schools. In August 2021, each student received a fellowship to assist with law school expenses during the final academic year of 2021-2022. The Board determined the students had demonstrated an impressive commitment to complete their studies and it is anticipated they will have a positive impact on improving their communities.

In September 2021, the National Bar Institute (NBI) Board of Directors selected the first law student cohort to participate in the newly launched NBI Law Scholars Program. Twelve students, who completed their first year of law school in May 2021, were nominated by the Deans of six historically black law schools. The following six students were selected by the Board’s Grants Committee, with each Scholar to receive monetary awards each year during their three-year law school tenure.

• Tamsin Wooley,
  Texas Southern University, Thurgood Marshall School of Law
• Songo Wawa,
  University of the District of Columbia, David A. Clarke School of Law
• Jori Opara,
  Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University College of Law
• Lucinda Iheaso,
  Southern University Law Center
• Adia Craig,
  North Carolina Central University School of Law
• Terrance Brown,
  Howard University School of Law

The remaining six students received a one-time scholarship in the amount of $1,000. They are as follows:

• Edrius Stagg,
  Southern University Law Center
• Amari Roberts,
  Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University College of Law
• Lorraine Olutu,
  Texas Southern University, Thurgood Marshall School of Law
• Shante Mays,
  North Carolina Central University School of Law
• Keria Hicks,
  University of the District of Columbia, David A. Clarke School of Law
• Erica Herrera,
  Howard University School of Law

The ENDOWMENT 2000 campaign was established during the 1994 – 1995 bar year to provide: 1) resources for capital expenditures and special needs related to the objectives of the National Bar Institute (NBI) and 2) support for facilities and support for programs of the NBI, National Bar Association and other related organizations. The goal of raising $1,000,000 was reached in 2021.

A management committee has been appointed by the NBI Chair to develop the guidelines for grantmaking.

In 1994, under the leadership of National Bar Institute (NBI) Chair Ernestine Sapp, the NBI launched the Jacob Lawrence Art Project working with renowned artist Jacob Lawrence. Lawrence produced “Lawyers and Clients”, a limited-edition work that generated proceeds from the sale of serigraphs, prints, posters and note cards until 2020. Proceeds benefit the NBI’s programs.

Since Lawrence’s death in 2000, his art, including “Lawyers and Clients”, has increased significantly in value. He is recognized as a major figure in American art. He was a talented artist who believed that the “Negro struggle is a symbol of the struggle of all mankind.” Lawrence often drew American experience in his boldly colored works to invoke the human experience in a way which transcends race and gender. Lawrence gained national recognition in 1941 when he became the first black artist to exhibit in a major New York gallery and consequently, was the first to receive national press coverage (including a profile in ART news in 1944).

From his early training as an artist in Central Harlem to his retirement from teaching at the University of Washington in Seattle, Jacob Lawrence approached the creative process the way he approached his life — with honesty and emotional integrity matched by few artists of his generation. He believed firmly that art can affect change without being pedantic; and that beauty resides equally in forms as in content. For him harmony was both an aesthetic and a social concept.